Program Overview
The Alpine Summit Expedition is designed for adventurers ready to push their limits and experience the profound reward of standing on a mountain summit. Over five days, you'll develop essential mountaineering skills, acclimatize to altitude, and attempt a non-technical but challenging peak under the guidance of certified mountain guides.
This program balances skill instruction with practical application. The first two days focus on building competence in navigation, rope work, and alpine safety. Days three and four involve progressive acclimatization hikes to higher camps. The fifth day is summit day—an early start, steady climbing, and the indescribable feeling of achievement at the top.
Expedition Schedule
Day 1: Base Camp & Fundamentals
Arrive at mountain base camp and settle into your accommodations. Afternoon session covers equipment check, navigation basics, and introduction to the mountain environment. Evening briefing on the expedition plan and safety protocols.
Day 2: Skills Development
Full day of practical skills training: rope techniques, crampon use, self-arrest practice, and emergency procedures. Practice on a nearby glacier to build confidence and muscle memory. Evening review and preparation for the climb ahead.
Day 3: Advance to High Camp 1
Begin the ascent to High Camp 1 at 2,400m elevation. Moderate 6-hour climb with full packs teaches load management and pacing. Establish camp and enjoy spectacular sunset views. Early dinner and rest for acclimatization.
Day 4: High Camp 2
Continue ascent to High Camp 2 at 2,800m. Shorter climbing day (4 hours) allows bodies to adjust to altitude. Afternoon free for rest or optional exploration of nearby ridges. Final briefing on summit day strategy.
Day 5: Summit Day
Pre-dawn start (typically 3:00 AM) for the summit push. Climb through the dark to reach the summit ridge at sunrise. Final scramble to the 3,200m peak for panoramic views extending over 100km. Descend to Base Camp for celebration dinner.
Skills You'll Learn
- Map and compass navigation in mountain terrain
- Rope handling and basic knot work
- Crampon technique and ice axe use
- Self-arrest and crevasse rescue basics
- Altitude acclimatization strategies
- Mountain weather interpretation
- Leave No Trace alpine practices
- Emergency response and evacuation procedures
What's Included
- IFMGA-certified mountain guides (1:3 ratio)
- All technical equipment (crampons, ice axes, helmets, harnesses)
- High-quality 4-season tents and sleeping gear
- All meals from dinner Day 1 through lunch Day 5
- Group safety equipment (ropes, anchors, first aid)
- Satellite communication devices
- Transportation to/from base camp
- Summit certificate upon successful climb
What to Bring
- Sturdy mountaineering boots (B2 or B3 rating)
- Layered clothing system for extreme conditions
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Waterproof shell jacket and pants
- Warm hat, gloves, and sun protection
- Sleeping bag rated to -15°C
- Personal backpack (40-50L)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- High-energy snacks
Prerequisites
- Strong cardiovascular fitness (able to run 5km in under 30 minutes)
- Previous hiking experience with overnight backpacking
- Comfort with heights and exposed terrain
- Medical clearance for high-altitude activity
- No prior mountaineering experience required
Dates & Booking
2026 Expeditions:
- June 15-19
- July 6-10
- July 20-24
- August 3-7
- August 17-21
- September 7-11
Maximum group size: 6 participants
Minimum age: 18 years