Frequently asked questions

Does Ubuntu Treks provide any of the basic gear required to backpack?

Yes. See our gear list page HERE for details!

Can siblings join a trek together?

We do not accept siblings on the same Trek.

What about friends or close friends?

Generally, we prefer that Trekkers do not have friends or acquaintances on a Trek that they are on.

Does Ubuntu Treks provide transportation to and from the backpacking trailhead?

We provide transportation from Pacifica, California to the trailhead. Parent/guardians must pick their Trekker up at a designated time on the final day of the trip.

Does Ubuntu Treks offer adult trips?

Yes, Ubuntu Treks will design custom 4/5 day adult trips. Please contact us HERE.

My child has never been backpacking before. Will this be too difficult for them?

A moderately fit pre-teen will generally do fine on our trips. That said, they will be participating in a physical experience that they likely have not completed previously. Please complete the application with health screening in full. Our team may ask that you provide additional information from your healthcare provider, if needed.

Does the weather impact scheduled Treks?

Generally, no. However, mother nature will very infrequently throw us a ‘curveball’ and for safety reasons Ubuntu Treks will have to cancel a trip. In the event of a trip cancellation on our end, all fees are fully refundable.

What happens if a trekker has an injury on the Trek?

Yes, injuries happen. Virtually every Trek has a handful of minor injuries that can be treated effectively by the trail leaders with the First Aid supplies that are brought on the trip for these situations. All trail leaders have basic First Aid and Wilderness First Aid Training. Many (ALL?) treks include one trail leader that has completed Wilderness First Responder Training. Additionally, each trek is equipped with a satellite phone to be utilized when an emergency can not be effectively handled by the trail leaders. Learn about Ubuntu Treks SAFETY.

Tell me about Trek Hygeine.

See our Safety Guide HERE

We know one of our students’ biggest concerns is how they’ll stay clean without showering. The great news is, it’s surprisingly easy! Trekkers will have multiple opportunities to immerse themselves in a ice cold lake, river or ocean (When it’s safe) while on a Trek. Our guides will share tips and tricks about maintaining hygiene while in the woods, including how to use the bathroom when there are no toilets around.

Remember, if you’re stinky, everyone else is stinky too. Some Trekkers will find this to be part of the fun. Others will find it part of the challenge. We encourage everyone to be respectful and empathetic of differences. Our packing list includes a detailed checklist for toiletries. Small packaged wipes can viewed as “gold” at the end of some trips.

Regardless of our location, we will always have hand sanitizer, soap, and water on-hand, as students will wash their hands before and after every meal and after each trip to the bathroom.