In this trip, we decided to combine two experiences; to go along great nepalese expeditions and to contemplate Everest from the energy of its basecamp. For the one who want, the ascent of a 6000m is an option.
This way, the group will be mix. Perfect to mix the passions and the objectives that can be different between partners! For some, Everest basecamp trek and the visit of this awesome valley will be a memorable experience. For other, the ascent of the Island Peak will be a bigger challenge that will push them beyond their comfort zone.
Island peak is one of the most known and accessible summit in Nepal. Its location in the Everest valley, its great beauty and its low technical level makes the mountain a really good choice for alpinists who want a first challenge in Nepal. View from the Island peak is breathtaking. You can contemplate the Lhotse (8511m and 4th highest peaking the world), the Makalu, the Barunste, the Nuptse, the Ama Dablam and the Lobuche.
The Island Peak (Imje Tse) 6189m was named in 1952 after its isolated position in the middle of the Chhukung valley, like an island in the middle of a sea of ice. The mountain was rename “Imje Tse” in the 80’s, but its original name stayed the most popular. The Island peak got an impressive West face, compose of a huge glacier that join the one on Lhotse.
In Fact, the mountain is like an extension of the South ridge of Lhotse only separated by a tiny col that lead to the summit. From basecamp, we will need to ascend a steep slide to the advanced camp. After that, we will start early in the night to ascend a long and steep snow/ice ramp that lead to the summit ridge. We will use fix ropes to ascend the last part.
Two extra days have been added to prevent bad situation such as the flight from Lukla to Katmandu, so we make sure we do not miss our flight home from Katmandu.
Reservation
Please read the applicable trip conditions (booking terms, deadlines, etc.) before making your reservation.
Island Peak
6189m
South ridge
AD
2 days
Our ascend follow beaten trails. The trails is well defined but quite steep.
From this camp, we will join the glacier that includes many crevasse sections until we reach the exposed ridge the leads to the shoulder and then the summit. Many skills and techniques will be use such as being roped up together, fix ropes and even the use of ladders if necessary.
Details
Flight to Katmandu
Day in Katmandu, touristic visit
Flight toward Lukla (2840m) and trek to Phakding (2610m)
Trek to Namche Bazar (3440) and first ascent in altitude
Rest day in Namche Bazar and visit of this mountain town
Trek to Thyanboche (3820m) who is known for its monastery. We will have the chance to visit the monastery and assist to a Buddhist ceremony
Trek to Dingboche (4410m). From there, the area split and enter into the Giants area. It is also the end of the tree line and the start of a more alpine environment
Trek to Loboche by the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. We will pass by many viewpoints on Everest area to Gora Shep
Ascent of Kala Pattar (5643m) with a spectacular view on Everest
Trek to Everest basecamp and all its unique energy
Descent to Pheriche to spend the night, a village who host the Hymalayan Rescue Association
Trek to Chukung and realization of the ascent of Chukung Ri who gives us a great view on the south face of Nuptse (5550m)
Moving to Island peak basecamp and preparation for our ascent
Window for the ascent of the summit. We will climb to advanced camp on day 15 and than have 2 days to try the summit depending on the weather.
Trek to Dingboche (4410m)
Back to Namche Bazaar
Namche bazar to Lukla
Flight Lukla – Katmandu
Day in Katmandu
Day in Katmandu
Flight home