Island-peak-front

Everest Base Camp with Island Peak

  • duration 20 days
  • from usd 3,450
  • difficulty Hard
  • best season Sep-Dec | Mar-May
  • max altitude From 4,600 feet at Kathmandu to 20,305 feet at the top of Island Peak

trip overview

Journey through the legendary Khumbu Valley to reach the base of the world’s tallest mountain, then push your limits further by conquering your first technical Himalayan summit. This remarkable expedition takes you from the bustling markets of Namche Bazaar to the pristine wilderness of high-altitude glaciers.

Our comprehensive 20-day adventure seamlessly blends the iconic Everest Base Camp experience with the technical challenge of Island Peak (Imja Tse). As you trek through ancient Sherpa settlements and sacred Buddhist monasteries, you’ll gradually build the skills and acclimatization needed for serious mountaineering. Island Peak serves as the perfect introduction to high-altitude climbing, requiring basic technical skills while remaining achievable for determined first-time climbers.

The expedition follows a carefully planned route that maximizes your preparation time and safety margins. From the dramatic flight into Lukla to the final summit push using ropes and crampons, every day builds toward your ultimate achievement – standing atop a 6,000-meter Himalayan peak with unobstructed views of the world’s highest mountains.

Key highlights include:

  • Reaching Everest Base Camp (5,364m) where expeditions launch their summit attempts

  • Summiting Island Peak (6,189m) with technical mountaineering equipment and techniques

  • Witnessing sunrise over Everest from Kala Patthar viewpoint (5,545m)

  • Visiting Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual center of the Khumbu region

  • Trekking through Sagarmatha National Park’s protected wilderness

  • Learning essential climbing skills including crampon use and fixed rope techniques

  • Experiencing authentic Sherpa hospitality in traditional mountain villages

  • Crossing dramatic suspension bridges over glacial rivers

  • Three strategic acclimatization days for optimal altitude adaptation

  • Professional mountaineering instruction and comprehensive

Detailed itinerary

  • day 01
    Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)

    A representative of Mountain Kick will receive you at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Rest overnight at your hotel and prepare for your Himalayan adventure ahead.

    Activities: Airport transfer, hotel check-in, comprehensive trip briefing

    • Accommodation: Three star Hotel
  • day 02
    Fly to Lukla (2,840m/9,334ft) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,562ft)

    Your adventure begins with an early morning flight to Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport, famous for its short runway and spectacular mountain views. After landing in Lukla, we’ll have a brief rest and meet our porters before beginning our trek. The trail to Phakding is primarily downhill, following the Dudh Koshi River valley through traditional Sherpa villages and Buddhist prayer wheels.

    Note: During peak seasons (March-May and October-November), flights operate from Manthali Airport, requiring a 2:30 AM departure and 5-6 hour drive from Kathmandu.

    Flight: 30 minutes (Kathmandu to Lukla) or 20 minutes (Manthali to Lukla) | Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Easy (gentle downhill with some flat sections)

    Points of Interest:

    • Tenzing-Hillary Airport (one of the world’s most dangerous airports)

    • Dudh Koshi River valley

    • Buddhist prayer wheels and mani stones

    • Traditional Sherpa villages

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast
  • day 03
    Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,290ft)

    Today features one of the most significant elevation gains of the trek. After breakfast, we’ll follow the Dudh Koshi River, crossing several suspension bridges including the famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. At Monjo village, we’ll enter Sagarmatha National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) where permits will be checked. The trail climbs steeply after the park entrance. The final two hours involve a challenging uphill climb to reach Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the high Himalayas and the commercial hub of the Khumbu region.

    Trek Distance: 10-12km (6-7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging (significant uphill sections)

    Points of Interest:

    • Hillary Suspension Bridge

    • Sagarmatha National Park entrance

    • First viewpoint of Mt. Everest (weather permitting)

    • Namche Bazaar market and cultural center

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 04
    Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,290ft)

    This is an altitude acclimatization rest day. Following the mountaineering principle of “climb high, sleep low,” today we’ll take an acclimatization hike to higher elevation while returning to Namche to sleep. This helps your body adapt to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness. The recommended hike is to the Everest View Hotel, offering spectacular views of Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and other peaks.

    Hike Distance: 4km (2.5 miles) round trip | Hike Duration: 3-4 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Moderate

    Points of Interest:

    • Everest View Hotel with panoramic mountain views

    • Khumjung village and Hillary School

    • Sherpa Culture Museum and Sagarmatha National Park Visitor Center

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 05
    Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,660ft)

    After breakfast, we’ll begin with a relatively flat trail along the hillside with magnificent views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. The trail then descends to Phunki Tenga (3,250m/10,663ft), where we’ll stop for lunch near the Dudh Koshi River. After lunch, we face a challenging 2-hour steep uphill climb through pine forests to reach Tengboche, home to the most famous monastery in the Khumbu region. Located at the confluence of the Imja River and the Dudh Koshi River, Tengboche offers spectacular mountain panoramas.

    Trek Distance: 10km (6.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (initial descent followed by steep ascent)

    Points of Interest:

    • Tengboche Monastery (established in 1916)

    • Evening prayer ceremony (approximately 3:00 PM in winter, 4:00 PM in summer)

    • Spectacular views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 06
    Trek to Dingboche (4,410m/14,470ft)

    Leaving Tengboche, we descend through rhododendron forests to cross the Imja Khola river. The landscape begins to change as we enter a more arid region above the tree line. We’ll pass through the settlement of Pangboche (3,930m/12,894ft), which houses the oldest monastery in the region and offers excellent views of Ama Dablam. After Pangboche, the trail follows the Imja Valley with stunning views of Lhotse, Island Peak, and Ama Dablam. The final stretch to Dingboche involves a gradual climb through pastures and traditional stone-walled fields.

    Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Upper Pangboche Monastery (oldest in the region)

    • Spectacular views of Ama Dablam (6,856m/22,493ft)

    • First clear views of Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft)

    • Traditional Sherpa agricultural fields with stone walls

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 07
    Acclimatization Day in Dingboche (4,410m/14,470ft)

    Today is another crucial acclimatization day. After breakfast, we recommend a hike to Nangkartshang Peak, a viewpoint above Dingboche. The climb is steep but rewarding, offering spectacular views of Makalu (the world’s fifth highest mountain), Lhotse, Chalotse, Tawache, and Ama Dablam. This hiking activity around the town is ideal for tackling Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) while providing excellent preparation for the higher altitudes ahead.

    Hike Distance: 5km (3 miles) round trip | Hike Duration: 3-4 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Nangkartshang Peak viewpoint

    • Panoramic views of Makalu (world’s fifth highest mountain)

    • Views of Lhotse, Chalotse, Tawache, and Ama Dablam

    • Stone-walled fields and local monastery

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 08
    Trek to Lobuche (4,940m/16,210ft)

    Today we enter the high alpine zone above 4,500m where vegetation becomes extremely sparse. The trail initially climbs gradually from Dingboche to Dughla/Thukla (4,620m/15,157ft), a small settlement where we’ll stop for lunch. After lunch, we face a steep, challenging climb up the Thukla Pass (4,830m/15,850ft) where we’ll find the moving Everest Memorial site with numerous stone memorials for climbers who have lost their lives on Everest and surrounding peaks. The trail continues along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier to reach Lobuche.

    Trek Distance: 8.5km (5.3 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Thukla Pass/Everest Memorial site with stone memorials

    • First views of Khumbu Glacier

    • Panoramic views of Pumori (7,161m/23,494ft) and surrounding peaks

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 09
    Trek to Gorakshep (5,164m/16,942ft) and Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,598ft)

    Today is the highlight of our trek! We’ll start early, following the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. The trail undulates over rocky terrain with several short, steep sections. A short three-hour trek will take you to Gorakshep, a village sitting on top of a frozen lake bed. After a light lunch at Gorakshep, we’ll continue to Everest Base Camp. The walk to base camp takes 2-3 hours through rocky terrain alongside the Khumbu Glacier. You’ll get to stand at the foot of the tallest peak in the world, but you cannot camp here with your trekking permit so we will return to Gorakshep before night.

    Trek Distance: Lobuche to Gorakshep: 4.5km (2.8 miles) | Gorakshep to EBC: 7km (4.3 miles) round trip | Trek Duration: Lobuche to Gorakshep: 2-3 hours | Gorakshep to EBC: 4-5 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Khumbu Glacier and Icefall

    • Everest Base Camp with prayer flags marking the site

    • Views of Nuptse, Pumori, and Khumbutse

    • Mountaineering expeditions and base camp atmosphere

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 10
    Hike to Kala Patthar (5,545m/18,519ft) & Trek to Pheriche (4,371m/14,340ft)

    We’ll wake before dawn for the challenging climb to Kala Patthar, timed to reach the summit for sunrise (weather permitting). We will ascend to Kala Patthar, which lies on the southern ridge of Mount Pumori. It’s a two-hour uphill expedition that will test your mountain-climbing skills. Here you will get the best panoramic view of Everest along with the Khumbu Glacier and other Himalayan peaks. After returning to Gorakshep for breakfast, we’ll begin our descent, retracing our steps to Lobuche and then taking the trail to Pheriche. The descent provides relief from the extreme altitude and allows for recovery.

    Wake-up Time: 4:00-4:30 AM for sunrise hike (recommended) | Trek Distance: Gorakshep to Kala Patthar: 2km (1.2 miles) round trip | Gorakshep to Pheriche: 13km (8.1 miles) | Trek Duration: Kala Patthar: 2-3 hours round trip | Descent to Pheriche: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (Kala Patthar), then Moderate (descent)

    Points of Interest:

    • Sunrise views from Kala Patthar – best Everest viewpoint

    • Himalayan Rescue Association clinic in Pheriche

    • Dramatic change in landscape as you descend

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 11
    Trek to Chukhung (4,730m/15,518ft)

    We keep following the Imja River towards the Chukhung Valley. The trek takes us through spectacular mountain scenery as we head towards the base of Island Peak. Chukhung is surrounded by Mount Lhotse and Mount Nuptse from the north, by Mount Cho Polu and Mount Baruntse from the east and by Mount Ama Dablam from the south. This means you will be right in the middle of the Himalayas, cornered by mountains and glaciers. The village offers excellent views of Island Peak, which becomes prominently visible as our next major objective.

    Trek Distance: 8km (5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

    Points of Interest:

    • Spectacular amphitheater of peaks surrounding Chukhung

    • Views of Lhotse South Face, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam

    • Island Peak becomes prominently visible

    • Traditional yak herding areas

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 12
    Trek to Island Peak Base Camp (5,087m/16,690ft)

    It takes four hours of hiking to reach the base camp of Island Peak or Imja Tse. The mountain appears as an island in the sea of ice and hence the moniker. We will camp here in tents for the night and will summit the mountain the next day. The trail follows the Imja Glacier moraine, providing spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Upon arrival at base camp, our guides will conduct a comprehensive technical briefing and equipment check.

    Trek Distance: 4km (2.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 3-4 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate

    Activities:

    • Technical briefing and equipment check

    • Practice with climbing gear (crampons, ice axe, harness)

    • Route planning and safety protocols review

    • Gear preparation for summit day

    • Accommodation: Tented Camp
    • Meal: Included in package
  • day 13
    Summit Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft) & Return to Chukhung

    Island Peak is the most climbed mountain in the Himalayan range. It has a difficulty grade of Alpine PD+ so that means it requires some climbing skills but is possible with the help of a guide. There is a tricky crevasse near the summit but our experienced guides will safely navigate you across it. We will start the summit before sunrise and get back to the base and return to Chukhung before sunset.

    Summit Start Time: 2:00-3:00 AM | Total Distance: 6km (3.7 miles) round trip from base camp | Summit Duration: 8-10 hours round trip | Difficulty Level: Very Challenging (Technical mountaineering)

    Technical Requirements:

    • Use of crampons, ice axe, and climbing harness

    • Fixed rope sections and glacier travel

    • Crevasse crossing near summit using ladders

    • Alpine PD+ grade climbing with steep snow and ice sections

    Points of Interest:

    • 360-degree panoramic views from summit including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam

    • Technical mountaineering experience on glaciated terrain

    • Achievement of first 6,000m+ summit

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 14
    Rest Day in Chukhung (4,730m/15,518ft)

    This day is for rest as you must be tired after actually summiting a Himalayan peak. This recovery day allows your body to recuperate from the demanding summit day while celebrating your achievement. You can explore the village, rest, or take short optional hikes depending on your energy levels.

    Activities: Rest, celebration, optional short hikes around Chukhung

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 15
    Trek to Tengboche (3,860m/12,600ft)

    We start to get back now. We will walk for six hours to get to Tengboche, the place where we were several days earlier. The long descent provides relief from high altitude and takes us back through familiar territory with a new perspective after our summit achievement. We’ll retrace our steps through Pangboche and enjoy the return to lower elevations with richer oxygen levels.

    Trek Distance: 15km (9.3 miles) | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long distance but mostly downhill)

    Points of Interest:

    • Return to Tengboche Monastery

    • Celebration of summit achievement with fellow trekkers

    • Gradual return to tree line and vegetation

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 16
    Trek to Namche Bazaar via Khumjung (3,440m/11,290ft)

    An easy downhill trek for five hours through forests, suspension bridges and alongside mountain ridges will get you to Namche Bazaar, back to civilization after your ordeal with wilderness. It’s not too early to celebrate, so you might want to head out and share your adventure over a couple of drinks. The return to Namche feels like a homecoming after the challenging high-altitude experience.

    Trek Distance: 12km (7.5 miles) | Trek Duration: 5-6 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (mostly downhill)

    Points of Interest:

    • Return to the bustling atmosphere of Namche Bazaar

    • Opportunity to purchase souvenirs and celebrate

    • Internet connectivity and modern amenities

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 17
    Trek to Lukla (2,840m/9,334ft)

    We will return to the place where it all started, Lukla. Your Everest Base Camp and Island Peak expedition ends here. You will not have to walk anymore. The final day of trekking takes us through familiar villages and landscapes, now viewed with the satisfaction of having completed one of the world’s great mountain adventures. The trail follows the Dudh Koshi River through traditional Sherpa villages.

    Trek Distance: 18km (11.2 miles) | Trek Duration: 6-7 hours | Difficulty Level: Moderate (long distance with varied terrain)

    Points of Interest:

    • Final views of the Himalayan peaks

    • Celebration dinner in Lukla

    • Reflection on the completed adventure

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 18
    Fly to Kathmandu (1,400m/4,600ft)

    In about no time, you will be back to Kathmandu. The bustling city will be a sharp contrast to the calm of the Himalayas. Morning flights from Lukla are often subject to weather conditions, so be prepared for possible delays. The flight offers spectacular final views of the mountains and foothills.

    Flight Duration: 30 minutes (weather dependent)
    Activities: Airport transfer, hotel check-in, gear return

    Note: During peak seasons, flights may operate via Ramechhap/Manthali Airport, requiring a 5-6 hour drive to Kathmandu.

    • Accommodation: Guesthouse
  • day 19
    Leisure Day and Farewell Dinner

    Spend the day as you like it. You might want to visit some more heritage sites or wander around happening parts of the city like Thamel. We will have a farewell dinner planned for your last night in Nepal. This is an opportunity to process your achievement and enjoy the comforts of city life after the mountain adventure.

    Activities: Free time, shopping, optional sightseeing, gear shopping

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast & Farewell dinner
  • day 20
    Final Departure

    You will be headed home and recollections of your Himalayan expedition will keep you occupied on your long flight back. Our representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight.

    Activities: Airport transfer (scheduled according to flight time)

    Practical Information:

    • Standard hotel check-out time is 12:00 PM

    • Luggage storage available for those with evening flights

    • Airport transfer typically 3 hours before international flights

    • Accommodation: Hotel
    • Meal: Breakfast

What's Included

  • Receive you from and drop you to the airport or hotel in our company vehicle
  • Stay at a three star hotel in Kathmandu on a twin-sharing basis. Breakfast is on us
  • Stay at guesthouses during the trek on a twin-sharing basis plus tented camp accommodation at Island Peak Base Camp
  • Local government-licensed trekking guide and experienced climbing guide for technical sections
  • Porters (one each for a pair of travellers) and local support staff to help you trek
  • Fees for Sagarmatha National Park entering permit, Trekkers’ Information Management System card, and Island Peak climbing permit
  • Fully paid round-trip tickets for Kathmandu-Lukla flight and back. Rides in shared vehicles included in the itinerary (including Manthali ride if Lukla flight operates from there)
  • Group technical climbing equipment for Island Peak including ropes, ice screws, and safety hardware
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during tented camp stay at Island Peak Base Camp
  • A duffel bag for you to use in the trek as a souvenir from us
  • Mountain Kick cap and t-shirt as keepsakes
  • A traditional Nepali feast with cultural shows as a farewell dinner
  • All tourist fees, government charges and other official expenses throughout the trip

What's Not Included

  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • All meals during the trek at guesthouses (available for purchase at teahouses)
  • Additional stay before, during or after the set itinerary
  • Charges at airports or other areas for excess luggage
  • Personal climbing equipment such as mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, and helmet (available for rent)
  • Alcohol, hot or cold drinks, bottled water, and other snacks
  • Phone calls, internet, laundry, additional porters, and other personal expenses
  • Travel insurance (It is compulsory and covers emergency rescue and evacuation including high-altitude climbing)
  • International airfare to and from Kathmandu
  • Visa fees for entering Nepal
  • Helicopter rescue, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation expenses

Accommodation during the Trip

In Kathmandu:

  • Three star hotel on twin-sharing basis included in package

  • Breakfast included at Kathmandu hotels

  • Upgrade options available to star hotels and international chain properties (Hyatt, Marriott, Radisson)

  • Single accommodation readily available in Kathmandu (additional charge)

During the Trek:

  • Standard teahouse/guesthouse accommodation on twin-sharing basis

  • Simple but clean rooms with beds, pillows, and blankets

  • Shared bathroom facilities in most teahouses

  • Common dining areas with heating

  • Limited single room availability during the trek (subject to availability)

  • Better accommodation quality at lower elevations and in Lukla

  • Basic facilities at higher elevations

  • Accommodation quality varies by location

Island Peak Base Camp:

  • High-quality expedition tents on twin-sharing basis

  • Sleeping bags and insulation mats provided

  • Dining tent with cooking facilities

  • Toilet tent facilities

  • Professional camp setup and management by experienced crew

Upgrade Options:

  • Hotel upgrades in Kathmandu available upon request

  • Limited premium accommodation options in Lukla & Namche Bazaar

  • Advance booking recommended for any accommodation upgrades

  • Additional charges apply for all accommodation upgrades

Note: All accommodation arrangements are subject to availability, especially during peak trekking seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How difficult is the Everest Base Camp with Island Peak Trek?

    This trek is rated as hard difficulty, requiring substantial fitness and previous hiking experience. The main challenges include:

    • High altitude (reaching up to 6,189m at Island Peak summit)

    • Technical mountaineering skills required for Island Peak

    • Long daily hiking hours (6-10 hours on summit day)

    • Extreme cold temperatures at high elevations

    • Alpine PD+ grade climbing with crevasse crossings

    Previous trekking experience is highly recommended, and basic mountaineering knowledge is beneficial.

  • What technical skills are required for Island Peak?

    Island Peak has a difficulty grade of Alpine PD+ and requires:

    • Basic mountaineering skills (use of crampons, ice axe, harness)

    • Comfort with fixed rope sections

    • Ability to cross crevasses using ladders

    • Physical fitness for 8-10 hour summit day

    • Experience with high-altitude conditions

    Our guides provide technical instruction, but prior mountaineering experience is advantageous.

  • What climbing equipment is provided?

    Group Equipment Provided:

    • Climbing ropes and hardware

    • Ice screws and snow anchors

    • Group safety equipment

    Personal Equipment (Available for Rent):

    • Mountaineering boots

    • Crampons

    • Ice axe

    • Climbing harness

    • Helmet

  • What happens in case of an emergency?

    Medical Emergency Protocol:

    • Immediate descent to lower altitude if altitude sickness occurs

    • Helicopter evacuation available (weather permitting)

    • Comprehensive first aid training for all guides

    • Communication devices for emergency contact

    • Evacuation insurance mandatory for all participants

    Weather-Related Delays:

    • Flexible itinerary to accommodate weather delays

    • Extra days built into schedule for contingencies

    • Alternative routes available if conditions require

  • What physical preparation is needed?

    Training Required: 6-8 weeks of cardiovascular and strength training

    Experience Level: Previous multi-day trekking experience essential

    Medical Clearance: Consultation with doctor regarding high-altitude travel

    Fitness Level: Ability to hike 6-8 hours daily with a daypack

  • And Food?

    Meals are not included in your package price during the trek but can be purchased at teahouses. However, all meals are included during your stay at Island Peak Base Camp. Tea-houses along the route offer:

    Breakfast Options ($6-10):

    • Porridge, muesli, or cornflake

    • Pancakes, Tibetan bread, or chapati

    • Eggs prepared in various ways

    • Tea, coffee, hot chocolate

    Lunch and Dinner Options ($9-16):

    • Dal Bhat (traditional Nepali meal with rice, lentil soup, and vegetables)

    • Momo (Tibetan dumplings)

    • Noodle soups and pasta dishes

    • Fried rice or noodles

    • Soups and stews

    Vegetarian options are widely available and often recommended as meat storage can be unreliable at higher elevations. Food prices increase with altitude as supplies must be carried by porters.

  • What is the best time to climb Island Peak?

    Spring Season (March-May): Stable weather, clear mountain views Autumn Season (September-December): Excellent visibility, dry conditions Avoid: Monsoon season (June-August) and deep winter (January-February)

  • Can the itinerary be customized?

    Customization Options:

    • Private departures with flexible start dates

    • Itinerary modifications (add/remove days)

    • Extensions to other regions (Gokyo Lakes, Chitwan)

    • Accommodation upgrades where available

    • Special interest focuses (photography, culture)

    Contact us with your preferences for a customized itinerary that meets your specific needs and experience level.

  • Is travel insurance mandatory?

    Yes, comprehensive travel and rescue insurance is mandatory for all participants. Your insurance must cover:

    • High-altitude trekking and climbing activities

    • Emergency helicopter evacuation

    • Medical treatment and repatriation

    • Trip cancellation and interruption

  • How many people are in a group?

    We operate with small groups to ensure personalized attention and safety. Group sizes typically range from 2-8 people, with a maximum of 10 participants per departure.

  • What about altitude sickness?

    Our 20-day itinerary includes strategic acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche to help prevent altitude sickness. We follow the "climb high, sleep low" principle and maintain conservative altitude progression. All guides are trained in altitude sickness recognition and treatment protocols.

  • What is the summit success rate for Island Peak?

    Island Peak has one of the highest success rates among 6,000m peaks in Nepal, typically ranging from 85-95% for properly acclimatized climbers. Our conservative 20-day itinerary with strategic acclimatization days significantly improves your chances of success compared to rushed schedules.

  • How long does the actual summit day take?

    Summit day typically takes 8-10 hours round trip from base camp to summit and back. We start at 2:00-3:00 AM to avoid afternoon weather and return to base camp by early afternoon. The breakdown is approximately:

    • Base camp to high camp: 2-3 hours

    • High camp to summit: 3-4 hours

    • Summit to base camp: 3-4 hours

  • What are the specific technical challenges on the route?

    The main technical challenges include:

    • Glacier travel with crevasse hazards

    • Fixed rope sections on steep snow and ice slopes

    • Ladder crossing over a prominent crevasse near the summit

    • Steep headwall requiring front-pointing with crampons

    • Exposed ridge walking at extreme altitude

    • Navigation in potential whiteout conditions

  • What happens if weather is bad on summit day?

    Safety is our top priority. If weather conditions are unsafe, we will:

    • Postpone the summit attempt until conditions improve

    • Monitor weather forecasts continuously

    • Make decisions based on wind speed, visibility, and storm systems

    • Utilize our flexible itinerary to accommodate delays

    • Consider alternative summit windows if available

    Bad weather decisions are made by experienced climbing guides and are non-negotiable for safety reasons.

  • Do I need previous glacier travel experience?

    While previous glacier travel experience is beneficial, it's not mandatory. However, you should have:

    • Experience with crampons and ice axe use

    • Comfort walking on uneven, icy terrain

    • Basic understanding of rope team travel

    • Confidence with exposure and steep terrain

    Our guides provide comprehensive instruction, but some prior mountaineering experience significantly improves your comfort and success rate.

  • What is the climbing route like step by step?

    Base Camp to High Camp:

    • Cross glacier moraine and navigate crevasse fields

    • Ascend steep snow slopes using fixed ropes

    • Establish high camp at approximately 5,600m

    High Camp to Summit:

    • Early morning start in darkness

    • Steep snow and ice climbing with crampons

    • Navigate crevasse crossing using ladder system

    • Final headwall climb on fixed ropes

    • Exposed summit ridge to the top at 6,189m

    Descent:

    • Reverse the route with careful attention to changing snow conditions

    • Rappel sections where necessary

    • Return to base camp for celebration

  • How cold does it get during the climb?

    Temperatures vary significantly by season and time of day:

    • Base Camp: -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F) at night

    • Summit Day: -20°C to -30°C (-4°F to -22°F) with wind chill

    • Daytime: Can warm to 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) in sunshine

    Wind chill can make temperatures feel much colder. Proper layering and high-quality cold weather gear are essential for comfort and safety.

  • What if I struggle with the technical sections?

    Our experienced climbing guides are trained to assist climbers who face difficulties:

    • Additional instruction and practice at base camp

    • One-on-one guidance during technical sections

    • Short-roping techniques for added security

    • Alternative techniques for different skill levels

    • Safety-first approach with option to turn back if necessary

    Remember, reaching the summit is optional - returning safely is mandatory.

  • Are there practice sessions before the summit attempt?

    Yes, we conduct comprehensive training at Island Peak Base Camp including:

    • Crampon and ice axe technique practice

    • Fixed rope ascending and descending

    • Crevasse rescue demonstrations

    • Equipment familiarization and safety checks

    • Route briefing with detailed explanation

    • Practice on nearby ice and snow features

    This preparation day is crucial for building confidence and ensuring everyone understands the techniques required for summit day.

  • How experienced are the climbing guides?

    Our climbing guides are highly qualified with:

    • Government-issued climbing guide licenses

    • Minimum 5+ years of Island Peak guiding experience

    • Training in high-altitude rescue techniques

    • First aid and wilderness medical training

    • Multiple ascents of Island Peak and other 6,000m peaks

    • Fluency in English and local languages

    Many of our guides have climbed Everest and other major Himalayan peaks.

Essential Trip Information

  • Medical consultation is essential before your trek – consult with a doctor regarding any medications you plan to take or bring during the trek, as high altitude can affect how medications work in your body. Disclose all medications you plan to bring to your trek leaders and guides.

    Key Preparation Requirements:

    • 6-8 weeks of cardiovascular and strength training

    • Previous multi-day trekking experience essential

    • Ability to hike 6-8 hours daily with a daypack

    • Basic mountaineering skills beneficial (crampons, ice axe use)

    Travel insurance is mandatory and must cover high-altitude trekking and climbing activities up to 6,200m, emergency helicopter evacuation, and technical mountaineering activities.

    Technical Climbing Requirements: Island Peak has a difficulty grade of Alpine PD+ requiring basic mountaineering skills including use of crampons, ice axe, and harness. Our guides provide comprehensive technical instruction at base camp, but prior mountaineering experience is advantageous.

    Safety Considerations:

    • Strategic acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche

    • Professional monitoring by experienced climbing guides

    • Weather-dependent summit attempts with safety-first approach

    • Emergency communication devices and evacuation protocols

    Equipment Notes: Technical climbing equipment (crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet) available for rent in Kathmandu. Mountaineering boots and proper cold weather gear essential for summit attempt.

    Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-December) offer the most stable weather conditions for technical climbing.

Packing Checklist

Key items for EBC + Island Peak include:

  • Layered clothing system – Base, mid, and outer layers for adaptability to changing conditions

  • Warm sleeping bag – Rated for at least 0°F/-10°C

  • Mountaineering boots – For technical climbing sections on Island Peak

  • Technical climbing equipment – Crampons, ice axe, harness, and helmet for Island Peak summit

  • UV-protecting sunglasses – For protection against intense high-altitude sun

  • Headlamp with spare batteries – Essential for navigating in dark conditions and early summit starts

  • Water bottles/hydration system – For maintaining proper hydration at altitude

  • Daypack – For carrying daily essentials while trekking

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We give you the power to choose the departure date that suits your group best. A private trip is a perfect solution if you can’t find a published departure date that you and your companions agree on. You can set up a private departure for most of the trips we offer.

We never force our customers to follow our set itinerary. You can customize your itinerary exactly the way you want. Please share with us your ideas.

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TRIP MAP

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As one of the core guiding principles for Mountain Kick, we always give back to the mountain community in any way we can as a means of gratitude. The people who live in the Himalayas and share their homes with us deserve to have all their little problems fixed which seem very basic for outsiders but are commonplace in rural Nepal. The people lack proper access to healthcare, sanitation and education but a little effort from travellers goes on a long way to solve these issues. Mountain Kick has made it its corporate social responsibility to help improve the living standards of the local community. We make donations to their cause, organize social campaigns and programs and also have a few trips designed to mix a little volunteer work in your holiday.

READ MORE ABOUT CSR

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