Embark is an adventure travel company that offers once-in-a-lifetime adventure tours for those who want to explore the most remote corners of the planet. We specialize in custom adventure travel – each group typically has a unique itinerary, works with us on their itinerary, and picks the dates of their travel. Embark is always working toward two main priorities, developing trips that are both active and cultural, with an extreme focus on interacting with local communities and breaking down cultural barriers.
CEO & Founder
Senior Guide
Senior Guide
Trip Consultant
Donovan Pacholl founded Embark because adventure runs through his veins. Over two decades, he has organized hundreds of adventures and expeditions in places like the deserts of Jordan, the Tibetan plateau, up Mt. Kilimanjaro, to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, the glaciers of Patagonia, the volcanoes of Guatemala, and more. But it isn’t work for him - it’s a passion. He simply loves being in the mountains, on the road, in the wild, and in the middle of something new and exciting. Donovan particularly loves helping other people have this same kind of adventure.
Having lived on Kilimanjaro for two years, Donovan speaks Swahili and has planned and help execute thousands of people’s climbs. You’re in safe hands here.
Donovan also helped to set up KPAP, helping to ensure that porters and guides are paid a fair wage on the mountain, and can support their families - especially during the pandemic!
The customer service on our trip was absolutely outstanding. I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in October, 2023. It was a remarkable experience. Absolutely difficult and challenging but the team was amazing. Kind, attentive, caring, compassionate, energetic, hard-working, flat-out amazing.
I went on the ausangate camping trek this summer with people I met from Kilimanjaro AND an ebc trek. It was amazing! Once we started our trek, officially at rainbow mountain, we rarely saw people other than indigenous – so cool! Gorgeous peaks, waters and amazing food from the Embark Team.
I’ve worked with Embark on two treks to Kilimanjaro and both have been absolutely phenomenal. Not only does Embark employ the best local guides, porters, and support staff, they go above and beyond to make the treks comfortable, safe, and fun.
What an amazing trip and experience. Embark does a top notch job in making sure that everything is prepared, planned and ready to just be able to enjoy the expedition.
We had a truly a magical trip up Kilimanjaro. It was unbelievable seeing how hard Embark porters, staff, and guides work. Even though we went up the hardest route on Kilimanjaro “The Western Breach” I felt safe and well looked out for. Shout out to our guides for helping us every step to the summit.
Sign up for first access to new details, exclusive content and travel inspiration. Join us.
