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Gokyo Ri Trek

5 - Excellent
Based on 3 Reviews | More reviews on TripAdvisor

Gokyo Ri Trek 10 Days, Moderate

Gokyo Ri Trek takes you to the top of Gokyo Ri Mountain and the Gokyo Valley. Adding the Gokyo Lake complex, we will explore the calm and lively settlements of this region. Besides the third Gokyo lake is the village of Gokyo which is among one of the highest altitude settlements in the world. At the base of the magnificent Mount Everest, one can have a breathtaking view of four eight-thousanders from Gokyo Ri; namely Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and Everest itself.


Trip Facts

Physical Grading: Moderate

A moderate-level trek that demands trekkers/travelers to have a good level of physical and mental fitness to trek daily for long hours at high altitudes.

Max Elevation: 5,357 m (Gokyo Ri)

Get rewarded with the impressive views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, Gychung Kang, Gokyo Valley, and Gokyo Lakes from the top.

Accommodation: Hotel, Teahouse

Comfortable accommodation with basic facilities during the trek and a standard hotel in a city.

Meals: Full Board

Healthy and Hygienic 3-course meals during the trek, and only breakfast in a city.

Best Season: Autumn & Spring

Stable weather and temperature offer clear views and comfortable trekking trails.

Trip Route:

Lukla - Phakding - Namche Bazaar – Dole - Machermo – Gokyo - Gokyo Ri – Dole - Namche Bazaar – Lukla


Trip Highlights

  • Amazing Gokyo Valley
  • Hike to Gokyo Ri (5,357 m)
  • Massive Ngozumpa Glacier
  • Mesmerizing Gokyo Lake (oligotrophic glacial lakes of the Khumbu region)
  • Attractive Sherpa settlements
  • Sherpa locals, lifestyle, and culture
  • Impressive views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, Cho-Oyu, Gychung Kang

Trip Overview

The views from a natural viewpoint here are regarded as more beautiful and unobstructed than those of the more popular Kalapatthar. It is the main reason for Gokyo Ri is an ideal alternative to the trails passing by Kalapatthar. Most classic routes now chose Gokyo Ri as the better version of the two. This Trek has established itself as one of the best in the region furnished with fantastic shades of Everest and its surroundings.

The Gokyo Ri Trek also highlights the major concentration of the oligotrophic glacial lakes of the Khumbu region collectively known as the Gokyo Lakes. You will do the thrilling hike to the Gokyo Ri (5357 m); treating you to panoramic views and wonderful sceneries that this region has enclosed for you.

Gokyo Ri Trek is one of the moderate treks in the Everest region, starting with a flight to Lukla. From there the first day of trekking takes you to Phakding followed by the zestful Namche Bazaar in the second. Here, you can visit the Sherpa museum to experience the Sherpa culture to the fullest in your acclimatization break. After spending a day at Namche, we move on to Dole, then to Machermo, and finally to Gokyo.

The return takes normally two days, unlike the approach that takes three days. For the maximum Himalayan sights and adventure experience, spend a day at Gokyo and try climbing Gokyo Peak. You can certainly have a heavenly feel from the top of this peak. This is why trekking in Nepal is one of the most sought-after outdoor adventure activities.

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Gokyo Ri Trek Gallery

Trip Outline

Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu (1400 m)
Arrive in Kathmandu, get welcomed by the representative, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 02: Trek preparation day
Documentation works (Issue of Permits, Paper works), (Optional: Sightseeing in UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu)

Day 03: Kathmandu – Lukla (flight) (2860 m) – Phakding (trek)
Scenic flight to Lukla, start trek to Phakding with guide and porters.

Day 04: Phakding (2610 m) – Namche Bazaar (3440 m)
Trek to the vibrant Sherpa capital Namche Bazaar which is the gateway to the Everest Base Camp.

Day 05: Acclimatization
Spend the first acclimatization day hiking to the Everest View Hotel or Khumjung Village (3,790 m) tour.

Day 06: Namche Bazaar – Dole (4038 m)
Trek to Dole through a comfortable trail enjoying beautiful surroundings.

Day 07: Dole – Machermo (4470 m)
Adoring the beautiful views of Khumbu Glacier trek to Machermo.

Day 08: Machermo – Gokyo (4750 m)
Trek to Gokyo admiring the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Day 09: Gokyo – Gokyo Ri (5357 m) – Gokyo return
Ascend Gokyo Ri and get rewarded with stunning views of Ngozumpa Glacier, snowy mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, etc.

Day 10: Gokyo – Dole (4038 m)
Adoring the beautiful views descend to Dole.

Day 11: Dole – Namche Bazaar (3440 m)
Trek to Namche through a comfortable trail enjoying a view of Ama Dablam.

Day 12: Namche Bazaar – Lukla (2860 m)
Return to Lukla takes about 7-8 hours.

Day 13: Lukla – Kathmandu (flight)
Back to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 14: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure.

Essential Information

Accommodation:

Teahouses or Lodges are accommodation types during the Gokyo Ri Trek that provide basic facilities (beds, quilts, and pillows) but are comfortable to stay in. Generally, bathrooms are inside the teahouses except in the higher regions. During the peak season, room sharing must be done. Internet and phone networks are mostly stable in the lower regions. Pay an additional cost for services (Wi-Fi, laundry, hot water, and showers). Everest Links is an internet provider and there is Wi-Fi up to Gorakshep and Everest Base Camp.

Meals:

3-course full board meals are served during the Gokyo Ri Trek which are healthy and hygienic. Breakfast and dinner are served from the teahouses and lunch is served at the stopovers during the trek. Trekkers can munch on bakery items, continental foods, and coffee in Namche. There are a variety of meals to choose from on the menu. (Nepali Dal-Bhat, steamed mo: mo, hot thukpa, soup, porridge, pancake, hot coffee, ginger honey tea, etc.). Please inform your food menu preference earlier if there is any.

Drinking water:

Drinking water during the Gokyo Ri Trek is easily available. Trekkers can buy Mineral Water, fill tap water, or boiled water at teahouses as their preference. Always carry a water bottle to minimize plastic pollution. Travelers can also use a water purification solution or buy mineral water which costs USD 1-2 per bottle.

The transportation during the trek is as scheduled in the itinerary preferred by the travelers which is as follows:

  • Private vehicle transfer to/from the airport in Kathmandu
  • Private vehicle ride to Ramechhap and transfer to/from the airport (only during April, May, October, and November months)
  • Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu flight

The ideal seasons for Gokyo Ri Trek are Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) as the weather and temperature are stable and offer incredible vistas. The winter and rainy seasons are riskier to trek due to the unstable weather and temperature, slippery trails, and limited availability of accommodation and services. There is a high chance of flight cancellation during monsoon and winter. Still, it is possible to trek with proper planning and preparation.

Gokyo Ri Trek requires compulsory three permits i.e. Sagarmatha National Park (SNP), Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, and Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS).

Khumbu Rural Municipality Permit

  • Foreigners- NPR 2000
  • SAARC- NPR 1000

Sagarmatha National Park (SNP)

  • Foreigners- NPR 3000
  • SAARC- NPR 1500

Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)

  • Foreigners- NPR 2000/person
  • SAARC- NPR 1000/person
  • Diplomats/Foreign Officials & their families- NPR 500/person

Documents required

  • Scanned copies of passport-sized photos and passports of each participant
  • Travel Insurance
  • Sagarmatha National Park Permit
  • Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit
  • TIMS

Difficulty:

Gokyo Ri trek is a moderate-level trek with a maximum elevation of 5,357 m. Trekkers should have prior experience in trekking at high altitudes. Walking daily long hours on the steep ascending and descending rough trails and gaining altitude can be challenging for trekkers. This trek is suitable for trekkers with above-average physical fitness and a positive attitude can complete this trekking. The trek is slightly technical and trekkers have to use fixed ropes, crampons, and an ice ax.

Fitness:

Gokyo Ri trek demands trekkers to have good fitness levels. Trekkers should be physically and mentally sound to join this trek. With proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization, it is achievable. Your familiarity with the mountainous terrain and previous trekking experience will be plus points. Besides, maintaining good health and necessary check-ups before the trek proves to be fruitful. Some physical exercises and mental exercises to carry out before the treks are as follows:

Physical Exercises

Cardiovascular Exercises, Leg Strength Exercises, Core Strength Exercises, Upper Body Strengthening, Foot and ankle Strengthening, Flexibility and Stability Exercises, and Hiking Specific Training.

Mental Exercises

Meditation, Breathing Exercises, Stress Management, Solo Reflection, Focus and Concentration Improvement, Setting a goal, Practicing problem-solving skills, Staying Calm and Positive, Enjoying every activity, etc.

The maximum elevation during the Gokyo Ri trek is 5,357 m (Gokyo Ri). Altitude sickness is common above 2500 m. As the elevation gains, there is a high chance of getting altitude sickness. Thus, acclimatization rest is essential to prevent it. Take an acclimatization rest as suggested in the itinerary during the trek.

Common symptoms of Altitude Sickness 

Headache, nausea, dizziness, uneasiness, appetite, and sleep loss, and on extreme some can experience unconsciousness and hallucination.

Preventions for Altitude Sickness 

  • Take an acclimatization rest
  • Inform the guide
  • Climb slowly and gradually
  • Keep yourself Hydrated
  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods
  • Know your body limit
  • Take a complete rest and sleep
  • Take medicine consulting a guide

It acts as a safety net and is essential for trekking. We recommend getting travel insurance from a reputed company.

  • Make sure that you are insured against cancellations, accidents, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of, or damage to, baggage, and personal effects.
  • In emergencies, we will arrange for a helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and aftercare for you. All these costs shall be borne by your travel insurance company.

Gokyo Ri is a moderate-level trek. Thus, it requires standard equipment and gear that trekkers can hire or bring on their own.

Clothes: Windcheater jacket, Thermals, Insulating Down Jacket, Fleece, Long sleeve shirts, Gloves, Towels, Inner garments, Trekking pants, Trousers, Shorts, Socks, Raincoat, Balaclava, Bandana, Gaiters

Shoes: Camp shoes, Pair of hiking boots, Rubber sandals

Essential Documents: Passport, Travel Permits, Visa Photocopy, Passport size photos

Food: Light snacks, Energy bars, and drink mix

Accessories: Sunglasses, Hats/Caps, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Water bottles, Pocket Knife, Solar chargers, Batteries, Head Lamps, Torch, Umbrella, Sewing kit, Water Purifying solution kits, reusable bags to deposit waste, separate clean/dirty clothes

Equipment: Warm Sleeping bags, Map, Trekking poles, Duffel bag

STANDARD SERVICE INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Basic teahouse accommodation during the trek (Toilet and bathroom will be outside of the room); Deluxe accommodation for 3 nights in Kathmandu, on a sharing basis with Breakfast
  • Meals: 3 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which you can choose from the menu) during the trek; breakfast in Kathmandu
  • Transportation: All ground transportation in a luxury private vehicle. Domestic flight (Kathmandu/Ramechhap-Lukla-Ramechhap/Kathmandu) as scheduled in the itinerary.
  • Documentation: Trekking permit (Sagarmatha National Park), Khumbu village entry permit, and TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System)
  • Equipment/Accessories: Down jacket, sleeping bags, a waterproof duffel bag, first-aid kit, water purifying solution (iodine-based) for Complimentary use (Use if Required)
  • Human resource: A professional and experienced trekking guide (English-speaking); a porter per trekker (carrying up to 15 kg/person); all the expenses for the guide and porter(s) are covered (wages, accommodation, meals, transportation, insurance, etc.)
  • Tax/Service Charge: All applicable taxes, service charges, or fees. We hereby guarantee you no ‘hidden charges’ afterward.
  • Complimentary: Farewell dinner in Kathmandu (authentic Nepalese cuisines with live cultural show)
  • Trip Achievement Certificate: After returning from the trip, we will present you with a certificate of achievement
  • Emergency Rescue Service: Should any emergency arise during your trek, we will provide prompt and professional rescue and medical services. We carry a Supplementary oxygen tank with a mask and regulator for emergencies. However, you must be already insured for such emergencies, and your insurance policy must cover helicopter evacuation. Moreover, you should provide your policy details and authorize us to deal directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Please make sure that your insurance will cover helicopter evacuation up to 5650 meters.

What's not included?

  • Beverage (Cold/Alcoholic drinks, Bottled Mineral Water, extra tea/coffee, etc.)
  • Any other expenses of a personal nature (extra meals/Snacks/Dessert, Wi-Fi, battery charging fees, photography charges, Hot Shower, etc.)
  • Tips for Guide and Porters (Expected) and any Donations.
  • Your travel insurance, and International Air Fares
  • Nepal Visa (You can apply and obtain the visa on arrival at the Immigration desk, apply visa https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
  • Excess baggage charges on the Domestic flight (The airlines allow 15 kg per person if the luggage is more than 15 kilos, approx. USD 1 per kilo will be charged additionally).
  • Activities (Sightseeing/tours) cost in Kathmandu (available at extra cost)

Customers Reviews

5 - Excellent Based on 3 Reviews


gaurav

Gaurav G
India

Two amazing treks with Outdoor Himalayas

Dec 2018

I had two amazing treks with Outdoor Himalayan Treks in 2018. On the first occasion, my wife and I went to Manaslu Circuit in May 2018 and in December 2018, went to Jiri from Gokyo. The dealings with Mr. Rammani Rijal were better as he was extremely trustworthy and honest.

My guide Rupak Rimal is fantastic and you can trust him. He saved me from an enormous rock fall while crossing the Larke La Pass. I will strongly recommend going with Rupak for a safe, fun-filled, and memorable trek. The Company is professional and trustworthy and it appears that they take good care of their employees as well. I also found that the rates charged by the company are competitive and their services excellent.

Overall you can trust the Outdoor team with your money, time, and holiday. Rupak, Ram, and other members of Outdoor Himalayan went out of their way to make us feel not like regular customers but as part of their family. So a big thank you.


best trekking in nepal

Adam Patrzykont
Poland

Best Trekking In Nepal

July, 2011

This was my first trip to Nepal but my friend Marcin was there a few years ago, my friend decided to go to Gokyo valley and ask me to join I was also dreaming to see Mt. Everest for many years, I accept his offer and we went to Nepal, on his first trip he trek alone but he use Outdoor Himalayan Treks in Kathmandu for flight to Lukla. He told me I know someone in Kathmandu but we did not contact them till we arrive Kathmandu, we just went to their office in Thamel and meet Raj he knew Marcin, he was surprised to see Marcin we decide to trek with guide and porter this time we were looking a bit comfortable way. He offers us very good price, our Guide Ganesh and porter Arjun helped us a lot, they took care of us like part of family, every time Ganesh was asking if we have any problems, he is a great person, knowledgeable of area as well Sherpa community and he knows all the Mountain name and heights. We had lots of fun with them, unfortunately, the weather was not very good but we knew that it was not the best time for trekking and flight from Lukla to Kathmandu was cancelled once and we had to wait in Lukla but Ganesh and Arjun took us around still we like that village walking. Maybe one day we will be back again for the trek. We would highly like to recommend OUTDOOR HIMALAYAN TREKS, and thanks to Raj, Ganesh, Arjun for made our trip unforgettable. Good luck.


Stephenie Jane

Stephenie Jane
United States

Thanks, Shanta for an amazing trip to the Top of the world

Thanks, Shanta for an amazing trip to the Top of the world (and back)! collective thoughts on our experience.

  • slowly slowly
  • sleeping in the yak herders hut at Dzonghla
  • 5 am a wakeup call
  • pudding
  • The apple pie birthday cake.
  • Amazing views despite the monsoon.
  • Lake if a tourist.
  • Whiskey on Everest Base Camp.
  • Gokyo no Possible.
  • Dancing in Nepali style.
  • Monasteries + Meditation
  • Losing our dear friend Janet to the Yeti!

And finally, Shanta the amazing our Hiro ‘The Mountain Man’!


Detail Itinerary

Day 01 Arrive in Kathmandu

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 30-minute hotel drive.

As you enter Nepal via flight the magnificent snow-capped peaks welcome you. You are welcomed by our representative upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport. Get transferred to the standard hotel along with the representative via a private vehicle upon completing all the formalities. Overnight at the hotel.

Hotel

Day 02 Trek preparation day (Optional: Sightseeing in Kathmandu, UNESCO world heritage sites)

We will do the paperwork, make the permits, and introduce the Guide, at the same time if you wish, you can do the Kathmandu Valley full-day sightseeing (UNESCO World Heritage sites) with private transportation and an English-speaking tour guide at an Extra cost.

Note: (Optional sightseeing in Kathmandu is at an additional cost.)

Hotel Breakfast

Day 03 Kathmandu - Lukla flight- Phakding trek

Elevation: Lukla (2860 m), Phakding (2610 m) 45-minute flight, 3-4 hours trek. Elevation loss: 250 m

Our guide will pick you up at 5:30 AM from your hotel in Kathmandu and drive to the airport. You will board the early morning flight at 6:30 AM from where you will fly to Lukla (2860 m) in about 45 minutes.

After breakfast in Lukla, you will walk for about 4 hours to Phakding (2610 m), a fairly plain terrain inhabited by Sherpas. Later in the afternoon, you will follow the upstream Dudh Koshi River and spend the night in a lodge.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 04 Phakding - Namche Bazaar

Elevation: Namche Bazaar (3440 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 830 m

You will trek for nearly seven hours to reach Namche Bazaar (3440 m), the famous town in Solukhumbu. The last three hours of this trek will be tough, but the beautiful sceneries on the way will make you forget your tiredness. The night will be spent in a local teahouse.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 05 Acclimatization (Day Hike)

Elevation: Namche Bazaar (3440 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 350 m

To help your body adjust to the high altitude conditions, we will spend the day on acclimatization. You can do some daytime hiking to explore Khumjung village and return to the teahouse at Namche Bazaar for the night stay.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 06 Namche Bazaar - Dole

Elevation: Dole (4038 m) 6-hour trek. Elevation gain: 598 m

Resume the trek, covering a walking distance of nearly 6 hours. Splendid views of Mt. Ama Dablam and Mt. Thamserku can be seen on the way. You will also walk through a few villages inhabited by Sherpas.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 07 Dole – Machermo (4470 m)

Elevation: Machermo (4470 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain: 432 m

Today you will walk for nearly 6 hours, going uphill most of the time and enjoying a nice view of Khumbu plus beautiful glaciers on the way.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 08 Machermo – Gokyo (4750 m)

Elevation: Gokyo (4750 m) 4-5 hours trek. Elevation gain: 280 m

It will take 4-5 hours for you to get to Gokyo. Gokyo Lake is a very beautiful lake situated high up in the mountains and the best part of the entire trip.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 09 Gokyo – Gokyo Ri– Gokyo return

Elevation: Gokyo Ri (5357 m), Gokyo (4750 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation gain/loss: 607 m

Start walking towards the base of Gokyo Ri after breakfast. Climb to the top of Gokyo Ri (5357m), the only trekking peak in the Khumbu region. You will not need any special climbing gear to do so. You are likely to be overwhelmed by the superb views of Mt. Everest, the massive Ngozumpa Glacier, and the whole of the Khumbu Himalayan Range including Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Makalu (8481m), Mt. Cho-Oyu (8153m) and Mt. Gychung Kang (7922m). If there is enough time, you can take a walk around Gokyo Lake returning to your accommodation in Gokyo.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 10 Gokyo – Dole

Elevation: Dole (4038 m) 5-6 hours trek. Elevation loss: 712 m

From today you will begin to trek in the opposite direction, and the first stopover will be made at Dole.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 11 Dole – Namche Bazaar

Elevation: Namche (3440 m) 6-hour trek. Elevation loss: 598 m

After walking for about 6 hours, you will arrive at Namche Bazaar.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 12 Namche Bazaar - Lukla

Elevation: Lukla (2860 m) 7-8 hours trek. Elevation loss: 580 m

Today is the last day of the trek and you need to walk for nearly 5-6 hours before getting to Namche Bazaar. You may collect some souvenirs from the local curio shops. Go to bed early as you need to wake up quite early next morning.

Teahouse B+L+D

Day 13 Lukla - Kathmandu (flight)

Elevation: Kathmandu (1400 m) 45-minute flight, 30-minute hotel drive.

Early in the morning, you will be preparing for your flight back to Kathmandu. Get transferred to your hotel in Thamel or elsewhere in Kathmandu, will charge you for yet another adventure in Nepal. Evening joins live Typical Nepali Cultural dinner hosted by Outdoor Himalayan Treks.

Hotel Breakfast

Day 14 Departure

Airport transfer will be arranged before your flight’s scheduled time.

GROUP JOINING DATES & PRICES

At present, the group joining dates are not available, but we are happy to create a private trip for you with the flexibility to customize. Simply, let us know your preferences so that our travel experts will assist you in planning a trip to your dream destination.

Gokyo Ri Trek FAQs

Yes, most travelers need a visa for Nepal, which can be easily obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or through an online application before arrival.

The major attractions of the Gokyo Ri Trek include the scenic flight to Lukla, trekking through the picturesque Gokyo Valley, crossing the glacial Ngozumpa Glacier, reaching the summit of Gokyo Ri, and enjoying breathtaking views of the Everest region.

The trek duration of the Gokyo Ri Trek is around 10 days.

The typical duration of the Gokyo Ri Trek is around 11-13 days, including acclimatization days and exploring the Gokyo Valley and its surrounding areas.

The most favorable season to embark on the Gokyo Ri Trek is during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is generally suitable and offers clear mountain views.

The highest point reached during the Gokyo Ri Trek is Gokyo Ri, which stands at an altitude of 5,357 m. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Cho Oyu, and other peaks.

The necessary permits for the Gokyo Ri Trek are the Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit, and TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System).

Yes, there are teahouses and lodges available along the Gokyo Ri Trek route, providing basic accommodation and meals. The lodges offer a comfortable place to rest and dine amidst the beautiful mountain scenery.

The Gokyo Ri Trek requires a good level of physical fitness. Hence, trekkers must perform regular exercise and training, including cardiovascular endurance and strength, and hiking before the trek.

Yes, you can extend the itinerary for the Gokyo Ri Trek and customize it according to your preferences and requirements.

The Gokyo Ri Trek involves trekking at high altitudes, which increases the risk of altitude sickness. To prevent altitude sickness, take proper acclimatization rest, slow ascent, and follow the guidance of experienced guides.

Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers trekking activities, including high-altitude, emergency evacuation, and medical coverage for your safe trekking experience.

The essential gear and equipment for the Gokyo Ri Trek are strong trekking boots, warm clothing, layers for changing weather conditions, a backpack, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, a hat, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, water purification kits, and a first aid kit.

To book the Gokyo Ri Trek with Outdoor Himalayan, visit the website and fill out the booking form, or contact us directly via email or phone. We will provide you with the necessary details and assistance for your trekking experience.