ISLAND PEAK, 6189m

Our WILD YAK Team:

Climbing Island Peak is challenging, physically tiring, and mentally demanding, and choosing the right climbing Sherpa Team is crucial for a safe and successful climb. Therefore, WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS carefully determines and assigns the best WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Team.

Here are some elements that we take into consideration to evaluate and choose the right team for your peak experience: 

Experience: our WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Team has extensive experience climbing Island Peak and other significant mountains in the Himalayas. They are familiar with the route, conditions, and risks that stand while climbing this Peak. Our WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Team has led many successful ascents on Island Peak in the last previous years. 

Expertise: our WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Team is a highly skilled team of Sherpa guides who performs best in difficult situations. The WILD YAK Team consists of new-generation dynamic climbers, qualified and trained by Nepal Mountaineering Association. Last but not least, our WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Team is in excellent physical fitness and can withstand the rigors of such expeditions in high altitudes. 

Communication: communication and personal compatibility within the Team are crucial for a safe and successful expedition. Interaction with the member climbers, response to their queries, and willingness to address the climber’s concerns are vital requirements in peak climbing. Each Sherpa of our WILD YAK expedition Team communicates effectively with the member and ensures everyone is on the same page. Indeed, it is also the advantage of being a small group expedition, where the climbing members and the WILD YAK Team has sufficient time to properly understand each other as climbing partners. Some of our WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Guides speak multiple languages.

Personality: you will spend much time with the WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Team during your WILD YAK peak climbing experience. Each expedition member must feel comfortable with our Sherpa Team and should establish a good relationship. Our WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Team is friendly, kind, and supportive. 

Weather reports:

Weather reports are a lifeline for Himalayan expeditions. They help members and the WILD YAK Team prepare for any situation, make informed decisions, and take necessary precautions. With valuable insights into weather conditions, these reports can reduce risk and increase the chances of a successful and safe ascent. WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS is taking the weather report services from a professional weather forecast provider, not from online weather sites. 

At WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS, we emphasize the importance of weather reports and strictly follow the updates in each of our expeditions.

Communication:

Our WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Team takes every precaution to ensure your safety while climbing peaks in the Himalaya. Our communication systems enable constant contact between the members, guides, and the Base Camp.

In addition, the use of communication devices and climbing updates enhances safety. It provides peace of mind in the event of an emergency, particularly when it comes to weather updates.

Emergency:

WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS has well-defined emergency response protocols, such as:

– medical kits with high-altitude medicine

– oxygen with masks and regulators

– plan for immediate response to medical emergencies in case of altitude sickness, frostbite, or injury.

In addition, our WILD YAK expedition Sherpa Team is trained to administer first aid and coordinate rapid evacuations if necessary, including high-altitude helicopter evacuations.

Sustainability:

We commit!

We demonstrate a solid commitment to responsible tourism by integrating sustainable practices into our WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS operations. 

Since 2014, WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS, in collaboration with our charity organization “The Butterfly Help Project“, has contributed namely to schools constructions, sponsoring Sherpa children who have lost their fathers in the mountains, collaborating with local organizations to preserve their culture, and financially supporting community development initiatives.

In addition, WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS encourages travelers to actively participate in community-based activities and respect local customs and traditions. We highly encourage reusable water bottles, minimizing single-use plastics. We also provide proper waste disposal facilities during the expedition. 

Furthermore, WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS greatly emphasize the well-being of porters and the WILD YAK guiding Team. We are committed to treating porters fairly and providing them with better working conditions by limiting the weight carried by each of them. Additionally, we apply a strict policy of fair wages and provide them with proper clothing, footwear, and necessary accessories. Finally, we purchase insurance for each porter’s emergency medical and rescue services on each trip. 

During our trekking:

During our trek, we stay in the lodges (small traditional and quaint Nepalese mountain inns) recommended by WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS. The lodges have been carefully chosen by the WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS’s representatives. 

Please note that booking single rooms in the lodges is not possible. Although blankets are available in most lodges, we recommend taking your sleeping bag (for rent by WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS). 

While the sleeping rooms may not be heated, the dining hall in most lodges will be nicely warmed up every evening. Please remember that the toilet facilities are generally shared, except in select lodges like in Namche, Gokyo, and Lukla, where we strive to provide you with attached rooms (subject to availability). These deluxe rooms offer a chance for you to enjoy a well-deserved rest day, complete with a refreshing shower and the convenience of charging your phone and batteries.

Aside from the mentioned places, you’ll find that showers are still possible at other stops along the way, charging a nominal fee of USD 3 to 5. Similarly, mobile and battery charging services are also available (participants’ charge). 

Regarding culinary delights, the lodges serve a delightful variety of cuisines ranging from Nepalese and Tibetan to continental dishes. It’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in diverse flavors and satisfy your taste buds.

Please note that while individual beverages and drinks are not included, we do provide coffee/tea in the morning and upon your arrival at the lodges. Additionally, to complement your tea selection, WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS offers a few snacks at the end of the day.

Island Peak Base Camp:

At WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS, our philosophy at Base Camp is focused on two key aspects: climbing the Peak and ensuring comfort, hygiene, and delicious food. Our Base Camp is well-organized and comfortable, providing a pleasant experience for 2-3 days.

Each tent is equipped with an insulating layer and mattress for added comfort. Additionally, we offer a comfortable dining area where the kitchen crew serves hot meals. On the summit ascent night, we ensure that our climbers can access hot water and snacks to keep their energy levels up.

Two members share a tent to promote teamwork, allowing for mutual support and cross-checking.

The Peak Ascent:

With WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS Team – the top Sherpa mountain guides in the majestic Himalayas. Committed to providing exceptional climbing safety and premium services, our experienced WILD YAK Team ensures an unforgettable adventure. Before we embark on our ascent, we will provide a brief overview and conduct a mountaineering exercise at the Base Camp. Additionally, we will thoroughly check your gear to ensure everything is in order. 

Our ascent of the peak begins generally promptly at 1:00 am, with a guiding ratio of 1 Sherpa to 2 members for personalized attention and support. Count on our expert Sherpa Guides to secure necessary routes and skillfully fix ropes in challenging mountain sections. We also provide reliable weather reports for the climbing period, ensuring optimal conditions for your journey. 

Please note that WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS offers the option to rent high-quality climbing gear, including climbing boots, sleeping bags, big expedition down jackets, and other essential equipment.

Payment and Cancellation:

Payment Methods: bank transfers 

Currency: The default currency for transactions will be specified on our website or provided to you at the time of booking. If you choose to pay in a different currency, currency conversion fees may apply, and the exchange rate will be determined by the payment provider or financial institution. Note: All bank transfer charges are for the remitter’s account.

Payment Schedule:

• The payment schedule will depend on the type of booking and the specific terms and conditions associated with your booking.
• For some bookings, full payment may be required at the time of booking.
• For other bookings, a deposit will be required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due before a specified deadline.
• Failure to make the required payments within the specified timeframe may result in the cancellation of your booking, subject to our cancellation policy.

Payment Security: We prioritize the security of your payment information and comply with industry standards and best practices.

Payment Disputes and Refunds: In the event of a payment dispute or if you believe an incorrect payment has been made, please contact our WILD YAK service team immediately. Refunds, if applicable, will be processed according to our cancellation and refund policy.

Modifications to the Payment Policy: We reserve the right to modify this payment policy at any time without prior notice. Any changes to the payment policy will not apply retroactively and will only affect future bookings.

Please note that this is a general overview of our payment policy. The specific payment terms and conditions may vary based on your booking and destination. We recommend reviewing the detailed payment policy provided at the time of booking or contacting our WILD YAK service team for further assistance.

Trip Cancellation Policy (cf. Article 5 of WILD YAK Terms and Conditions):

At WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS, we understand that unexpected events can disrupt your travel plans. To ensure a smooth and transparent experience for our valued customers, we have developed the following trip cancellation policy:

Cancellation Requests:

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email, registered letter or through our designated cancellation form available on our website. The date of receipt by us of your cancellation will be taken into account for the calculation of the charged money. If the last day of the time limit is an official holiday or a non-business day, the time limit shall expire at the end of the first subsequent business day. 

Cancellation & Refund Policy:

Cancellation from your side:

The cancellation charges will vary depending on the type of booking, destination, and specific terms and conditions associated with your reservation.

Once you have paid your deposit your trip is confirmed, subject to payment of the balance of fees owing 45 days prior to your trip commencement date. An expedition trek member may then cancel his/her participation on the following basis:

• Cancellations outside of 45 days will result in the loss of the trip deposit.
• For cancellations made within 45 days of the trip commencement date we reserve the right to retain 50% of the full fee.
• For cancellations within 30 days of the departure date a cancellation fee of 100% of the full fee applies.

Non-refundable components of your booking, such as certain flights, accommodations, or activities, may not be eligible for a refund.

Refunds will be issued using the original payment method used for the booking.

Cancellation by WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS:

In the unlikely event that we need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances, we will notify you as soon as possible.

If we cancel your trip, you will be eligible for a full refund of the amount paid for the affected booking.

Modifications to the Cancellation Policy:

We reserve the right to modify this cancellation policy at any time without prior notice.

Any changes to the cancellation policy will not apply retroactively and will only affect future bookings.

Please note that this is a general overview of our trip cancellation policy. The specific terms and conditions may vary based on your booking and destination. We recommend reviewing the detailed cancellation policy provided at the time of booking or contacting our WILD YAK service team for further assistance.

Briefing & Training:

With WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS, we ensure you’re well-prepared for your climb. Our comprehensive optional preparation workshops and training sessions in the Alps will give you essential mountaineering skills. We’ll organize virtual meetings for those you can’t attend in person. 

Our preparation workshops in the Alps cover everything from fitness and mental preparation advice to emergency procedures and the risks associated with high altitude. With our expert advice, you’ll be well-prepared and confident that you’re ready to meet the challenges of your next expedition. 

Fitness and difficulty level:

Finding the perfect mountain to climb can be challenging, especially considering your skill, fitness, and experience. That’s why our WILD YAK Team of expert guides has created a straightforward grading system to make the process easier. With this system, we can help you choose the mountain that best matches your abilities and capabilities. Trust our expertise to guide you toward the perfect climb.

Trekking Level

• A moderate trekking grade takes into account the following factors:
• An altitude up to 5500 m above sea level
• An average trail inclination of about 30%-45%; some sections may consist of loose, sandy, gravel ground and boulders
• An average of 400 to 800 meters elevation ascent a day (especially when crossing passes)
• The capacity to walk comfortably on glacier moraines
• A trail, which may be rough paved, loose dirt, slippery, in a landslide area, icy or snowy (in some parts, you might be assisted by the guides)
• The aptitude for walking at least 4-7 hours per day (longer days when crossing the passes 8-9 hrs)

It requires the following skills from each participant:

• Good stamina, to be able to walk for several hours at a sustained walking pace in a high altitude environment during several subsequent days
• You are familiar with assessing obstacles and hazards along the trail and walk confidently (depending on the trail conditions, you may need some help in certain sections, especially while crossing the passes)
• You can carry a small personal backpack of up to 4 kg.

Lobuche Peak Climbing Difficulty Level:

• Fitness required: good body strength, good stamina, and efficiency at altitude, right mental attitude and prepared to deal with the demanding situations of the high altitude
• Technical Skill: Basic climbing knowledge should be confident in glacier walking with a crampon, abseiling and ascending devices use, able to walk together in the same rope
• Climbing experience: at least 4000-meter peak climbing expertise in the Alps
• Strength: Should be able to carry a 3-5 kg backpack and climb in the high altitude environment
• Climbing distance: between Camps: 4 to 7 hrs
• Summit distance overall: 9/11 hours from the last camp and back to camp
• No of Higher Camps: 1 camp
• Degree of objective: Low
• Vertical Sections: fewer and short sections (35/45 degrees)
• Ice climbing: rarely short sections

Your personal equipment and gear:

Acquiring the necessary equipment for your Himalayan journey can be expensive, with specific requirements that you might only need for this particular adventure. To help minimize expenses, we provide our guests with the option to rent some expensive equipment at a very reasonable price. Our offerings include expedition sleeping bags, down suits, and warm-down jackets. This allows you to experience your expedition without purchasing gear you may never need or use again.

Note: Members must order the required expedition equipment (sleeping bag, down suit, down jacket) 60 days before the departure. Don’t miss out on securing these essential goods in time!

We will provide the members with a comprehensive list outlining all the essential clothing and equipment they must bring individually.

Travel Insurance:

Having the right travel insurance is essential to enjoy your trip with WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS fully. Travel insurance must provide coverage for trip cancellation due to personal emergencies (mountain rescue and helicopter evacuation shall be covered), medical issues, natural disasters, or other covered events.

Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances, including trip cancellations is therefore mandatory for anyone booking a trip with WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS. To this extent, you must submit a copy of your insurance policy to the WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS office with your registration form.

We recommend carefully choosing your insurance policy, as some insurance companies make exceptions for such trips. Before booking your insurance, check that the insurance company knows the itinerary you will be following with WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS and that all activities undertaken during the trip are covered.  

Finally, check that your insurance policy also covers trip cancellation.

Due to the international situation of our clients, please note that WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS does not sell insurance. For more information on this subject, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Helicopter Services:

Suppose you are too tired or not feeling motivated to hike for days after finishing the expedition, or simply want to enjoy a stunning helicopter flight above the Everest region. In that case, do not hesitate to contact us. It is then easier to return to Lukla or fly directly to Kathmandu.

You can also use the helicopter service for mountain tour flights and get amazing views of the Himalaya.

Extra Visits:

Discover the Hidden Gems of Nepal beyond Adventure Activities

Besides mountaineering or trekking, you can explore diverse experiences in Nepal. With its cultural heritage, spiritual traditions, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Nepal offers endless opportunities to create meaningful and unforgettable memories.

Cultural exploration and local immersion:

Uncover the richness of Nepal, where adventure activities are just the beginning. Elevate your senses with sightseeing tours of Nepal’s historical sites and architectural marvels – Marvel at ancient palaces, temples, and intricate woodcarvings in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. Explore monasteries, museums, and art galleries to unlock the secrets of Nepal’s rich history and artistic traditions.

Immerse yourself in vibrant festivals, traditional villages, and the warm embrace of locals eager to share their customs and traditions. Immerse yourself in the local culture with homestay programs, where you can experience the daily life of Nepalese families, learn traditional cooking, and engage in community activities. Forge genuine connections and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture.

Wildlife and Nature Experiences: 

Unleash your wild side with wildlife safaris in national parks like Chitwan and Bardia, where rhinos, tigers, elephants, and exotic bird species roam free. Or embrace the serene beauty of Nepal’s mountains, lakes, and rivers through nature walks, birdwatching, and boating activities.

Spiritual and Yoga retreats: 

Embark on a spiritual journey to Nepal’s sacred sites, such as the revered Pashupatinath Temple, the peaceful Swayambhunath Stupa, and the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini.

Find serenity and rejuvenation through meditation retreats, yoga classes, and spiritual workshops that nourish the mind, body, and soul. Indulge in a world of wellness and Ayurveda, as Nepal offers a sanctuary for rejuvenation. Pamper yourself with spa treatments, Ayurvedic therapies, and healing practices that promote relaxation, stress relief, and holistic well-being.

Become a Volunteer:

Make a difference through volunteer programs, where you can contribute to community development, education, healthcare, and environmental conservation projects. Experience the satisfaction of leaving a positive impact and gain a profound understanding of Nepal’s social challenges and initiatives.

WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS is dedicated to sustainable tourism and actively contributes to the community. Through their charity organization “The Butterfly Help Project”, the co-founders of WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS have undertaken various initiatives, including constructing four schools in remote areas of Nepal. Additionally, they run a hostel for underprivileged mountain children, providing them with accommodation and education opportunities. They also sponsor numerous children who have lost their fathers in the mountains.

In addition to their educational efforts, the co-founders of WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS have established two apple orchards in the Kanchenjunga region at more than 3000 meters, supporting the local economy.