A Loo with a View

Toilet, powder room, khazi, bog, thinking pot, can, porcelain god, throne… whatever you like to call yours, there’s no denying the long standing human fascination with bathrooms, or more specifically the loo!

Said to be the birthplace of many an epiphany and somewhere each of us spends a significant portion of time throughout our lives (three years according to the World Toilet organisation – yes there is one!), the toilet is an important part of daily life.

There are quite literally millions of them around the world in varying shapes and sizes, often reflecting different cultural, sociological and economical backgrounds of their geographical location. They transcend race, gender, class and age – everyone on Earth has to use the loo each and every day, from the most regal royal to your average Joe.

So, since it’s a necessity of life, we thought we may as well have some fun with it! So, here are a few of the most interesting porcelain gods that our staff have encountered on their globetrotting escapades…

Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
One of the most iconic trips in our repertoire, even the awe-inspiring Kilimanjaro expedition cannot escape the daily necessities! In fact, our sales team are frequently asked by potential summiteers about the “toilet situation” on the mountain. But squat weary trekkers needn’t worry – our hardy crew, made up of the best porters and guides in the land, not only carry tented loos, they’ll even endeavour to pitch it in the most scenic spot for you!  

Rongai Route  (Trip code:TYW) | Lemosho Route (Trip code: TYR)

Mont Blanc, France
The summit of this European Alpine icon is now home to Europe’s highest toilets. Like everyone else on Earth, intrepid mountaineers need to relieve themselves, especially after taking on the gallons of water it takes to make such an arduous ascent! So, after many complaints about “yellow snow” and “mountain manure”, the powers that be decided to install some loos with views!

Mont Blanc Assent (Trip code: TWM)

Mera Peak, Himalayas, Nepal
Another high altitude commode with a commanding view – this handy portaloo is pitched at 5,850m in High Camp overlooking the mighty Mera Massif in the Nepalese Himalayas. If it wasn’t so chilly, you might hang around to enjoy the view of piercing peaks and snow-swept mountainsides whilst doing your business!

Mera Peak Expedition (Trip code: TNB)

Mt Sinai, Egypt
Straight from the Book of Exodus, Mt Sinai is a mountain of biblical proportions. Time your arrival at its bamboo bolthole just right and you will enjoy some solitary bliss in which to witness the sun rise over Moses’ Mountain.

Sinai Trek (Trip code: TXS)

Aconcagua, Argentina
An expedition to the summit of South America’s highest peak gives you plenty to think about: ice axes, crampons, hidden crevasses, weather fronts closing in… the last thing you need to be worrying about is finding a squat-friendly spot when nature calls! But with this perfectly positioned potty on Aconcagua, you can simply relax, catch your breath and enjoy the view.

Aconcagua Ascent (Trip code: TAA)

Sossusviei, Namibia
Standing amid the daunting dunes of Namib Desert you are struck by the raw beauty of nature when nature decides to call on you. But your initial panic is unfounded because on the scorched, undulating horizon, you spot a small wooden hut on the way down from Dune 45. Now you can relieve yourself both in dignity (just!) and in the shadows of the world’s highest sand dunes!

Discover Namibia (Trip code: AZN) | Cape Town to Victoria Falls (Trip code: AZV)

Extra loo:  Main image - Room with a view in the Karakorums, Pakistan