CROSSOVER

The grading system is there to help you choose a trip appropriate to your ability and requirements. For harder trips the correct preparation can vastly enhance your enjoyment; stamina building aerobic activities such as regular cycling, swimming, jogging and walking beforehand will make a noticeable difference.

There is no need to worry about not walking fast enough or holding back the group. All you need to focus on is your ability to complete the route. Everyone has his or her own comfortable pace and we always strive to accommodate this. All Trekking programs present physical demands, so expect to feel some tiredness even after a ‘leisurely’, A-Grade, day’s walking. While grading our treks we have taken the following factors into account

• The total duration of the trekking.
• The duration of stay at high altitude (+3000m).
• The maximum difference in altitude per day.
• The condition of the terrain.
• The average duration of the daily stages.
• General level of comfort.
• The temperature range.

Our grades are only a guide but following grading system might help you to choose which level of tour suits you best for your level of fitness and physical capabilities, to prepare for your trip.

1. A Grade * (Easy): Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk can manage this section. Maximum walking time is approximately 5 hours a day. In this section, trekking remains in a well maintained paths or tracks in a low altitude, with little daily variation.

2. B-Grade ** (Moderate): Again, no experience is necessary; Good health conditions and level of fitness are essential. Generally, good paths but sometimes can be rough, steep and have many ‘ups’ and ‘downs’ with some exposure and attaining the altitude between 900m to 3000m. Early in the season expect snow patches at higher altitudes.

3. C-Grade *** (Demanding): Between Moderate to Strenuous trek at an altitude up to 4000m with side trips to higher elevations. This is classified as ill – defined trails, away from habitation.  Considered to be harder comparison to other two above therefore preparation for fitness and good health conditions are essential.

4. D-Grade **** (Strenuous): Ventures at this grade are 'Tough Treks' these treks must be fully supported. The altitude attained between 3500 to 5000m. This trek also involves several nights stay above 4000m. These are genuine expeditions where preparation is essential fitness and a willingness to 'rough it' is essential. You must have a high level of fitness for this trek. Previous trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident of your physical condition.

5. E-Grade ***** (Very Strenuous): This trek is best described as Alpine, and suitable for those in excellent health, capable of carrying a backpack, when required. The trek covers very remote areas, traveling over snow covered passes at an altitude of up to 5000meters. You may need to axes and crampons to cross the pass when there is heavy snow. No strenuous trek should be undertaken without medical clearance.

6. F-Grade ****** (Challenging): Obviously we hope to fulfill our objectives but realistically we can only guarantee start and finish times with these treks. Limited to those with an excellent level of personal experience and fitness, an outstanding sense of humor, with high tolerance levels. During the trek you may have to cross snow covered passes in very remote areas or climb up to 6000meters in altitude. Participants are required to have basic mountaineering skills.