The Mountains Are Calling, Where Shall We Go?

TOP 7 CLIMBS OF 2016
 
Planning your adventure trekking calendar for 2016?
 

Photo Credit: Gene Brinas

1.  Mt Pulag, Luzon, Philippines
 
Mt Pulag is the newest addition to the list of Wild Trips trekking destinations, with strong recommendations from our Filipino friends. The views at the top are well-renowned amongst Filipinos, where the clouds are wrapped so densely around the peak that they form the "Sea of Clouds"! As trekkers ascend the mountain, you'd pass by a variety of landscapes and the views are just jaw-dropping.
 
The Ambangeg trail is a 2D1N trek and is achievable with an average fitness. There is a tougher 3D2N trek via the Akkiki-Ambangeg trail that offers better scenery and at the same time is also known as the "killer trail" for an endless 3 hour steep climb up the slope. 
 
After the trek, you may choose to spend the night in Baguio City before taking a 6-hour bus ride back to Manila. It’s a pretty town where the locals from Manila will drive up for a short weekend holiday to enjoy the cool weather and find themselves in nature. 

Height of Summit: 2,922m
Best Season: March – May for dry weather
Avoid: June – October during rainy season
No. of Trekking Days: 3D2N on Akiki route, 2D1N on Ambangeg route
Accommodation: Camping
 

2.  Knuckles Mountain Range, Sri Lanka
 
The knuckles mountain range in Sri Lanka is so named because the five main peaks resemble a clenched fist. The region stretches an impressive 155 sq km, and the areas above 1,000m are a Unesco world heritage conservation area. Here you would find a wide variety of rare and endemic flora and fauna and some breathtaking mountain scenery of Sri Lanka.

There are 34 peaks in all, and the highest of them is Gombaniya at 1,906m tall. You’d often find your trekking group alone here with a great extent of untouched natural beauty and wildlife. Sri Lanka is that jewel that the masses has yet to discover…

Height of Summit: 1,906m
Best Season: June - August for driest weather
Avoid: September - November during rainy season
No. of Trekking Days: ½ day to 3 days, depending on route
Accommodation: Camping

3.  Everest, Nepal
 
Watching Everest – the movie, has reignited my desire to take on earth’s highest mountain, and stake my claim on the Everest action, albeit only to the base camp.
 
The peak of Everest stands at 8,848m above sea level, while the Everest Base Camp is 5,364m above sea level. Most trekkers fly in to Lukla (2,880m) from Kathmandu, and begin the 12 day trek from Lukla (including 1 day of acclimatisation).
 
Spend some time in Kathmandu too to enjoy the local culture. Tip: Ask your local guide about where they go in Thamel. That’s when the real Nepalese adventure begins!
 
Height of Summit: 5,364m
Best Season: March – April, September – October
No. of Trekking Days: 12
Accommodation: Teahouse
 

 
4.  Fansipan, Vietnam
 
At 3,143 metres, Mt Fansipan is Indo China’s highest mountain, and is the last major peak on the eastern end of the Himalayan range. We start off at Tram Tom Pass (1,800m) – the highest pass in Vietnam, also known as “Heaven’s Gate” for its incredible views.

Ascend to the peak of Mt Fansipan where you’ll enjoy a bird’s eye view of Sapa against the backdrop of forests, flower blossoms and a majestic landscape of the mountains. You can even see the mountains of Yunan, China from the top!

Sapa is most well-known in Vietnam for its cultural heritage of the minority tribes. You may choose to extend the trek by one day and spend a day exploring the black Hmong village in Sin Chai. You'd pass by beautiful valleys on the way to Sin Chai village.

On the last day, relax in the cool European-looking town of Sapa. Or head straight back to Hanoi after the trek and spend the day exploring the old streets of Hanoi.

Height of Summit: 3,143m
Best Season: April – May
Avoid: June – September during wet season
No. of Trekking Days: 2
Accommodation: Communal huts, if you arrive early at the campsite. If not, tents
 

5.  Mt Kinabalu
 
Natural disasters happen from time to time. What’s most inspiring is the human resilience to rise up and rebuild their lives again after each incident. In 2016, rise and climb Mt Kinabalu again for those who have fallen and celebrate the human tenacity.
Mt Kinabalu is the highlight of Sabah and Malaysia's tallest mountain, towering at 4,095m. To the locals, it is the heart of numerous folklores and fables. It is a 4 to 6 hour ascend to the base camp at Laban Rata (3,272m), where we'll rest for the night. Wake up at 3am the next morning for the summit assault to reach Low's Peak (4,095m) in time for sunrise.
 
After the trek, take an additional day for white water rafting at the Padas River! We reckon it's the best white water rafting in Asia, with white waters that really go up to Grades 3 to 4. The water may rise up to 50cm above the raft! The journey is especially nostalgic, via an old-school train that chucks its way to Padas River. Spend the rest of the time enjoying the cheap and fresh seafood in Kota Kinabalu.


Height of Summit: 4,095m
Best Season: February - April
Avoid: October - January during wet season
No. of Trekking Days: 2
Accommodation: Dorms
 

6.  Mt Rinjani
 
Mt. Rinjani is an active volcano and the second highest volcanic peak in Indonesia, part of the celebrated “Ring of Fire”. Rising to 3,726m (12,224ft), it is also the third-largest volcano in Indonesia.
 
The Rinjani trekking to the Summit is a tough and steep climb. Those who successfully complete the climb are rewarded with the spectacular panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, sulfur lakes and waterfalls.
The 4D3N trek from Senaru to the crater rim, down to the stunning Crater Lake, hot springs and caves before attempting the summit is one of our favourite treks in Southeast Asia as it offers ample time to fully explore the hidden gems of Mt Rinjani.
 
After the trek, it’d be lovely to swim off to the Gili Islands, also nicknamed “Turtle Capital of the World”. There are 25 dives sites around the 3 main islands in the area, with warm waters, clear visibility, and regular sightings of peaceful turtles, making it a wonderful place to chill after a hard trek.
 
Options: Choose between the popular 2D1N trek to the Crater Rim where you'll have amazing views of the Segara Anak Lake, or take the additional challenge to the summit.
 
Height of Summit: 3,726m
Best Season: May - November
Avoid: December - March
No. of Trekking Days: 4D3N for Summit trek, 2D1N for Crater Rim trek
Accommodation: Tents

7.  Mt Agung, Bali, Indonesia
 
Standing at an impressive 3,142m, Mt Agung is Bali’s highest mountain and home to the mother temple of Besakih, highly revered by the Balinese people.
 
Mount Agung trekking is best done as an overnight trek from Besakih Temple. Like other treks in Bali, trekkers aim to reach the summit in time to catch the spectacular sunrise.  This is a physically challenging 6 – 7 hour trek that requires climbing on all-fours during the final ascend to reach the summit at 3,142m.

The views are rewarding! Imagine being on top of the mountain as the sun rises, illuminating most of Bali, and a panoramic view of Mt Abang, the Batur Caldera to the west, and further east, Mt Rinjani in the neighboring Lombok Island as a chilly morning breeze hits your face as it perks you up after the long climb through the night…
 
The best part is that there’s the beach paradise of Bali to chill and party!

Height of Summit: 3,726m
Best Season: April - September
Avoid: January - February
No. of Trekking Days: 1
Accommodation: No overnight stay

5 Things To Do In Bali

What to Do and See in Bali, Indonesia

Bali is magical. As probably the most famous island in Indonesia, Bali blends spectacular mountain scenery and beautiful beaches with warm and friendly people, a vibrant culture and out of this world resorts.  It is highly recommended to visit Bali.

The number of things to do in Bali will amaze new visitors and keep regular travellers coming back for more. Bali is the rare place that is both deeply spiritual and totally fun. Whatever your age or interest, whether you are travelling with your loved ones or alone, you are certain to find mental and physical satisfaction. Even during a short visit, you can let loose, stay fit, and explore the cultural and traditional roots of the island. In fact, with so many affordable options on offer, the only hard work in Bali is deciding what to do next.

Bali’s natural attractions include miles of sandy beaches (many are well-known amongst surfers), picturesque rice terraces, towering active volcanoes over 3,000 meters (10,000 ft.) high, fast flowing rivers, deep ravines, pristine crater lakes, sacred caves, and lush tropical forests full of exotic wildlife.

The island’s rich cultural heritage is visible everywhere – in over 20,000 temples and palaces, in many colourful festivals and ceremonies (including tooth filings and cremations), in drama, music, and dance.

You can experience Bali on many different excursions and guided tours by coach, private car or “Big Bike”, by boat or even by chartered plane and helicopter: seeing Bali’s beaches and rice terraces, the famous Besakih Temple on the slopes of holy Mount Agung, Lake Batur and its active volcano, Ubud, Legian, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and the temples of Tanah Lot and Ulu Watu or you can go on Bali adventure tours which offer many exciting activities for you to explore and experience the exciting moments.

5 Things to do in Bali

1 Canyoning in Aling Gorges

You will marvel at the natural and spectacular beauty of Aling Gorges. 

This trip has lots of jumps, wonderful rappels (the height of which can reach up to 40m), plenty of swimming in natural pools of crystalline water in a wild and unique environment.

2 Mountain & Village Cycling at Mt. Batur

This breathtaking bicycle tour winds down through 26km of lush valleys, through Balinese villages, past century-old temples and rich green rice fields. Expert guides will explain the history of the land, culture, and people along this scenic cycling tour.

3 Raft the Ayung River

Grab your oars and get ready to rage with this exhilarating rafting adventure on the spectacular Ayung River with professionally trained and experienced guides who pilot safety-equipped Avon rafts through the best river runs, dramatic drops and spectacular waterfalls to make your Bali rafting ride a fun and awesome experience.

4 Culinary Bali

Discover the secrets of traditional Balinese food as you join a local guide in a shopping trip to a traditional market.  Experience how the locals shop for ingredients amidst the hustle and bustle of Bali’s market and learn a tip or two on how to select the best Balinese spices. 

5 Sunrise Trekking at Mt. Batur Summit

Mt Batur is an active volcano that draws travellers in with its beauty and promise of an unforgettable sunrise 1717m above sea levels. Be awed by the spectacular scenery and the gentle tremors of Mt Batur’s sacred earth as you are served a tasty breakfast cooked using the steam of the active volcano.

Come and be welcomed to the many attractions and activities that Bali adventure tours can offer for your vacations in Bali.

3 Adventures You Should Try Before Hitting 40!

Do you believe in the saying “Life begins at 40”? This statement is probably applicable in other aspects of life. But for adventure seekers, life is too short to wait until you reach the age of 40 before you will enjoy what life has to offer. There are numerous adventures in Indonesia that you should experience while you are young. Besides, it might no longer be safe to go on Mount Agung trekking or shark diving when you are at this age. During this time, you might just opt to stay home with your children and watch television together.

 

So before you hit 40, be sure to try the following activities to have something to look back and share with your kids and grandchildren.

Trekking

This activity is ideal for people who love to get close to nature and at the same time, enjoy outdoor views. Often, trekking involves hours of walking and climbing under the scorching heat of the sun or on a thick forest, and camping in designated sites during the night. One of the famous trekking destinations is the Mount Rinjani, also known as Gunung Rinjani, on the island of Lombok in Indonesia. It is the second highest peak in Indonesia and a deeply sacred volcano to Hindus and the Sasaks, who usually perform pilgrimages there. Thus, Rinjani trekking will surely become a memorable experience if you do this adventure before you reach 40.

If you wish to trek the popular summits, be sure to hire the best expedition team to ensure your safety and comfort. Another summit you may try is the Mount Agung in Bali, which is the highest point on the island.

Diving

Are you fond of water activities? Diving will undoubtedly get you on your feet and let you book a ticket to Manado in Indonesia. Manado diving is a favourite water adventure on this island due to the rich marine life waiting to be discovered underneath the pristine and clear water surrounding the island. Whether you are an experienced diver or a novice, there are various exciting and fun water activities you can experience.

Few of the popular diving destinations include North Sulawesi, Bunaken Marine Park, Bangka Island and Lembeh Straits. With astounding reef beds and fascinating sea creatures, it is unquestionable why Manado became a diver’s haven.

Surfing

Lombok is a sanctuary for people who love the beach due to its exhilarating beach and beautiful coastlines. However, it is little known that Lombok has likewise captured the interest of surfers from different parts of the world. It is noted for its best secret surf point called The Desert Point, which is situated in the South West coast.

Surfers can expect huge swells between 3-8 feet high, which will surely give you adrenaline rush. As compared to surfing point in Kuta beach in Bali, Lombok offers less hassle since it isn’t that much crowded.

People might say that age is just a number; however, there are certain activities that may no longer be feasible to perform when you hit 40, such as Rinjani trekking. There could be different reasons including change of priority, health issue or financial matter. Thus, it is highly advisable to enjoy life at young age and create loads of memories for you to cherish for the rest of your life.

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Trail Food

So you’re trudging up the 3,726m tall peak of Mt Rinjani. Your breathing is hurried, your heart is thumping against your chest bones, and your muscles are screaming for you to stop. But you chant the familiar phrase in your head, “Mind over body. Mind over the body…” The athlete in you says calm down, breathe, and push on. You can do it. And you will do it.

A good Rinjani trekking guide would, at this point, whip out a handful of dried fruits, nuts, a can of thirst quenching isotonic drink, or energy supplement.... Life saviours!

Or not. While some would love to munch on handful of almonds, others can’t fathom the thought of pushing a dry nut down their throat while the body is yearning for more water.

Each person has their own preferences, and it’s important to prepare your own preferred treat, so that you have enough fuel to push yourself on to achieve your goals and perhaps distract yourself from bodily pains. For a moment.

TRAIL MIX

Making your own Trail Mix is easy and often healthier than buying a pre-mixed pack.

Here are some items commonly found in a trail mix, which you can mix and match to suit your taste buds! 

1)  Nuts

Nuts are packed with healthy unsaturated fats, protein, fibre, antioxidants, vitamin E and other essential vitamins and minerals. While some are higher in protein or fat content, each type of nuts generally provides a similar amount of calories per gram. Here are essential nuts for your Mount Agung Trekking Trail Mix! Add in other nuts for good taste.

Almonds, Cashews, Pistachios are high in protein and low in fats. These are the healthiest nuts for that extra energy boost on your trail!

Peanuts to regulate water level in the body and prevent cramps

Macadamias to assist in muscle building and boost energy levels 

2) Dried Fruits

Dried fruits provide a sweet tasty relief and are a great source of fiber, antioxidants, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K.

When selecting dried fruits, it’s healthier to select fruits that are naturally sweet like figs or dates. Fruits that are normally sourish and bland in taste like cranberries are artificially sweetened as dried fruits. So look at the packaging labels for artificial sugar and preservative content.

Here are some good fruits to add to your trail mix:

Figs are high in potassium, an electrolyte which is an important component of cell and body fluids that help regulate heart rate and blood pressure.

Dates are an excellent source of Iron and Copper that are essential in the creation of red blood cells (an essential component to combating Acute Mountain Sickness, also known as Altitude Sickness). They are also excellent sources of Potassium.

Raisins are the most common type of trail food and deservedly so, because they pack a whole lot of Carbohydrates for energy in a small pack. They are also rich in Iron and Potassium.

Apricots are high in carbohydrate and low in fat, and provide a good amount of Vitamin A, Fiber and Potassium.

Plums are packed with Carbohydrates and contain no Fat. They’re also a good source of Fiber and Potassium.

3)  Chocolates

Cacao – the basic component of chocolates, is rich in arginine, an amino acid that reduces inflammation in blood vessels to keep your blood flowing to your heart and muscles.

It also triggers the release of endorphins that keep you happy and thinking positive. That’ll help you combat the challenges ahead!

When adding chocolates into your trail mix, do look out for fat and sugar content. Dark chocolates that contain 70 - 85% cocoa are a healthier and superior option than milk chocolate.

4)  Pretzels

Pretzels are a great low-calorie carbohydrate treat that will help you replace the sodium you lose through sweating. 

READY MADE FOOD FOR THE TRIAL

Putting together your own trail mix may require one to purchase each type to fruit or nut in bulk, and may make more sense to be shared amongst a group of trekkers. Or perhaps you’re just too busy to put it all together.

There are some great ready-made products that are great for the trail, and these are some of our favorite!

 

1)  Clif Bars

Clif Bars are a favorite amongst outdoor adventurers! With flavours like Chocolate Brownie, Peanut Toffee Buzz, White Chocolate Macadamia Nut and Blueberry Crisp, you can imagine what a treat they are during the trails.

Made from 70% organic ingredients, including rolled oats, dried fruits, nuts and seeds, it’s healthy too!

Each bar contains around 250 calories and provides sustained energy over long periods with a mix of multiple carbohydrate sources, protein, fat and fiber that slows the rate of digestion and delivers energy over time.

You could also break up a bar into bite-sized pieces to be added into your trail mix.

2)  GU Energy Chews

GU Chews come in the form of a gummy that makes it easy and fun to consume along the trail. There are many flavours available like Salted Caramel Apple and Blueberry Pomegranate to cater to different taste buds.

GU Chews are designed to pack energy-dense calories to meet the energy demands of endurance activities. One packet of GU Chews contains 8 gummies, that will provide 90 calories in total  and other essential like:

ELECTROLYTES Maintain water balance and aid in optimum hydration.

CARBOHYDRATES Deliver ready-to-use energy and delay bonking by sparing glycogen.

AMINO ACIDS Reduce mental fatigue and decrease muscle damage.

CAFFEINE Enhances performance by increasing focus and concentration and decreasing perceived effort during exercise.

3)  Hammer Endurolytes
It very important to replenish electrolytes lost through perspiration.  So if you’re cramping, heed your body’s last warning, because a consistent supply of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, magnesium and phosphorous is required to keep your muscular, digestive, nervous and cardiac systems firing on all cylinders.

In short, you need it for your body to function properly.

There are some products in the market like Hammer Endurolytes provide a balanced, full-spectrum of electrolytes designed for rapid absorption by the body. You can find them in capsule, tablets and powder forms.