Trekking and climbing with local guides

The local guide programs in KULUAR began in 2022, when more than 10 team leaders were defending Ukraine in the Ukrainian Armed Forces and, essentially, men couldn't travel abroad. Utilizing our contacts and experience accumulated over the years, we initiated experimental programs initially led solely by local guides. These programs gained significance due to their flexibility, making them feasible on almost any date, even with a minimum number of participants.

This article includes a list of the primary areas where programs led by local guides are available, participant requirements, and a comparison with traditional programs featuring KULUAR team leaders.

Regions where programs with local guides are available

We host these programs in regions where we have established partnerships with proven local collaborators. The list of programs and regions will be expanded.

Africa - Kilimanjaro snows and safaris

In 2015, we initiated our first Kilimanjaro climb and safari, with multiple groups each year thereafter. Over the past few years, we've led approximately 10 groups annually. Throughout this period, we've maintained a consistent partnership, collaborating to enhance the menu and improve our services. We've carefully chosen great hotels for overnight stays, and our local team provides exceptional service and hospitality that will exceed your expectations.

Our top pick is the Umbwe route, but we can climbing Kili expeditions on any route, along with arranging various safari experiences.

Nepal - the majestic Himalayas

We have been trekking in Nepal since 2014 with our climbs commencing a few years later. Over this period, we have provided training to our partners to align with our operational standards and have carefully selected local guides who are highly favored by our participants.

Furthermore, we have compiled a list of top-quality lodges along the route, which we reserve remotely once the group is confirmed.

Our services encompass the organization of various trekking routes in Nepal and expeditions ranging from popular peaks like Mera Peak and Island to iconic peaks such as Everest and non-traditional 7,000-meter peaks like Barunze, Tilicho, or Pumori.

Turkey - Ararat

In 2020, we began arranging Ararat expeditions on a larger scale, a relatively recent initiative. Despite the short time frame, we have successfully run over 20 programs, establishing partnerships with reliable and welcoming associates. The services provided here closely resemble those offered on Kilimanjaro. However, instead of porters, mules are used, and the food is more reminiscent of what we are accustomed to.

Three skills that are required of participants

In classic Kuluar programs all these questions are closed by our team leader, here you need to be more independent and have:

• Travel experience and decision making skills. All organizational issues and reservations are made in advance, but this is travel - there will be situations that require your decision on the spot. So more independence is needed from the participants.
• Mountain Experience. A local guide will look after you and prompt you, but self-reflection in such programs is especially important. At the very least, study an article on mountain sickness (or listen to a video) and assemble an appropriate first aid kit.
• English. All communication is conducted in English, you need to know it at a sufficient level to be able to explain that you have a headache, heavy backpack or stomach problems and understand the guide's answers. If you go with a group, it is advisable that at least two people can communicate in English.