Cut your mountaineering teeth on the course that teaches big mountain skills in the home of big mountains— the Himalaya. Developed and led by our experienced IFMGA Mountain Guides, our Himalayan Climbing Course provides you with both a solid foundation in high altitude mountaineering and your first 6,000m summit!
Learn high-altitude mountaineering skills from our experienced Himalayan mountain guides and how to look after yourself properly in this stunning, yet high consequence environment. Our Himalayan Climbing Course will help you on the pathway to becoming a mountaineer by introducing skills then immediately putting them into practice on climbs of increasing difficulty and elevation.
At the completion of the skills development phase, the course culminates in an ascent of Lobuche East at 6,119m/20,075ft. In addition to actual climbing skills and mountain movement, you will develop your self-awareness and you can utilise the learning to springboard your high-altitude climbing career on an uphill trajectory!
Make the most of your acclimatisation with an additional ascent of Island Peak, an ideal challenging progression from Lobuche East. Easily climbed in a short six day itinerary following your Himalayan Climbing Course.
Dates 2023
Himalayan Climbing Course #1: April 20 - May 14, 2023
Island Peak Extension #1: May 15 - 19, 2023
Himalayan Climbing Course #2: October 6 - 31, 2023
Island Peak Extension #2: November 1 - 6, 2023
Prices 2023
The cost of the Island Peak Extension ex Lobuche East Base Camp, Nepal is US$1500.
The total cost for the Himalayan Climbing Course and the Island Peak Add On is US$12,400.
Adventure Consultants is renowned for the quality of its service and strategy applied to high altitude expedition climbing and instruction courses. Our reputation is attributed to meticulous planning and experienced logistics coordination. We have a philosophy of investing in every trip to offer our climbers the best possible chance of success.
Our courses have been designed by Guy Cotter who has been climbing for over 35 years. Additional to his extensive record in New Zealand, his career has includes over 40 high altitude expeditions and polar journeys, including several ascents of Mount Everest and other 8,000m peaks.
As an IFMGA Guide since 1991, Guy Cotter recognises the need for people to learn about ‘climbing’, and not just being taught the technical skills in isolation. This is not an easy task and cannot be achieved without experienced and highly skilled guides with good instructional skills. The guides and Sherpa staff at Adventure Consultants are recognised as amongst the best in the industry with the ability to help you get the most from your time with us.
The main points of difference on an Adventure Consultants Course are:
Dates 2024
Himalayan Climbing Course #1: April 17 - May 12, 2024
Island Peak Extension #1: May 13 - 18, 2024
Himalayan Climbing Course #2: October 6 - 31, 2024
Island Peak Extension #2: November 1 - 6, 2024
Ama Dablam Extension: November 1 - 10, 2024
Pricing Schedule 2024
The cost of the Himalayan Climbing Course ex Kathmandu, Nepal is US$10,900 per person.
The cost of the Island Peak Extension ex Lobuche East Base Camp, Nepal is US$1,500.
The cost of the Ama Dablam Extension ex Lobuche East Base Camp, Nepal is US$8,500 .
Inclusions
This is an inclusive cost and covers the following:
Exclusions
The course fee does not include the following:
Account Information
All payments should be made by bank transfer to the following bank and account:
Bank of New Zealand
Offshore Branch
42 Willis Street
Spark Central
Wellington
New Zealand
for the account of Adventure Consultants Limited
Account # 1000-594771-0000
Account Type: US Dollars
Swift Address: BKNZNZ22
Note: All bank transfer charges are for the remitter's account.
We can also accept your deposit and balance payments by credit card (Visa, Mastercard or Amex) plus a 3% credit card transaction fee.
We will send you receipts for all payments.
All prices are subject to change.
Deposit
A deposit of US$500 is payable to secure a place on the course.
Balance
The balance is payable 90 days prior to your course start date.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Once you have paid your deposit your trip is confirmed, subject to payment of the balance of fees owing 90 days prior to your trip commencement date. A course member may then cancel their participation on the following basis:
Trip Cancellation Insurance
Course members should take out private insurance if they wish to be covered against cancellation due to medical, personal or other reasons. This is called trip cancellation insurance and can be obtained from your normal travel agent.
The Course Notes provide detailed information and background for Adventure Consultants' Himalayan Climbing Course.
You can view the course notes online by clicking the image or download a pdf by clicking the following link:
Our Guides
The instructors on our Himalayan courses are all IFMGA qualified guides with many years experience high-altitude guiding, not only in pursuing their own climbing careers, but also in learning how to pass these skills on in an environment which is conducive to accelerated learning.
Our focus is to pass on knowledge that will assist your development towards becoming a competent climber. Many courses focus primarily on techniques that are taught as skills in isolation yet we recognise that you need to learn those skills in context while you are actually climbing the mountain so you know where and when to utilise each technique learned.
Success with the highest margin of care is always a hallmark of our approach; promoting the realisation that even extreme pursuits such as high altitude mountaineering can be undertaken safely.
A founding principle at Adventure Consultants is to recognise the necessity of positive communication within the group to foster an open and friendly approach to communicating and reinforcing learning processes.
Adventure Consultants employs only IFMGA qualified guides, the most advanced training and certification program internationally. In order to gain these qualifications guides must undergo rigorous training and assessment on climbing skills, instructional skills, avalanche training and assessment, wilderness first aid, rescue training and much more. The qualification takes around five years to attain and ensures you are getting a world-class professional service.
The expedition leader will be scheduled approximately six months out from the trip start. All of our trip leaders to Himalayan peaks have extensive experience at high altitude and a proven record of safety, success and compatibility.
Guy Cotter
Lead Guide, Course #2, 2022
Guy is the CEO of Adventure Consultants and has spent over 25 years leading and organising expeditions around the globe. Guy's experience in the mountains is unquestionable and his skills are in high demand, not only as a guide but also as a high altitude cameraman, film project manager, training corporate groups, speaker and of course in expedition logistics and planning. Guy's impressive climbing resume includes the Seven Summits and eight of the world's fourteen 8,000m peaks.
Head Office Support Team
Running successful journeys and expeditions is more about experience, knowledge and strategic management than any other factors. As an organisation, we place a substantial amount of time and resources into ensuring our trips are well planned and supported. You can be assured that the AC staff will provide you with friendly advice and knowledgeable support throughout the planning stages of your trip and we will be there to provide backup while the trip is running.
Kelly McLaren, Expedition Liaison
Having worked for Adventure Consultants since 2004, Kelly has gained a vast knowledge of AC expeditions and treks. In her role as Expedition Liaison, Kelly will assist with the planning and logistics for your trip, providing useful information, reminders and answering any questions to ensure you arrive well prepared.
Your Health
Course members will be provided with pre-trip medical advice and a medical questionnaire and asked to visit their family physician and receive a full medical examination. This information will be sighted only by the course leader and our medical adviser and treated with full confidentiality. See our Fitness Training Programs for information on how we can help ensure you're fit and ready for the course.
Level of Experience Required
Climbers joining the Himalayan Climbing Course must have good fitness, balance and coordination. Previous snowcraft or rock climbing is not necessary, as these skills will be taught in the instruction part of the trip.
What You Carry
We have the luxury of porter support during the trek. Each day you will carry your daypack, containing rain jacket, fleece, sun block, water, snacks, trekking poles, small personal first aid kit, camera and a few extra personal items. At higher elevations, you add in a warm hat and gloves.
You will carry your own warm and windproof clothes, ice axe, crampons, harness etc on training and summit days. It is highly beneficial on summit day to wear your trekking boots to the snowline and carry your climbing boots, then change into your climbing boots and crampons for the climbing beyond the snowline.
Difficulty Rating
Each of our trips is individually rated according to its physical and technical difficulty, displayed in the icons towards the top of each trip page. You can click on the accompanying question mark for additional descriptions and the full run-down of our grading system is available on our Difficulty Ratings page.
Food
Food will be of the highest standard possible, given the remoteness of the situation. Please inform us if you have any special dietary requirements. During the trek we will be dining in lodges and when camping we will be eating in the Adventure Consultants mess tent. Our base camp equipment and ample, nutritious meals are always the envy of other groups in the region!
Accommodation
Accommodation and dining during the trek will be in lodges where you will be accommodated in dormitories or twin rooms. Mattresses are provided but you will need to bring your own sleeping bag. Each lodge has a large lounge and dining area where trek members can congregate to share meals, socialise or simply relax by the fireplace. Some even have showers, internet, battery re-charging and laundry services available for a small fee.
When camping you will sleep in a shared tent.
Clothing & Equipment
Course members will be sent a list detailing all necessary clothing and equipment to be individually provided.
Our objective is to pass on the skills, which have made us successful in our own climbing careers. The most important attributes being:
We endeavour to cover the following skills during the course; however factors such as weather, your fitness and climbing conditions may dictate that some skills are not covered in full.
At the end of the course, participants should have the skills and confidence to travel in glaciated terrain. You will have the technical ability and know-how to attempt major mountains by their easier routes, such as the trekking peaks in the Himalaya. The program will also set you up with sufficient prowess to be guided on some technically difficult ascents and expeditions.
| Day | |
| 1 | Arrive Kathmandu, team meet and greet and welcome meal. |
| 2 | Introduction to Course—overview of program, lectures on expedition planning and processes, introduction to altitude illnesses and evacuation procedures. |
| 3 | Gear checks and trip preparation. |
| 4 | Fly to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft), trek to Phakding (2,610m/8,563ft). Expedition medicine lecture. |
| 5 | Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,286ft). Meteorology lesson. |
| 6 | Climb Khunde Peak (4,200m/13,779ft). |
| 7 | Training day—introductory rope skills, anchors, belaying, rappelling, prussiking. Overnight in Khumjung. |
| 8 | Rock climbing/training around Khumjung (3780m/12402ft), overnight in Khumjung. |
| 9 | Trek to Phortse (3,950m/12,959ft) via the Mong La Pass (3,970m/13,025ft). Visit Khumbu Climbing Centre. |
| 10 | Phortse to Pheriche (4,270m/14,009ft). High altitude medicine lecture. |
| 11 | Phercihe rest and acclimatisation day. Avalanche safety training. |
| 12 | Pheriche to Dzongla (4830m/15,846ft). |
| 13 | Rest and training day. |
| 14 | Dzongla to Cho La (5,420m/17,782 ft). Snow camping skills. |
| 15 | Training day—glacier travel, crevasse rescue, snow and ice techniques. |
| 16 | Trek to Lobuche Base Camp (4,800m/15,750ft). |
| 17 | Training day—alpine rock climbing techniques. |
| 18 | Training day—rope work training, fixed ropes, ascending and descending, ladder training, rope rescue techniques. |
| 19 | Climb to High Camp on Lobuche East (5,400m/17,720ft). |
| 20 | Summit Bid on Lobuche East (6,119m/20,075ft), return to Base Camp. |
| 21 | Lobuche Base Camp to Pangboche (3,985m/13,074ft). * Island Peak and Ama Dablam Add Ons commence—see Add On Itineraries tab |
| 22 | Pangboche to Namche Bazaar. |
| 23 | Namche Bazaar to Lukla. |
| 24 | Contingency day. |
| 25 | Fly Lukla to Kathmandu. |
| 26 | Trip ends, depart from Kathmandu. |
The course initiates in the city of Kathmandu, where we spend valuable time preparing for the course, covering introductory topics and checking equipment. We then fly into Lukla airport, gateway to the Khumbu Himal and home to many of the Sherpa team who will be assisting on the course.
The following days are spent gradually making our way through the mountains to higher altitude. We intersperse trekking with lectures and training sessions on a variety of topics. The pace is dictated by proper acclimatisation, allowing our bodies time to adjust to each increase in altitude.
On what would be a typical expedition ‘rest day’ we busy ourselves by training. Experiential learning is a major factor in learning how to be a competent mountaineer. The emphasis of the course is on safe application of skill development. Initially, you will develop and reinforce your skills in a contained environment before moving on to more challenging terrain as the course progresses and eventually culminating with an ascent of Lobuche East.
You will visit the Khumbu Climbing Centre, where Climbing Sherpa hone their technical skills and visit the Himalayan Rescue Association in the high alpine village of Pheriche. At the Cho La you’ll delve into snow and ice techniques including glacier travel and crevasse rescue.
Eventually we move to Lobuche East Base Camp and prepare for our ascent. The teaching continues throughout, and at High Camp you’re introduced to high-altitude alpine camping skills before the climb.
High-altitude mountaineering can involve long days with early starts in order to gain a summit and descend before nightfall. There are times when the weather may be rough, you may feel pushed to your limit and as you gain altitude there can be periods of discomfort.
From time to time factors such as team health or adverse weather may impact on the planned program. Flexibility is key to any high-altitude adventure and whatever happens, your guides will use their considerable experience to ensure you get the best from the course that can be offered.
You should take the opportunity to develop additional skills before the course commences. Rope skills can be learned through local alpine clubs and indoor rock climbing centres. Any previous rock or alpine climbing experience will allow you to gain even more from the course.
Lobuche East Ascent
The Lobuche East ascent offers course participants an opportunity to put into practice those skills they have learnt and developed over the course on a genuine 6,000m/19,685ft Himalayan peak.
To ascend Lobuche East, we climb steep pathways on the rocky flanks of the lower mountain to High Camp where we spend two nights on our way to the summit.
High Camp is dramatic, with exceptional views towards Cholatse, Taweche and Ama Dablam, especially at sunset when the peaks turn pink as the sun sets into Tibet. We climb to the far eastern summit on the summit ridge, a subsidiary of the high peak.
An early alpine start sees the group climbing rocky trails, with short steeper sections—some of these have a fixed rope that we clip onto to protect ourselves. During the pre-monsoon season the route from High Camp is often covered in snow. The climbing later involves snow and ice where the use of crampons and fixed ropes are necessary. From the summit the group rappels back down the steeper section and returns to Base Camp.
| Day | |
| 21 | Rest day in Lobuche Base Camp |
| 22 | Cross Kongma La (5,535m/18,159ft) to Chhukung (4,730m/15,518ft) |
| 23 | Rest day, optional ascent of Chhukung Ri (5,550m/18,209ft) |
| 24 | Chhukung to Island Peak Base Camp (4,970m/16,300ft) |
| 25 | Summit Island Peak (6,189m/20,305ft), return to Base Camp |
| 26 | Spare summit day |
| 27 | Trek to Pangboche |
| 28 | Trek to Namche Bazaar |
| 29 | Trek to Lukla |
| 30 | Contingency day |
| 31 | Fly Lukla to Kathmandu |
| 32 | Trip ends, depart from Kathmandu. |
City Tour
Experience the sights of Kathmandu with a qualified English speaking guide. See some ancient temples nestled within the city, places that have remained the same for centuries. But don't just see them; get a valuable insight from a knowledgeable local guide. You will be amazed. Kathmandu has more surprises than you can imagine.
Luxury Hotel Upgrades
Kathmandu has a wealth of accommodation options. On our standard expedition departure we stay at a good, western standard, mid-range hotel but if you feel you would like to upgrade to luxury style, we can assist with booking alternative hotels.
Just a few hours drive from Kathmandu is the beautiful Himalayan region of Langtang National Park. We offer two pre-acclimatisation trips to either the Langtang or Gosain Kunda Lakes area. An ideal opportunity to pre-acclimatise prior to your Himalayan expedition. Click on the image below for trek trip notes or contact our office for more information.
Langtang Villages – 9 Days / 8 Nights
Day 1 – Arrive in Kathmandu
Day 2 – Gear checks, trek briefing and Kathmandu city tour
Day 3 – Drive to Shyabrubesi (1,550m/5,085ft)
Day 4 – Trek to Lama Hotel (2,380m/7,810ft)
Day 5 – Trek to Langtang Villages (3,430m/11,250ft)
Day 6 – Trek to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m/12,700ft)
Day 7 – Trek to Kyanjin Ri (4,770m/15,650ft), return to Lama Hotel
Day 8 – Trek back to Shyabrubesi
Day 9 – Return to Kathmandu
Gosain Kunda Lakes – 9 Days / 8 Nights
Day 1 – Arrive in Kathmandu
Day 2 – Gear checks, trek briefing and Kathmandu city tour
Day 3 – Drive to Dhunche (1,950m/6,400ft)
Day 4 – Trek to Thulo Shyabru (2,200m/7,220ft)
Day 5 – Trek to Shing Gompa (3,584m/11,759ft)
Day 6 – Trek to Gosain Kunda (4,381m/14,373ft)
Day 7 – Trek back to Shing Gompa
Day 8 – Trek back to Dhunche
Day 9 – Return to Kathmandu
Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is one of the major draw cards in Nepal outside of the Himalayas. This World Heritage listed wildlife reserve protects over 932km² of wilderness and is home to a raft of different wildlife. While there you will have the opportunity to see one-horned rhinoceroses, monkeys and deer. If you are really lucky you might even see a Royal Bengal Tiger. Since you are in Nepal, why not stay a little longer and experience this gem. For more information check out our Chitwan page.
Pokhara and Tiger Mountain Lodge
Perched 1,000 feet above the Pokhara Valley with a spectacular Himalayan backdrop, Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge provides a perfect haven, the essence of tranquillity. This side trip is ideal for guests pre- and post-expedition, or for those wishing to take day walks exploring local communities, bird-watching, gentle exercise, or just to relax in a typical Nepalese rural setting. For more information check out our Pokhara page.
Finding the right travel and rescue insurance for your mountaineering adventure can be tricky! Rest assured when you book with the expedition specialists here at Adventure Consultants we'll help by sending through advice on what you'll need, including:
For further information check out our Travel and Rescue Insurance page or contact us.
The following is to serve as a helpful guideline on our Himalayan Trekking Peaks Expeditions. Please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions as our team is here to help!
info@adventure.co.nz
NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)
Please note you will be emailed a set of Reference Notes upon registration. This extensive booklet includes detailed information to assist in the planning of your trip, from travel and medical advice to equipment lists and photography tips.
How long has Adventure Consultants been in operation?
Adventure Consultants started in 1990 and we have been guiding internationally ever since. You can read more on the history of Adventure Consultants here.
A few outfitters claim to have the same level of experience and prestige as Adventure Consultants. In this league, what makes you the first choice for your climbers?
We are renowned for the quality of service and strategy applied to our expeditions. Our reputation is attributed to the meticulous planning and logistics coordination provided by our head office. Once on the ground in Nepal, you can expect to be well looked after by our guides so that you can relax and enjoy trekking and climbing in this amazing country.
What sort of hotels do we stay at in the city?
Our climbers usually stay at the Hotel Radisson in Kathmandu, which is only a 15-minute walk from the tourist centre of Thamel. The Radisson is situated in a quiet location and boasts a fitness centre, sauna and steam room, three restaurants, a bar, café and a rooftop swimming pool! A perfect place to begin and end your trip.
What showers and laundry facilities will be available on the expedition?
Hot showers are available in some of the lodges during the trekking phase for a small fee. We advise people to bring wet-wipes for the impromptu wash in between available showers and some lodges also provide a laundry service for a small fee.
Please note that on the Dhaulagiri Circuit and Dhampus Peak, there are generally no showers available, although a bowl of hot water will be available for washing on most days. Most days also start with a 'hot face towel' delivered to your tent or dining table. Likewise, no laundry facilities are available due to the lack of drying opportunities.
What food will be available?
You’ll get breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, plus ample hot and cold drinks. We can cater for vegetarians as well as many other special diets as long as we are informed of this prior to the trip. All of our expeditions provide excellent local and Western food! If you have any special treat you like, we encourage you to bring some along.
What is the food like?
When staying in the lodges, expect hearty food like yak steak, local favourites such as dal bhat and Western-style dishes such as pizza. When in camp, our well-trained cooks prepare high-quality Western food as well as popular local dishes and we usually bring a few treats from New Zealand such as Kiwi bacon, cheese and salami, fresh coffee and yoghurt. Once on the mountain, we typically focus on MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) which are real food, freeze-dried and vacuum sealed. Please indicate any specific dietary requirements you may have on your application form. We are happy to accommodate those with specific diets.
What are the lodges like? Can I have my own room or tent?
We book tidy, clean and modern lodges using the best that are available in each village. They are well-known locations to us and we have a good relationship with the lodge owners. If you prefer, we can book private rooms for you at an added cost. Our standard trips are based on shared rooms, usually twin-share and sometimes triple-share.
In camps, you will be sleeping in a high-quality mountain tent, shared with one other climber. You will be greeted each morning with a cup of bed tea, served by our smiling cook staff. Evening meals will be served in our comfortable dining tent. A single supplement is available – please contact our office to enquire.
What is the best way to get to Nepal?
Regular flights operate into Kathmandu via Bangkok, Doha, Hong Kong, Singapore and Delhi.
Do I need to arrive the day before the trip starts? And when should I book my flight to leave?
No, our trip programmes all have an arrival day and a departure day built into them. You are welcome, and encouraged, to arrive a bit earlier to explore Kathmandu, if you have the time. Before your expedition you will receive a “final details” letter and this will let you know the time and place to meet your guides. An AC representative will meet you at the airport and the first of many team briefings will take place on the evening of Day One. Please do not book to depart before the scheduled final trip itinerary day.
My travel agent says I can just get an ‘e’ ticket (electronic ticket) and will not need to be actually issued a physical ticket.
'E' tickets are the standard practice these days. Do ensure you print your itinerary and have your booking number with you, as this allows our local agents to assist with changing your return flight plans if need be, while you are in the mountains.
When should I book my ticket?
Generally, we ask you to wait until your expedition's balance payment date to ensure your trip has met the minimum numbers and will operate. If you see a good deal and want to book your flights, then ensure you can make changes to your tickets or you run the risk of losing your ticket if we do have to cancel the trip.
Where do we meet? Will I be picked up?
You should fly into Kathmandu International Airport (KTM) and an Adventure Consultants guide or representative will be there to pick you up off your flight. Even if you are arriving before the scheduled trip start date, we can often still make arrangements for a pick up.
What if I am arriving early or departing late?
Adventure Consultants can make reservations for you and can often make recommendations for attractions to enjoy while waiting for your trip to begin. Please let our office know your specific plans as we love to pass on Kathmandu sightseeing tips.
Do I need to get a visa?
Yes. For most nationalities, a visa can either be obtained on arrival into Kathmandu or can be issued online prior through Nepal's online system. Be sure to have the suggested USD amount in cash for your visa application and have a passport photo for your arrival in Kathmandu. Currently, a 40-day visa costs $40 and 90-day visa costs US$100.
Do you have a recommended list of clothing we should bring?
Once we have received your application, we will email out your Reference Notes which include detailed equipment lists. Any questions you have after reading through this can be directed to our designated Equipment Coordinator, who can assist you by recommending and sourcing a range of suitable clothing and equipment via our gear retail service.
Do I really need all the equipment on the equipment list?
Yes, these lists have been carefully prepared. Please bring everything on the list!
How warm do we need our sleeping bags to be? Will there be extra blankets available if required?
This will be clearly stated in your recommended gear list. It will depend on where you are going, but in general you will need a sleeping bag warm enough for you in conditions that can be as cold as -15°C. Blankets are generally not available so pay careful attention to the bags we recommend. We suggest buying a sleeping bag big enough to allow you to wear extra clothes in if it is especially cold. Sleeping in a warm hat can also greatly improve a bag's warmth.
Will there be any oxygen carried on the expedition? Is this included in our expedition fee?
Most of our expeditions take oxygen as a medical backup and we also take PACs (Personal Altitude Chambers) with us. A trekker or climber with mountain sickness is placed inside the chamber and it is inflated around them. It increases the air pressure and any altitude related illness is usually immediately fixed. The climber then feels better and can usually walk down to lower elevations to recover.
What altitude medication will be available on the expedition? Do we need to take tablets before/during the trek?
All our guides carry extensive medical kits including various medications for altitude illness. If you have a previous history of altitude illness then discuss this with us and your physician, otherwise there should be no need to take preventative medication before or during your trip.
You need to bring any medications you regularly use (don’t forget to tell us about them), plus extras. Also bring a small first aid kit including a blister kit and mild headache medication for the normal altitude headaches.
How much weight will we carry on the expedition?
You will carry your day pack with warm clothes, water, snacks, sun block, camera and whatever else you need for the day. Generally, it will be light, 5 -10kgs/10-20lbs. On summit day(s), you will add your down jacket, technical climbing gear (which you will be wearing most of the time) and heavier gloves.
How many guides/Sherpas will be assigned to our group?
A ratio of climbers to Western guides is stated on each trip’s web page in the downloadable ‘Trip Notes’. Sherpa guides are assigned depending on the size of the group and type of expedition.
Who goes on your trips?
Our climbers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, interests, countries and skill levels, ranging from those seeking skill development to those seeking assistance with the world's highest mountains, or purely adventure. We provide courses, expeditions, treks and guided ascents for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.
I would like to arrange a private trip, is this possible?
We are happy to arrange a private group trip and we have run many successful private trips and expeditions including summits of 8,000m peaks such as Gasherbrum 2 and Kanchenjunga, all of the Seven Summits and remote destinations such as Antarctica. Some clients enjoy the added privacy and schedule flexibility that a private expedition allows, so you can hike and climb at your own pace and enjoy the mountains on your own terms. There is no specific group size, but obviously larger groups are more cost-effective. Please contact the office for more information or visit our Private Customised Expeditions page.
What kind of physical condition should I be in for the expedition?
We cannot recommend enough being fit prior to the expedition as this will make all the difference to your enjoyment and success. Focus on pack carrying on steep and varied terrain, aiming to carry 5-10% more than the maximum expedition pack weight you will carry (approximately 10-15kg/20-30lbs).
Endurance training is also important as you will have to be able to trek, carrying a light pack for 4-6 hours on most days. Summit day(s) can be 10-14 hours long, so do fit some longer days into your training also.
Add back-to-back days of pack carrying in the weeks and months prior to your departure. This can be in the form of overnight backpacking or with the first day on stairs or in the gym, building up to the maximum altitude gain required on summit day (check your itinerary for this information), and a second day of flatter, outdoor walking with a lighter pack.
How do I know this is the right trip for me?
We offer trips to suit all levels of ability and ambition, from your first mountain experience to extreme ascents and everything in between. To help you navigate the choices available, our trips are graded by both the level of physical exertion and the level of skill required, allowing you to find your perfect expedition match. These ratings are displayed in the icons at the top of each expedition page, with a further explanation available by clicking on the accompanying question mark. A full run-down of the categories can be found on our Difficulty Ratings page and our team is more than happy to discuss your experience to find the right trip for you.
Will there be any access to a satellite phone? If so, what will be the charges for usage?
Yes, most of our expedition guides take satellite phones and you are welcome to use these at US$3 per minute. Most often, your guide will post daily dispatches on the AC website in which your friends and family can follow your progress.
I want to contact my friend or relative, who is on one of your trips, how can I reach them?
Many of our treks and climbs send daily internet dispatches, and we receive updates from our guides while they are in the field. The best place to reach a loved one is through our office.
Will there be any power source for charging batteries, etc. available throughout the expedition?
Many of the lodges have power available with typical Asian plugs (two horizontal prongs) and offer recharging for a fee. We can cater for special power requirements at an extra cost or advise on the purchase of a suitable personal solar charging system - please enquire with our office.
What insurance do we need to get?
On all of our international expeditions, you will require insurance to cover any personal or medical mishaps that may occur before or during the expedition. Click here for more information on expedition insurance.
Do I need evacuation insurance?
Yes, it is very important. Many of our expeditions are in remote places with no roads and developing medical services. In the unlikely event that you get sick, you want to get to good medical care ASAP.
Who do you recommend for insurance?
Coverage varies based on your nationality and the trip that you are taking with us. When you have booked on a trip with us, we will send you comprehensive information on various insurance options which will serve as a good starting point for obtaining the best coverage.
What is trip cancellation insurance?
We recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance to all our expedition and trek members. You should purchase the insurance upon sign up for your expedition or at the very least when you pay the balance payment. It is very important to buy trip cancellation insurance (in addition to your evacuation and comprehensive travel insurance) as it is not unknown for people to have unforeseen circumstances that force them to cancel their trips for reasons such as family illness and injury to self, etc..
Can I pay by credit card?
We can accept both the trip deposit and balance payment on credit card. Please note that there is a 3% fee for all card transactions. Please contact our office or visit our online payment system.
What is included in the cost of my trip? Does it include airfare?
Please see the 'Payment Conditions' section above for the inclusions and exclusions for this particular trip. There is also a downloadable pdf document in the 'Trip Notes' section above. International airfares are not included in the trip price. We can, however, recommend excellent travel agents with whom we have worked should you require help with arranging your international airfare.
Why are you sometimes more expensive than other operators?
Many of our trips are very similar in price to our competitors. Some companies even wait for us to set our prices and use ours as a guideline!! Some of our main selling points, which sometimes do cost more, are internationally qualified Western guides, proven dependable local operators, small group sizes and safe client-to-guide ratios, quality equipment and high summit success rates, among other things. You do get what you pay for which is why we stand out from the rest. Many clients come to us after failing on one of our competitors ‘cheaper’ trips.
How do I sign up for a trip?
The best way to reserve your space on the trip is to contact our office or complete our online booking form (click 'Book Now' below). Your deposit can be submitted by bank transfer (please see 'Payment Details' in the 'Payment Conditions' section above) or via our secure online payment system.
info@adventure.co.nz
NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)
I love the photographs in your brochure and on your website, are they for sale?
Yes, our images are available for licensing or purchase and please contact our office for more information.
What is the best equipment for photography in alpine environments?
There is an extensive section in our reference notes, which are emailed out upon receipt of your trip deposit, explaining about photography in the mountains.
Remember photos are wonderful records of your expedition but keep camera gear simple and light to best enjoy the trip you are on. Disposable and digital cameras are the lightest weight, but all cameras have maintenance issues that need to be carefully considered before bringing them to high elevations.
What about the Maoists in Nepal?
The Maoist problem which partly crippled the economy of Nepal for the past decade garnered major international interest. The Maoists have now formed part of the Nepalese government and there is a comprehensive peace agreement in place so we hope the troubles of the past are put behind the Nepalese people. Our sources in Nepal keep us up to date with the political situation and if there are significant changes we will be sure to advise you.
I want to become a mountain guide, where do I start?
Those with limited experience generally start by taking an alpine climbing course and then go out and climb for a few years. You generally should have at least 5 years of climbing and/or teaching/guiding experience. You need avalanche and medical training and then you can apply to do an NZ Mountain Guides Course or the equivalent in your country, aligned with the IFMGA.
Please see Adventure Consultants Mountain Guide Scholarships on our Career Opportunities page and check the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association for more information.
