Laila Peak, Pakistan

 Laila Peak is a 20,000ft (6096m) high mountain, part of the Karakoram mountain range in Pakistan. Well known for it’s beautiful, distinctive spear-like shape, Laila Peak has only been climbed a few times. Unsurprising given that it’s dramatic northwest face features a 45-degree slope for more than 4900 vertical feet (1500m). Only the most experienced of climbers would dare take on this feat.

The climbing season runs from June until September. Very few climb in the Karakoram Range during the winter months, due to high levels of precipitation. Regardless of which month is chosen, climbing conditions are far from ideal. One of the main issues climbers face is that snow does not always freeze overnight, and climbing this soft snow for long periods is extremely tiring. A team of 4 British alpine climbers, led by Simon Yates in 1987, completed the first ascent. The unofficial ascent was made via the west face from the Gondogoro Glacier, and was later documented by Yates in his biography, the Flame of Adventure, published in 2002.

Whilst Laila peak and the nearby village of Hushe in the Masherbrum valley do not lie in a ‘restricted zone’ (an area close to Pakistan’s’ borders), the nearby valleys of Gondogoro and Chogolisa do. This means that if you are a foreign national climbing in these valleys, you will need to purchase a permit and hire a licensed guide.

Laila Peak is situated in central Karakoram, but is quite easy to access from Hushe village, via a road from Skardu. Therefore, to get to Laila Peak, international travellers must first fly into Skardu. From here, trekking companies offer private jeeps large enough to carry passengers and an expedition load. The drive from Skardu to Hushe takes approximately 8 hours. Once in Hushe, base camp can be reached in around 2 days, though it may be wise to take longer, in order to better acclimatise to the high altitude.

Both Skardu and Hushe feature a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets due to a relatively large number of trekkers passing through. Many climbers choose to make camp on the outskirts of the Hushe village, whilst there are also a number of camping spots on the way to base camp.

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Jeita Grotto, Libanon

Jeita Grotto, the longest cave in the Middle East, is located approximately 11 miles (18km) north of Beirut. It consists of two separate, but interconnected, limestone caves, and boasts a length of 5.6 miles (9km). One of the worlds most amazing agglomerations of stalactites and stalagmites, Jeita Grotto is widely considered to be the pride of Lebanon, and featured as a finalist in the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition.

The caves were inhabited by prehistoric man, with evidence suggesting that they were previously used to produce swords. Reverend William Thompson, an American missionary, is credited with the modern discovery of the caves in 1836. Thompson is said to have advanced 50 metres into the caves before firing his gun. The resultant echoes assured him that the caves were to be of significant importance.

Jeita Grotto was not explored further until the 1870’s, when Maxwell and Huxley of the Beirut Water Company carried out extensive expeditions of the caves, reaching 1060 metres inside the grotto. Lebanese explorers have ventured deeper into the cave since the 1940’s, and have so far exposed 5.6mi (9km) of the Jeita Grotto. The caves were initially known as the Grottoes of Nahr al-Kalb, after the underground river that runs through the grottoes. Several names were subsequently used, including Djaita, Jehita, and finally, Jeita. Jeita is derived from the town in which the caves entrance is situated, and is loosely translated in Aramaic as the ‘roar’ or ‘noise’ of water.

A tour of the lower grotto involves a 1650ft (500m) electric boat trip along a subterranean, black lake. At first, you are met with resonant sounds of rushing water and cool air but, as the boat ventures further into the cave, profound silence is experienced. The boat tour provides a marvellous sample of the enormous 20,300ft (6200m) lower grotto. The experienced is enhanced by a lighting system which illuminates the columns and structures within.

Unlike the lower grotto, the upper grotto can be visited on foot. Access is via a specially conceived 384ft (117m) long concrete walkway. Only 2460ft (750m) of the 6990ft (2130m) cave is accessible for visitors. The upper grotto features a large concentration of crystallized formations such as stalagmites, stalactites, ponds, mushrooms, columns, curtains and draperies. Three chambers are accessible to visitors. The first is the white chamber, which features the caves most impressive formations. It is home to the worlds longest stalactite, which measures 27ft (8.2m) in length. The second is the red chamber, which is named due to its colour. The red chamber towers to 106m (348ft) high, and is between 98ft (30m) to 160ft (50m) wide. The third chamber is the highest of the three, at a height of 390ft (120m).

The best way to get to Jeita Grotto is to drive from Beirut. The caves are only 11 miles (18 km) north of Beirut. Another option would be to take a minibus from Dawra to the Jeita turn-off on the Beirut-Jounieh highway. Here, there are taxis waiting who can take you the remaining 3 miles (5km) to Jeita Grotto. Alternatively, you can take a taxi directly from Beirut.

The caves are open for the vast majority of the year, every day of the week apart from Monday. Opening hours vary depending on the time of year, thus, it is advised to check the official website prior to organising your trip. Each year, the caves close for around 4 weeks from late January until early February. During winter, the lower grotto is often closed when the water level becomes too high. The temperature in the caves remains constant at 61 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celcius) throughout the year. Unfortunately, there is nowhere to stay overnight at the caves. However, there is a range of accommodation options available in Beirut.

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Stone Forest National Park, China

Situated close to the bustling city of Kunming in China’s Lunan Yi Autonomous province, Stone Forest National Park is a scenic area boasting an array of captivating limestone formations. Bewitching, dove grey stones, shaped like trees, animals and even fungi, rise up from the earth and point into the heavens, casting eerie shadows. Unsurprisingly, the Stone Forest National Park is very popular amongst tourists who are keen to marvel at its unique rock formations, some of which measure up to 130ft (40m) in height.

Geologists believe that the various rock shapes were created at least 270 million years ago by a combination of natural phenomena. Unique geological conditions contributed to the creation of these clustered rock formations, some of which are said to resemble petrified trees. The peculiar forest landscape covers an area of 135 sq. mi. (350 sq. km) and encompasses a plethora of spectacular vistas. In 2007, two parts of the site, the Naigu Stone Forest and Suogeyi Village, were named UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

According to ancient Chinese folklore, Ashima, a great Yi beauty, was born in the area. She fell in love with Ahei, but was kidnapped by Azhi, the son of the village leader who wanted to force her to marry. Azhi challenged Ahei to a singing competition that lasted for three days but he lost and had to set Ashima free. Whilst on her way back home, Ashima drowned after a river flood caused by Azhi. This is how the rock of Ashima in the small stone forest was formed. Locals now claim that if you call Ashima, she will answer you. Millions of years ago, the ocean would have covered the site that Stone Forest National Park now occupies. Over time, the waters receded, exposing the striking Stone Forest region.

The areas surrounding Stone Forest National Park are home to the Yi or Lolo people. The Yi speak a number of languages and many important works of literature, history and medicine, written in Old Yi script dating back to the 13th century, remain in use. Annually, on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month, Yi people gather in the forest as part of Torch Festival celebrations.

Stone Forest National Park is found just outside the metropolis of Kunming and is open daily, between 8:30AM and 6:00PM. A local saying states: "If you have visited Kunming without seeing the Stone Forest, you have wasted your time". The park is not free to enter; an admission fee is levied. Having paid the entrance fee, day-trippers gain access to a number of fascinating rock formations, sweeping parkland, and dense forest. It is recommended that visitors spend at least two hours on site, as there is much to see.

Both Major Stone Forest and Small Stone Forest feature confounding clusters of looming rock. Major Stone Forest is considered the most elegant and impressive of the two, as bird, animal and human shapes are apparent in its crags and pillars. In Minor Stone Forest, visitors enjoy views of “The Cluster of Pinnacles Propping up the Sky” and “The Stone Singing Praises of Plums”. Ashima’s rock is also situated in the Small Stone Forest, and is considered a sacred symbol of hope and freedom among the Yi people. Primitive art is still in evidence on some of the stones. There is a Karst Geological Museum situated on site, housing over 1200 items, with all descriptions written in English. Having paid the park entry fee, the museum is free to enter. Many tour operators and hotels facilitate daytrips to the Stone Forest. Guided tours of the site are also available at extra cost.

Stone Forest National Park is open all year round. Since its monuments are outdoors, visitors are advised to check the weather forecast before setting out - the region’s tropical climate means that rainfall is fairly frequent. Torch festivities, which include music, dance, and wrestling, generally occur in June. During high season, the park is likely to be crowded with tourists and visitors may have to queue to gain entry. Regular buses to the park run from Kunming East Coast Station (situated on the Eastern edge of Kunming) all year round. By bus, it takes around 2 hours to reach the Stone Forest. Tours can be booked in advance, and day-trippers are best advised to book with reputable tour providers, as touted tours are generally far more costly.

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Cenarth Falls, Wales

The cascading Cenarth Falls on the River Teifi are the centrepiece of the village of Cenarth on the border of Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire. The perfect location for a relaxing day trip; keep an eye out for the famous leaping salmon along the river. Take a lovely peaceful walk along the riverbank where you will be met with picturesque views of the River Teifi, the 17th century bridge and finally the breathtaking Cenarth Falls themselves. After you’ve been for a walk, you can stop off at one of the 2 idyllic pubs in the area for a nice cup of tea and a bite to eat.

If you would like to find out more about the history and culture of the area, then be sure to visit the National Coracle Centre, set in the grounds of the 17th century flour mill, along the river Teifi. Here you can take in some of Cenarth's rich history, which centres around the coracle. A coracle is an ancient fishing boat, typically weighing between 25-40 pounds (11-18kg) and built with a basket framework covered with canvas and tar. Fishermen used to walk 5-10 miles up the River Teifi, before drifting back down, hoping to catch salmon or trout. Examples of coracles from all over the world can be found here, including the ones used on the River Teifi.

The easiest way to get to Cenarth is to drive as it is a small village with no train station and limited public bus services. It is well signposted from local areas, and served by either the A484 or the B4332 roads. When you arrive in Cenarth, there is parking available on the north side of the river for a small charge, or a few free spaces can sometimes be found on the south side of the river.

There are a number of small camping grounds and caravan sites in the area, along with one larger holiday park in Cenarth itself. Numerous self-catering cottages can also be found in Cenarth and neighbouring villages. If you are looking to stay in a hotel, your best option may be to stay in nearby Cardigan (7mi/11km).

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The Wave, Arizona

The Wave is a geological marvel found on the slopes of the Coyote Buttes, at the Arizona-Utah border. It’s believed to date back to the Jurassic period during which time prevailing winds pushed the sandy desert dunes across the sandstone, etching it, while water runoff deposited chemicals such as manganese and iron. The resulting bands of color are referred to as the Liesegang rings, named after a German chemist. Swirled bands of color run through the sandstone, ranging from red, pink, orange, yellow, white and green.

The formation of the Wave began 190 million years ago, when desert dunes compacted and solidified into striped sandstone. The peculiar and unique fluctuating stratum was created by slow wind and rain erosion. The Wave was virtually unknown until the 1990’s when it was widely advertised in German travel brochures, and featured in the 1996 movie Faszination Natur. 

In order to protect the rock, only 20 visitors are permitted to access the Wave each day. Permits are issued online through a lottery system - more information here. A small permit fee will apply. Despite the limited access to protect the landscape, hikers must remain careful as the Wave has edges that will break easily if stepped upon.

Rain storms can make the road to the Wave impassable. They bring numerous pools which form for several days, containing hundreds of tadpoles and fairy shrimp. Reaching the Wave involves a 3-mile hike (6-mile roundtrip) across open desert, with no signposted path to follow. A GPS is therefore highly recommended, as it not unheard of for people to get lost without ever reaching the famous landmark.

The best time of year to visit the Wave is during either spring or fall, as the weather is neither too hot nor too cold. Summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). Since reaching the Wave requires a 3-mile hike across the open desert (6-mile roundtrip), summer is not an ideal time to visit. During the winter, temperatures are cold at night, but mild during the day, making hiking possible during warmer periods. In order to get the best photographs, visit either during the middle of the day when there are no shadows to be seen, or during the morning/early evening when stark shadows over the land provide dramatic visuals.

The closest towns are Kanab in Utah (77km/48mi) to the west, and Page in Arizona (72km/45 mi) to the east. In both towns, you will be able to find a variety of hotels/guest houses to suit your taste/budget. The drive to the Wave from both Kanab and Page takes approximately 1h20m. Alternatively, there are two campgrounds nearby, the White House Campground, and the Stateline Campground. More information about the campgrounds can be found here.

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Bora Bora

Bora Bora is situated approximately 140 miles (225km) northwest of Tahiti, in the western Leeward group of the Society islands of French Polynesia. It is a rugged, volcanic, mountainous island featuring a large lagoon surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and islets. In the Tahitian language, the pronunciation is closer to Pora Pora, and is commonly translated to mean “first born”. Bora Bora was first occupied by Polynesian traders and colonists in the fourth century. In 1722, Dutch explorer Jakob Roggeveen made the first European sighting, but a European would not land on the island until James Cook in 1770. Bora Bora remained an independent kingdom until annexed by the French in 1888.

During World War Two, the island served as a military supply base for the United States. During “Operation Bobcat”, military construction on the island included an airstrip, oil depot, and naval fortifications. After the war, the small airfield would remain the only international airport in all of French Polynesia until 1960. In 2004, all of the French Polynesia islands were granted limited autonomy and citizenship, but would remain under French administration and legal jurisdiction. The permanent population of Bora Bora is quite small, with less than 9000 residents as of 2008. The majority of residents live in Vaitape, found on the western edge of the main island. Tupai, the largest atoll, has a number of coconut plantation workers, but no permanent population. While French is the official language, Tahitian is commonly spoken.

The island of Bora Bora with its spectacular lagoon and beautiful coral reefs is just 11.3 square miles (29,266,865 sq. km) in size. Volcanic in origin, the island is mountainous and jagged, with bare black rock on the higher points. Centered in the island are the remains of an extinct volcano, split into two distinct black stone peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu. Pahia is the shorter of the pair, at 2,165 feet (660m), while Otemanu tops out at 2,379 feet (725m). Despite its volcanic origins, there is an abundance of tropical trees, plants and flowers. Common varieties include coconut palms, orange trees, and vanilla plants. The popular noni, a tropical evergreen known for its edible fruit, is abundant.

There are no native mammals on Bora Bora due to its volcanic past. However, due to human activity, there are several non-native species on the island. Cows, horses, and sheep are common, as are dogs and cats. In contrast, there are numerous species of birds found on the island. Black-winged Petrels, Pacific Swallow, and the White Tern are regularly seen. Many other species that are frequently encountered throughout French Polynesia will also be recognized on Bora Bora.

Marine life abounds around in the waters of Bora Bora. Numerous fish species are encountered, including red snapper, jackfish, and lemon sharks. Sea turtles, dolphins, and migrating humpback whales are frequently spotted. Due to the ample marine plankton around Bora Bora, the island is world-famous for the abundant population of ray species, including leopard, eagle and the huge Manta Ray.

The Polynesian summer months, November to April, are often hot and humid. The average temperature during the summer reaches 85 degrees, and the average rainfall is over 10 inches a month. Winter in Bora Bora is slightly cooler, but much drier, with less than 4 inches of monthly precipitation. 

Getting to Bora Bora is relatively easy due to its popularity as a tourist destination. You must firstly fly into Tahiti’s Faa’a International Airport, the only international airport in French Polynesia. Bora Bora is about 140 miles (225km) northwest of Tahiti. You can fly into Bora Bora airport from Papeete. The airport is situated on Motu Mete; a northern islet of the main island of Bora Bora. From the airport, it is necessary to travel by boat in order to get to the main island or resorts on smaller surrounding islands.

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Grand Canyon, USA

The Grand Canyon is a majestic steep-sided canyon that attracts an incredible 5 million visitors per annum. Located in the southwestern U.S. state of Arizona, it has an average depth of 1220 meters (4000ft), and is 277 miles (445km) long. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most frequently visited, thanks to its breathtaking views of both the canyon and the Colorado River far below. Interestingly, the Grand Canyon National Park is home to several distinct ecosystems, ranging from desert to forest land. These various ecosystems serve as an ecological refuge for many plants and animals, including many endangered species. Though not the deepest, longest, or widest canyon in the world, the Grand Canyon is renowned for its beauty and awe-inspiring size. The incredible 277-mile long rift divides the Colorado Plateau, forming part of the Colorado River Basin.

Erosion from the Colorado River is responsible for the formation of the canyon. Many estimates suggest that the process began about 6 million years ago. However, a recent study indicated that it might have begun sooner than previously thought - as early as 17 million years ago! Fascinatingly, the walls of the canyon offer an unparalleled representation of Earth’s different geologic phases. In fact, the rocks found in the walls of the Grand Canyon are believed to be approximately 1/3 of the age of the Earth itself.

The average elevations of the Colorado River, South Rim and North Rim are 2200 ft. (above sea level), 6800 ft. and 8000 ft., respectively. This wide range in elevation gives rise to the Grand Canyon’s immense biodiversity. Five of the seven life zones can be found in Grand Canyon National Park, as well as three out of the four main types of desert. As a result, the park boasts over 1500 native plant species, 355 species of birds, 89 mammalian species, 47 species of reptiles, 9 species of amphibians, and 17 species of fish. The park is also home to numerous endangered plant and animal species including the desert tortoise, two species of leopard frogs, the bald eagle, American peregrine falcon, and the bighorn sheep, just to name a few.

The best time of year to visit the Grand Canyon is during either spring or fall, when hiking conditions are ideal, and visitor numbers slightly lower. That is not to say that you should disregard a summer trip to the canyon by any means. However, high temperatures (exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit) do not provide ideal hiking conditions and large crowds will be present as it’s the peak tourist season. The winter brings harsh cold (sub-zero) and the chance of heavy snowfall, which may prevent access to either rim. In fact, the road to the North Rim is closed between late-October and mid-May each year.

Fly into either Las Vegas or Phoenix International airports. From here, you can hire a car, or alternatively, book yourself onto one of the many coach tours on offer. The drive to the Grand Canyon from either one of these airports takes approximately 5 hours. To drive to the Grand Canyon, take the Arizona State Route 67 to access the North Rim, or State Route 64 to access the South Rim and Grand Canyon village.

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Salar De Uyuni, Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni is the worlds largest salt flat, spanning 4086 square miles (10,582 sq. km) in south-western Bolivia. Unlike traditional deserts, which have sand in abundance, the Salar de Uyuni features vast expanses of glistening white salt. The landscape is entirely flat, bar a few small ‘islands’ such as Isla Incahuasi, which only accentuates its surreal beauty. Underneath the cemented salt are large reservoirs of lithium-rich brine. In fact, approximately 70% of the world’s lithium reserves are found in Salar de Uyuni and thus it’s not surprising that there’s an entire industry devoted to its extraction. Unlike any other place on earth, the Salar de Uyuni is breathtakingly beautiful and provides an extraordinary experience that will not be quickly forgotten.

Containing an estimated 10 billion tonnes of salt, the question often arises as to how Salar de Uyuni was formed. Essentially, the Altiplano (high plateau) here had no drainage outlets, which meant that water from the surrounding mountains once collated to form a giant lake.

High salinity meant that whilst this vast, prehistoric lake has long since evaporated under the fierce Andean sun, a thick crust of salt remains, forming what we now recognise as the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni. Aymaran legend provides an alternative explanation, involving the mountains surrounding the salt flats, Kusina, Kusku and Tunupa. The story is that these mountains were once giant people, and Tunupa and Kusku were married. When Kusku betrayed his wife for Kusina, Tunupa’s tears are said to have formed the salt flats.

The best and most popular way to fully experience Salar de Uyuni is by taking a 4x4 tour across the salt flats. It's worth noting that shared tours usually accommodate for up to 6 tourists, and thus for a more comfortable experience, a private tour should be arranged. Such tours usually involve a minimum of one nights stay in rather basic accommodation, and thus it is recommended that you bring plenty of warm clothes and a warm sleeping bag for the night. Further, sun cream is a necessity as the reflections from the salt accentuate the suns effect.

Adventurous travellers may also wish to try a night’s stay in one of the areas renowned salt hotels. With no building materials around for miles, some locals have taken it upon themselves to build structures from bricks of cemented salt. In these hotels, everything from the beds and tables to the flush toilets are constructed from salt blocks.

Even if you don’t fancy staying, you can usually view these hotels during the day for a nominal fee. In the dry season, Salar de Uyuni is a surreal experience not to be missed. However, rain takes it to a whole new level. As a thin sheet of water covers the flats, it reflects a perfect representation of the sky above so that it is impossible to tell where sky ends and the land begins.

The best time to visit Salar de Uyuni ultimately depends upon the experience you are looking for. For the best climate, we recommend you visit between July and October. However, for an increased chance of seeing the reflective surfaces, you should visit between March and April. Most tours to Salar de Uyuni originate from the small town of Uyuni. To get to Uyuni, you have a number of options available to you.

Most people choose to travel from Ororo, where it is 7 hours by train, or 8 hours by bus. These tickets are quite often booked up on the day, so it is recommended to book in advance. Alternatively, you can take a bus from La Paz (12-15 hours) or Potosi (6-7 hours). Lastly, you can choose to rent a car or fly into Uyuni’s small airport from La Paz.

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