Three night expeditions in the wild beauty of Snowdonia for men under 35, peaking with a solo bivvy under the stars.
Hike Like Buddha
Go offline and deepen your own nature with meditation, silent hiking, real communication, tasty vegan food, rituals and explorations of the Buddha’s life and teachings.
The Buddha is known as “the Trackless One" because he freed himself from the limitations and entanglements of ordinary existence. He lived from a creative state of presence, contentment and penetrating wisdom.
The CHALLENGE
Does your life feel trackless in a less positive way? Do you feel the lack of a clear purpose or path? Is your mind often restless and distracted? Do you miss a sense of brotherhood with like minded men?
Trackless expeditions are an opportunity to live like the Buddha, stripping away the distractions of everyday life to more fully experience yourself, the land and others.
You must be able to walk up to 12 miles a day, much on steep and on uneven ground in the mountains, whilst carrying 15-20 kg.
You’ll be led by an ordained Buddhist of 20 years, Amalavajra, and a qualified Mountain Leader, Francis Parry Roberts.
I tasted the mind’s vast potential when I first meditated in Nepal at 25, boosted by the detox of three week’s hiking. The whole trajectory of my life changed from that point
Amalavajra, expedition leader
Jack Kerouac
No man should go through life without once experiencing healthy, even bored solitude in the wilderness, finding himself depending solely on himself and thereby learning his true and hidden strength
On a Trackless expedition I enjoyed a feeling of solidarity with the other guys that I’d normally only experience with close friends
Jude, a 20 year old student
rough itinerary
Thursday
Land
Gather at base camp from 3pm, pitch our tents, eat a hearty vegan meal, and get to know each other around the fire.
Ritually give up our phones for the next three days.
Friday
Preparing to leave the world
Begin the day with a breath meditation, and an introduction to how to cultivate presence of mind.
After breakfast we'll head into the beautiful landscapes of Snowdonia with pauses to notice where and how we are.
We'll return to basecamp for the night, reflecting on our experience around the fire.
We end the day with storytelling and ritual inspired by the Buddha
Saturday
Alone with others in the wilderness
This morning a meditation to develop confidence and love.
After breakfast we prepare to head into the wild for 24 hours.
We’ll hike to a mountain top, where you’ll bivvy alone for the night, with an optional fast. (Base camp is a bad weather alternative).
There’s support nearby if you need it. If you can face your fear you’ll enjoy awe at the vast beauty you’re part of.
sunday
Returning to the world
We’ll re-gather early and hike down from the mountain to base camp.
After breaking our fast in style, we’ll reflect on and share our experience of the expedition.
Having packed up your tents you’ll be on your way home by midday.
2025 expeditions
FAQ
Think of it as living like a monk for three days. You can speak openly about your experiences and challenges with other men. You’ll enjoy a rare depth of communication and sense of solidarity.
The full cost of the four day, three night, expedition, including campsite fees, gas and all food and snacks, is £300. You will need to make a £100 deposit to confirm your place and can pay the balance when you’re able to (but no later than two weeks before your expedition starts).
If £300 is beyond your means, then please message Amalavajra explaining your situation and how much you can afford. We’ll try to find a way for you to come.
You’ll be sent a list of essential kit to bring, including a tent, bivvy bag, rucksack, decent boots and waterproof gear. We have some spare kit to lend if you can't afford to buy it.
If you think you’re up to a Trackless expedition, then fill out the application form and pay a deposit of £100 or the full amount. (If you are not awarded a place then we will return whatever you have paid).