AMA-DABLAM CIRCUIT + MERA & ISLAND PEAK

The Mera peak and Island peak climbing hiking around Ama Dablam is maybe the best trek in Nepal. It is a thrilling adventure that combines high-altitude trekking, technical climbing, and stunning himalayan scenery.

The round Ama-Dablam peak is a thrilling adventure that combines high-altitude trekking, technical climbing and stunning himalayan scenery. The journey begins with Mera peak (6,476m/21,246ft), one of the highest trekking peaks in Nepal. It offers a non-technical yet challenging climb that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu. From Mera peak, climbers traverse the Amphu Lapcha pass (5,650m/18,538ft), a remote and rugged pass connecting the Makalu and Khumbu regions. The crossing involves scrambling, snow, and ice, providing a challenging and exhilarating experience with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

After crossing the pass, climbers continue toward Island peak (6,189m/20,306ft), another popular trekking peak. Island peak is known for its steep ascent, requiring climbers to use basic mountaineering techniques, including ice axe and crampons. The summit offers awe-inspiring views of the Everest massif includng Lhotse, and Makalu. This combination of trekking and climbing through remote regions offers a true Himalayan adventure, challenging both physically and mentally, while providing climbers with unforgettable views and experiences.

BEST

  • Offers stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu.
  • Provides a rugged and thrilling crossing with panoramic mountain vistas.
  • Combines technical climbing with breathtaking views of the Everest massif.
  • The trek blends high-altitude trekking and mountaineering in Nepal’s iconic landscapes.
  • Ideal for climbers seeking physical challenges and awe-inspiring natural beauty
  • A wonderful experience with crampons, ice axes and ropes
  • Possibility of customizing the itinerary with other activities or excursions

COST

3,390 USD per person with 3 participants with local guide

Private trip possible every day. Contact us to receive a customized quote for 1 or 2 people. Contact us to receive a customized quote with european guide speaking english, french, italian.

OUTLINE ITINERARY

  • Day 01. Arrival in Kathmandu
  • Day 02. Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m/9,385ft) by plane and trekking to Chutanga (3,450m/11,318ft), 4-5 hours
  • Day 03. Chutanga to Thuli Kharka (4,300m/14,108ft) via Zatrwa La pass (4610m/15,124ft), 7 hours
  • Day 04. Thuli Kharka to Kothe (3,580m/11,811ft), 5-6 hours
  • Day 05. Kothe to Thangnak (4,350m/14,272ft), 6 hours
  • Day 06. Thangnak to Khare (5,045m/16,552ft), 6 hours
  • Day 07. Khare: acclimatization day
  • Day 08. Khare to high camp (5,780m/18,963ft), 8 hours
  • Day 09. Mera peak summit (6,476m/21,246ft) and back to Kongma Dingma (4,850m/15,912ft), 8-9 hours
  • Day 10. Kongma Dingma (4,850m/15,912ft) to Seto Pokhari (5,035m/16,520ft), 5-6 hours
  • Day 11. Seto Pokhari (5,035m/16,520ft) to Amphu Labtsa base camp (5,650m/18,538ft), 6-7 hours
  • Day 12. Amphu Labtsa base camp to Amphu Labtsa pass (5,845m/19,176ft) and to Chhukung (4,730m/15,519ft), 9-10 hours
  • Day 13. Chukung (4,730m/15,519ft) to Island Peak base camp (5,200m/17,519ft), 3-4 hours
  • Day 14. Island peak base camp: rest day
  • Day 15. Island peak base camp to Island peak summit (6,189m/20,306ft) and back to Chukung (4,730m/15,520ft), 11-12 hours
  • Day 16. Chukung (4,730m/15,520ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,285ft), 8-9 hours
  • Day 17. Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280ft) to Lukla (2850m/9,350ft), 5-6 hours
  • Day 18. Lukla to Kathmandu by plane
  • Day 19. Kathmandu: sightseeing and free shopping day (or extra day for Mera or Island peak summit)
  • Day 20. Kathmandu: sightseeing and free shopping day
  • Day 21. Final departure

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 01. Arrival in Kathmandu
After arriving in Kathmandu you will be picked up from airport representative and transfer to hotel. Presentation of the staff, briefing with the guides and verification of the equipment. We will serve authentic nepalese cuisine with cultural show in the evening.

Meals included: dinner. Overnight: hotel.

Day 02. Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860m/9,385ft) by plane and trekking to Chutanga (3,450m/11,318ft), 4-5 hours
Recognized as one of the most dangerous airports in the world, the flight to Lukla is an adventure in itself. The small airstrip nestled high on a cliff has an uncharacteristically short runway. The flight to Lukla gives us unprecedented beautiful views of the mountains and the mountainous terrain of Nepal. However, there are chances of flight delays or cancellations and we have proper plans to accommodate such incidents in our journey. We leave Lukla and move forward. The walk is a nice one through the magnolia and rhododendron forests. We will be crossing some old bridges and farms to reach Nangbu. We continue ahead towards Chutanga along the pleasant trail with great scenic backdrops. Upon reaching Chutanga, we can observe the lifestyle of the people in the region.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 03. Chutanga to Thuli Kharka (4,300m/14,108ft) via Zatrwa La pass (4610m/15,124ft), 7 hours
After breakfast, we will move from Chutanga. Today’s trek is mostly uphill and tiring. We will also be taking packed lunches with us today. We will be trekking on steep paths as we cross the Zatrwa La which is the first pass of the ridge separating Hinku and Khumbu valley. We will be greeted with multiple colorful prayer flags as we reach the pass and continue walking for some more hours before we reach Thuli kharka.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 04. Thuli Kharka to Kothe (3,580m/11,811ft), 5-6 hours
Today, after breakfast, we will move out and cross small passes after which we will get the first glimpse of Mera peak. Our trek will be mostly downhill today through the zigzagged trail of rhododendron trees. There aren’t many tea houses or settlements in this region, making it a quiet walk. We will have to tackle a few uphill sections and follow a river until we reach Kothe.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 05. Kothe to Thangnak (4,350m/14,272ft), 6 hours
We make our way to Thangnak today, where we will spend two nights to acclimatise. The ascent isn’t steep making it an easy walk. We will be able to see the desolate upper Hinku valley which provides magnificent views of Kusum Kanguru and other peaks. We will pass a small gompa also which seems to have camouflaged perfectly with the rocky setting. We will further climb up to reach Thangnak.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 06. Thangnak to Khare (5,045m/16,552ft), 6 hours
With wonderful vires of Mera, Kusum Kanguru and Kyashar mountains, we will trek on the easy path to Khare. We will be able to see many colorful tents from various expeditions and lodges while the cloudy atmosphere adds to the mysterious beauty of this place. The human settlement is the last one before the base camp of Mera peak.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 07. Khare: acclimatization day
As we are at a height of 5000m, it is crucial that we acclimatise. We will make short hikes around the area and adapt our bodies to the himalayan atmosphere. If any discomfort is felt, be sure to immediately inform your trekking guide. He will take the necessary steps according to the progression of the symptoms.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 08. Khare to high camp (5,780m/18,963ft), 8 hours
The climb today is going to be relatively easy. We will gradually ascend to Mera La pass and continue on the trail ahead. As we move up, we reach the base camp we see many tents set up by many expeditions. You can explore the area and converse with people and share your experiences. We will gain altitude as we ascend the trail to high camp. This trek will give us fantastic panoramic views of the Himalayas in Everest region namely being Cho Oyu, Kangtega, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu, Baruntse. We will also be briefed on about our expedition for tomorrow by the guides. We will sleep early as the climb begins pretty early in the following morning.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: tent camp.

Day 09. Mera peak summit (6,476m/21,246ft) and back to Kongma Dingma (4,850m/15,912ft), 8-9 hours
Today is the big day the summit of Mera peak! We will begin our ascent in the early hours of the morning, starting before dawn to make the most of the calm and crisp morning air. The climb to the summit will be gradual but steady, with the first rays of sunlight slowly illuminating the surrounding mountains. As we gain altitude, we will be treated to breathtaking views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and even Kanchenjunga visible to the far east of Nepal.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: tent camp.

Day 10. Kongma Dingma (4,850m/15,912ft) to Seto Pokhari (5,035m/16,520ft), 5-6 hours
The path includes rugged terrain and gradual climbs, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As you approach Seto Pokhari, you’ll be greeted by a serene lake, where you’ll set up camp for the night. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take in the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks around you.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: tent camp.

Day 11. Seto Pokhari (5,035m/16,520ft) to Amphu Labtsa base camp (5,650m/18,538ft), 6-7 hours
The route will take you through rugged terrain, with a mix of rocky paths and scree slopes, requiring careful navigation. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Upon reaching the base camp, set up your tents and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The high-altitude camp offers a peaceful environment to rest and acclimatize, preparing for the upcoming challenging sections of the trek.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: tent camp.

Day 12. Amphu Labtsa base camp to Amphu Labtsa pass (5,845m/19,176ft) and to Chhukung (4,730m/15,519ft), 9-10 hours
The climb is steep and challenging, requiring careful footing, but the panoramic views of the surrounding peaks make it worthwhile. After crossing the pass at 5,845m, you’ll start descending toward Chhukung. The descent is long and gradual, passing through rocky terrain and scenic alpine landscapes. Upon reaching Chhukung, relax and recover from the long trek. Chhukung is a picturesque village, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a well-deserved rest after the strenuous day.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 13. Chukung (4,730m/15,519ft) to Island Peak base camp (5,200m/17,519ft), 3-4 hours
After having breakfast, we will climb from the southern edge of the valley and head east. We will follow the rocky terrain and arrive to the cross route through Imja and Lhotse glacier moraines. The trail will take us to Island peak base camp where we will stay overnight.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: tent camp.

Day 14. Island peak base camp: rest day
You’ll rest at Island peak base camp and prepare for the climb. The day will involve checking and organizing your climbing gear, followed by a briefing and ice-climbing training with your guide. You’ll have time to relax, hydrate, and enjoy the surroundings to acclimatize. After a light lunch, take it easy to rest and recover, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the summit attempt. An early night is important to get enough sleep for the challenging climb ahead..

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: tent camp.

Day 15. Island peak base camp to Island peak summit (6,189m/20,306ft) and back to Chukung (4,730m/15,520ft), 11-12 hours
It is the day that we finally arrive at our ultimate destination. Once we conquer the summit, we will enjoy the gratifying views of Pumori, Lhotse, Makalu, Lobuche, Cho Oyu and then lower down to the Chukung where we will celebrate our victory and stay overnight in a Chukung.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 16. Chukung (4,730m/15,520ft) to Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,285ft), 8-9 hours
Starting with a descent through Dingboche and Pangboche, you’ll pass through scenic forests and villages. After a lunch break in Pangboche, you’ll continue the descent and cross the Dudh Koshi river before tackling a steep climb into Namche Bazaar. Despite the long day, the descent and beautiful landscapes make it a rewarding and memorable trek. You’ll spend the night in Namche, a lively hub for trekkers.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 17. Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280ft) to Lukla (2850m/9,350ft), 5-6 hours
From Namche, our route moves toward Phakding treating you to the stunning scenery of Sherpa villages, snow-capped mountains, lush hills and deep forests all along the way. After reaching Namche, we come across a suspension bridge and arrive Monjo. We then descend downward to Phakding along the Dudhkoshi river. We follow the tracks of the Dudh Koshi river to Lukla. We pass several Sherpa villages and cross a suspension bridge above Thado Koshi along the way.

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: lodge.

Day 18. Namche Bazaar (3,438m/11,280ft) to Lukla (2850m/9,350ft), 5-6 hours
Catch your connecting flight back to Kathmandu with great memories of Everest region and the great Himalayas. Free day

Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Overnight: hotel.

Day 19. Kathmandu: sightseeing and free shopping day (or extra day for Mera or Island peak summit)
After breakfast take an excursion visit. Today we will go for sightseeing Swyambhunath, Pasupatinath temple, Bouddhanath and Patan. World heritage site and freely shopping day. Evening there will be a typical nepali dinner organized for you in the typical nepali restaurant with cultural program. In case of bad weather, during the days of Mera and Island peak climbing, we will spend a day more to try to climb it.

Meals included: breakfast. Overnight: hotel.

Day 20. Kathmandu: sightseeing and free shopping day
After breakfast take an excursion visit. Today we will go for sightseeing Swyambhunath, Pasupatinath temple, Bouddhanath and Patan. World heritage site and freely shopping day. Evening there will be a typical nepali dinner organized for you in the typical nepali restaurant.

Meals included: breakfast. Overnight: hotel.

Day 21. Final departure
You will have breakfast and you will be free until your departure. A representative will take you airport for your final departure.

INCLUDED

  • Arrival and departure airport transfers in Kathmandu by private vehicle
  • Night’s hotel accommodation in Kathmandu including breakfast
  • Overnight stays in common lodges during the trek, double room accommodation
  • Guided city tour in Kathmandu
  • internal flight (Kathmandu -Lukla -Kathmandu)
  • Meals on full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) during trekking period in the lodges/restaurants
  • Surface transport to and from Kathmandu by private vehicle
  • Twin sharing accommodation at the tea house lodges
  • An experienced certified guide and one trekking helper between 2 persons
  • Personal luggage transport during the trek with porters/yaks/ponies up to 12 kg
  • Group medical supplies (first aid kit will be available)
  • All required special trekking,climbing permits and conservation fees
  • All government taxes and our service charges
  • An English speaking experienced trekking guide recognized by Government of Nepal
  • Highly experienced trekking porters to carry luggage (1 porter for 2 trekkers)
  • Assistance during the trek by qualified staff and 24 hr. telephone with our office staff
  • Food, transfers, insurance and equipment for accompanying staff

NOT INCLUDED

  • Visa fee for Nepal
  • International flight to and from Nepal
  • Personal trekking equipment
  • Travel and medical insurance (if any rescue and evacuation needed)
  • Meals and extra night (more nights than stated in itinerary) accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Soft and hard drinks
  • Personal insurance and other personal expenses
  • Tips for trekking staff (tipping is expected)
  • Anything not specified under “INCLUDED”

ON REQUEST

  • Single room
  • Sleeping bag rental on site
  • European guide speaking English, French, Italian
  • Travel insurance
  • Superior hotel accommodations in town
  • Tour extensions