Island Peak Climbing with EBC Trek Overview
Island Peak Climbing combined with the Everest Base Camp Trek is a 19 days adventure that offers both a world-famous trekking experience and a thrilling Himalayan summit. This journey takes you deep into Nepal’s Khumbu region, where you will walk through Sherpa villages, visit ancient monasteries, and witness some of the most stunning mountain views in the world.
The adventure begins in Kathmandu, with a day for arrival and trip preparation or sightseeing around the city’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. From there, a scenic mountain flight takes you to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. Over the following days, you will trek through iconic locations like Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, and Dingboche, gradually gaining altitude with enough time for acclimatization.
As you approach the higher parts of the trail, you will visit Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) and hike up to Kala Patthar (5,550 m) for breathtaking sunrise views of Everest. This part of the trek helps your body adjust naturally before you begin the climbing phase.
After trekking to Chhukung, you will reach Island Peak Base Camp, where your climbing journey begins. On summit day, you will start early, using ropes and basic mountaineering gear to ascend a steep snow and ice wall that leads to the top of Island Peak (6,189 m). From the summit, the view includes five of the world’s highest mountains such as Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and distant Kanchenjunga, along with many other peaks like Ama Dablam and Pumori.
The descent takes you back through the same villages, giving you time to reflect and enjoy the return journey before flying back to Kathmandu. With three nights in the capital, plenty of acclimatization days, and support from experienced guides, this trip offers a safe and unforgettable introduction to high-altitude mountaineering in Nepal.
Whether you are an experienced trekker looking to take on your first Himalayan summit or someone seeking a new challenge, this trip delivers adventure, culture, and achievement in one complete package.
What to expect during the Island Peak climb with Everest Base Camp?
This 19 days trek gives you the chance to experience both the famous Everest Base Camp trek and summit Island Peak. The first part of the trip helps your body adjust to the altitude, while the second part challenges you to reach the summit of Island Peak. Here’s what the experience is like:
The Trekking Part:
Your trek begins with a flight to Lukla, followed by a scenic trek through small villages like Phakding and Namche Bazaar. The trail takes you through pine forests, across long suspension bridges, and past yaks carrying supplies along narrow mountain paths. You will spend nights in teahouses run by Sherpa families and acclimatize with side hikes to places like Hotel Everest View or Nangkartshang Peak. One of the highlights is reaching Kala Patthar, where you will see amazing views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse, especially during sunrise.
Island Peak Climbing:
On Day 12, you will leave the regular trekking route and reach Island Peak Base Camp (around 5,100m). From here, the climb to the summit begins in the early morning, usually around 1 AM. The first part of the climb is rocky. As you gain height, you will step onto the glacier and put on your crampons. Ropes will already be set up by your guide to help you safely climb the steeper sections.
The most difficult part is a steep ice wall near the summit, which rises about 150 meters at a sharp angle. You will use climbing gear like an ascender to help you go up. Once you reach the top of the wall, the summit is close, and the views from there are absolutely stunning. You will be able to see mountains like Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Baruntse all around you.
Pre-Climbing Training:
A day before the summit attempt, your guide will give you training at base camp. This includes a short session where you will learn how to use gear like a harness, ascender, jumar, carabiners, and safety ropes. You will also practice walking on the glacier and learn how to use safety equipment. The goal is to make sure you feel confident and ready for the climb. Your guide will also explain what to expect during the climb and how to stay safe in different situations.
How Difficult Is It to Climb Island Peak with Everest Base Camp Trek?
Climbing Island Peak along with the Everest Base Camp trek is difficult but not too technical as well. It is actually one of the most beginner-friendly climbing peaks in Nepal. You don’t need to be an expert climber, but you should be physically fit and ready for long days of trekking, high altitudes, and a challenging (but rewarding) summit day.
The Everest Base Camp trek itself takes you through forests, valleys, and glacier paths over several days. You will gain height slowly, which helps your body adjust and lowers the chance of altitude sickness. We have added two extra rest days in our 19 days itinerary so you are well-acclimatized before reaching Island Peak Base Camp.
From base camp, the real climb begins. You will walk along rocky ridges, snowy slopes, and even a glacier. Just before the summit, there is a steep ice wall about 150 meters high with a 60 to 70-degree slope. It may sound scary, but your guide will train you on how to use ropes, harnesses, and crampons before the climb.
Even though the route doesn’t require advanced climbing skills, the high altitude, changing weather, and physical effort make it a serious challenge. That’s why good preparation, support from experienced guides, and a strong mindset are key to reaching the summit.
So, who can actually complete this climb?
The good news is that both beginners and experienced trekkers can climb Island Peak. You don’t need any climbing experience, but having done a high-altitude trek like Everest Three Pass Trek or Annapurna Circuit Trek can be helpful. Even if it’s your first time at high altitude, that’s okay. With proper training, a positive mindset, and good support, you can definitely do it.
You will be guided by experienced professionals who know the route very well. They will teach you how to use the gear, ropes, and everything you need to know before summit day. Even if you have never used a jumar or worn crampons, they will help you every step of the way.
If you want to try your first Himalayan climb, Island Peak is a great choice. With some training and the right attitude, this can be one of the most exciting and rewarding adventures you will ever have.
