Do you have the necessary experience in the mountains but would you like to climb above 6,000 meters? Then Island Peak, the official name of this mountain is Imja Tse, is the ideal place. Although the climb is technically not very difficult, you need to have enough experience. It also requires good preparation.
About Island Peak
Island Peak is a mountain of 6,189 meters altitude, located in the Sagarmatha National Park in the eastern part of the Himalayas. If you want to climb Island Peak, then the adventure almost always starts with a trek to Everest Basecamp. This way, you can get used to the altitude. No superfluous luxury because the conditions during the climb to the summit of nearby Island Peak are pretty tough.
The walk to the foot of Island Peak is moderately difficult but doable. The climb of Island Peak is a lot harder and requires a good condition. An experienced guide and the porters ensure that this part of the trek is also doable. Once you have reached the summit of Island Peak, you will be rewarded with a fabulous view of Everest and Lhotse.
The trip to Nepal
If you fly to Nepal your arrival will be in the capital Kathmandu. Always read before you leave the passenger rights delays or even worse cancellations still occur regularly. For this trip a short but very adventurous domestic flight follows from Kathmandu to Lukla, from where the trek to Everest Base Camp begins.
Good Equipment
The hike to Island Peak requires a good preparation. You need to be well trained and in good shape. You also need to be well equipped. This starts with good trekking and climbing shoes. The latter must be suitable for the high mountains.
Besides good shoes, you need to be well prepared for the cold. In addition to wind and waterproof climbing gear, you must also provide enough warm clothing, thermal underwear, a hat, good mittens and gloves.
For the nights you will need an insulating mat and a good sleeping bag, suitable for temperatures down to -20 degrees Celsius.
You store your belongings in a 60 litre backpack. During the trek you do not have to carry it yourself, the porters do that for you and your fellow trekkers. For yourself you take a small day backpack for the things you need to have at hand.
Of course you can’t do without good climbing gear such as trekking poles, crampons, pickel ice screws, carabiners, prusik ropes, a climbing harness, a climbing clamp and abseil poles. Don’t forget good ski or glacier goggles and a headlamp.