Everest Within Your Reach

Sherpa-led expeditions focused on safety and summit success.

Start Date: 08 Apr 26

End Date: 31 May 26

Group size: Booking open

Availability: Yes

Remarks: None

Our Mount Everest Expedition (South Col Route) is a 60-day fully guided journey to the highest point on Earth. This is the ultimate test of a climber’s endurance, skill, and willpower. We designed this expedition for serious, experienced mountaineers who dream of standing atop Everest with the confidence that they have the best support team in the world behind them. Below, we provide a candid overview of what to expect and how Club 8848 will maximize your chance of success while prioritizing your safety at every turn.

The Challenge and Our Approach: Climbing Everest is an immense challenge – even for the strongest athletes. Since the first ascent in 1953, countless climbers have attempted to replicate that feat. Many have succeeded, but many have also been turned back by harsh weather, extreme altitude, or personal limits. Tragically, some have even lost their lives to the mountain. We don’t mention this to scare you, but to underscore our philosophy: we treat Everest with respect and realism. At altitudes above 8,000m (the notorious “death zone”), the human body begins to break down due to lack of oxygen – even the fittest climbers can experience disorientation, loss of consciousness, or worse. This is why our entire expedition strategy centers on safety, acclimatization, and support.

When you join Club 8848’s Everest Expedition, you are immediately enveloped in a culture of safety and preparation. We start by reviewing your climbing résumé and ensuring you meet our client requirements (prior high-altitude experience, fitness benchmarks, etc.). We will not simply take anyone with a fee – every member of our team must be adequately prepared, for their sake and for the team’s safety. Once accepted, we provide extensive guidance on training and gear. Our experts will work with you for months leading up to the climb, advising on cardio and strength training, simulation hikes, and even controlled altitude training if available. We provide a comprehensive gear checklist tailored to the Himalayan environment, so you arrive with the right equipment tried-and-tested.

Expedition Leadership and Sherpa Team: Your Everest expedition will be led by one of our elite expedition leaders, each of whom has summited Everest multiple times. This leader will be with you from start to finish – unlike some operators, we do not hand you off to a third-party outfit nor keep our leader at Base Camp only. Your leader climbs with you all the way, making critical decisions on the mountain in real time. They are supported by our climbing Sherpa team, which is the pride of Club 8848. For this expedition, we maintain a high ratio of support: each climber is paired 1:1 with a personal high-altitude Sherpa guide, in addition to group Sherpas who handle load carrying and camp setup. This means when you are making your push through the Khumbu Icefall or ascending the Lhotse Face, you have a skilled Sherpa by your side to assist with foot placements, carry extra oxygen, and monitor your wellbeing. Many of our Sherpas have 5, 6, even 10+ Everest summits on their résumé. Their experience, combined with our lead guides, creates a support system that is second to none. We like to say: on our team, you’re never climbing alone. There’s always an expert eye on you, ready to help or intervene as needed.

The Itinerary: Your 60-Day Path to the Summit

An expedition of Mount Everest is a marathon, not a sprint. The typical duration is around two months, a period dedicated almost entirely to acclimatization. While itineraries vary slightly between Everest climbing companies, the core structure remains the same, focusing on the classic South Col route from Nepal.

Phase 1: Arrival and Trek to Base Camp (Approx. 14 Days)

Days 1-3: Kathmandu (1,400m): Arrive in Nepal. Final gear checks, team briefings, and obtaining necessary permits. You’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this climber’s hub.
Day 4: Fly to Lukla (2,860m) & Trek to Phakding (2,610m): An exhilarating flight to one of the world’s most dramatic airstrips, followed by the first leg of your trek into the Khumbu Valley.
Days 5-12: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m): This is a critical acclimatization period. You’ll pass through iconic locations like Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Gorak Shep, allowing your body to slowly adjust to the altitude.

Phase 2: Acclimatization at Base Camp and Rotations (Approx. 30 Days)

EBC Life: Everest Base Camp becomes your home. You’ll participate in a Puja ceremony for safe passage, practice ladder crossings for the Khumbu Icefall, and settle into a routine.
Rotation 1: Climb through the treacherous Khumbu Icefall to Camp I (6,065m) and potentially sleep at Camp II (6,500m) before returning to EBC.
Rotation 2: Push higher, climbing to Camp II and then touching Camp III (7,200m) on the Lhotse Face before descending back to EBC to rest and recover. These rotations are non-negotiable for building the red blood cells needed for the summit push.

Phase 3: The Summit Push (Approx. 7-10 Days)

Waiting for the Window: Your team will anxiously watch weather forecasts, waiting for a 3-5 day period of low winds and clear skies.
The Ascent:
- Day 1: EBC to Camp II
- Day 2: Camp II to Camp III
- Day 3: Camp III to Camp IV (The South Col, ~7,950m) – You are now in the “Death Zone.”
- Day 4: SUMMIT DAY (8,848.86m): A midnight start, climbing through the night. You’ll tackle the Balcony, the Hillary Step, and finally, stand on the top of the world. After a short time on the summit, the long descent to Camp IV begins.
The Descent: The climb is only halfway. A safe and swift descent to lower camps, and eventually back to EBC, is paramount.

Phase 4: Return to Civilization (Approx. 5-7 Days)

Trek or helicopter from Base Camp back to Lukla, and fly back to Kathmandu to celebrate your monumental achievement.

Includes:
1. Airport Pick Up Drop
2. Full Board Tea House Trek to Base Camp and Back to Lukla.
3. Full Board Camping for Base Camp and Camp II
4. 3 Hotel Nights in Kathmandu (Twin Sharing Basis – Including Breakfast)
5. Airfare – KTM – LUKLA – KTM (VIA Ramechhap – No Direct Flight)
6. Acclimatize On Lobuche East (6,119m.) Before Everest Climb.
7. Everest Permit Fee
8. Khumbu Icefall Maintenance Fee (SPCC)
9. Expedition Operator Association Fee (EOA)
10. Liaison Officer (L.O.) – All Expenses – Wage, Insurance, Food, Accommodation, Airfare
and Equipment cost.
11. Oxygen 4L 6 Bottle Per Member with Mask & Regulator. (Will be replaced if
damaged/Faulty)
12. Oxygen 4L 4 Bottle Per Climbing Sherpa with Mask & Regulator.
13. One Climbing Sherpa For Every Member.
14. Basecamp Services:
● TNF-VE-25 Tent for Every Member (Single)
● Dining,Kitchen, Communication, Storage, Shower and Toilet Tents, Thick Foam
Mattress, Pillow, Gas Heater, Solar Charging for Electronic Devices, All Kitchen
Equipment,Table, Chairs, Foods, Fuels, Porters, Cargo, Unseen Cost, Garbage,
Trash and Stool Management.
● Group Climbing Gears – Fix-line, Guide ropes, Snow pickets, Ice-cruse,
Carabiners, Rock pitons, Snow Shovels, Walkie Talkie and Spare Battery.
● Head Cook and Kitchen Boys
15. Camp I Services:
● Tent, Food, Fuel, Medical Oxygen, and Sherpa Support.
16. Camp II Services:
● TNF-VE-25 Tent For Member (Double Occupancy)
● Dining and Kitchen Tent
● All Kitchen Equipment, Food and Fuel, Chairs and Tables, Communication and
Storage Tent, Solar Charging for Electronic Devices, Medical Oxygen, Toilet Tent,
Cook and Kitchen Boys.
17. Camp III and Camp IV Services:
● Tents, Food, Fuel, Oxygen and Sherpa Support.

Excludes:
1. Nepal Visa Fees
2. International Air Tickets.
3. Insurance: Travel/Accidental/Medical/Emergency evacuation.
4. Alcoholic Beverages/Mineral Water, Telephone/Internet/ Laundry and all other
Personal expenses.
5. Extra Hotel Night and Meals in Kathmandu.
6. Summit Bonus for Climbing Sherpas.
7. Tips for Base Camp and Camp II staff.
8. Helicopter Per Person USD $800 (For Direct Flight to Lukla/Kathmandu – Both Ways).

Client Requirements: Preparing for the Ultimate Challenge

Embarking on a Mount Everest expedition is not a decision to be taken lightly. Everest climbing companies have stringent client requirements to ensure the safety and success of the entire team. These prerequisites typically encompass a combination of physical fitness, mountaineering experience, and mental preparedness. Meeting these requirements is paramount, as the extreme environment of Everest demands nothing less than peak performance and resilience.

Physical Fitness:

Exceptional physical fitness is non-negotiable for an Everest expedition. Climbers must possess a high level of cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina. This involves months, if not years, of dedicated training. Everest expedition companies often recommend a rigorous training regimen that includes:

•Cardiovascular Training: Activities like running, cycling, swimming, and hiking with a weighted pack to build aerobic capacity.

•Strength Training: Focusing on core strength, leg strength, and upper body strength to handle heavy loads and challenging terrain.

•Altitude Training: While not always feasible for everyone, some climbers engage in pre-acclimatization at home using altitude generators to prepare their bodies for low-oxygen environments [4].

•Endurance Training: Long hikes and multi-day treks to simulate the sustained effort required during the expedition.

It is worth remembering that the most difficult part is getting by in the “death zone” at 8,000 meters above sea level, where the body starts to rebel against the lack of oxygen. Even the strongest climbers may experience impaired judgment, strokes, heart attacks, or difficult-to-overcome altitude sickness [8].

Mountaineering Experience:

Prior high-altitude mountaineering experience is a critical requirement. Everest expedition companies typically look for climbers who have successfully ascended several 6,000-meter (20,000-foot) and at least one 7,000-meter (23,000-foot) or 8,000-meter (26,000-foot) peak. This experience demonstrates a climber’s ability to:

•Handle Extreme Cold & Altitude: Experience in harsh, cold environments and at significant altitudes.

•Technical Climbing Skills: Proficiency in using crampons, ice axes, fixed ropes, and other climbing equipment. This includes ascending and descending on fixed lines, rappelling, and crevasse rescue techniques.

•Self-Sufficiency: The ability to manage personal gear, set up tents, and maintain personal hygiene in challenging conditions.

•Decision-Making Under Pressure: The capacity to make sound judgments in high-stress, high-consequence situations.

Many Everest climbing companies offer preparatory climbs or training programs to help aspiring Everest climbers gain the necessary experience and skills. For instance, IMG suggests their

Classic Everest Climb program is perfect for climbers with previous experience on big mountains [1].

Mental Preparedness:

The psychological demands of an Everest expedition are as significant as the physical ones. Climbers must possess:

•Resilience & Perseverance: The ability to push through discomfort, fatigue, and setbacks.

•Patience: Expeditions involve long periods of waiting due to weather or acclimatization schedules.

•Teamwork & Adaptability: The willingness to work as part of a team and adapt to changing circumstances.

•Positive Attitude: A positive mindset can significantly impact the overall experience and success.

Everest expedition companies often conduct interviews or require detailed climbing resumes to assess a candidate’s suitability. It is essential to be honest about your experience and fitness levels, as misrepresentation can jeopardize your safety and the safety of the entire team. Asian Trekking emphasizes that while climbing Everest is a dream, climbers must understand the risk and have some experience [8].

Difficulty: The Ultimate Test of Endurance

Mount Everest is widely regarded as the ultimate mountaineering challenge, and its difficulty level is classified as extreme. The combination of extreme altitude, harsh weather conditions, technical climbing sections, and inherent risks makes an Everest summit climb a formidable undertaking. Understanding these difficulties is crucial for anyone considering an Everest expedition.

Extreme Altitude:

The most significant challenge on Everest is the extreme altitude. The summit of Everest is in the

“death zone” (above 8,000 meters or 26,000 feet), where the amount of oxygen in the air is insufficient to sustain human life for extended periods. This leads to a range of physiological challenges, including:

•Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): Mild symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Severe forms can lead to High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) and High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), both of which can be fatal if not treated promptly.

•Hypoxia: The lack of sufficient oxygen can impair judgment, coordination, and lead to extreme fatigue.

•Frostbite & Hypothermia: Extreme cold, especially at high altitudes, poses a significant risk of frostbite to extremities and hypothermia.

Acclimatization is key to mitigating these risks, but even with careful acclimatization, the body is under immense stress at these altitudes [8].

Harsh Weather Conditions:

Everest is notorious for its unpredictable and extreme weather. Climbers face:

•High Winds: Jet stream winds can reach hurricane force, making climbing impossible and extremely dangerous.

•Extreme Cold: Temperatures can plummet to -40°C (-40°F) or lower, especially at night and at higher altitudes.

•Blizzards & Snowfall: Sudden blizzards can reduce visibility to zero and create avalanche hazards.

Weather windows for summit pushes are often narrow and must be carefully monitored by Everest expedition companies using dedicated meteorologists [2].

Technical Climbing Sections:

While not technically extreme in terms of rock climbing difficulty, Everest presents several challenging sections that require technical mountaineering skills:

•Khumbu Icefall: A constantly moving glacier with massive séracs and deep crevasses, requiring the use of ladders and fixed ropes. It is one of the most dangerous sections of the climb due to its unpredictable nature [1].

•Lhotse Face: A steep, icy slope that climbers ascend using fixed ropes, often requiring front-pointing with crampons and the use of ice axes.

•Hillary Step (South Summit Route): Historically, a near-vertical rock face just below the summit, which often created bottlenecks. While its configuration changed after the 2015 earthquake, it remains a challenging section.

Inherent Risks:

Despite advancements in equipment and guiding, Mount Everest expeditions carry inherent risks, including:

•Avalanches & Icefall Collapse: The Khumbu Icefall and other sections are prone to these hazards.

•Crevasses: Hidden cracks in the glacier that can be deadly if fallen into.

•Falls: On steep, icy slopes or during technical sections.

•Altitude-Related Illnesses: As mentioned above, these can be life-threatening.

•Exposure: To extreme cold, wind, and sun.

Everest climbing companies implement rigorous safety protocols, including experienced guides, Sherpa support, fixed ropes, and medical teams, to minimize these risks. However, climbers must be aware of and accept the inherent dangers involved in such a high-altitude mountaineering expedition.

FAQ Section: Your Questions Answered

To provide a comprehensive understanding of Mount Everest expeditions, here are answers to some frequently asked questions. This section aims to address common concerns and provide clarity on various aspects of climbing the world’s highest peak.

Q1: How much does it cost to climb Mount Everest?

A1: The cost to summit Everest varies significantly depending on the Everest expedition company, the level of support, and inclusions. Generally, the Everest expedition cost can range from approximately from 50000 to 120,000 USD. This typically covers permit fees, Sherpa support, oxygen, food, accommodation, and logistics. It’s crucial to review the inclusions and exclusions of each package carefully.

Q2: What is the best time to climb Mount Everest?

A2: The primary climbing season for Mount Everest expeditions is in the spring, from late March to late May. This period offers the most stable weather conditions before the onset of the monsoon season. A shorter autumn season is also possible but less common due to colder temperatures and higher winds.

Q3: How long does an Everest expedition take?

A3: A typical Mount Everest expedition lasts between 50 to 70 days. This duration includes travel to and from Kathmandu, the trek to Base Camp, extensive acclimatization rotations, the summit push, and the return journey. The length is crucial for proper acclimatization and to account for weather windows.

Q4: What kind of experience do I need to climb Everest?

A4: Everest climbing companies require significant prior high-altitude mountaineering experience. This typically includes successful ascents of several 6,000-meter and at least one 7,000-meter or 8,000-meter peak. Climbers must also demonstrate excellent physical fitness, technical climbing skills, and mental resilience .

Q5: Is climbing Everest dangerous?

A5: Yes, climbing Everest is inherently dangerous due to extreme altitude, harsh weather, technical climbing sections, and objective hazards like avalanches and crevasses. Despite advancements in safety protocols and equipment, risks remain. Comprehensive insurance, experienced guides, and thorough preparation are essential to mitigate these risks.

Q6: What is the Khumbu Icefall?

A6: The Khumbu Icefall is a highly dynamic and dangerous section of the climbing route above Everest Base Camp. It is a constantly moving glacier with massive ice seracs and deep crevasses, requiring climbers to navigate using ladders and fixed ropes. It is managed by a team of

Sherpas known as the “Icefall Doctors” .

Q7: Do I need supplemental oxygen to climb Everest?

A7: While it is technically possible to climb Everest without supplemental oxygen, the vast majority of climbers, including professional mountaineers, use it. Supplemental oxygen significantly increases safety, comfort, and the chances of success by mitigating the effects of extreme altitude. Most Everest expedition companies include oxygen in their packages [4].

Q8: What kind of food is provided on an Everest expedition?

A8: At Base Camp, Everest expedition companies provide a wide variety of nutritious and palatable meals, often including fresh fruits, vegetables, and baked goods. High-altitude food, typically dehydrated or easy-to-prepare meals, is provided for higher camps. Special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated.

Q9: How important is acclimatization?

A9: Acclimatization is critically important for a safe and successful Everest summit climb. It involves a gradual process of exposing the body to increasing altitudes, allowing it to adapt to lower oxygen levels. Rushed acclimatization can lead to severe altitude sickness, which can be fatal. Everest expedition companies build extensive acclimatization rotations into their itineraries.

Q10: Can I climb Everest if I have no prior climbing experience?

A10: No, climbing Everest requires significant prior mountaineering experience. It is not a suitable objective for beginners. Reputable Everest climbing companies will not accept individuals without a proven track record of high-altitude climbing and technical skills.

Q11: What is the “death zone” on Everest?

A11: The “death zone” refers to altitudes above 8,000 meters (approximately 26,000 feet) on Mount Everest. At this altitude, the atmospheric pressure is so low that there is insufficient oxygen to sustain human life for extended periods. The body begins to deteriorate, and severe physiological effects can occur.

Q12: Are there any age restrictions for climbing Everest?

A12: While there are no official age restrictions from the Nepalese government, Everest expedition companies may have their own age guidelines, often preferring climbers who are mature and have sufficient experience and physical fitness. The youngest and oldest climbers to summit Everest have been in their teens and late 80s, respectively, but these are exceptional cases.

Q13: What happens if there’s an emergency on the mountain?

A13: Reputable Everest expedition companies have robust emergency response plans, including experienced medical staff at Base Camp, satellite communication systems, and arrangements for helicopter rescue. Comprehensive insurance covering emergency evacuation is mandatory for all climbers.

Q14: How do I choose the best Everest expedition company?

A14: When choosing an Everest expedition company, consider their safety record, experience, guide-to-client ratio, inclusions, logistical support, and ethical practices. It’s advisable to research multiple companies, read testimonials, and communicate directly with them to ensure they align with your expectations and priorities.

Q15: What is the role of Sherpas on an Everest expedition?

A15: Sherpas play an indispensable role in Mount Everest expeditions. They are highly skilled mountaineers, often with multiple Everest summits, who provide crucial support in route fixing, carrying loads to higher camps, setting up tents, cooking, and guiding climbers. Their knowledge of the mountain and their resilience are vital for the success and safety of the expedition.

Q16: Can I visit Everest Base Camp without climbing the mountain?

A16: Yes, the Everest Base Camp Trek is a popular and achievable adventure for many. It allows individuals to experience the beauty of the Khumbu Valley and witness Everest Base Camp without undertaking the technical climb to the summit. Many Everest climbing tours focus solely on the trek to EBC.

Q17: What are the environmental concerns on Everest?

A17: Mount Everest faces significant environmental challenges, including waste accumulation, pollution, and the impact of climate change on glaciers. Reputable Everest expedition companies and organizations are actively involved in clean-up efforts and promoting responsible climbing practices to minimize environmental impact.

Q18: What is the difference between the North and South routes?

A18: The South Col route (from Nepal) is the more commonly used and historically significant route, while the North Col route (from Tibet) is also a viable option. Each route has its unique challenges and characteristics. The choice of route often depends on political access, personal preference, and the expertise of the Everest expedition company.

Q19: How do I train for an Everest expedition?

A19: Training for an Everest expedition requires a multi-faceted approach focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength, and high-altitude acclimatization. This includes rigorous physical training, often involving long hikes with weighted packs, and potentially pre-acclimatization techniques. Consulting with experienced trainers or Everest expedition companies for a personalized training plan is highly recommended.

Why Us

Trusted Sherpa-led expeditions focused on safety, success, and honest support every step of your Everest journey.

What You Get

Everything you need for a safe, successful, and expertly guided climb to the summit of Mount Everest.