Author: dev

AFGHANISTAN GROUP TRIP – 15th – 22nd May 2025

Posted on by dev

So I’ve been dreaming about doing this again.. An Afghanistan group trip in 2025.. I mean why not?! We did one very successful Afghanistan group trip this year (also in May,) so it’s time to explore one of the world’s most underrated countries again. First of all May is an excellent time to go with the weather and it’s very important that you know how to travel a country like Afghanistan and we know EXACTLY how to do that the right way, (the best way possible!)

The Dates Are 15th-22nd of May 2025 

We will have a lot of costs involved in the price of this EXPEDITION with ALL FOOD, 4 local flights, permits, hotels, guides, drivers etc, and I think this is maybe the best possible deal on the market for an unforgettable Afghanistan trip. I can’t wait to return to this stunning country with some of the world’s most beautiful nature, unbelievable sights and incredibly friendly people..

HOW TO JOIN THIS TRIP?

Contact gus1thego@outlook.com or DM GUS1THEGO on INSTAGRAM and tell about yourself, and we will see if you’re the right fit for our Afghanistan group. Only YES people are welcome.

Gus1thego May Expedition 2024
Me in Afghanistan in 2019

So yes, I have decided to go back to Afghanistan from 15th-22nd of May 2025 now and I honestly I can’t wait for this adventure of a lifetime.. Will it be a challenging trip? Yes, it will be. Do I want complainers to join? No, I don’t. Do I want YES-people to come? Absolutely!

Anyway..  I visited 9 provinces in 2019 over 2 weeks. I then came back with a group this year and explored again, but I still want to see so much more in this fascinating country. Afghanistan is full of surprises, one of the most untouched gems in the world. You’ll be surprised…

Come with me to Afghanistan

Join me in Afghanistan from 15th-22nd of May 2025

I will bring 7 people with me (not more, not less..) I don’t care about making money on this trip, this is just what I think is the perfect group size for a trip like this. Are you excited for more info? You should be.. This is the programme..

Last year in May I also brought 7 people with me to Afghanistan! Unforgettable memories

Included: – All Accommodations – All Food – Transportation and Domestic Flights in Afghanistan – Guiding and Permits – Taxes – Entrance Tickets to Sites – Meals and Water/Tea

NOT INCLUDED: Travel Insurance – VISA FEE – Flights in an out of Afghanistan – Drinks – Tips – Any extra payment.

Write e-mail to gus1thego@outlook.com to explain shortly about yourself and why you would be a great fit for our group, if you’re interested. If you get approved for the trip, you’ll get more info. TOUR INFO BELOW!

You will see views in Afghanistan you’ve never seen before!

We are going to get our visas in Dubai (unless you know and want to do it somewhere else,) but the plan is to arrive in Dubai on Monday or Tuesday (to have a few days to get our visas – I will provide the LOI) and then we go to Kabul on a Thursday.

TOUR PROGRAMME AFGHANISTAN

GUS1THEGO – EXPEDITION

Start & End Point: Kabul
Number of People 7 + Gus (as the Tour Leader)

Date: 15th – 22nd May 2024

Day 1 – Kabul
Thursday 15th / May / 2024

Arrival in Kabul. You will be transferred from the airport to our accommodation
where we will discuss the trip and WHAT TO DO and WHAT NOT TO DO and give a briefing about everything.

Kabul, Afghanistan

Day 2 – Kabul – Bamyan
Friday 16th / May / 2025

We will leave Kabul and drive to beautiful Bamyan

Today we will be driving from Kabul to Bamyan and it will be around 4 hours driving from Kabul to Bamyan, the capital of Hazara Jat – home of Hazaras and one of the most peaceful places with very stunning nature in Afghanistan. When we arrive in Bamyan we will have time to look at the hillsides containing many caves in which monasteries and Buddhist carving once situated and visit Buddha niches of Bamyan, Shar-e-Gholghulah (City of Screams). Overnight in Bamyan

Bamyan is super stunning

Day 3 – Band-E-Amir:
Saturday 17th / May / 2025

Band-e-Amir is out of this world

Today we will visit places we missed the day before such as Dragon Valley and The Red City (Shar-e-Zuhak) and then head to The National Park of Afghanistan the Lapis Lazuli blue water of Band-e-Amir are often the highlight of any trip to Afghanistan. The Legend says the dams that separate 5 lakes were made by Ali, the prophet Mohammad’s cousin and son in law. However, the geologists insist they are natural dams made from mineral pledges. The lakes contrast to the stark landscape surrounding them only adds to the beauty of this area. Overnight in Bamyan.

Day 4 – Bamyan – Kabul – Herat:
Sunday 18th / May / 2025

Herat in Afghanistan is a special place full of culture and different influences

We will leave the amazing Bamyan and Band-E-Amir and drive back to Kabul.
We will then fly to Herat, The ancient city of Herat, known as the Pearl of Khorasan, and explore. Herat is full of culture and history, unique architecture and traditions.

Overnight in Herat

Day 5 Herat – Kabul:
Monday 19th /May / 2025

Today we explore Herat and visit places such as Jihad Museum, which celebrates the Mujahedeen’s victory over the Soviet Union. Herat has the largest collection of ancient buildings in Afghanistan and we will try to fit in as much as we can of the city and its surroundings, including the atmospheric Shrine of Khoja Ansari at Gozar Gah. These are some of the finest examples of Ghorid and Timurid tiling to be found anywhere in the world then fly back to Kabul. Overnight in Kabul

Day 6 Kabul – Mazar:
Tuesday 20th / May /2025

Today we fly from Kabul to Mazar and coordinate with tourism office in Mazar and then explore the majestic blue tiled tomb of Hazrat Ali, the oldest city of Afghanistan Balk, called Bactria to the Greeks. Bactria was the birthplace of Zoroaster, the founder of Zoroastrianism as well as Rumi the legendary Persian poet. Legacy entrance to the town, at the blue tiled and green tomb of khoja Parsa (The green mosque) and the oldest mosque in Afghanistan, the 9th century No Gombad mosque. Overnight in Mazar-e-Sharif.

Mazar-i-Sharif is the pearl of Afghanistan full of wonderful sights

Day 7 Mazar – Kabul:
Wednesday 21st / May /2025

Today we fly back to Kabul and visit places such Babur Garden – the last resting place of the first Mughal emperor, Sakhi Shrine historical and stunning shrine locally believed as bypass of Ali the cousin of prophet Mohammad, the sobering OMER landmine in Afghanistan and the famous bird market where you will see a maze small alleyway with locals which haggling over everyday product you can imagine. Including famous Afghan singing birds. Overnight in Kabul

The Bird Market in Kabul

Day8 Kabul – END OF TOUR
Thursday 22nd / May / 2024

Today we accompany you to the airport to catch your flight but before we will visit, Bibi Mahroo’s hills and then walk down the chicken street, once the famous epicenter of the counter-culture and free of love movements on the Opium Trail in the 60s. chicken street is now famous for its antique and carpet shops if you will be interested to buy some Afghan souvenirs to bring home..

Afghanistan is maybe the world’s most photogenic country

Included: – All Accommodations – All Food – Transportations and Domestic Flights in Afghanistan – Guiding and Permits – Taxes – Entrance Tickets to Sites – Meals and Water/Tea

NOT INCLUDED: Travel Insurance – VISA FEE – Flights in an out of Afghanistan – Additional Drinks – Tips – Any extra payment.

Write e-mail to gus1thego@outlook.com to explain shortly about yourself and why you would be a great fit for our group, if you’re interested. If you get approved for the trip, you’ll get more info. TOUR INFO ABOVE!

We are going to get our visas in Dubai (unless you know and want to do it somewhere else,) but the plan is to arrive in Dubai on Monday or Tuesday (have a few days to get our visas – I will provide the LOI) and then we go to Kabul on a Thursday.

So yes, a legendary and challenging Afghanistan trip coming up. This will be a fantastic and epic trip as always with the gus1thego expeditions! Let’s create some unforgettable memories that will last for a lifetime!

How to sign up? Write an e-mail to gus1thego@outlook.com or DM “gus1thego” on Instagram.

Gustav
Gus1thego

 

5 Reasons Why I LOVE Turkmenistan – Gustav Rosted Soerensen

Posted on by dev

I’m amazed by Turkmenistan, it’s a very beautiful country and I hope to visit soon! These are 5 things I love about Turkmenistan.

Men Türkmenistany gowy görýärin we ýakyn wagtda bu ajaýyp ýurda baryp görmek isleýärin.

1:  ASHGABAT

Turkmenistan is not a typical tourist destination! shgabat was recently noted by the Guinness Book of World Records as having the most white marble-clad buildings in the world
Turkmenistan is amazing! Ashgabat was recently noted by the Guinness Book of World Records as having the most white marble-clad buildings in the world

The capital of Turkmenistan of Ashgabat is the first thing to see. The city is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the whitest city on the planet. 543 buildings are built in the same style-they are lined with white marble. Absolutely beautiful architecture and extremely clean.

2. The ancient city of Nisa

Nisa is stunning and full of history

If you drive 18 kilometers west of Ashgabat, you can meet the remains of the ancient city of Nisa. The monuments are protected and included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The exhibits found during the excavations are kept in the State Cultural Center of Turkmenistan.

3. The Ruins Of Merv

Merv is very beautiful and should be visited in Turkmenistan

In the south-eastern part of Turkmenistan, there is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, older than Nisa. These are the ruins of the ancient city of Merv. Its top is still decorated with a brick dome. The items found during the excavations are kept in the United Museum of History. I LOVE THIS COUNTRY! 🇹🇲❤️

4. Fiery Gas Crater of Karakum Desert

 

Fiery Gas Crater of Karakum Desert is amazing

The place of the Fiert Gas Crater of Karakum Desert in Turkmenistan is remembered for a lifetime. Darvaza means “gate” in the national language. The gas crater 90 km from the village of Yerbent is very unique. Anyone who comes here at night becomes an eyewitness to an incredible sight: in the middle of the sands, in pitch darkness, an orange fiery light breaks out from under the ground.

5. Traditional cuisine

 

People travel to Turkmenistan to eat delicious meat and fish. Most of all, the locals love chicken and lamb. The restaurants serve game, goat and camel meat. Milk is drunk by camel and sheep. The serving plate in Turkmenistan is prepared at every step. Lamb meat is finely chopped, fried in lard and canned.

 

I love Turkmenistan and I hope to visit this beautiful country soon.  Bu ýurt haýran galdyryjy we ýakyn wagtda görmek isleýärin.

 

Gustav Rosted Soerensen

 

 

TURKMENISTAN GROUP TRIP 26TH OF JUNE – 30TH OF JUNE 2023

Posted on by dev

VERY GOOD NEWS! Turkmenistan has OPENED again and it will be the destination of the 11th Gus1thego-Expedition. Be aware that the trip might sell out fast and we have limited spots, so sign up as fast as you can.

The prices to fly in and out from Istanbul in Turkey are quite good and easy and that is what we are going to do!

This is the flight we will be taking to Turkmenistan and back from Istanbul!

WE ARE GOING TO TURKMENISTAN – GUS1THEGO EXPEDITION – 26TH OF JUNE – 30TH OF JUNE 2023

Turkmenistan is one of the most UNIQUE countries in the World.. There’s simply no place like Turkmenistan!

WHY VISIT TURKMENISTAN?

I mean, why not? One of the most unique and isolated countries you can explore on the planet. Enjoying a somewhat unique reputation as, not only the least explored country along the old Silk Road, but also probably the most eccentric of the Central Asian republics, modern Turkmenistan is very much the product of its ex president, Saparmurat Niyazov, otherwise known as Turkmenbashi. Spotting a gold statue of its former ruler on practically every corner, the country is awash with towns and portraits dedicated to one of the world’s most flamboyant and repressive dictators. Turkmenistan has a lot to offer!

Much of the country is covered by the large, empty and very hot Kara Kum or Black Sands Desert, which for centuries was Turkmenistan’s best defence against a long list of outsiders, adventurers and encroaching armies.

A visit to Turkmenistan holds the promise of a journey into a rich and colourful land still totally untouched by tourism, where strangers are merely friends that haven’t been introduced yet. Can’t wait to check out this special country with you!

TOUR PROGRAMME – TURKMENISTAN GUS1THEGO GROUP TRIP – SUMMER 2023 – 26TH OF JUNE – 30TH OF JUNE

Day 1: Arrive in Ashgabat

We will do sightseeing in Ashgabat, visiting the main monuments and sites including the Arch of Neutrality, Independence Monument, Wheel of Enlightenment, Earthquake Memorial. The capital Ashgabat is all over the Record Book of Guinness. It has The World’s Largest Indoor Ferris Wheel, The Largest Architectural Star, Largest Building in the Shape of a Horse, Highest Density of White Marble-Clad Buildings and The Tallest Unsupported Flagpole. Just to name a few of them!

Does it sound interesting to visit a place with that many Guiness World Records?! Well, then you should maybe consider joining my group trip to Turkmenistan! We have limited spots, so be fast as they will be taken quick.

 

Turkmenistan is not a typical tourist destination! shgabat was recently noted by the Guinness Book of World Records as having the most white marble-clad buildings in the world
Turkmenistan is not a typical tourist destination! Ashgabat was recently noted by the Guinness Book of World Records as having the most white marble-clad buildings in the world

Day 2: Ashgabat – Darvaza

In the morning visit Nissa and the Turkmenbashy Mausoleum and Mosque. Return to Ashgabat for Lunch. In the afternoon drive roughly 4 hours to the Gates of Hell, camping overnight.

"The Gates of Hell"
Known as “The Gates of Hell”, a massive molten pit in the Turkmenistan desert has been spewing fire for decades

Day 3: Darvaza – Ashgabat

In the morning we’ll visit the other two craters at Darvaza, then continue on to Ashgabat. We’ll be taken to the Russian bazaar to explore and have lunch. Free time in the afternoon. We’ll be able to explore sights you might have missed on the first day or just explore this extraordinary city taking in life.

The Russian Bazaar or Gulistan in Ashgabat is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the Turkmenistan

Day 4: Depart Ashgabat

Day 4 we are going to say goodbye and fly out of Ashgabat after an once in a lifetime travel experience in Turkmenistan! Are you excited? I really am! Hope to see you with a new GUS1THEGO EXPEDITION IN TURKMENISTAN. Be aware that the trip might sell out fast and we have limited spots, so sign up as fast as you can.

INCLUDED

Those prices are all based on twin share. It will include tents, transportation, sleeping bags and equipment for camping. Breakfast. The hotel is Ak Altyn 4Star (used to be the Sheraton before the government took over.)

EXCLUDED

PCR-tests (if needed – not as it is right now)
Flights in an out of Turkmenistan.
Lunch and dinner.

Guys, it’s now or never! We don’t know what will happen with Turkmenistan. Will it remain open, will it close again? Come with me now and let’s visit Turkmenistan now while we can! Are you ready to join us 26TH OF JUNE – 30TH OF JUNE? Send an e-mail NOW to gus1thego@outlook.com explaining a little about yourself and why you should join our EPIC EXPEDITION!

Best regards

Gustav Rosted
gus1thego

SYRIA TRIP 3RD OF JULY – 9TH OF JULY 2022

Posted on by dev

SYRIA EXPEDITION 3RD OF JULY – 9TH OF JULY 2022 Gus1thego (6-8 persons)

Are you ready to explore Syria with me? Let’s do it! Homs, Syria

FULL SYRIA TRIP WITH ME?

I traveled around Syria for 10 days in 2018 and I always wanted to return and now I feel like it’s the right time.. 3rd of July –  9th of July 2022 and I will bring a small group with me.. Sounds cool? Okay, then read along, because this is going to be a trip of a lifetime and we will cover ALL the best places of Syria.. Are you ready to explore with me and try the most amazing food and ancient, marvelous sites that are real blessings to your eyes?

Explore Syria with gus1thego from 3rd of July to 9th of July 2022. Damascus, Syria

FULL PROGRAMME

Beirut Day 01. Pick you up from Lebanon / Beirut, transfer to Damascus, continue to Aleppo and start with a small tour to discover the city .. O/N Aleppo

Aleppo Day 02. Full day Aleppo City Tour which includes (Citadel – Museum – old covered souks and bazaars – Baron Hotel – Old City and the outside of the Umayyad Mosque) .. O/N Aleppo

Day 03. After breakfast, driving south to the city of Hama (visit the famous Waterwheels) then continue to the city of Homs to visit (Khaled Ibn Al Waleed Mosque and the Holy Belt Church) – After that we continue to Al Wadi for visiting the incredible Crack des Chevaliers and St. Georgious Monastery .. O/N Al Wadi
Day 04. After early breakfast, we drive directly to Palmyra the charming city in the middle of the desert .. We start with the city tour which includes a lot of interesting attractions such as the theatre – columns street – remains of temple of Bel – tower and underground tombs – the arch of Victory .. then we drive back to Al Wadi for overnight .. O/N Al Wadi
Day 05. After breakfast we drive from Al Wadi to the city of Tartus, where we get the chance to visit the old city of Amrit with its famous stadium as well as the old city and the museum of Tartus, then we drive south to Damascus for overnight .. O/N Damascus
Day 06. Full day Damascus City Tour : National Museum – Ommayad Mosque – Saldin Tomb – Old Covered Bazaar – Gates – Hanania Church – Street called straight .. then transfer to the border for departure back to Beirut.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

SERVICES

ALL TRANSPORTATION. Included Hotels — Damascus : AAA: Beit Al Wali / Beit Al Mamlouka / Beit Zaman / Talisman .. 5* BBB: Zeitouna / Inana .. or sim .. 4* — Homs : Al Wadi : Al Wadi hotel or sim .. 4* — Aleppo : AAA: Aleppo palace / Laurus .. 4* BBB: Riga palace 4*b … Boutique hotel or sim .. 3* — Tartous : Shahin Tower or sim .. 4* — Hama : AAA: Orient house – boutique hotel BBB: Norias hotel or sim .. 3* — Lattakia : AAA: Afamia hotel .. 5* BBB: La Mira or sim .. 4* • Meals : Daily breakfast – Restaurants / Food available • Private Guide all tours – English speaking. • Transportations by private car from/to Beirut. • Entry Fees to mentioned Sites •

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?

Not included • PCR-TESTS • Border departure Tax (USD 6 -+) • Official Visa Fees at Border to authority • Tips for Guide / Driver • Extra meals / Drinks / all extra demands • Lebanese Visa • Insurance (international) Palmyra special permission documents fee 80 dollars pr persom —— Visa : (100 DOLLARS FOR PRE-APPROVAL – And pay a smaller amount for visa on arrival) To arrange you your visa please send me the following – Passport copy – Full address with contact details(mobile) – Profession/work – Date of visit with chosen program – For Journalist an extra different procedure will be advised on request .. – passport should be valued for the minimum “ 6 months “ – Passport should be without any Israeli stamp to enter “Syria” and NO AMERICANS ALLOWED. Expected Period needed to get the Visa “ 1-3 weeks “ • All Museums closed on Tuesdays • No Credit Card / No ATM in Syria, so you should bring only cash. End of services .. ————— Prices per person sharing Double Room in US Dollar, if you want to have your own room there is an extra fee.

If it sounds interesting send me an e-mail to gus1thego@outlook.com and tell me about yourself, then you will get more information. I will be very selective about who I choose for the Syria expedition. We need yes people and a really good group and I’m sure we will have so much fun.

Gustav
gus1thego

MAURITANIA IRON ORE TRAIN – GROUP TRIP – 23rd APRIL to 29TH APRIL 2025

Posted on by dev

IRON ORE TRAIN Tour Classic Itinerary

'The World's LONGEST IRON ORE TRAIN'

TRIP DATES 23rd APRIL to 29TH APRIL 2025

I have now done the Iron Ore Train in Mauritania 9 times and I can tell you this is one of the most amazing travel experiences you can do in Africa, which by the way is my favourite Continent, because of all the wild adventures. To jump on the World’s longest train 700 km through the SAHARA DESERT is one the absolute best and most authentic travel experiences you can get and everyone in my previous groups ranked the trip 1 million/10. These are memories we have together now!

NEW GROUP TRIP – 23rd APRIL to 29TH APRIL 2025

Mauritania Iron Ore Train – Gus1thego Expedition

We have additionally added camping at this sand dune, which is not even on Google Maps yet and we will have to find it by driving off road, but we have done it before and will do it again! Are you ready for an experience of a lifetime? Come with me! Here is some info:

The Last Gus1thego Expeditiosn in Mauritania were simply unforgettable, but a lot of people were unable to join me on these dates.. I have itchy feet already again, the locals are struggling there with jobs opportunities, so therefore I’m giving you guys a NEW chance to do the Iron Ore Train with me. We will hit up all the highlights in Mauritania from 23rd APRIL to 29TH APRIL 2025 and end it with the world’s most fascinating train ride in the Sahara desert. Are you ready to join me?

Day 1 – Nouakchott

  • We will arrive at your convenience into Nouakchott – the largest and capital city of Mauritania which is well connected from many countries within Africa and most of Europe. You can fly from Tunis, Istanbul or Casablance. I flew from Tunis last.
  • Airport pick up and overnight at a hotel in Nouakchott. We will pick you up from the airport, don’t worry!
  • Go To The Camel Market. We will hit up the largest camel market in Nouakchott, Mauritania
Camel Market in Nouakchott

Day 2 – Chinguetti

  • Wake up in the morning and enjoy a cooked breakfast by camp fire
  • Begin exploring the Adrar Region of Mauritania
  • Visit Azoughi oasis and village for a tea stop and experience how the locals live
Oasis out in nowhere in Mauritania

Afternoon

  • Drive to the UNESCO world heritage site of Chinguetti – a holy city of Islam. You’ll visit the library and other historical monuments and landmarks including the much loved Friday Mosque of Chinguetti, the national symbol of Mauritania.
  • Evening sunset watched from the huge sand dunes of Chinguetti
  • Dinner and overnight at Hotel – Traditional stone guesthouse
One of Islam’s holiest cities, Chinguetti

Day 3 – Chinguetti – Ouadane

Morning

  • Breakfast at hotel. Ready to see the TALLEST Sand Dunes in Mauritania!
  • Begin 80km drive through pure desert and sand dunes: on the way stopping in Tanounichert for a tea stop with the locals – once upon a time it was an important stop of the trans-caravan routes of the Sahara. Ouadane is the Pompei of Mauritania for its sprawling city in ruins which is sure to amaze you. It was here that products of sub-Saharan Africa were traded with those of the Maghreb. The Portuguese arrived in 1487 and transformed the city into a local centre of cultural, economic and scientific advancement.
We will see Mauritania’s tallest sand dunes

Afternoon

  • Explore the streets and see the buildings that once glorified the country as a whole and then move on to the new part of town where you’ll be sure to mingle with the locals.
  • Traditional dinner and overnight in the Hotel.
Ouadane is a magical city that we will explore

Day 4 – Zoerat – IRON ORE TRAIN

  • Get through a rather chilly, very loud, and pretty uncomfortable night. Then brag about this experience for the rest of your life! 20 hours of absolute madness and one h*ll of a story to tell when you get old! It’s now or never..
  • The Mauritania train is the longest train in the world at 2,500m.
Iron Ore Train, Mauritania is a bucketlist you should tick off

Day 5 – Noaudhibou

Exploring the harbour city and the cool shipwreck!

Day 6 – Noaudhibou- Noaukchott

Morning

  • An early rise for breakfast and the long drive to the Mauritanian capital city of Nouakchott

Afternoon

  • On the way stopping for lunch at San Francisco Café for a hearty meal and access to WiFi after a few days of deprivation.
  • Arrive in time to catch the lively Atlantic fish market. Every evening hundreds of fishermen bring in the day’s catch on their distinct sea canoes recognized by their colourful hand-painted hulls. The catch is then brought by donkey cart to the city’s markets
  • Visit the National Museum where artefacts of the history of Mauritania and its ancient cities are exposed – this will allow you to have a quite recap of what you’ve seen in the last days.
  • Visit the local craft market where locals specialise in camel wool rugs
  • Driving tour of the massive embassies of the main players of the region – USA, China, France, and Russia.
  • Quick photo stop by the Great Mosque of Nouakchott – funded by Saudi Arabia and built in 1982.
  • Head to the beach for some great people watching. This is where local Nouakchottois come to escape the city and cool off.
  • Farewell dinner at a local restaurant
  • Overnight in Nouakchott

Tour price includes:

  • Airport Transfer *2
  • Accommodation in clean and comfortable 3* and 4* hotel in good location
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Private transport in a 4×4 and tickets for the train
  • English-speaking accompanying guides
  • All entrance fees
  • ALL PERMITS NEEDED FOR TRAVELLING AROUND MAURTIANIA

VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: IF ANYONE DECIDES TO CANCEL AFTER PAYING, they can NOT BE REFUNDED as we need to pay for cars, guides, hotels, driver and lots of things in advance. YOU DO AGREE ON THIS WHEN YOU HAVE PAID THE DEPOSIT AND DECIDES TO JOIN THE TRIP! Why would you cancel anyway?

Tour price DOES NOT include:

  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips
  • Souvenir/clothing/shopping

PACKING LIST:

  • Ski Goggles.
  • Multiple Garbage Bags. (we have in Mauritania, but you can bring some too)
  • Headscarf. (we will get in Mauritania)
  • Thick Face Mask.
  • Headlamp.
  • Protective Bag For Your Cell Phone.
  • Blanket (buy in a town before arriving)
  • Sanitizer to clean your hands
  • Special camera plastics to protect your lens

You’ll be provided WATER AT ALL TIMES! Don’t worry.

Send me an e-mail to gus1thego@outlook.com on why you should join the Iron Ore Train Expedition! Looking forward to hear from you as soon as possible. Our team will be amazing and I can’t wait do this with you! Gustav / gus1thego

Pictures from previous Mauritania Expeditions

GUS1THEGO – GROUP TRIP – SOCOTRA, YEMEN

Posted on by dev

Socotra Expedition (gus1thego)

Socotra Island is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled islands in the world. The island is well known for its Dragon Blood Trees and its surreal landscapes full of towering sand dunes and deep canyons, making it one of the most beautiful UNESCO sites in the world. Socotra is the perfect definition of remote island. Closest to Yemen and Somalia, its location has made it somehow an oasis in turbulent waters. BUT DON’T WORRY, IT’S SAFE TO VISIT! Azure beaches, crystal clear water for snorkelling and diving, healthy corals full of fish and thousands of endemic species of flora and fauna make it a unique ecosystem. This is one of the most mind-blowing spots on earth!

 

Trip dates: October 4th-11th 2021. Total of 8 days / 7 nights.

Itinerary

Monday the 4th of October 10 am > Abu Dhabi – Socotra and back

Day 1: Arrival on Socotra, Dihamari Marine Protected Area

We will pick you up at the airport and transport you to the restaurant in Hadibo lunch. After, we will drive to nearby Dihamri marine protected area. It boasts with one of the richest coral reefs on the archipelago. You can relax on the beach in palm leaf huts and swim and snorkel in Dihamri Bay. Snorkeling gear can be hired there. Marine species you will see underwater include: Parrotfish, Moray eel, Rays, Sea urchins, if you are lucky you will meet turtles. Divers can also use the services of Dihamri Diving center and go for a dive in Dihamri or another of superb diving spots of Socotra.

Day 2: Homhil

Homhil is a place you will remember. Stopover at Qaria Lagoon. 
Today we will make our way to Homhil protected area, taking in the fabulous sceneries of deep ravines and plains along the way. We will stop at Qaria Lagoon en-route. Qaria is the largest lagoon on the island and we can hopefully see Flamingos, Herons and Greenshank, amongst others. Once at Homhil, we can walk a selection of trails, one of which takes us to a viewpoint where there is a natural pool and a view village below on the plain and of the sea. Homhil is home to many Dragons Blood trees, the resin of which is collected, used and traded by the people of Socotra. Frankincense trees are also prevalent here and deserve a close look.
Dinner and overnight  at Homhil outside the campsite.

Day 3: Hoq Cave/ Arher freshwater creek and beach

The day begins with an early morning visit to the traditional village of Erissel. Here on the easternmost tip of the island we will interact with locals, witness the outstanding local fishermen’s activities and visit family’s house for a Socotri chai.

After departing the village we will head for cave exploration. There are many cave systems throughout the island thanks to its karstic nature and limestone plateaus. The huge mouth of the Hoq cave is reached by a 2 hours hike. Here we’ll be rewarded by a spectacular underground channel. The cave has yet to be fully explored, speleologists have determined its length as 10 km or more. We will venture 2 km into the belly of the cave admiring stalactites, stalagmites, ancient writings and subterranean water supplies.

After spelunking we will return to Arher – the afternoon is yours to relax in the surrounding serenity or join another hiking to the top of the plateau. The hike to the mountain ridge offers a bird’s-eye-view of both sides of the northern and southern shorelines. A highlight of the trip unique to our tour. Afterward we will dine and camp once again at the stunning Arher beach.

Day 4: Defarhu / Mek Sandy Beach, Dagub Cave, Hayf and Zahaq Sand Dunes

After breakfast we travel to the south of the island, with visits to villages along the way. Our first destination is Amak beach where we can swim in the clear water of the Indian Ocean. For lunch we will go to Dagub cave, which overlooks a scattering of traditional villages below. The cave itself is of interest as there are many stalactites, stalagmites and pools of water that has seeped through the rock over time. We will then witness the colossal sand dunes of Hayf and Zahek which have been pushed up against the mountainside by the seasonal winds of Socotra. If you are feeling especially fit, you can climb the dunes for a view that is truly worth the effort. Dinner and overnight camp at Amek beach

 

Day 5: Diksam Plateau / Derhur Canyon / Fermhin Forest

We leave the coast heading to Diksam plateau, the true home of the Dracaena Cinnabari. Small settlements are hidden around the crevasses of the valley where nomadic Bedouin herdsmen will welcome us on the edge of a gorge: the most spectacular limestone landscape on the island. The gorge drops 700 meters to the valley floors, with views providing a remarkable atmosphere of prehistory.

We continue through the unique and oddly shaped Fermhin forest: where Socotra’s iconic Dragon’s Blood abound everywhere! Here we will get to know the famous resin and its miraculous properties, while local children seek cover under the upside down umbrella-shaped canopies. As the road descends 400 meters into Wadi Dirhur, we plunge into a profound chasm slicing through the granite. Here we enjoy one of the island greatest secrets: an oasis surrounding freshwater pool with natural waterslide.

After filling our cameras with as many pictures of the Dragon’s Blood Trees as we can, we will continue by road towards Derhur Canyon. After Dixam Plateau, the road plunges 400 m (1312 ft) into a profound chasm slicing through the granite, giving a completely different atmosphere from the airy heights of the plateau. The lush canyon floor has been planted with palm trees, in the shade of which lay Bruce’s Green Pigeons and Laughing Doves. We can refresh ourselves by swimming in the wadi’s deep pool, escaping the midday heat.

Dinner and overnight in Diksam plateau.

Day 6: Qalansyia/ Detwah Lagoon/ The Golden Beach of Shuab

How does it feel to wake up on such a remote and idyllic beach?

In the morning, we will continue to neighboring Detwah Lagoon, which is a marine protected area renowned for its magic landscape. You will be charmed by a white sandy tongue surrounded by turquoise waters of the bay. This surely is one of the best views on the island. You can jump in the shallow sea there and enjoy the paradise. Only be careful with sting rays that can be seen in the lagoon. There is also an array of sea birds to be seen in the lagoon. 
We can take a boat to Shuaab area to see the dolphins playing and swim in near a very pure and clean long sandy beach, once arrive Shuaab area we can have a look on the mangrove area. Be sure to look out for Spinner Dolphins along the way. Cormorants also frequent the area. Once at Shu’ab we will have lunch and the afternoon is free to swim and enjoy this pristine beach setting, complete with mangroves. In late afternoon we take the boat ride back to Qalansyia. Line fishing may also be possible from the boat, if you want fish for dinner of course.
Dinner and overnight in Detwah campsite.

Day 7: Delisha Beach

In the afternoon, we will visit Hadibo city and Delisha beach with pristine white sands full of crabs. You will relax while swimming both in the sea and in a freshwater lagoon. If you are full of energy you can climb a huge sand dune overseeing the beach. There is also a possibility of watching a fabulous sunset from Delisha.
Dinner and Overnight Delisha or Adeeb camp.

Day 8: Flight back home.
After an early breakfast we drive you to the airport for your flight back.

The trip includes:

Entry fees in the protected areas.

PCR TEST: PCR-test is included when LEAVING Socotra only
Accommodation Fees: 7 nights of camping in protected areas.
Camping equipment: tent, pillow, mattress, sheets, mat, lights…
Cook and Cooking equipment.
Full board meals: 3 meals per day including dessert and snacks.
Drinks: Mineral water and soft drinks.
Transportation: 4WD private cars Toyota Land cruiser (One car fits 4 people).
Experienced Tour guide: English, Arabic and Socotri local speaker.
Local guides at specific places.
Boat trip to Shoaib.

IMPORTANT! If you want to be one of the fortunate travelers selected for the Socotra Expedition be sure to:

  • Understand the destination and the risks involved.
  • Make sure the dates work for you! You need 100% assurance that you can take off on those dates.
  • Send us your travel resume and your background (nationality of your passport, city you are based in, age, previous travel experience, usual travel style…) on the contact email as we’ll carry out a selection process.
  • A negative COVID test will be required for everyone’s safety prior to visiting.
  • This is a one time opportunity, but make sure you’re responsible enough to understand what it entails. If you have any doubts, just email us on the contact below.

The trip doesn’t include:

Insurance: Chances are your usual travel insurance won’t cover you in Yemen, hence you will need to cover your risks with special insurance for this trip.
Flights to Socotra: International flights from Dubai to Socotra aren’t included. The cost is around $800.
Visa: Cost is $150.
PCR tests: You will likely be requested a PCR upon departure. The cost is around $60.
Discretional purchases: Your personal expenses, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, or other exceptional purchases are not included.

Contact Me

 

HANGING OUT With A Gangster in Mozambique

Posted on by dev

I went to Mozambique in late 2018 and traveled around the country and it was as wild as it could possibly get. I went clubbing with an ex gangster and hanged out with him for 3 out of 7 days!

With an ex gangster and car hijacker in Maputo, Mozambique

My trip to Mozambique started as crazy as possible, when I met my local friend Henry in the city center of Maputo. I had walked around the city all day, and then Henry called me to pick me up at the beach side. Henry is a business owner with a big solar power company in Maputo, Mozambique. We had some Mozambican dinner and the best local Mozambican beer ever, and then we went straight to a night out in Maputo. Henry introduced me to his newest employee and friend in his transport company, an ex gangster and ex car hijacker, who now tried to change his life after a long time in prison, and was trying to get out on the right side. Pretty crazy to go out with a guy with that history, but I believe in the best in human, and if someone is nice to me, I’ll be nice to them! Period!

Crazy Time With Henry And His Friend

Me and Henry in Machamba, Maputo

I had a crazy and good time with Henry and his gangster friend, but I must admit I wasn’t feeling totally relaxed at all times, because of the saying once a criminal, always a criminal! I let the guy take pictures with my phone and even hold some of my belongings and I was honestly a nerve wreck most of the time!

Stopped By Corrupt Police A Lot In Maputo

Exploring Maputo, Mozambique

I was stopped 5 times by the corrupt police in Maputo on my solo walk around the city on my 1st day, and because I didn’t want to pay for anything, I wasted some time where they had to look in my bag and do some checks ups on me etc. Really annoying to be looked at like a money object from the police, when you just want to chill and hangout with the nice population here! It was crazy to see how my gangster friend handled these situation with the police. All the time he just gave them a little something, and then he was allowed to go. I found out it wasn’t only me who had to deal with situations like that with the police here in Mozambique, especially when the police fined my gangster friend, because they claimed he didn’t come when they ask him to come, even though I was there and saw it wasn’t true AT ALL what the police said! Henry told me the police make around $200 a month in salary, but a lot more with this hustling mentality!

Leaving Maputo To Explore Mozambique

Henry and I left Maputo

Henry and I left Maputo and we left his gangster friend, and even though I liked him, it was a kind of a relieve to just be with Henry and to escape the corrupt police a bit in Maputo. We enjoyed the beach a lot and I especially loved to chill out in Macaneta and see some extremely beautiful beaches up on the coast!

Mozambique has a coastline stretching roughly 1,535 miles along the Indian Ocean and some very beautiful beaches! It was great to see another side of this country!

Would I Hang Out With A Gangster Again?

Lovely beaches in Mozambique

I learned a lot from hanging out for 3 days with a gangster in Mozambique. First of all I learned to not be too judgemental about other people with a certain past, because he was actually a nice guy, who had just made a lot of wrong decisions is his ‘previous life.’ I always have a certain skepticism about new people in new places until I get to know them, and I think it’s a good thing to have a bit of skepticism, because then you can only get a positive surprise. I surely had a really positive experience in Mozambique with Henry, with this ex-gangster and with the local population, and I learned that crime won’t benefit you in the long run and I hope this ex-gangster has learned the same thing. All the good people will want to do good, rather than do bad in the end. That’s the moral of the story and I have no problem with hanging out with people who have taken their punishment and who is now willing to change their life for the better.

What a Week In Mozambique

Nice people in Mozambique!

What a life lesson it was for me to come to Mozambique to meet the people I met here. I surely learned a lot and I hope to come back to Mozambique one day.

Gustav

gus1thego.com

 

 

10 Weird Facts About GREECE (My 8th Visit To The Country!)

Posted on by dev

Greece is one of my favorite countries in Europe and I’ve been there 8 times. There’s nothing like taking a week to explore some of the 6,000 islands in Greece and I have done that plenty of times with a lot of enjoyment. These are 10 Fun Facts about Greece!

Karpathos Islands, Greece

1. Greek Gods were the Superheroes of the Universe

The Greeks have wonderful stories (myths) to tell about their many gods and goddesses, heroes, monsters, adventures and battles. Each Greek god had one or more magical powers that they used for a variety of things. The most important god in Greek mythology was Zeus, the god of the sky and the ruler of the Olympian gods. His weapon of choice was the thunderbolt. Others included Poseidon (God of the sea) and Artemis (Goddess of the hunt).

2. Name Days are more widely celebrated than Birthdays

Most common Greek names are based on religious saints. On the days that a saint is celebrated in the church, anyone named after that saint celebrates his or her “Name Day.” For example, on May 21 Constantin and Helen are celebrated. All Constantines (or variations such as Costa, Gus, Dino) and Helens (Ellen, Eleni, Lena) are wished a Happy Name Day by family and friends. 

3. The Olympic Games originated in Ancient Greece.

The first Olympic Games were held in 776 BC in Olympia near Greece’s southwest coast. They were held every four years and lasted five days. The Olympic Games were in honor of Zeus – god of the sky and leader of the Greek gods. Events included running, wrestling, chariot races, boxing, horse races, and the pentathlon. Winners were presented with crowns of olive made from the branches of the sacred olive tree.

Santorini Island, Greece

4. Beware of the Evil Eye!

Evil eye is believed to be a curse that is given by a glare that has negative intentions. Anger, envy, jealousy can cause the evil eye curse. The curse can cause bad things to happen to the person who received the curse, such as a string of bad luck or illness. Wearing a special charm called a mati (meaning “eye” in Greek) is believed to help prevent the curse from ever happening. They are found in homes and offices, on jewelry and keychains, and often over a baby’s crib. I’m not superstitious at all, but this is a thing in Greece for some!

5. Don’t Take a Boat (unless it’s seaworthy)

Greece is known for their beautiful islands, and you can go for a great sail around Santorini or Mykonos.But the country actually has no navigable rivers, because of the heavily mountainous terrain: 80% of the country, in fact. So no “on-a-boat” parodies here, folks. Sorry.

No rivers, but a lot of sea. Greece is wonderful!

6. You Literally Can’t Get Away from the Sea

The longest point anywhere in the country is only 85 miles from the coast, and that coastline is 9,000 miles long — one of the 10 longest in the world. You literally can’t get away from the Sea, so don’t be afraid of water in Greece.

7. Grandma NEVER Moves Out

That’s right. Children live with their families until they get married, and then grandma and grandpa usually stay with that family until death. Retirement communities are rare in this country, and the Greek people has a lot of love and compassion for the elderly people in their family, which deserves some respect.

Saria Island, Greece

8: Greek People Like Sex The Most

And they’ve won this title for the past 10 years! Even the Brazilians ranked below them, only having it 145 times per year, in comparison with the Greeks’ 164. There’s a reason why Greek kids usually have a lot of siblings, and the relaxed islands vibes surely does something to the sex drive for the Greek people! They have a drive like no other nationality, according to the statistics.

9: There are 2 Tourists per 1 Greek

But here is 1 tourist with 4 Greek girls in Naxos. Good job, harh?

Greece is the only country in the world that has double the number of tourists in respect to its actual population that come to visit annually. Tourists love Greece and why shouldn’t they love a country with more than 250 sunny days a year and amazing food.

10: Greece Is In Fact Old

Athens has been continuously inhabited for more than 7,000 years. This makes it one of the oldest European cities ever, and definitely one worth visiting. Ancient Greek alphabet is still the oldest written language still in use today. That’s pretty impressive, if you ask me.

China seems to beg to differ, but all current archaeological discoveries continue to support Greece’s claim to this honor. Greece is indeed OLD.

A young guy in an OLD country. Greece is so nice!

I love the green lush landscapes, the food, the turquoise seas, the unique terrain and the incredible islands. Greece still has so much to offer, even after 8 visits for me. Some fun facts about a beautiful country!

Gustav

gus1thego.com

 

 

7 Weird Facts About Kazakhstan (Denmark Traveler)

Posted on by dev

I went to Kazakhstan in the Summer of 2018 and these are 7 extremely Weird Facts about the country.

Almaty Park, Kazakhstan

1. The name of the major city and the former capital of Kazakhstan, Almaty, mean a “place full of apples.”

2. Kazahstan is the 9th largest country by size in the world. It’s a huge place with a very small population of only 16 million people.

3. It’s the largest landlocked country in the world, with Russian to its North, China to the West, Uzbekistan down South and the Caspian Sea on its Western Border.

Big Almaty Lake, Kazakhstan

4. The New Year for Kazakhs is called Nauryz, and it is celebrated on the 22nd of March.

5. Kazakhstan used to be a part of the silk route and hence has marvelous constructions which were erected during the years of silk trade.

With my German friend and Kazakh friends

6. Interestingly, it is believed that Kazakhstan was the place where the horses were first tamed to ride. It is also said that Kazakh means ‘a free rider.’

7. Apples are reputedly to originate from Kazakhstan and there are still wild apple forests in the country.

The Squirrel Statue in Almaty, which was only there for a short period of time

That’s it for now Kazakhstan. See you next time!

Gustav

gus1thego.com

10 Fun Facts About California (USA)

Posted on by dev

I had an amazing 2 weeks road trip around California and the west coast of US in 2018, and these are 10 Fun Facts about one of my absolute favorite states in The US.

At Criss Angel’s MINDFREAK Show in Las Vegas, US

1. California is the USA’s most populous state with almost 40,000,000 residents, more than Canada as of 2008. One of eight United States residents live here.

2. California is a “minority majority” state, with 58% of its population Asian, Hispanic, Native American or other groups. 26% of its people were born outside the U.S.

3. Only Alaska and Texas have more land than California.

Renting a Ford Mustang and driving all around California with my Danish friend

4. Three out of the ten largest U. S. cities are in California: Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Jose.

5. California was the country’s top state in cash farm receipts in 2008, growing nearly half of all fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Almonds are the biggest export (in dollars), followed by dairy products, wine, table grapes, cotton, walnuts, pistachios and rice.

Escape Room in Los Angeles, California

6. California contains the lowest and the highest points in the continental U. S. You can travel from 282 feet below sea level in Death Valley to 14,494-foot Mt. Whitney in less than a day.

7. California is home to the world’s largest tree (General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park) and the tallest (a coastal redwood whose identity is withheld).

Universal Studios, Los Angeles, California

8. Some California plants live a long time. The eastern Sierras’ Bristlecone pines are 4,600 years old, but a Mojave Desert creosote bush is among the world’s oldest living things at 43,000 years.

9. Invented in California: fortune cookies, Apple computers, theme parks (Disneyland), blue jeans and the Barbie doll

10. The Grizzly Bear State! California was formerly known as the Grizzly Bear State.

On the way to visit the Alcatraz Prison in San Fransisco, California

There’s a reason why California is called the sunshine state, it’s because the weather is near perfect all the time. The golden sun never seems to disappear over the California sky, always out to warm the day. It’s the reason you can go to the beach in the middle of January without freezing. In fact we had only 1 cloudy day in San Fransisco in our 2 weeks around California. Many reasons to visit this state in the United States of America, called California!

Gustav

gus1thego.com

Follow me on Instagram @gustavrosted
en English
ar Arabiczh-CN Chinese (Simplified)nl Dutchen Englishfr Frenchde Germanit Italianpt Portugueseru Russianes Spanish