Everest & Island Peak
Trip Details
- Duration: 21 days
- Visited Areas: Nepal
This is an unforgettable expedition into the most mountainous corner of the world. First conquered by Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary in 1953, Everest has traditionally been the ultimate goal for mountaineers. Today hard-core trekkers seek the challenge of reaching the mountaineer's Base Camp. Flying in to Lukla, explore the mountains and valleys around the towering peak, rest in Nepalese teahouses, learn about the traditions and cultures of the famous Sherpa and spend time in exotic Kathmandu.
Itinerary
Day 1 Kathmandu
This vibrant city is a fascinating mix of old and new. Arrive early to join pilgrims at Bodnath Stupa, shop for colourful souvenirs, or meet the cheeky residents at the aptly named Monkey Temple. Visit the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP), an Intrepid Foundation-supported project that provides education on minimum-impact trekking.
Days 2-10 Everest Base Camp
Locally known as Sagarmatha, Everest is the ultimate goal for mountaineers from all over the world. A flight to Lukla begins the adventure to Everest Base Camp. Trek along rocky paths, surrounded by some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world. Rest overnight in teahouses and gain insight into the Sherpa culture. Though challenging, the elation of reaching the foot of the highest mountain in the world is certainly worth the effort.
Days 11-18 Island PeakTrek
Get a taste of cultural Nepal and its spectacular wilderness on a trek high into the Himalayas. Stay at teahouses and campsites and pass monasteries, villages and the odd herd of shaggy yaks. Reach the Island Peak Base Camp and follow a Sherpa through climbing practice sessions in preparation for the final ascent. It's a gruelling 10 hours from Base Camp to the summit and back, but reaching a height of 6,189 m and standing atop Island Peak is an exhilarating achievement. Look out over the fourth and fifth highest mountains in the world and celebrate with a grinning group photo.
Day 19 Lukla
Make a leisurely descent to Lukla and savour a hot cup of chai while resting aching muscles.
Days 20-21 Kathmandu
Enjoy impressive views of the Himalayas on the flight back to Kathmandu, then soak up more of the city's unique culture before a final group dinner to celebrate the end of the adventure.