Everest Base Camp and Island Peak Trek

For 2010, Hillways is offering the classic Everest Base Camp Trek with an optional extension to include the ascent of Island Peak (6173m). Island Peak is one of Nepal’s ‘Trekking Peaks’ so called because their ascent requires no great technical skills or previous experience of snow and ice climbing. A physically fit and acclimatised person should be capable of the ascent following our graduated acclimatisation itinerary and a short demonstration by our local climbing guide. Although technically straightforward, the climb does require the use of ice axe and crampons and the group will be roped up for some of the ascent. The mountain is really an extension of the southern ridge of Lhotse, an outlier of Everest and the views from the summit include many of the peaks of the Everest region as well as Ama Dablam and Makalu.

This 20-day package includes time in Kathmandu for sightseeing and to buy or hire equipment and clothing for the trek and a 40-min internal flight to Lukla from where the trek begins. Seven days are taken to trek up to Everest Base Camp and the Kalar Patthar viewpoint from where a close view of Everest can be obtained, and a further 8-days are spent on the Island Peak climb and return to Lukla. The itinerary is specifically designed to allow for full acclimatisation thus enabling you to enjoy the experience as well as achieve your goal. Accommodation whilst on the trek will be in small ‘tea houses’, basic lodges which provide a bed and food for the night. Rooms are basic, normally just a bed with a pillow and blankets. A few have electric lights and all have a spacious communal dining room-lounge. Details of the itinerary are included here.