In 2025, Karen Shamieh brought a vision to life with Wanderlust Trails, born from countless conversations with women yearning for a space that truly understands their unique needs in hiking and adventure.

With years of experience inspiring and guiding others through transformative challenges like Oxfam Trailwalker and Coastrek, Karen’s passion for women’s wellbeing and her love of the outdoors merged seamlessly.

Wanderlust Trails became more than a hiking company, it became a movement to build empowered communities of women who inspire, challenge, and uplift one another.

As our motto says, “Wander often, Wonder always”, Wanderlust Trails invites you to rediscover the beauty of nature, the strength of camaraderie, and the joy of adventure.

Our goal is to create adventures that can easily fit into the  hustle and bustle of daily life, offering an invigorating escape into the great outdoors without the need for grand expeditions.

These “mini-adventures” distil the essence of exploration and connection into concentrated, powerful experiences, much like capturing lightning in a bottle.

By embracing the beauty of nature and the camaraderie of like-minded women, our hikes provide the perfect opportunity to recharge, find clarity, and relieve the mental stresses of everyday life.

Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or new to outdoor exploration, our carefully designed journeys invite you to immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, create meaningful connections, and rediscover the joy of the present moment.

Our adventures are like a spark to reignite your inner fire—a chance to step away from the everyday grind and feel truly alive. They’re compact bursts of motivation and connection, designed to awaken your sense of wonder, refresh your spirit, and recharge your mind through the beauty of nature and the camaraderie shared with like-minded adventurers.

Helen’s love of exploring and travelling shines through in every hike she plans. With an eye for hidden gems and unique experiences, she inspires others to discover what is right on their doorstep.

Her thoughtful research brings together great trails, scenic moments and memorable food stops, all supported by a strong focus on safety thanks to her risk management background. Helen’s dedication and expertise enrich every journey, making each hike enjoyable, safe and beautifully planned.

Kay is an adventurer at heart, with a lifelong passion for exploring the world and discovering breathtaking trails. Her strength, determination and love for the outdoors inspire others to embrace their own sense of adventure, and her quirky humour brings lightness to every hike.

Beyond the trails, Kay channels this same passion into her corporate career, where she is dedicated to empowering and uplifting women. Whether she’s leading a group, sharing a laugh or championing women’s growth, Kay’s energy and commitment make a lasting impact.

With a guiding style that is supportive and nurturing, she encourages every woman on her hikes to step into adventure with confidence – turning even the toughest incline into a moment shared, not endured.