Highlights
Staying in teahouses and guesthouses run by local families
Expert guides ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the trek
Crossing suspension bridges lined with prayer flags
Standing among the world's highest peaks
Trekking through picturesque villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche
Ascending Island Peak with fixed ropes and glacier travel
Incredible views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Ama Dablam
Experiencing the local culture and cuisine of Nepal
The Complete Guide to Island Peak Climbing
Island Peak, standing at an altitude of 6,160 meters (20,210 feet), is one of Nepal's most popular trekking peaks. Located in the Khumbu region, it offers climbers an exhilarating experience combined with stunning views of the Himalayas.
Island Peak was named by Eric Shipton's team in 1951, appearing as an island in a sea of ice when viewed from Dingboche. The peak was later renamed Imja Tse in 1983, but Island Peak remains the popular choice.
First summited by a Swiss team in 1956 as a training exercise for Everest and Lhotse, Island Peak continues to attract climbers looking for a challenging but rewarding adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Pick up at the airport and transfer to Hotel
Upon arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 - Guided tour around Kathmandu valley. Prepare for the trek
Explore the cultural heritage sites of Kathmandu Valley, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. Use this day to finalize your trek preparations and acquire any last-minute gear.
Day 3 - Fly to Lukla (2,800m) and trek to Phakding (2,652m)
Take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Begin your trek to Phakding, passing through picturesque villages and enjoying views of the surrounding mountains. The trek today is relatively short to allow for acclimatization.
Day 4 - Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Continue your trek to Namche Bazaar, the main trading hub of the Khumbu region. The trail involves a steep ascent with magnificent views of the Everest region. Spend the night in Namche Bazaar, where you can explore local shops and cafes.
Day 5 - Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar
Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude. Take a short hike to the Everest View Hotel for stunning views of Mount Everest and other peaks. Explore the local area and prepare for the trek ahead.
Day 6 - Trek to Tengboche (3,870m)
Trek through lush forests and cross suspension bridges to reach Tengboche. Visit the famous Tengboche Monastery and enjoy panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Day 7 - Trek to Pheriche (4,200m)
Descend through beautiful landscapes to the village of Pheriche. This day involves gradual ascents and descents, allowing you to adjust to the increasing altitude.
Day 8 - Trek to Lobuche (4,930m)
Continue your trek to Lobuche, passing through the memorials dedicated to climbers who have lost their lives in the mountains. The landscape becomes more rugged as you approach Lobuche.
Day 9 - Trek to Gorakshep (5,170m), hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364m) in the afternoon and back to Gorakshep
Trek to Gorakshep, the last stop before Everest Base Camp. After lunch, hike to Everest Base Camp for a close-up view of the world's highest peak and then return to Gorakshep for the night.
Day 10 - Ascend to Kalapathar (5,545m) and trek back to Lobuche
Early morning ascent to Kalapathar for breathtaking sunrise views over Mount Everest and surrounding peaks. Return to Gorakshep for breakfast and then trek back to Lobuche.
Day 11 - Trek to Chhukung (4,730m) after Crossing Khongma La (5,535m)
Cross the challenging Khongma La Pass and descend to Chhukung. This is a strenuous day with high-altitude trekking, but the views of the Himalayas are spectacular.
Day 12 - Trek to Island Peak Base camp (5,200m)
Make your way to Island Peak Base Camp. Set up camp and prepare for the upcoming summit attempt. Enjoy the beautiful alpine scenery around you.
Day 13 - Summit Island Peak (6,160m) and back to Base Camp
Early morning ascent to the summit of Island Peak. Enjoy stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu before descending back to Base Camp.
Day 14 - Return to Pangboche (3,985m)
Descend from Island Peak Base Camp to Pangboche. Enjoy a more leisurely trek and take in the beautiful landscapes of the Khumbu region.
Day 15 - Return to Namche Bazaar
Trek back to Namche Bazaar, retracing your steps through the picturesque villages and enjoying the comforts of the vibrant town.
Day 16 - Return to Lukla (2,800m)
Complete your trek by returning to Lukla. Celebrate the successful completion of your climb and prepare for your flight back to Kathmandu.
Day 17 - Fly back to Kathmandu
Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy some free time in the city for relaxation and exploration.
Day 18 - Leisure in Kathmandu
Spend a day at leisure in Kathmandu. Explore more of the city, shop for souvenirs, or relax after your trekking adventure.
Day 19 - Departure from Nepal to destination country
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Bid farewell to Nepal and take with you unforgettable memories of your Island Peak climbing adventure.
TRIP ENDS HERE!
Map
What's Included
All land transport in private vehicles including airport transfers, Support Vehicle.
All meals as per itinerary.
Professional and experienced guides with relevant qualifications
All permits and entry fees.
Porters for carrying your bags .
Comfortable accommodation during the adventure
Comprehensive support for all aspects of the trip
A detailed adventure information pack
Knowledgeable advisors to assist with trip planning
Regular updates about the adventure itinerary
Emphasis on safety and risk management
What's Not Included
Fees for visas to enter or exit the country
Travel & Medical insurance (compulsory and must include helicopter evacuation)
Medical costs that may be incurred during the trip
Lodging expenses before and after the adventure
Transportation to the adventure starting point
Rental fees for equipment needed during the adventure
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks consumed during the trip
Meals that are not part of the planned itinerary
Personal purchases made during the adventure
Optional additional activities that can be arranged for an extra cost.
Mandatory Documents
Identification document
Booking Receipt, if Booked Online (PDF will work)
Cancellation Policy
More than 30-days prior to departure - 50% refund.
In Between 15-30-days prior to departure - 25% refund.
Less than 15-days prior to departure - No Refund.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our peak climbing expeditions are led by experienced and certified mountaineering guides. These guides are local experts with extensive knowledge of the region and the mountains. They are trained in high-altitude climbing, first aid, and safety protocols, ensuring that your climb is both safe and enjoyable.
Peak climbing requires a good level of physical fitness and stamina. We recommend that participants engage in regular cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and hiking practice prior to the expedition. While prior climbing experience is beneficial, it is not always necessary depending on the peak you choose. Our team will guide you on the required preparation for your specific climb.
You will need to bring personal clothing suitable for high-altitude environments, such as thermal layers, a down jacket, and waterproof gear. We provide technical climbing equipment, including harnesses, ropes, ice axes, crampons, helmets, and carabiners. A detailed gear list will be provided upon booking to ensure you have everything needed for a safe and successful climb.
Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and safety is our top priority. If the weather is not suitable for climbing, your guide will make the decision to delay the climb or adjust the itinerary. We always plan for extra days in our schedule to accommodate such delays, and we will do our best to ensure you have the opportunity to summit safely.
During the expedition, you will be provided with nutritious meals that cater to the high-energy demands of climbing. Accommodations will vary depending on the route and altitude, ranging from tea houses in villages to tents at higher altitudes. We ensure that all accommodations are safe and comfortable, allowing you to rest and recharge for the climb.
Altitude sickness is a common concern during peak climbing. Our guides are trained to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness and will monitor your health closely. If you experience symptoms, your guide will take appropriate action, which may include adjusting the pace, resting, or descending to a lower altitude. It is essential to listen to your body and communicate any discomfort to your guide.