Island Peak Expedition with Gokyo trek
Great First Time Himalayan Climb With A Visit To Everest Base Camp
This expedition in Nepal is a great first Himalayan climbing experience that includes glacier travel, moderate snow and ice climbing while ascending a 20,000+ foot / 6000+ meter mountain. On the way to Island Peak you’ll trek to Gokyo and over Cho La pass before reaching Everest Basecamp, which includes a the walk-up ascent of Gokyo Ri, providing you with face-to-face views of Cho Oyu and other stunning peaks such as Cholatse and all the way over to Makalu. And you’ll cap off your acclimatization with a walk up Kala Pattar before trekking to Island Peak and your main objective.
Three ascents on this expedition to Gokyo Ri (17,580 ft/5360 m), Kala Pattar (18,450 ft/5624 m), & Island Peak (20,305 ft/6189 m)
Our guides show you a country of friendly people, magnificent scenery, and a variety of cultural traditions. This blend of outdoor adventure, a visit to Everest Base Camp, three high points, and cultural exploration is a great way to experience the Himalayan Mountains — the world’s most impressive mountain range — and is sure to create lasting memories and provide you with a satisfying sense of accomplishment. And the Everest Base Camp trek is alone for many the trip of the lifetime, let alone breaking the 20,00-foot barrier!
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Trip Perks
Breaking the 20,000-foot / 6,000-meter barrier for one, if you’ve not done that yet! From the top of Island Peak you can almost touch the 10,000-foot / 3,000-meter south face of Lhotse, one of the world’s biggest walls. The views of the surrounding peaks and Makalu, the 5th highest peak in the world, are just breathtaking. Combined with all the fascinating cultural elements of the trip and a visit to Everest Base Camp and you have a perfect trip to the Himalaya without all the time and money spent on a bigger expedition in Nepal.
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Description
After arriving, you will have a day to explore the exotic city of Kathmandu before flying into the remote mountain town of Lukla where you begin your trek into the Khumbu region of the Himalayas. Situated at an elevation of 9,350 feet / 2850 meters, the views of the Himalayan Mountains from Lukla on a clear day are breathtaking. Once there, we follow an ancient route that journeys through tiny villages, across high mountain passes, and through remote valleys. Along the way, we visit Buddhist monasteries and begin to appreciate the unique mountain culture found in the Himalayan foothills. The views grow more spectacular as we venture up the Dudh Kosi River to Namche Bazaar — the gateway to the Khumbu region at 11,300 feet / 3444 meters. We spend a night next to the Thyangboche monastery (12,887 ft / 3928 m), where you are rewarded with spectacular views of Ama Dablam, Mount Everest, and Lhotse.A rewarding hike leads to the summit of 18,450-foot / 5624-meter Kala Pattar and provides a truly spectacular panorama of Sagarmatha (Mount Everest), the Mother Goddess of the World (29,028 ft / 88448 m), and Lhotse (27,560 ft / 8400 m). We then spend several nights at Everest base camp with the Everest climbing expeditions from around the world.
Our journey then continues to Imja Tse, or Island Peak, which tops out at 20,305 feet / 6189 meters and rewards us with magnificent views of Ama Dablam, South Face of Lhotse and Everest. From the summit of Island Peak there are stunning views of Lhotse and Makalu, the 4th and 5th highest mountains in the world, respectively. The return trek continues to delight adventurous souls with more spectacular mountain views, lush forested valleys, and opportunities to learn about the Nepalese religion and culture.
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Video
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Price
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Island Peak
$6,900 – 28 Days / Includes travel time
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Single Supplement (I want my own room) – $675
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Price Includes
- 1:1 client to guide ratio with Sherpa climbing guide
- Climbing permit fees
- Domestic airfare to/from Kathmandu to Lukla
- Four scheduled hotel nights in Kathmandu at the Yak-n-Yeti (double occupancy)
- Scheduled restaurant meals in Kathmandu
- All food and lodging during the trek and climb
- All team climbing gear, tents and cooking gear
- All expedition staff including Sherpa support, base camp personnel, porters and pack animals
- Airport transfers
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Price does not Include
- International airfare
- Nepal entry visa and airport fees
- Personal climbing gear and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, tea house showers, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Meals, Day 3
- Lunch Day 4, 30
- Dinner, Day 23, 24
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Guide/Sherpa/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
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Island Peak 2024
- Apr 6, 2024 — May 1, 2024
- Apr 27, 2024 — May 22, 2024
- Oct 12, 2024 — Nov 6, 2024
Custom Dates Available — Contact Us
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
The total number of days for your trip includes all travel to and from your destination, with some exceptions. Dates listed on the website start with your departure date from the US and include the day you arrive home.
For this trip you will need to arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal on Day 3 of the itinerary. You will cross the date line in mid-flight to Asia, thus losing a day. If you are traveling from outside the US. your itinerary may require less time to reach Kathmandu, so all that is required is that you arrive on Day 3 of the itinerary, where Mountain Madness services begin. If you arrive early, we can assist with extra hotel arrangements and activities. Otherwise, you can arrive at any time on Day 3. You will be met at the airport by a Mountain Madness representative and transferred to your hotel.
Island Peak Day by Day
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Day 1-2
Travel
Travel to Nepal takes several days coming from the US. In order to provide you with the exact number of days needed for this excursion, we have included travel time in the itinerary. You will depart from the US on Day 1 and, by crossing the international date line, arrive in Kathmandu on Day 3, where Mountain Madness services begin. If you are travelling from somewhere other than the U.S., travel time may vary, however Mountain Madness services still begin on Day 3.
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Day 3
Kathmandu
Elevation: 4,383 ft / 1335 m
Travel from your home port to Kathmandu. All flights departing the US cross the date line and consequently a day is lost. You arrive in Kathmandu, where a Mountain Madness guide meets you. You then check into a classic four-star hotel located in the popular Thamel district. Your hotel is conveniently located near great food, fabulous shopping, and Durbar Square which has numerous temples and markets.
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Day 4
Kathmandu
Elevation: 4,383 ft / 1335 m
While we wrap up last minute paperwork with the Nepali government, you have a casual day for shopping, visiting the palaces, Durbar Square, Hindu temples and shrines, and Buddhist stupas — or you can choose to just relax at the hotel. A favorite destination is the Buddhist Monkey Temple, situated on a small hill that offers panoramic views of the city. Or, join the thousands of Hindus who venture to the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most famous Hindu temples in Nepal and the most famous Shiva temple in Asia.
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Day 5
Phakding
Elevation: 8,700 ft / 2652 m
We fly on a twin-engine Otter to the Himalayan foothills where we begin our trek into the Khumbu region. The views from the plane are amazing, providing dramatic views of terraced hills and the distant Himalayan giants. After landing in the village of Lukla, we meet the rest of our staff and porters and trek for about two and a half hours to Phakding.
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Day 6
Namche Bazaar
Elevation: 11,300 ft / 3444 m
We continue trekking along the banks of the Dudh Kosi, crossing this majestic river many times on exciting suspension bridges laden with prayer flags. After entering Sagarmatha National Park, the trail climbs steeply with breathtaking views to Namche Bazaar, the gateway to the Khumbu region.
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Day 7
Namche Bazaar
Elevation: 11,300 ft / 3444 m
Today is a rest and acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar. Namche is a colorful village with many wonderful and interesting shops and vendors, fabulous food, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. An early hike above town, before the clouds move in, rewards climbers with a spectacular Himalayan sunrise and views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse (the 4th highest peak in the world), and the beautiful Ama Dablam. On the way down, we can visit the Sherpa Museum that houses an exhibit on traditional Sherpa lifestyle and a fabulous photography display by a local Nepalese naturalist. One room highlights the Sherpa traditions and in another, Sherpa high altitude climbers are presented.
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Day 8
Mong La
Elevation: 12,870 ft / 3922 m
From Namche, we have a choice of routes. We can either countour around to Kyangjuma on a lovely wide, undulating trail, with fantastic views of Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Everest; or we can ascend steeply to the airstrip at Shyangboche and then to a lunch spot in Khumjung, the largest village in the region.
Towering above Khumjung village is the sacred rocky peak of Khumbilya (5761m), the home of the guardian goddess of the region, often depicted in religious paintings, or Thankas, as a white-faced figure on a white horse. The trail contours around Khumbilya’s lower slopes, passing through beautiful birch forest and on to treeless, grassy slopes to a stupa on top of a rocky ridge at Mong La (3992m) where we spend the night. Once again the views of the mountains, especially of Thamserku are magnificent. Phortse can be seen across the valley, a picturesque village set in a patchwork of stone-walled fields.
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Day 9
Dole
Elevation: 13,382 ft / 4080 m
After breakfast we descend on a series of switchback trails to the Dudh Kosi River, 300 metres below, at Phortse Bridge. About an hour’s walk from Phortse Bridge, we gain our first views of the mammoth Cho Oyo (8201m) at the head of the valley. We are now trekking above the tree line and we pass some imposing waterfalls enroute to the Yak-herding settlements of Tongba (4015m) and Gyele (4050m). From here it is a short distance to Dole (4084m) where we spend the night. After lunch we explore the upper Dole valley returning via a high ridge above the lodge to enjoy fantastic views of Cho-Oyo and Gyachung Kang (7922m) to the north, and Tawoche (6542m) and Cholatse (6501m) across the valley to the east.
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Day 10
Machermo
Elevation: 14,645 ft / 4465 m
Today we have another short day, starting with a climb out of the small Dole valley before ascending more gradually up the Dudh Kosi valley, high above the river. After two hours, we arrive at Luza (4360m), and after a further hour’s walk we arrive at our lodge at Machhermo (4465m) where we spend the night. After lunch there is the option of taking an excursion across rocky moraines to the base of Kyajo Ri (6168m) and Machhermo peak (6073m).
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Day 11
Gokyo
Elevation: 15,580 ft / 4750 m
A short, steep climb leads out of the Machhermo valley onto the steep grassy slopes of the Dudh Kosi valley. Keep an eye open for the colorful Tibetan Snow Cocks often found in this area. The valley widens as we pass through Pangka (4490m) and arrive onto the jumbled, terminal moraines of the Ngozumpa Glacier, the largest in Nepal and the source of the Dudh Kosi. Climbing steeply over a rocky trail we keep to the western side of the glacier and come to a small lake at the head of a wide valley. We soon reach a larger lake at Longponga (4690m) before following the lateral moraine to the third lake at Gokyo (4750m). Gokyo consists of a number of stone dwellings surrounded by stone-walled yak pastures.
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Day 15
Gorak Shep
Elevation: 17,000 ft / 5182 m
After an early morning start, we ascend Kala Pattar (18,450 feet) and enjoy famous views of the Himalayas, without having to climb Everest! That evening we camp beneath Kala Pattar at Gorak Shep.
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Day 12
Gokyo/Goky Ri
Gokyo Ri Elevation: 17,580 ft / 5360 m
We rise early for our ascent of Gokyo Ri (5360m), a straightforward but steep, tiring, two hour climb. Our reward is one of the best panoramas in the Khumbu. From the rocky summit, four 8000 meter peaks can be seen — Everest (8848m), Cho-Oyo (8201m), Lhotse (8511m), and Makalu (8481m). Countless other towering snow-peaks and rock spires fill the horizon, including Gyachung Kang (7922m),and to the east of Cho-Oyo, Cholatse (6501m), Tawoche (6542m) and Kangchung (6103m). In addition to this, there’s a bird’s-eye view of Gokyo lakes and the huge creaking Ngozumpa Glacier snaking its way along the valley far below. Overnight at Gokyo.
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Day 16
Everest Base Camp
Elevation: 17,575 feet / 5357 meters
In the event of bad weather, we have the opportunity for a second chance to climb Kala Pattar. Today we also continue our trek to Everest base camp, located at the foot of the Khumbu icefall. We’ll spend the night and following morning at Everest/Lhotse base camp, giving you a chance to meet the climbers and thoroughly explore the area. We trek to Lobuche for the night.
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Day 13
Dragnag
Elevation: 15,383 ft /4690 m
Today’s walk involves a descent down the valley back to the second lake, and from here we branch off the main track and ascend the lateral moraines following the small trail across the Ngozumpa Glacier. The walking is a series of ups and downs over glacial scree to get to the other side. We then reach the yak herders huts and tea houses of Dragnag (4690m). The afternoon is free to relax, or explore the area.
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Day 17
Pheriche
Elevation: 13,950 ft / 4254 m
We head down the glacier and reenter the lush and beautiful valleys surrounded by spectacular snow-capped peaks. Upon reaching the village of Pheriche, we visit the Himalayan Rescue Association Trekkers’ Aid Post.
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Day 14
Dzongla
Elevation: 15,908 ft / 4850 m
It is essential to get up early for our crossing of the Cho La (17,777ft/5420m). We follow the left hand side of the Nyimagawa Valley where a short descent leads to an area adjacent to a small stream. From here we scramble over a small boulder field before making the steep ascent up the rocky western aspect of the pass. There are a number of cairns lining the route to the snowfield and while the trail is well defined, it does involve a little scrambling. We may need to rope up for the pass crossing. Once on the snowfield the angle eases off and we soon reach the top of the pass where the views are spectacular, and include Baruntse (7220m), Ama Dablam, and a sea of lesser peaks. We descend the initial snow slopes which are replaced by a section covered in rocks and boulders. This leads to the valley floor and the small settlement at Dzongla where we spend the night. Today will be a long and tiring walk but the fantastic mountain views make the effort worthwhile.
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Day 18
Chukkung
Elevation: 15,000 ft / 4572 m
Today we hike to 18,231’ Chukkung Ri, a beautiful hike with a stunning location below the Lhotse/Nuptse Wall. This is the largest rock wall in the Himalayas. From here we get great views of Ama Dablam, Island Peak and Makalu.
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Day 19
Island Peak Base Camp
Elevation: 15,520 ft / 4730 m
After we enjoy breakfast we will continue to Island Peak base camp at 15,520 feet and prepare for moving to high camp.
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Day 20-21
Island Peak High Camp
Elevation: 17,323 ft / 5280 m
Today we take a 2 – 3 hour hike to high camp. We ascend grass and scree slopes to where we find a tent platform at 17,323 feet / 5280 meters. After establishing camp, we relax while taking in the magnificent amphitheater of mountains. The following day can be used to rest or move up to high camp.
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Day 22
Summit Island Peak (Imja Tse)
Elevation: 20,305 ft / 6189 m
Using an early morning start, we continue up a rocky gully before traversing to the right. We gain elevation up the rocky ridge before coming to the base of the glacier. Here we rope up and continue up the glacier until the South Ridge is reached. We follow this superb and classic ridge to the summit where outstanding views of Lhotse (27,890 feet), Makalu (27,805 feet), Ama Dablam (22,493 feet) and Baruntse (25,328 feet) are revealed. We then continue down to base camp for the evening or Chukung.
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Day 23
Namche Bazaar
Elevation: 11,300 ft / 3444 m
The downhill trek along the river allows for breathtaking photos of Ama Dablam that towers ominously above us, and the Southwest Ridge comes into clear view. We then descend to Namche. If we are lucky, it will be market time in Namche. Regardless, there is always fabulous food to be found, including real espresso, yak steaks and chocolate cake with frosting! This market is where lowland porters bearing supplies meet the highland Sherpas and Tibetan people who have journeyed over high passes from many miles away to trade food and supplies for their home or village.
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Day 24
Lukla
Elevation: 9,000 ft / 2743 m
Our last day on the trail, we hike from Namche to Lukla, crossing eleven suspension bridges and reentering the fertile valleys of the lower Dudh Kosi. We overnight in Lukla.
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Day 25
Kathmandu
Elevation: 4,383 ft / 1336 m
The scenic morning flight back to Kathmandu gives us one last chance to say farewell to the mountains.
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Day 26
Kathmandu
Elevation: 4,383 ft / 1336 m
The morning is open and provides a chance to get out early and watch the people of Kathmandu rise in prayer at Pashupatinath along the banks of the holy river Bagmati with burning ghats similar to the Ganges in India. You may wish to visit the Buddhist temple of Swayambhunath or explore the temples in the city of Patan just south of Kathmandu. Overnight in Kathmandu.
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Day 27-28
Fly Home
Depart Kathmandu and arrive home.
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
Equipment for Island Peak Expedition with Gokyo trek
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Carrying Gear
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Summit pack (40-50L)
Lightweight as possible with a volume between 2,500-3,500 cubic inches (40-50 liters) serves most people’s needs well
Examples:
Osprey Mutant 38, Black Diamond Speed 40
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Pack cover
Waterproof cover
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Large duffel bag (100L capacity)
Your mountain gear will be kept in it and the entire duffel will go into the group mountain bag that will be carried by the porters. Limit loads to items on the equipment list. Your large duffel cannot exceed 20 kgs (44lbs) Approximate size: 28”x16”x16” No wheels or hard sides, please
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (0F)
Zero-degree F (Minus eighteen-degree C) sleeping bag and stuff sack. Night-time temperatures can be as low as 0°F (-18°C) so bring a warm enough bag
Examples:
Marmot Never Summer, Feathered Friends Snow Bunting
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Climbing Gear
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Alpine climbing harness
Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing
Examples:
Black Diamond Couloir, Petzl Altitude, Petzl Hirundos
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Locking carabiners (2)
Two large, pear-shaped carabiners are best
Examples:
Black Diamond Rock Lock, Petzl William, Petzl Attache
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Belay device (plaquette)
Tube style
Examples:
Black Diamond ATC Guide, Petzl Reverso
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Ascender (single)
One full-sized ascender with handle for fixed lines (left handed for right handed climbers, or vice-versa)
Examples:
Petzl Ascension
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Mountaineering ice axe
under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”-6’2” use 60 or 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm
Examples:
Black Diamond Raven, Petzl Glacier
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Crampons w/ anti-balling plate
Steel 12-pont. Must be fit to climbing boots prior to trip, new-matic/hybrid type
Examples:
Black Diamond Sabretooth, Petzl Vasak
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Climbing helmet
Lightweight
Examples:
Black Diamond Half Dome, Petzl Elios
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30’ of perlon accessory cord (6mm)
30 feet of 6mm cord
Examples:
Sterling
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond Trail Back Pole
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Sunglasses or Glacier glasses (w/hard case)
Essential eye protection whether in the tropics, at high altitudes or by the water. Sun glare off the snow can be intense so polarized 100% UVA/UVB glasses work best. Consider bringing a spare pair
Examples:
Julbo
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Hands
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Fleece gloves
Lightweight gloves to use while trekking and hanging around camp
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Expedition gloves
Insulated, water resistant shell with leather palms
Examples:
Black Diamond Guide
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Expedition mitts
One pair Gore-Tex or equivalent, with textured palms and taped seams. Synthetic or down filled. Warm, heavy duty for cold temperatures
Examples:
Outdoor Research Altimitt
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Feet
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Thin socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Gaiters
One pair of gaiters made of breathable material; keeps dirt and snow out of boots. Make sure they fit over your boots
Examples:
Outdoor Research Verglas or Crocodiles
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Plastic mountaineering boots
Depending on your future mountaineering endeavors, a boot such as the La Sportiva Spantik is a good investment for those who are pursuing other high-altitude climbs (such as Aconcagua or Denali), whereas the Koflach Degre would be the choice for those looking for a warm boot in moderate conditions. If you are looking at hybrid leather/plastic boots, make sure it is rated for 6,000-meter peak climbs or winter mountaineering
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Hiking boots
One pair medium-weight hiking/backpacking boots, waterproof, large enough to be comfortable with one thin and one thick sock
Examples:
Salomon Quest 4D
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Tennis shoes or sandals
Lightweight to wear in camp after a long day of hiking
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
Examples:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
Examples:
Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is ideal.
Examples:
Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody
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Sun hoody
This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun
Examples:
Outdoor Research
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Bathing suit (optional)
lightweight and packable
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Long base layer
Two pairs light or mediumweight
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
Examples:
Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water Bottles/Water System (Trekking)
Two one-liter, wide-mouthed plastic bottles. If you use a collapsible water bottle or hydration system you are welcome to bring it along for drinking water. However, bring at least one hard plastic bottle.
Examples:
Nalgene
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Umbrella (optional)
Protection from rain and sun; compact and light weight
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Snacks (trek)
Trail snacks are important. Bring some power/energy/candy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking. You will be fed well throughout the trek, so this is just something extra
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Poncho
A poncho is great for lower down on the mountain when it is raining. Rather than having to wear your hard-shell jacket and overheat, just throw the poncho over yourself and your pack and you will stay dry as a bone
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Trip
Island Peak
$6,900
28 Days / Includes travel time
Elevation
Island Peak 20,305 ft / 6189 m
Gokyo Ri 17,580 ft / 5360 m
Kala Pattar 18,450 ft/5624 m
Route
Normal Route
Video
Difficulty
Advanced Beginner
Climbers should have basic snow and ice-climbing skills and should be comfortable with glacier travel, which includes moving in a rope team, self arrest, and basic crevasse rescue. Team members will have the opportunity to practice ascending fixed ropes while on the expedition.
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