LHOTSE 8,516 meters

WILD YAK Team:

Climbing Lhotse is technically challenging, physically tiring, and mentally demanding, and choosing the proper climbing Sherpa Team is crucial for a safe and successful climb. Therefore, WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS carefully determines and assigns the best Sherpa Team for your Lhotse Expedition. Here are some elements that we take into consideration to evaluate and choose the right team for our WILD YAK Lhotse Expedition: 

Experience: our WILD YAK Expedition Sherpa Team has extensive experience climbing Lhotse and other significant mountains in the Himalayas. They know the route, conditions, techniques, and risks while climbing Lhotse. The WILD YAK Team has led many successful ascents on Lhotse in previous years. 

Expertise: our WILD YAK Expedition Sherpa Team is a highly skilled team of Sherpa climbers who perform best in difficult situations. The WILD YAK Team consists of new-generation dynamic climbers, qualified and trained by the Nepal Mountaineering Association. Last, our WILD YAK Expedition Team is in excellent physical fitness and can withstand the rigors of such expeditions in high altitudes. 

Personality: During your Lhotse Expedition, you will spend much time with our WILD YAK Expedition Sherpa Team. Any 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. 

Communication: communication and personal compatibility within the team are crucial for a safe and successful expedition. Interaction with the members, responses to queries, and willingness to address their concerns are vital requirements in an expedition. 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 have sufficient time to properly understand each other as climbing partners. Some of our WILD YAK Expedition Sherpa Guides speak multiple languages.

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 our expeditions’ updates. 

Communications:

The WILD YAK Team takes every precaution to ensure your safety while climbing Lhotse. Our communication systems enable constant contact between the members, guides, and the Base Camp (Cook & BC Manager), with satellite phones, radios, and other GPS tracking devices. 

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 Team of Sherpas is trained to administer first aid and coordinate rapid evacuations if necessary, including high-altitude helicopter evacuations.

Sustainability:

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 school construction, 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 the trekking:

We stay in the lodges (small typical Nepalese mountain inns) recommended by WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS. It is the ideal place to enjoy different kinds of food (Nepalese, Tibetan, continental). Please note that all drinks are at your own expense, except coffee/tea in the morning and at the end of the day, served on arrival at the lodges. WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS provides a few snacks to accompany your selection of teas at the end of the day.

In most lodges, it is possible to take a shower (USD 3 to 5).

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 (or hiring from WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS).

WILD YAK Base Camp:

WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS has its philosophy regarding Base Camp: climbing Lhotse is one of the central parts of this Expedition, comfort, hygiene, and good food at Base Camp are among our priorities.

The WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS Base Camp is comfortable and well-organized. Each participant has an individual tent. We equip each tent with an insulating layer, a good mattress, and a pillow.

The dining tent is triple insulated and has heating at certain times of the day. A bucket of water with soap is next to the dining tent. A solar recharging system is available for mobile phone batteries.

The Base Camp has also a toilet and shower tent facility.

WILD YAK High Camps:

In higher camps, we encourage teamwork by having two members share a tent to provide mutual support and cross-checking. At WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS, we provide essential supplies such as thermal mattresses, cooking pots, and specialized high-altitude food. If needed, we also offer sleeping bag rentals for the higher camp. Our dedicated climbing Sherpas are ready to assist you in tasks like setting up the tent, boiling water, and bringing snow for water.

WILD YAK Camp II

Camp II of Lhotse, also referred to as Advanced Base Camp (ABC), is located at approximately 6,400 meters (21,000 feet). It is a shared space with Everest climbers and a crucial acclimatization point and resting spot before tackling higher altitudes. At Camp II, the members and our WILD YAK Team will spend several days. Our WILD YAK Team is committed to setting up a comfortable Camp II.

Camp II is equipped with essential facilities, including a small kitchen, dining tent, and personal sleeping tents with comfortable mattresses. Our dedicated kitchen team will serve delicious hot meals and refreshing drinks, ensuring climbers are well-nourished during their stay at Camp II.

Oxygen:

To ensure safety while ascending Lhotse above Camp III, our WILD YAK TEAM takes the necessary measures to mitigate risks. Each member will have three (3) oxygen bottles (4 liters per bottle), a mask, and a regulator. This supplementary oxygen aids breathing and enhances performance, reducing health risks associated with high altitudes. It significantly increases the likelihood of a successful and secure ascent.

Furthermore, our experienced WILD YAK Expedition Team will also be provided with two (2) oxygen bottles equipped with mask regulators, which enable them to guide effectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of our members

Payment and Cancellation:

Payment Methods: bank transfers 

Currency: The default transaction currency will be specified on our website or provided when booking. If you pay in a different currency, currency conversion fees may apply, and the payment provider or financial institution will determine the exchange rate. 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 cancel 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 get in touch with 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 when 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 considered for calculating 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 fees owed 60 days before your trip commencement date. An expedition trek member may then cancel their participation on the following basis:

• Cancellations outside of 60 days will result in the loss of the trip deposit.
• For cancellations made within 60 days of the trip commencement date, we reserve the right to retain 50% of the total fee.
• For cancellations within 30 days of the departure date, a cancellation fee of 100% of the total 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:

If 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 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 when booking or contacting our WILD YAK service team for further assistance.

Travel Insurance:

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

 Therefore, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances, including trip cancellations, is 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.

Briefing and Training:

With WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS, we ensure you’re well-prepared for your climb. Our pre-expedition briefings 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 physical and mental fitness 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 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.

• Fitness: This climb requires excellent body and mental strength, stamina, and efficiency to deal with the strenuous situations of the high-altitude
• Technical skill: advanced mountaineering skills are required. You should be a confident climber in different mountain terrains, such as ice, rock, and snow, with excellent knowledge of your climbing gear, high altitude, and survival tactics
• Mountaineering experience: some prior technical 4000-meter peak climbing experience in the Alps and previous high-altitude climbing experience are essential
• Strength: the ability to carry an 8 to 10 kg backpack in a high-altitude environment
• The climbing duration between the camps: is 4 to 10 hrs
• Summit distance overall from the last high camp: 10 to 12 hrs from the last camp and back to the last camp
• Number of high camps: 4 
• Degree of technical difficulty: difficult
• Steep sections: section of 50 to 100 meters elevation with some steep parts of 35-55 degrees
• Ice climbing sections: some sections of 100-200 meters elevation in 35-60 degrees
• Mix rock and ice climbing: some sections of several hundred meters elevation and 35-60 degrees.
• Altitude: up to 8516 meters
• Oxygen Level: approx. 15%

Personal equipment and climbing material:

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 expedition’s 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.

Additional Sherpa:

Sherpas play a critical role in supporting climbers during expeditions at extreme altitudes. Their expertise, strength, and unwavering commitment make the ascent to the summit more attainable while effectively mitigating the associated risks. Their invaluable contributions enable climbers to fulfill their dreams and conquer the formidable challenges that await them. Adding a personal sherpa contributes thus to a sense of security. It reduces the risk of injuries or physical strain associated with carrying heavy backpacks. It is best for everyone with difficulties recovering from strenuous activity.

By opting for an additional Personal Sherpa service, you’ll gain invaluable support from a dedicated and highly experienced WILD YAK climbing Sherpa.

Your Personal Sherpa will accompany you throughout the journey, guiding and assisting you from Base Camp to the summit and back. He will even help carry your necessary personal equipment to the higher camps. You will share a tent with your Personal Sherpa, who will also handle cooking responsibilities, ensuring a right recovery and comfortable experience.

Our WILD YAK Sherpa guides are highly skilled professionals and friendly and supportive companions. Having conquered Everest and other challenging peaks multiple times, they have the proper expertise to make your climb successful.

Helicopter Services:

Suppose you are too tired or not feeling motivated to hike for days after finishing the expedition. In that case, you can take a helicopter service from Base Camp. 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 Activities:

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.

If you’re interested, you can visit one of these schools or volunteer at the hostel. By engaging with WILD YAK EXPEDITIONS, you can contribute to the co-founders’ impactful projects and make a difference in the lives of others