All guides are certified in Basic and Wilderness & Remote First Aid by the Red Cross
Will I be able to handle the physical demands of the trek?
This largely depends on your experience, physical fitness, and mindset. Please review the itinerary carefully—each trek lists not only its difficulty rating, but also daily distances and elevation gain. It is essential to choose a hike with an optimal workload for you. Factors to consider include backpack weight, acclimatization needs, climate, and the overall duration of the active itinerary. That is why we review every inquiry thoroughly, consulting with our guides to find the perfect route for you.
How much does the backpack weigh?
It depends on the route, but on average it ranges from 15 to 21 kilograms. Backpacks for women are usually lighter than those for men. The total weight consists of your personal belongings plus the gear we provide: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and your share of group food supplies. Our gear typically adds no more than 10–15 kilograms. Don't be intimidated by the weight—a properly fitted backpack distributes the load so well that it feels much lighter than it sounds. If porters or pack animals are available on the trek, your pack will be considerably lighter. In fully supported options, you may only need to carry a light daypack of about 5 kilograms with daily essentials and trail snacks.
What about personal hygiene on the trek?
On most routes, we wash in streams and lakes almost every day. The water in mountain rivers and lakes can be quite cold—around 3–5°C—but in good weather, you can even take a dip! To feel more comfortable, especially on longer treks, consider cold-shower conditioning before the trip. For washing, we strongly recommend biodegradable, eco-friendly toiletries to protect the pristine environment. For sanitation, our guides carry camp trowels—we will explain and demonstrate the Leave No Trace routine on-site. Toilet paper and hygiene items are packed out rather than buried, using personal ziplock waste bags. We recommend bringing moist flushable wipes for better hygiene and efficiency. Whenever feasible, we arrange a traditional banya at the end of the trip or set up a portable wilderness sauna on a layover day.
What is the drinking water situation?
On every route, we plan our water refill spots in advance. Most often, we draw water from natural springs and clear streams; occasionally, we filter or boil it. Your guides will always advise which water sources are safe to drink from and which to avoid (for instance, if wildlife might be upstream). Staying hydrated is crucial—drink regularly without waiting until you are parched. If you ever need to refill your bottle or take a short breather, just let us know—we will always find a convenient moment to pause.
Are there wild animals along the route? Do I need to bring self-defense items?
On some treks, the chances of encountering a bear or other wildlife are notable, but there is no need to worry. Every guide carries protective gear — signal flares or flare guns, so there is no need to buy your own. The most important thing is to carefully follow your guides' instructions. Despite their formidable appearance and imposing size, bears are very elusive animals that do not seek encounters with humans.
How are meals organized during the trek?
Our guides purchase all necessary provisions in advance and plan the meal rations, taking into account group size and dietary restrictions. Mornings and evenings feature hearty hot meals, while daytime trail stops include satisfying snacks with hot tea. The expedition menu is based on grains, pasta, and legumes, complemented by meat, cheese, and vegetables—most often dried to reduce weight and ensure long shelf life. We also provide pre-packed snacks: nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars, plus sweet treats for evening tea before bed! If you have allergies, food intolerances, or follow a specific diet, we can easily tailor the menu to your needs—just be sure to let us know in advance. We will ask you about this in the questionnaire after your deposit is made.
What is camp life like? Do I need to help around camp?
Our guides take care of everything — cooking meals, making campfires, and setting up camp. Your only task is pitching your personal tent — at the first campsite, we will show you exactly how to do it so you can easily handle it on your own moving forward. Wake-up, breakfast, and departure times are usually arranged by the guide the evening before. On the trail, we make short rest stops and pause for lunch. Upon reaching the next camp, you pitch your tent while the guides prepare dinner. In the evening, we share impressions over a cup of hot tea and turn in to rest. If a rest day is scheduled on the route, wake-up may be later than usual — you can relax in camp or join a day hike with the group. If you would like to help — for example, gathering firewood or fetching water — our guides always appreciate the support. Just let us know if you want to learn something new or take part in camp life!
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