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Island Peak Climbing
Island Peak is just over 20,000' (6189m) and represents a fantastically rewarding trek/climb challenge for non-climbers. Whilst there is some hard packed snow climbing to be done you do not need any previous climbing experience to reach Island Peak's summit. Island Peak is higher than Kilimanjaro and before you get there, you will have acclimatized by trekking to the highest Base Camp in the world - Everest Base Camp.
Join us for the 31 Mar 2012 departure.
Due to its demanding nature, this trek/climb has a significant support crew.
Got 2 mins?.....grab a coffee and watch this very recent, inspirational and atmospheric video of Island Peak. It was produced by Travel and Trek client Jonathan Crookes.
Download Island Peak and Everest Base Camp itinerary and information
The first phase of this amazing adventure is the 8 day trek to reach Everest Base Camp. One great advantage of this combined trip is that the trek to the Everest Base Camp provides that vital acclimatization period, which negates any additional acclimatization for Island Peak itself. Call it a warm up!
Having experienced Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar (5500m), you descend for a little rest before trekking up the Chukkung valley and and finally to Island Peak's Base Camp (this phase takes 3 days). By now, you will be well and truly acclimatised and also tired. It is here that we do final checks on the climbing/safety equipment and teach you how to use it.
Summit day soon arrives. It is an early start to begin the 4 hr ascent to the 'crampon point', where you need to don your climbing gear before continuing on towards Island Peak itself. By this time, the sun will have risen; the views are absolutely brilliant. Say hello to most of the world below you!
By now, you will be able to see the summit of Island Peak and once at the base of the main hard packed snow wall it is a case of attaching yourself to the fixed ropes (for safety) and using the skills that you have been taught, make your way up to the ridge and then finally up to the summit itself. From this stunning white view point, you can only sit in awe at the vista that lies before you. The views of the mighty Lhotse, Lhotse Sha, Makalu and the lesser known but fantastic Ama Dablam are just a few kilometers away.
Accompanying you all of the way will be your specialist climbing Sherpa (it may not the same person as your trekking Guide). The climbing Sherpa’s job is to ensure that you are comfortable with your climbing equipment, that you know how to use it and will be safe when on the snow.
The specialist equipment that you will need can be hired. With the exception of boots (which can be hired from a separate shop in Kathmandu), we hold a number of new sets of crampons, harnesses, ice axes, jumors and karabiners for hire. The boots are an essential element of your equipment due to the fit and DO need to be hired in Kathmandu. The equipment we hold is kept further up the trail saving the weight of transportation. Your safety is of paramount importance and you will be trained in the use of this equipment by your Sherpa climbing guide.
Other associated Everest treks: Everest for Softies!, Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lakes Trek, Everest High Passes Trek.
