How to Choose The Right Adventure

At LHO, there are two main parameters to look at: the first is the type of trip, and the second is the fitness level required for each trip.

Trip Type

FIND YOURSELF MULTI-ADVENTURES

These trips are usually a combination of different adventure experiences all put together into one epic holiday. They can include trekking, paragliding, rafting, kayaking, camping, and a whole host of unique opportunities in a variety of remote environments. These trips don’t have a single objective other than to have fun, try new things, and make unforgettable memories.

TREKKING ADVENTURES

These are experiences that primarily focus on hiking. They can include objectives like finishing the Tour du Mont Blanc circuit, reaching Everest Base Camp, or summiting Kilimanjaro. What they share in common is the simple use of trekking poles and hiking boots. No technical gear is necessary, and most experiences are suitable for first-timers. That doesn’t mean they’re easy. LHO Trekking adventures can range from moderate to outrageous depending on the experience.

LHO ALPINE ACCADEMY ADVENTURES

These are technical mountaineering adventures focused on achieving expedition objectives. The common factor in all Alpine Academy trips is the use of technical mountaineering gear and the learning of skills necessary to use them. These adventures also range from challenging to outrageous and don’t necessarily have to be more challenging than some of our trekking adventures.

Fitness Level

CHILLED-OUT

If the fitness level of a trip is “Chilled-Out,” it literally means that no specific fitness level is required. There will be some physically demanding moments like rowing on a raft or walking up a mountain trail, but they are limited and usually balanced out with more relaxing activities as well. A good example would be a trip like “Find Yourself in Ecuador,” where downhill mountain biking is balanced with a night at a hotel with direct access to beautiful hot springs. Anyone can join a Chilled-Out adventure, especially those of us who may normally go for something more challenging but would rather have fun and make epic memories this time without the physical intensity.

MODERATE

This fitness level is for those of us seeking to leave our comfort zone and explore more physically engaging possibilities. For those of us who’ve never embarked on a fitness journey, these trips could be a great opportunity to kickstart one. They may also be a good option for those looking to slow down from more intensive physical routines. Just because they’re moderate doesn’t mean they aren’t life-changing experiences to incredible destinations.

CHALLENGING

Challenging trips are the majority of the classic experiences like Everest Base Camp, Machu Picchu by the Salkantay Trail, and the Tour du Mont Blanc. These adventures include sustained physical engagement over multiple days and in challenging environments. Each adventure has its own objective challenges. On the Everest Base Camp Trek, the challenge primarily comes from multiple days in higher altitude environments, whereas on the Tour du Mont Blanc, it’s because of the horizontal distance covered daily. A good benchmark to use would be the ability to maintain a fitness regime of 2 to 3 times a week in the lead up to this adventure, with at least one of the sessions being a moderate-intensity cardio-focused workout.

STRENOUS

These trips are on the more physically challenging side of adventure, where your fitness level will have an impact on the overall enjoyment of the experience. These trips include Kilimanjaro and the Chamonix-Zermatt Haute Route. Building your physical abilities not only enhances your endurance on the trip but also increases the mental strength needed to push through some of the challenging moments that experiences like these will undoubtedly present. A good benchmark would be working up to 4 exercise sessions per week, with a minimum of one hour for

Choosing the right adventure at LHO involves considering the type of trip and the fitness level required. Whether you opt for the thrilling combination of multi-adventures, the exhilarating challenges of trekking, the technical mountaineering experiences of the Alpine Academy, or the more relaxed and balanced Chilled-Out trips, there is an adventure suited for every preference and fitness level. By assessing your own abilities, pushing beyond your comfort zone, and embarking on a journey that aligns with your desired level of physical engagement, you can embark on an unforgettable experience that will not only test your limits but also create lifelong memories in breathtaking environments. Choose wisely, embrace the adventure, and prepare for an incredible journey of self-discovery and growth.