Everest Base Camp & Island Peak
Not many people can claim to have climbed a Himalayan peak, but if you're reasonably fit, and mentally tough, this is your chance. This challenging and rugged adventure, with plenty of time for sensible acclimatisation, follows the classic route to the Base Camp of Mount Everest and Kala Patar and gives you the opportunity of climbing the 6189m Island Peak. Starting from Lukla, we trek through the homeland of the Sherpas, enjoying their friendly hospitality and experiencing arguably the most dramatic mountain views in the world after visiting Everest Base Camp we will be properly acclimatized to tackle the beautiful Island Peak. The perfect Himalayan peak for beginners wishing to ascend their first Himalayan mountain. Training will be provided in use of ice axe, crampons and rope work.
Why is the trip 21 days and not 17 days?
This is a serious trip. It is also a once in a lifetime experience. We have 30 years experience in Nepal, a very high success rate in climbing trips and an unparalleled safety record. Read on…
In order to maximize your chance to summiting (and getting to Kala Patar), avoid altitude sickness and enjoy your trip, contingency days are essential. Our intention is to get as many people to Kala Patar, Base Camp and the summit of Island Peak. If you have those vital couple of extra days your chances of doing this safely and enjoying the experience is increased. We believe a minimum of 21 days allows for this.
a) Flights. Our inbound and outbound gate way to the Everest region is the tiny airstrip at Lukla. Delays sometimes happen on the way in. If your itinerary is too tight then you cannot compromise the essential days required needed for acclimatization. You cannot ‘catch up’, days safely on the ascent and descent if you don’t have the extra days we have built in.
b) Acclimatisation We take this very seriously, that’s why we have one of the best safety records in the Himalaya. We have 30 years experience in the Everest region our success rate with climbing trips is excellent. Our itinerary follows the guidelines set out by the Himalayan Rescue Association. We carry Portable Altitude Chambers (PAC bags) for your safety and more importantly – peace of mind. Our leaders are highly experienced mountain guides and major peak summiteers.
c) Weather. We are trekking in the highest mountain range in the World. Having the extra days in hand gives us the opportunity for a second chance of summiting if we have bad weather.
Itinerary
| Day Number(s) | Title |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Kathmandu |
| 3 | Phakding |
| 4-5 | Namche Bazaar |
| 6 | Khumjung |
| 7 | Thyangboche |
| 8-9 | Dingboche |
| 10-12 | Lobuche - Gorak Shep - Kala Patar - Base Camp |
| 13-16 | Dingboche - Island Peak Ascent |
| 17-19 | Thyangboche – Monjo – Lukla |
| 20-21 | Kathmandu |
Trip Highlights
Gallery
Video
From Our Blog
Past Travellers' Ratings & Comments
Brenton - Australia, 21 Oct, 2011
An amazing trek. Hard work to summit but well worth it. Our leader Nima was informative and helpful. We will be using Gecko for the next trek.
Katrina - Australia, 21 Oct, 2011
The trip and guides did a fantastic job and I would definatly go on another Gecko tour in the future.
At A Glance
Trip Length |
21 days |
Trip Code |
GIIP |
| Min Altitude | Max Altitude |
| 1300m | 6189m |
Minimum Passengers |
|
| 4 people | |
Maximum Passengers |
|
| 12 people | |
Countries Visited |
|
| Nepal | |
Start City |
|
| Kathmandu | |
End City |
|
| Kathmandu | |
