Namaste. The great adventure of 2019 invited those willing to transform their dreams into reality. Pat Falvey Irish & Worldwide Adventures provided guided expeditions to iconic destinations across all seven continents, delivering life-changing experiences for adventurers of all fitness levels.
Throughout 2019, the clock kept ticking as adventurers seized opportunities to achieve their bucket list dreams. Whether seeking high-altitude mountain challenges or polar exploration, the great adventure of 2019 offered something extraordinary for every aspiring adventurer. That year marked another successful season of expeditions across the globe.
Adventure seekers who contacted Pat Falvey Irish & Worldwide Adventures on +353 64 6644181 or emailed info@patfalvey.com gained access to professional planning, experienced guides, and comprehensive support throughout their expeditions. The team provided consultations to match each adventurer with the right expedition for their fitness level, experience, and goals.
Why 2019 Was an Exceptional Year for Adventure
The great adventure of 2019 presented ideal conditions for mountain and polar expeditions. Experienced guides and proven routes made that year perfect for tackling major expeditions like Everest Base Camp or Kilimanjaro.
Pat Falvey brought proven expedition leadership spanning over three decades. By 2019, he had summited Kilimanjaro 65 times, guided over 2,000 climbers to major peaks, and became the first person to complete the Seven Summits twice via different routes. This expertise ensured safe, successful expeditions with comprehensive pre-departure preparation and on-mountain support.
The 2019 expedition calendar included departures for every season, allowing adventurers to choose dates matching their schedules. Early booking secured places on popular expeditions and allowed adequate training time. Most expeditions required 3-6 months of preparation depending on altitude and technical difficulty.
Mount Kilimanjaro: The Roof of Africa
Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 metres as Africa’s highest mountain and one of the Seven Summits. The mountain attracted thousands of climbers during 2019 due to its non-technical routes and achievable summit for those with good fitness levels.
Pat Falvey’s Kilimanjaro expeditions followed carefully planned itineraries allowing proper acclimatisation. The routes ascended gradually through five distinct climate zones, from tropical rainforest to arctic summit conditions. Experienced guides monitored each climber’s adaptation to altitude and adjusted pacing accordingly.
Kilimanjaro expeditions typically spanned 7-9 days depending on the chosen route. Longer routes increased summit success rates by allowing better acclimatisation. The team provided full logistical support including porters, cooks, mountain guides, and all camping equipment. Climbers only carried daypacks during the trek.
The mountain required no technical climbing skills, making it accessible to determined individuals with good cardiovascular fitness. Training recommendations included regular hill walking, cardiovascular exercise, and carrying a weighted pack for 4-6 hours.
Everest Base Camp: The World’s Most Iconic Trek
Everest Base Camp represented the great adventure of 2019 for those seeking to walk in the footsteps of legendary mountaineers. The trek reached 5,364 metres at Base Camp, traversing some of Earth’s most spectacular mountain scenery through the heart of Sherpa territory.
The Everest Base Camp trek began in Lukla after a scenic mountain flight from Kathmandu. Trekkers followed the Dudh Kosi river valley, passing through traditional Sherpa villages including Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche. Each village provided insight into Sherpa culture, Buddhist traditions, and the mountaineering history that defines the region.
The journey typically required 12-14 days including acclimatisation rest days. Proper acclimatisation reduced altitude sickness risk and increased trekking enjoyment. Rest days allowed exploration of surrounding peaks and valleys whilst adapting to reduced oxygen levels. Pat Falvey’s itineraries included strategic rest days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
Trekkers experienced spectacular mountain panoramas including Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Mount Everest itself. The trek passed through Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site protecting unique Himalayan ecosystems and wildlife. Prayer flags, Buddhist monasteries, and traditional teahouses created an authentic cultural experience throughout the journey.
Mount Elbrus: Europe’s Highest Peak
Mount Elbrus rises to 5,642 metres in Russia’s Caucasus Mountains as Europe’s highest summit and another of the Seven Summits. This dormant volcano provided an ideal introduction to high-altitude mountaineering during 2019 for both beginners and experienced climbers seeking technical snow and ice experience.
The Mount Elbrus expedition included comprehensive training in crampon techniques, ice axe use, and rope systems. Pat Falvey conducted pre-expedition training courses in Kerry, Ireland, covering all necessary skills for safe mountain travel on snow and ice. These training weekends prepared climbers for summit day conditions.
Expeditions ran during June, July, and August when weather conditions provided the best summit windows. The climbing period typically spanned 8-10 days including acclimatisation climbs, training sessions, and summit attempts. Climbers stayed in mountain huts with basic but comfortable accommodation.
Antarctica: The Final Frontier
Antarctica represented the ultimate great adventure of 2019 for those seeking pristine wilderness and wildlife encounters. The 2019/2020 Antarctic season provided opportunities for all ages and fitness levels to experience the White Continent through carefully planned expedition cruises.
Pat Falvey led Antarctic expeditions following the routes of legendary explorers Shackleton and Tom Crean. These cruises combined spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife, and historical exploration sites. Passengers witnessed massive icebergs, vast penguin colonies, seals, and whales in their natural habitat.
The expeditions provided insights into the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration, visiting sites where early explorers established camps and conducted groundbreaking scientific research. Zodiac landings allowed close wildlife observation and visits to research stations. Professional naturalists and historians provided educational talks throughout the voyage.
Antarctic cruises suited those seeking adventure without extreme physical demands. Daily landings offered photography opportunities, wildlife watching, and landscape exploration. The expedition ships provided comfortable accommodation, excellent dining, and expert guidance throughout the journey.
Aconcagua: South America’s Giant
Mount Aconcagua dominates the Argentine Andes at 6,959 metres as the highest peak outside Asia. Climbers describe it as the highest non-technical mountain globally, though severe weather, extreme altitude, and associated risks created an extremely challenging undertaking during 2019.
The Aconcagua expedition suited experienced mountaineers with high levels of physical and mental stamina. The climb provided ideal training for those aspiring to 8,000-metre peaks. Summit success required excellent fitness, proven high-altitude experience, and mental resilience during multi-week expeditions.
Expeditions departed in December 2019 and January 2020 during the Southern Hemisphere summer climbing season. The standard route followed the Normal Route via Plaza de Mulas base camp. Climbers established multiple high camps whilst acclimatising, typically spending 18-21 days on the mountain.
Machu Picchu: Ancient Inca Wonder
The trek to Machu Picchu through Peru’s Andes Mountains combined spectacular scenery with ancient history. The region sits between Earth’s driest desert and largest rainforest, creating unique ecosystems and microclimates throughout the trek.
The Salkantay and Machu Picchu trek reached 4,000 metres altitude through mountain passes and cloud forest. Trekkers experienced Inca ruins, traditional villages, and engineering marvels built using precision construction techniques. The Inca road network extends over 25,000 kilometres throughout the region.
The route from Lima through Cusco to Machu Picchu provided cultural immersion in Peruvian traditions and Inca history. Cusco served as the gateway to the Sacred Valley, where numerous archaeological sites demonstrated Inca architectural mastery. The trek typically required 7-10 days including acclimatisation and site exploration.
Carrauntoohil: Ireland’s Premier Peak
Carrauntoohil rises to 1,038 metres as Ireland’s highest mountain, attracting thousands of climbers annually from around the world. The rugged peak dominates the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks range in County Kerry, offering magnificent views across Ireland’s southwest coast.
Pat Falvey guides Carrauntoohil hikes throughout the year from The Mountain Lodge in Beaufort. He states in his book Accidental Rebel: “I have been guiding Carrauntoohil since 1993 and it is without question my favourite mountain in the world. It’s where it all began for me.”
The mountain offers three main routes varying in difficulty and scenic quality. The Devil’s Ladder provides the most direct ascent but challenges climbers with steep, loose rock. The Zig Zag route offers gentler gradients and superior views. The Coomloughra Horseshoe presents a full-day ridge walk encompassing multiple peaks.
Carrauntoohil expeditions serve as excellent fitness assessments for those planning major international expeditions. The mountain’s technical sections, weather exposure, and sustained climbing provide realistic preparation for higher peaks.
The Forever Young Club Launch in 2019
Pat Falvey launched The Forever Young Club in 2019 in partnership with newly appointed director Jim Kirwan. The club empowers members aged 50 and above to develop active, healthy, sustainable lifestyles supporting their adventure goals and aspirations.
The Forever Young Club operates as a community rather than just a membership programme. Members receive monthly articles, videos, interviews, workshops, seminars, retreats, and adventure challenges. This comprehensive approach helps members stay physically active, mentally engaged, and socially connected with like-minded adventurers.
Jim Kirwan brought extensive experience to direct this project. His expertise in fitness, wellness, and adventure programming strengthened the club’s offerings and ensured members received expert guidance. The partnership between Pat Falvey and Jim Kirwan combined mountain expertise with lifestyle coaching.
The club demonstrated that age presents no barrier to adventure, fitness, or personal growth. Members share experiences, support each other’s journeys, and celebrate achievements together. The community aspect creates accountability and motivation beyond individual effort.
Reflecting on the Adventures of 2019
The great adventure of 2019 marked another successful year for Pat Falvey Irish & Worldwide Adventures. Throughout that year, adventurers from around the world achieved their bucket list dreams through expert guidance, proven routes, and comprehensive support.
Those who participated in the great adventure of 2019 experienced transformative journeys across all seven continents. From the summit of Kilimanjaro to the icy wilderness of Antarctica, each expedition delivered memorable experiences and personal achievements. The year demonstrated how adventure continues to inspire people of all ages and backgrounds.
Pat Falvey Irish & Worldwide Adventures continues to operate as Ireland’s leading adventure company, bonded and fully licensed by the Irish Commission for Aviation Regulation (TA0791). The legacy of 2019’s expeditions lives on through the memories and achievements of those who participated.
For those interested in current expedition opportunities, contact Pat Falvey Irish & Worldwide Adventures on +353 64 6644181 or email info@patfalvey.com to discuss upcoming adventures. Gift vouchers remain available for those seeking to give the gift of adventure.