Island Peak

Arrive in the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. Transfer to hotel. There are no activities planned today, so the day is free for you to wander and explore. Staying in 4 star accommodation, the hotel is located in downtown Kathmandu, in the popular Thamel district. Thamel is home to a vibrant community of trekkers, backpackers and travellers alike. Tonight we dine at a Nepalese restaurant, sampling the local cuisine. For those who arrive early, hotel accommodation and transfers can be arranged

Optional Mountain (Everest) Flight. Later in the morning we commence our Nepal adventure with a walking tour of Kathmandu. Starting with the famous Durbar Square, we explore the medieval palaces, temples and marketplaces. We also visit the Swayambunath stupa, known as the ‘Monkey Temple’. It’s a short climb to the top where on a clear day you can see across to the stunning Himalayan Mountains. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time. For those who need clothing or equipment for the upcoming trek, we can purchase these items in the evening.

Fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, the gateway to Everest. In Lukla, we met out Sherpa porters and start our trek. The trek to Phakding takes approximatly 3 hours. (B,L,D)

Today’s trek from Phadkding to Namche Bazzar is a long one. As we slowly ascend along the route, we pass through rhododendron forests and are treated to spectacular views of snow-capped mountains. Stopping along the way for lunch, we then continue on towards Namche Bazaar. The track is generally flat with a few steep climbs in places. It is a good idea to take your time as the effects of altitude may start to take place. (B,L,D)

To allow for acclimatisation, today we stay in Namche. The village offers superb views of the Khumbu peaks and there are plenty of opportunities for exploring the village and its surrounds. (B,L,D)

Shortly after we leave Namche, we will be treated to great views Mt Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. Passing through villages, we continue on our way before making the steep climb to Tengboche where we overnight. (B,L,D)

Descending through forests, we cross the Imja Khola and climb up to the village of Pangboche before continuing onto the village of Pheriche. Overnight at Pheriche. (B,L,D)

We take another rest and acclimatisation day today. There is free time to explore the surrounding areas of Pheriche or soak up the magnificent mountain views. (B,L,D)

Today’s trek is a strenuous one, so it is a good idea to take your time. Despite the toughness, you will be treated once again to dramatic scenery as we trek past the high peaks and get closer to Everest. We arrive at Lobuche in the afternoon. (B,L,D)

We take a series of small ascents and descents today, making our way up to Gorakshep. Once in Gorakshep, there is the option of trekking up to Kala Patar to take in the awe-inspiring views at sunset. Everest is one of the peaks that you can see. (B,L,D)

It’s an early start as we trek along the glacier to Everest Base Camp. Being in presence of the world’s highest mountain is a truly awe-inspiring moment. After Base Camp, we return to Gorakshep for lunch before returning back down to Lobuche. (B,L,D)

We head back down today to the village of Dingboche. Dingboche offers fabulous views of  Lhotse, Island Peak and countless other peaks. For those who are keen, a short hike to the top of the hill overlooking Dingbouche also offers views of the world’s 5^th highest peak, Makalu (8481m). (B,L,D)

It’s an easy walk today as we climb to the village of Chukhung, and are treated to great views of Island Peak along the way. Overnight in Chukhung. (B,L,D)

It’s another easy trekking day as we make our way to the Island Peak Base Camp. We overnight at Base Camp. (B,L,D)

We trek a little higher today to the high camp. Once we’ve made camp, we make our final preparations for the climb tomorrow. (B,L,D)

Following the trail above the camp and then climbing along a narrow ridge, we make in onto the galcier where rope up and prepare for the climb. Climbing first across the glacier, we then follow the steep snow slope to the summit ridge. Once we reach the summit, there is time to absorb the wonderful views, including the south face of Lhotse. We descend along the same route down to base camp. (B,L,D)

To allow for possible weather conditions, we have allowed an extra day to cover this. If we are successful on day 16 of making the peak, we will contiune our trek down and overnight in Chukhung. (B,L,D)

Heading back down, we pass back through Chukhung and then onto Pangboche, where we spend the night. (B,L,D)

The trail takes us all the way back down to Namche today. As we descend, we are treated once again to the beautiful rhododendron forests. (B,L,D)

It’s our final day trekking as we make out way back to Lukla. It is here that we say goodbye to our porters and trekking guide. (B,L,D)

Its another early start as we tranfer to the airport for our flight back to Kathmandu. On arrival in Kathmandu, we transfer back to our hotel. There is more free time today for some last minute shopping! (B)

Today is departure day, so there are no activites arranged and you are free to leave at any time. Airport transfer is included.