Mera Peak (6476m) Mera Peak (6,654 m) is the highest permitted trekking peak in Nepal. It stands to the south of Everest and dominates the watershed between the heavily wooded valleys of the Hinku and Hongu Drangkas. J.O.M. Roberts and Sen Tenzing made the first successful ascent of Mera Peak on 20 May 1953. The route they used is still the standard route. The summit of Mera Peak provides one of the finest viewpoints in Nepal, offering a panoramic view of Chamlang, Kangchenjunga, Makalu, and Baruntse in the east and the peaks of Cho-Oyu, Ama Dablam and Kangtega to the west. Everest can be viewed to the north over the massive unclimbed south face of Lhotse and the Nuptse/Lhotse ridge. Under favorable conditions, it is possible to climb the peak and descend back on the same day.

Island Peak (6189m) Island Peak 6,160 meters was first ascended in by a British expedition that included Tenzing Norgay. Eric Shipton's party named the peak in 1953, as it resembled an island in a sea of ice. The peak is part of the south ridge of Lhotse and linked to the semicircle of cliffs that rise to the north of the summit of Nuptse. Our adventure begins with a short flight to Lukla and two days of easy walking to Namche bazaar. En- route to Base Camp our trail takes us into the high valleys of the Khumbu region, providing magnificent views of Everest and the satellite peaks. Island Peak is a substantial undertaking, which demands hard work and commitment, however the rewards of standing on top of this Himalayan classic are ten fold.

This course is suitable for the complete novice or as a great refresher for those who want to climb again. The course curriculum includes an introduction to equipment, crevasse rescue, ice climbing skills, rope work and comprehensive mountaineering safety techniques.

Duration - 22 to 29 days