Island Peak Expedition
Summit one of Nepal's most iconic peaks and experience the thrill of Himalayan mountaineering in the heart of the Everest region.
Standing at 6,189 metres, Island Peak (Imja Tse) is one of Nepal's most popular and rewarding peaks. Located deep within the Everest region, it offers aspiring mountaineers the opportunity to experience a genuine Himalayan summit while surrounded by some of the highest mountains on Earth.
Originally named "Island Peak" by members of the 1953 Everest Expedition, the mountain rises dramatically from the surrounding valleys, appearing like an island in a sea of ice. Today it is regarded as one of the finest introductory mountaineering objectives in the Himalayas, combining spectacular trekking, technical climbing, and unforgettable mountain scenery.
The expedition follows the classic Everest region trekking route through traditional Sherpa villages before progressing into the high mountains for the summit attempt, creating the perfect blend of trekking adventure and mountaineering challenge.
TRIP FACTS
Activity Type:
Mountain Climb
Location:
Nepal (see location map here)
Difficulty:
Extreme
Max Altitude:
6,160m
Food Choices:
Kosher, Veggie, Vegan, Nut Free, Lactose Free, Halal
Duration:
19 days
Accommodation:
Hotel & Tea Houses
Fitness Level:
Above Average
Grading:
D5 (see grading guide here)
Best Time to Climb:
Mar - May & Sep - Dec
WHY CHOOSE ISLAND PEAK
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Summit one of Nepal's most famous peaks
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Experience real Himalayan mountaineering
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Spectacular Everest region scenery
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Learn technical climbing skills
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Outstanding views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, and Makalu
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Perfect progression from high-altitude trekking
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Authentic Sherpa culture and mountain villages
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An unforgettable 6,000m summit experience
WHAT YOU WILL SEE & EXPERIENCE
The journey begins with the famous flight into Lukla before following the trails of the Khumbu Valley through traditional Sherpa settlements, colourful monasteries, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
As you trek deeper into the Everest region, towering peaks dominate the skyline. Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu, and Everest provide a dramatic backdrop as you gradually acclimatise and make your way towards Island Peak.
The climb itself is a true mountaineering experience. Climbers traverse glaciers, use crampons and fixed ropes, and negotiate steep snow and ice sections before reaching the summit ridge. The final ascent is both physically demanding and immensely rewarding.
From the summit, you'll be rewarded with extraordinary views across the Everest region, including close-up panoramas of some of the highest and most beautiful mountains in the Himalayas.
ITINERARY
Arrive Kathmandu 1,400m
What's included?
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Airport transfers pick-up and drop-off
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2 nights Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (one before and one after hike)
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Trail accommodation in local Tea Houses
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All accommodation based on two sharing throughout (single accommodation extra)
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Airfare both ways Kathmandu - Lukla - Kathmandu
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Sherpa guides
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Everest National Park entry permits
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Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS card) permit
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Meals each day: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Transportations, accommodation, wages, food, insurance, equipment for all staff
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All necessary paper works and entry permits
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Porters/Yaks to carry luggage during the trek
What's excluded?
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International flights
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Additional or replacement transport/flights not mentioned in the included items
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Fuel or flight surcharges
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Inland flight baggage surcharges
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Insurance
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Local Tips
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Additional food & drink
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Personal Items
Gear to Rent
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Ice axe
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Crampons
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Harness
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Tape slings (2)
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Screwgate carabiners
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Descender/Abseil device
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Plastic Mountaineering Boots
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Ascender
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Helmet (optional)
FLYING INTO THE HIMALAYA REGION
Flying from Kathmandu to the Himalayas is not always an easy thing to do. Dangers with bad weather are common, therefore we recommend clients familiarise themselves with the general aviation procedures followed in the region.
Please follow the link below to read more about airline and helicopters in the Everest & Annapurna Regions and how we deal with the challenges of flights affected by bad weather conditions.
