Elevate your chance of success climbing the world's highest peak, Mount Everest on a Private Expedition with Adventure Consultants.
As pioneers of guided ascents on Everest, Adventure Consultants is recognised as the premier guiding service with a superb reputation for enabling members of our expeditions to achieve summit aspirations. If you are serious about achieving the top and are looking for a private and highly personalised service then look no further!
| RATIOS | 40 DAYS | 63 DAYS |
|---|---|---|
| Please liaise directly with our office | POA | POA |
Experience the ultimate personalised expedition package with the Adventure Consultants Everest Private Expedition. Catering to a wide range of individuals, small groups, charity climbs or film crews; our private Everest packages are designed to provide climbers with the best chance of success.
Climbing as a private team provides numerous benefits including the services of your own highly experienced and qualified Western mountain guide and your own team of Sherpas supporting your climb. Importantly this allows you more freedom of movement on the mountain to travel at a faster or slower pace as your fitness and acclimatisation dictates. It leaves you free from constraints that are implicit in being part of a larger team—such as group pace, health of other members or following a fixed timetable. By being part of a private expedition the schedule is dictated by you and your guide around your health, your acclimatisation and your schedule.
Private teams enjoy all the same great benefits that our standard climbers enjoy, including the legendary AC Base Camp facilities, and more! A variety of optional add-ons are available so that you can create an environment that suits your needs, whether that's choosing to climb and socialise alongside our main climbing team, or creating a private haven with exclusive dining/lounge facilities and even your own personal Base Camp Manager and Chef!
The possibilities are endless and if you are serious about being successful on an ascent of the world’s highest mountain—and you want a personalised experience that gives you the best chance of attaining that goal in a private expedition—then Adventure Consultants is the perfect choice.
Check out the following pages for more detail on our standard Everest and Fast-Track Everest expedition options.
Choosing a Provider
It is very important to us that the climbers who join our team have expectations that are compatible with the program we offer and the style of expedition we run. We don’t want to merely ‘fill our expedition’ but instead we want a team membership of companionable people who are focused on reaching the summit in good style with the highest level of support and safety standards as can be provided by a guiding service on Mount Everest, accompanied by the best standards of food and equipment that is attainable.
Highest Success Rates
The Adventure Consultants methodology and tactical approach to climbing Mount Everest has seen us achieve the highest success rates and our extensive experience gives us the edge when it comes to the big decisions. We provide a consistently higher Sherpa and Guide ratio than any other operator, resulting in more support and backup for your summit attempt and therefore a greater safety margin and chance of success.
Small Teams
We are constantly developing and evolving our operational systems to ensure you participate in the best expedition available. We figure our expedition members do not deserve anything less! In the interests of giving you the most optimal chance to summit, we limit our team size to ensure the group summits on the best weather day; sometimes there is only one summit day! Large teams offering cheap climbs often miss out as they split their groups over several potential summit days.
Highly Qualified Western Guides
Our guides are seasoned professionals who are trained and assessed through the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA) resulting in a greater repertoire of skills that enables them to provide a dedicated level of security to you during the expedition. The guide’s contribution is predominantly around making decisions to keep you safe and healthy and to avoid mishap. This is based on years of firsthand experience on the mountain and is in contrast to startup operators looking to learn the ropes at your expense or locally-led groups which are wanting of preventative strategies and back-up contingency in case of mishap.
Advanced Communication & Weather Forecasting
For two decades we have been at the forefront of providing the most current communications systems for our expeditions. These deliver comprehensive weather forecasts from our Swiss meteorologists which enable us to plan our ascent around favourable weather. Additional meteorological interpretation provided by veteran Everest guides through our head office in New Zealand helps manage the decision-making process.
Our Wi-Fi data connection allows you to keep in touch with sponsors, business, friends and family via email, social media accounts or blog throughout the expedition from the comfort of your tent or our Base Camp lounge.
Well-Appointed Base Camp Facilities
The comfortable Base Camp environment and the quality of food provided by AC is legendary.
Our cooks are regarded as the best in the business, providing wholesome and appetising meals with an agreeable array of menus to suit all your food requirements. The meals you are served on the mountain are also of the highest standard and designed to sustain you for the rigours of the ascent. For those with specific needs, we can cater to special dietary requirements.
Dedicated Base Camp Doctor
In line with our objectives to ensure you receive the best possible level of care while you are on the expedition, we provide a dedicated Base Camp doctor who is there specifically to ensure the well-being of the team members. We have had it confirmed time and again that this consistently makes a crucial contribution to the success rate and well-being of our team members.
Budget Considerations
There are a lot of people out there who call themselves guides yet are really just people wanting you to pay for their holiday. Choose a guide who is appropriately qualified and see if someone you know can recommend a guide they have knowledge of or experience with. The type of objective has a lot to do with the type of guide you need; a quick ascent of the Matterhorn is not going to have the same demands as a months long expedition to Mount Everest. There is a reason that established guides or guiding companies have the reputation that they have, it’s because there is sufficient information out there about their previous track records and modus operandus. Be very aware to not base your decision about a guide or guiding company on price alone, cheap means cheap, and nowhere more than with a guiding service. After all, would you shop around for the cheapest dentist or doctor before having surgery done?
Standard inclusions are set out as follows, individual private trips may vary depending on individual trip customisations.
Inclusions
The price of your trip includes the following:
Exclusions
The price of your trip does not include:
Expedition Fee
The expedition fee is available upon application. Please contact our office for details.
Account Information
All payments should be made by bank transfer to the following bank and account:
Bank of New Zealand
Offshore Branch
42 Willis Street
Spark Central
Wellington
New Zealand
for the account of Adventure Consultants Limited
Account #: 1000-594771-0000
Account Type: US Dollars
Swift Address: BKNZNZ22
Note: All bank transfer charges are for the remitter's account.
We can also accept your deposit and balance payments by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) plus a 3% credit card fee.
Deposit
A non-refundable deposit of US$20,000 is payable to secure a place on the expedition.
Balance
The balance is is split into two installments.
The first is payable on 20 October 2022 and the second on 20 January 2023.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
An expedition member may cancel their participation on the following basis:
A) prior to 20 January 2023 then on the basis of a 50% refund of the 20 October 2022 balance payment.
B) after 20 January 2023 but before departure to the mountain from Kathmandu then on the basis of no refund of any monies paid.
Trip Cancellation Insurance
We strongly recommend you take out trip cancellation insurance via your travel agent if you wish to be covered against cancellation due to medical or personal reasons.
The Expedition Trip Notes provide detailed information and background for the Adventure Consultants Everest Expedition.
You can view the trip notes online by clicking the image or download a pdf by clicking the following link:
Everest is not the place to be with an organisation that is ‘learning the ropes’, there is too much at stake for that. Adventure Consultants expedition staff, along with the operations and logistics team at the head office in New Zealand, provide the highest level of backup and support to the climbing team in order to maximise your chances of success. This is coupled with a very strong expedition guiding team and Sherpa contingent, who, you will come to see, are second-to-none in the industry.
With technology constantly evolving, Adventure Consultants have kept abreast of all the new techniques and equipment advancements - encompassing the latest in weather forecasting facilities, equipment innovations and communications system.
Guy Cotter, CEO/IFMGA Mountain & Ski Guide
Our 2023 expedition is being organised by Guy Cotter, director of Adventure Consultants and a veteran of 28 years of Everest expedition guiding and organisation.
Our international guiding staff are the best in the industry. You will find the Adventure Consultants mountain guides companionable and strong expedition leaders with considerable abilities and a strong desire to see you achieve your goals. Your private expedition will benefit from the exclusive services of one or more guides, the number is determined by the team size but the maximum ratio of guides to members is 1:4.
Some of our regular private guiding team include:
Mike Roberts
Mike Roberts has been guiding for nearly 30 years and during his career has climbed many of the world’s highest mountains including 9 ascents of Everest including back to back ascents of Everest and Lhotse.
He has also managed to fit in multiple seasons mountain and ski guiding in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, 18 seasons in Antarctica as a Field Leader / Guide to the USA and NZ Antarctic Programs, SAR Leader for the Joint Antarctic Search and Rescue team, has worked as a Professional Ski Patroller/Avalanche Forecaster and is a qualified Physiotherapist. Mike is also a fully qualified IFMGA Mountain & Ski Guide.
Rob Smith
Rob started climbing in 1989 and has been guiding since 2000. He divides his time between guiding during the summer Antarctic seasons and the greater ranges of the Himalaya. Originally from Omagh, Northern Ireland Rob is now based in Fort William, Scotland. He has guided for Adventure Consultants for a number of years and his notable guided ascents include Everest, Vinson Massif, Cho Oyu and Elbrus amongst many others.
Lydia was the first woman to ascend Mt Everest without oxygen in 1988 and after years of personal climbing is now mountain guiding with Adventure Consultants. She has since summitted Everest five more times (2008, 2013, 2016, 2018 and 2019). As well as being a qualified IFMGA Guide she is also a qualified physiotherapist.
Summiting Everest initially with Adventure Consultants in 1992, Ang Dorjee has moved on to achieve 20 summits of Everest and 29 ascents of 8,000m peaks! His skills as a climber are legendary. Frequently we consult his mountain acumen to ensure the smooth operation of an expedition.
Our group of climbing Sherpas is enthusiastic, motivated and regarded as the strongest and most cohesive group of Sherpas on Mount Everest. They have dozens of Everest summits between them. Private expeditions have their own Sherpa support team who work to ensure your needs are best met.
Da Jangbu Sherpa, Expedition and Climbing Sidar
Da Jangbu Sherpa, our Expedition and Climbing Sirdar, has summitted Everest an impressive 13 times and brings with him considerable knowledge and experience. As a consequence of his leadership, we have a legendary group of Climbing Sherpas who operate in a harmonious atmosphere of cooperation and commitment to the expedition.
Adventure Consultants Base Camp support and services are renowned, we employ a Base Camp Manager who oversees the day-to-day management of the camp and mountain logistics, as well as a team doctor and Base Camp Chef. Private teams also have the option of employing a personal Base Camp Manager, ideal for larger teams or those embarking on more complex projects such as film crews that have a higher degree of logistical requirements.
Bronwen Waters, Everest Basecamp Manager
A qualified ski guide, ski patroller and trekking guide, Bronwen has built a career out of guiding around the world, having previously guided expeditions to Mera Peak, Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro, Bhutan and the Altaii Tavan Mountains in Mongolia, including an ascent of Mt Khuiten. She has also worked as a ski guide and ski patroller for numerous seasons in New Zealand, Canada, Norway and Japan.
Dr Sara Gordon, Expedition Doctor 2019
With a background in Rural Hospital Medicine and General Practice, New Zealander Sara first joined AC as Expedition Doctor on our 2017 Dhaulagiri team and 2019 Everest Team. Sara is no stranger to heights, having lived at altitude in North America and enjoyed trekking in the Himalayas, NZ and Japan. Prior to training in medicine, Sara worked as an outdoor instructor and river guide in New Zealand and now instructs in Wilderness and Polar Medicine. In her free time, Sara enjoys backcountry and mountain adventures in New Zealand, where she has been a Search & Rescue team member in Auckland and Nelson over the past 13 years.
Dr Sophie Wallace, Medical Advisor
Sophie works for AC in the capacity of our Medical Advisor, as well as having been our Expedition Doctor at Everest Base Camp in 2014, 2017 and 2018. She is an experienced emergency physician, currently based at the Royal Perth Hospital in Australia. Originally from the United Kingdom, Sophie has a passion for the outdoors and has trekked, travelled, dived and worked in remote high altitude locations around the world.
Sarah Macnab, Base Camp Chef
Sarah is a talented chef who has amassed over 30 years experience in the food and hospitality industry around the world, from overseeing cruise ship catering in Antarctica, the Arctic and throughout the Pacific, to ski resorts, fine dining restaurants, coffee roasting, teaching and consulting. Sarah has also established and run successful businesses in New Zealand, where her coffee roasting skills are renowned! She joined AC as our Everest Base Camp Chef in 2014 and we were excited to have her back again in 2019, leading our talented Sherpa kitchen staff catering to our climbing teams, expedition staff and visiting trekking teams.
Running successful journeys and expeditions is more about experience, knowledge and strategic management than any other factors. As an organisation, we place a substantial amount of time and resources into ensuring our trips are well planned and supported. You can be assured that the AC staff will provide you with friendly advice and knowledgeable support throughout the planning stages of your trip and we will be there to provide backup while the trip is running.
Hayley Furze, Client Liaison
Hayley joins the AC team with a wealth of experience working in the tourism and hospitality industry along with a love of travel. She works as Client Liaison on a number of our European and international ascents, treks and expeditions.
Your Health
Adventure Consultants provides a dedicated doctor for all our teams as standard. Most other teams use a generic medical provider whilst our doctor is there primarily for you and your teammates. The doctor will monitor your overall health throughout the expedition and our medical equipment and provisions are there to provide for your healthcare needs.
Ample resources will be on call to support each and every climber, not just the first team or fittest members. Remember, this is an expedition led by guides who have already climbed Everest and whose job it is to look after your interests. This should not be confused with a "professionally led" expedition where often you may be buying a place in a team with fewer support services and led by climbers who are attempting the summit primarily for themselves. There are also “Sherpa led” expeditions where you are placed in the hands of a Sherpa for the climb. This can seem alluring, especially when some expedition operators will encourage you to join so they can fill their available spaces but too often these are expeditions with over 20 members! The Sherpas are not trained in medical techniques and are often reluctant to act effectively in situations requiring urgency. This is where the skills and experience of your Western guide become invaluable. Too often expedition members learn about the deficiencies of their guides/operators when things begin to go wrong and that is usually too late.
Should you have higher healthy needs or monitoring there is an option to employ a personal doctor - see Add Ons tab for more details.
Level of Experience Required
There is no definite measure for assessing the required skill level to climb Everest. We prefer to discuss this on an individual basis. However, there are some broad guidelines that can be applied from the outset.
A successful team member will have been visiting the mountains for at least five seasons and made ascents of peaks up to 5,500-6,000m/18–20,000ft. It is quite common for members to have previously climbed Denali in Alaska, Aconcagua in South America and various Mexican volcanoes as training for Everest.
You will be familiar with crevasse rescue and glacier travel techniques and have a good overall standard of fitness. You will ideally have a broad set of climbing skills from basic rock climbing to advanced cramponing on snow and ice and strong rope skills such as rappelling and rope ascending.
Age itself is no barrier. To date, we have succeeded on Everest with members aged from 20 to 66 years of age.
A fierce determination and a burning desire to climb the mountain are essential prerequisites for this expedition. The guides and other expedition staff will provide the leadership, tactics and overall decision-making required during the climb but you will still have to physically put one foot in front of the other to make it to the top and back.
We recommend that you undertake another expedition with us before attempting Everest. Your ability to reach Everest’s summit may be dictated by your understanding of how your body responds to very high altitude and ascending other, less demanding, peaks at high altitude will increase your confidence and enhance your judgement during your summit day on Everest. For example, Cho Oyu from Tibet is an excellent venue to learn about the problems of extreme high altitude, without the time or the financial commitment that Everest requires.
Oxygen
AC provides a high flow oxygen package included in the expedition fee. Many have found this critical to their success on Everest and we have seen our summit rate increase dramatically with its use. The response from our team members has also been phenomenally positive. Climbers have reported having better energy levels, a better appetite, more warmth, a higher degree of strength and greater enjoyment on summit day.
We also ensure we have enough oxygen to wait a day at the South Col and Camp 4, before attempting the summit.
Our recent experiences show that for those who really want to maximise their chance of success, then these high oxygen flow rates allow the best option for ensuring you only need to attempt Mount Everest one time!
For those seeking additional reassurance, we have options for extra-high flow oxygen supply, or oxygen from Camp 2.
Preparing for Your Trip
The South Col route on Everest is not an especially technically difficult climb - nor is it the "Yak Route" which some non-Everest climbers have termed it. However, it is imperative that expedition members are well versed in the latest techniques and have experience in the high mountain environment.
What the photographs do not show are the difficulties of operating at these extreme altitudes. It is a physically demanding ascent, requiring enormous determination and stamina. An expedition to Everest is not a place for those who will give up when the going gets uncomfortable or strenuous. Days can be up to 15 hours long and although we have lightened the loads you personally carry by having enough Sherpa support to carry your equipment, the days are still arduous and taxing, especially over the 7–9 weeks of the expedition.
The outcome of the expedition will be determined by three broad groups of factors. The first is environmental (weather and snow conditions, etc). The second is the logistical approach taken by the expedition leaders and the strategies employed to embark on a summit bid. The third is your own preparation in the years prior to the expedition and how you perform whilst the expedition is underway. We can help design a training program that will both physically and mentally prepare you for the climb but you need to commit the time and energy to ensure you attain the correct conditioning. Read our AC Blog article 'Fit to Climb' for more information on how to physically prepare for your expedition.
We know that the success of an expedition is determined by factors that are planned well in advance of the outset of the actual climbing. During our 26 previous seasons on Everest, we have observed many other groups attempting to climb the mountain. Many try to emulate our strategies without committing to the level of resources that we provide.
Every step of the way, our office staff will be there to answer your questions. If they can’t, they will be happy to put you in touch with one of our Senior International Guides who will have first-hand knowledge of the climb.
We recognise that no amount of finely tuned organisation will guarantee anyone the summit of Everest. However, we do believe that our experience, combined with your enthusiasm and determination, will provide you with the best possible chance of standing on top of the world. Our track record on Everest is unmatched with 360 summits to date!
Food
Our expeditions are renowned for the quality of the food and the expertise of our cooks. AC will import Western food for the expedition and supplement this with Nepalese products. Don't be surprised to see sushi, roast duck or fresh salmon on our menus! Snacks and hot and cold drinks are available around the clock to ensure that you maintain the strength required for the summit bid.
Our Base Camp menus are planned and overseen by Western chefs and our busy kitchen Sherpa team have been working together for AC for many years. At Camp 2 we have a dedicated team of mountain cooks who produce a mind-boggling array of culinary delights at 6,400m/21,000ft.
Hygiene is paramount to an expedition's success and we ensure a high level of food safety throughout the expedition.
Clothing & Equipment
Expedition members will be sent a list detailing all necessary clothing and equipment to be individually provided, contained within a set of Expedition Reference notes with all the details for the trip. These notes provide extensive information on everything from suggestions of what type of camera to bring, to training advice for your expedition preparation.
Base Camp Facilities
The Adventure Consultants facilities are hailed as the best appointed and most comfortable in Base Camp. We recognise that the more comfortable and better rested you are during your rest at Base Camp, the better you will perform on the mountain. While climbers on every other expedition are crawling in and out of a tiny mountain sleeping tent and enduring more hardship than is necessary in Base Camp, team members with Adventure Consultants are living in virtual luxury.
On our expedition you enjoy a very high standard of expedition accommodation featuring a ‘walk-in’ tent with bright LED lighting, a carpeted floor, a chair and a comfortable cot bed; essentially a hotel room in base camp!
Meal times are a pleasure in our heated dining tent that is insulated and fully carpeted. Here you get to enjoy our meals that are famous for the quality that feature fresh local foods and specialist imported products prepared by our trained chefs. Outside of mealtimes we have a lounge area where you can watch movies projected onto our full sized screen or lounge around on one of the couches to read or have a catch-up with team mates.
Following is an ideal itinerary for our Everest Expedition:
| Day | |
| 1 | Arrive Kathmandu |
| 2 | Kathmandu Preparations |
| 3 | Fly to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) |
| 3-13 | Trek to Base Camp (5,300m/17,400ft) |
| 14-34 | Establish camps and acclimatise |
| 35-42 | Rest Period |
| 43-55 | Summit Climb Period |
| 56 | Clean up and depart Base Camp |
| 57-61 | Trek to Lukla |
| 62 | Fly from Lukla back to Kathmandu |
| 63 | Depart Kathmandu |
We begin the expedition in Kathmandu; meeting with your guides, team members and Sherpa for a team briefing and welcome dinner followed by a day to check equipment and enjoy the sights of the city.
We then fly by helicopter to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) to begin our trek, taking 10 days to reach Everest Base Camp itself. We stay in the best quality lodges, many of which are run by our Sherpa friends, enjoying good food and Sherpa culture alongside the spectacular scenery. As part of our approach trek, we climb Chhukung Ri (5,559m/18,238ft) and cross the Kongma La pass (5,535m/18,159ft) to boost our acclimatisation prior to arriving at Base Camp (5,300m/17,400ft).
There is also the opportunity for friends, family, sponsors or well-wishers to join you on the approach trek to experience a taste of your Everest adventure for themselves.
By the time you first arrive at Base Camp at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall, a route will already be established with ropes and ladders through to Camp 1 (5,900m/19,500ft). Our strong Sherpa team will be busily involved in ferrying loads of equipment up the mountain. After a few days acclimatisation at Base Camp, you will climb through the Icefall to Camp 1 and rest there for a day. The following day you will continue up the more gentle slopes of the Western Cwm to Camp 2 (6,400m/21,000ft) to rest and acclimatise for several more days. A day-climb up the Lhotse Face towards Camp 3 (7,300m/23,700ft) will complete this first foray before returning to Base Camp. During this time, the guides and Sherpa climbers will be establishing the higher camps and stocking these with bottled oxygen for the summit climb.
The second trip on to the mountain will involve climbing to Camp 3 for acclimatisation before returning to base camp for a rest period. In a perfect scenario, weather and health would remain constant, and these two trips up the mountain would take around 3 weeks. In reality, factors such as weather can add several days to the acclimatization process.
The most likely time for our summit climb will be between 15 and 25 May. We will climb through the established camps with lightweight packs and don our oxygen masks for the first time when we arrive at Camp 3 (7,300m/23,700ft) to sleep. We then climb to Camp 4 (7,950m/26,300ft) on the South Col. All climbers will be sleeping on bottled oxygen before setting out for the summit, carrying only very lightweight oxygen bottles and using Summit masks. Sherpas and Western guides will accompany all members during the summit climb.
We ascend 900m/3,000ft from the South Col on summit day via moderate snow slopes with the occasional rock step to climb over. As we approach the South Summit, the dawn breaks to reveal astounding views from Kanchenjunga in the east to Shishapangma off to the west with all the peaks of the Khumbu well below us. The traverse along the summit ridge is exposed and exciting. When we make our way up the Hillary Step, we can look 2,400m/7,900m straight down onto our Camp 2 in the Western Cwm and 3,000m/10,000ft down the opposite side of the ridge into Tibet! The summit itself provides ample space for the obligatory summit photo and is a time to reflect on the journey thus far. For many, it is one of the most poignant moments of a lifetime.
After the summit we descend via the same route, losing height quickly and generally we arrive back at the South Col some 3–4 hours after leaving the summit.
We offer a range of additional service options to complement our comprehensive array of expedition inclusions. These service options enable you to customise your expedition to your own specifications and can greatly increase your comfort and summit chances. Please contact us for current pricing and to discuss your specific needs.
Everest & Lhotse Combined
Climb two of the world’s highest peaks in 2 days! After your Everest ascent, take a rest day on South Col before continuing on to scale Lhotse. See our Everest-Lhotse expedition page or contact us for more details.
Triple Crown
Complete the Triple Crown - Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse in one expedition. Contact us for details.
Everest Traverse
This unique opportunity allows for climbers who have reached the summit to traverse down the north side into Tibet—potentially creating a unique 'point of difference' for sponsors.
Shouldering a heavy burden can be debilitating at the higher elevations and sap crucial energy levels right when you need it. Another service we now include in the expedition price is Additional Sherpa Support. This enables climbers to forego the carrying of heavy packs, which is often very debilitating at high altitude. For some climbers, the long climb with a pack up to the top camp at South Col can leave them too exhausted for summit day and hence, this service greatly enhances your summit opportunity.
We can, however, add an additional layer of support through our Personal Sherpa option. This option provides you with the assistance of a very experienced and dedicated Sherpa who will support you for the duration of the expedition above Base Camp. Your Personal Sherpa will climb with you each day while you are climbing on the mountain as your climbing partner and generally assist you throughout the expedition all the way to the summit. When on the mountain, you would share a tent with your Personal Sherpa and he would supervise cooking duties. Our Sherpa guides are very experienced with multiple ascents of Everest and other high peaks under their belts, and are friendly and supportive companions along the way!
Personal Base Camp Manager
Guarantee the smooth operation of your private expedition with your own Personal Base Camp Manager, who'll oversee all team logistics, communications and day-to-day management of your expedition. Ideal for those who anticipate a high level of business or personal communications requirements, recommended for larger groups and/or film crews.
Media Support
Take the pressure off your expedition communications by utilising one of our talented media support team. Ensuring immediate, effective communications to your target audience—including public relations, social media content, website and blog content.
Personal Assistant
Make the most of your time off the mountain, while still attending to your business commitments. Experienced office professionals who are also used to the rigours of living and working at altitude, your Personal Assistant will filter your work communications to ensure you don't waste valuable time clearing your inbox.
Private Doctor
Take your health and fitness to another level by employing your own private team doctor. Ideal for larger private groups and those choosing to monitor their health to a higher level.
Physiotherapist
Don't let your expedition be derailed by a niggling injury! Bringing a physiotherapist onto your team will ensure that even the most minor muscle aches and twinges are treated before they become a problem.
Sports Coach
From pre-expedition training through to your final summit push our professional sports coaches can ensure you're in peak physical and mental condition to meet your goal.
Personal Base Camp Chef
Ensure your personal dietary tastes and requirements are met to a high standard with your own personal Base Camp Chef.
Personal Dispatch Page
Daily updates posted to the Adventure Consultants Latest News page allowing friends and family to follow your personal journey.
Private Dining/Hang Out Tent
Choose to dine alongside our main expedition team members or enjoy a more personalised service in your own private dining/hang out tent.
Pre-trip Equipment Consultation & Retail Service
Having the right gear and knowing how to use it is key to any successful expedition, so we recommend you utilise the services of our in-house equipment gurus to ensure that you arrive in Kathmandu ready to go! AC also provides a retail service for those wishing to purchase clothing and equipment at a discounted rate, check out our Gear Store for details.
For those climbers who wish to maximise their time and are able to pre-acclimatise prior to arriving in Nepal with a system such as Hypoxico, we are able to offer an accelerated Everest expedition schedule with our ‘Fast Track’ programme, reducing the standard 63 day itinerary to 40 days.
Under this programme we will fly you directly from Kathmandu to Pheriche. From Pheriche, we will undertake an acclimatisation climb of Lobuche East (6,119m/20,075ft) before continuing onto Everest Base Camp on foot, where we will convene with the main team for their second rotation on the mountain. See our Everest Fast Track page for further details and costs.
We are able to offer an upgrade to helicopter transport for your domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, the entrance to the Khumbu Valley. Helicopters are a faster means of transport and less prone to weather delays than fixed-wing flights when you are eager to get going at the onset of the expedition or keen to return quickly back to loved ones at the end. We can also offer a return helicopter flight directly from Base Camp to Kathmandu if you require a speedy egress after your expedition to meet your personal or business commitments.
Enjoy an optional drop back prior to your summit bid and allow your body and mind to relax and reinvigorate prior to the challenges ahead. This period of high-quality rest has proven to be very therapeutic, both physically and mentally. Fly directly from Base Camp via helicopter to Namche or Kathmandu. Minimum three nights.
Kathmandu Option
Stay at the luxurious Dwarika's Hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. Relax poolside or unwind at their on-site spa facility.
Namche Option
Relax in Namche at the Yeti Mountain Home, enjoy a massage or yoga at their on-site Himalayan Healers Spa.
We offer the opportunity to trek to Base Camp in comparative luxury with our Luxury Trek Upgrade. This option incorporates the best lodges available in the lower valley and our luxury tented camps in Dingboche and Lobuche, consisting of stand-up sleeping tents, shower tents and heated mess tents, allowing you to arrive at Base Camp rested and in the best possible condition and mindset for the challenges ahead.
The itinerary for the Adventure Consultants Luxury Trek Upgrade is as per below:
| April 1 | Trip Starts | |
| April 2 | Preparation in Kathmandu | |
| April 3 | Phakding or Monjo | Luxury lodge |
| April 4 | Namche | Luxury lodge |
| April 5 | Namche | Luxury lodge |
| April 6 | Tashinga | Luxury lodge |
| April 7 | Pangboche | Luxury lodge |
| April 8 | Dingboche | Luxury camp |
| April 9 | Dingboche | Luxury camp |
| April 10 | Chukkung |
Standard lodge* |
| April 11 | Chukkung | Standard lodge* |
| April 12 | Lobuche | Luxury camp |
| April 13 | Everest Base Camp |
*Upgrade unavailable in Chhukung
Film Crew
With a wealth of experience in filming at altitude our cameraman can film your entire expedition from beginning to end in a variety of mediums (film/photo/digital video) and can even send live video clips or digital photos throughout the climbing day!
Other Services
You may also like to talk to us about other options such as personal communication systems, or the provision of a personal tent on the mountain.
Finding the right travel and rescue insurance for your mountaineering adventure can be tricky! Rest assured when you book with the expedition specialists here at Adventure Consultants we'll help by sending through advice on what you'll need, including:
For further information check out our Travel and Rescue Insurance page or contact us.
Please note you will be emailed a set of Team Reference Notes for your chosen expedition upon registration. This extensive booklet includes detailed information to assist in the planning of your trip, from travel and medical advice to equipment lists and photography tips. The following is to serve as a helpful guideline but please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions. Our team is here to help!
info@adventure.co.nz
NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)
I want to climb Everest, but there are so many options and the cost is high! Why should I choose AC? What makes AC different to other companies out there?
We know that when you make a decision to climb Everest it is one of the most financially challenging trips to come on. Our prices compared to other outfitters that provide the same (or lesser!) product, are actually cheaper! We invite you to shop around and compare, both in price and quality. We feel strongly that you will find us to be the best in the business.
One of the main things that sets us apart is our attention to detail. Nowhere else will you find a team of people more dedicated to your success! From the time you contact the office to the time you step on the mountain, our customer service is second to none. Why should you choose AC? We invite you to contact some of our past clients to hear their stories. Contact us at the office for details.
How long has Adventure Consultants been in operation?
Adventure Consultants started in 1990 and we have been guiding internationally ever since. You can read more about the history of AC here.
I have heard from others that AC provides a great private trip option, how does that work and what are the costs?
Seeing as your Everest expedition is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we wanted to make sure you have every possible advantage. Some clients enjoy the added privacy and schedule flexibility that a private expedition allows. A private means you will have your own guides, your share of the Sherpa carry staff, a private dining tent and optional private communication facilities. This allows you to climb at your own pace and enjoy the mountain on your own terms. The costs vary depending on how many climbers there in your private group. Please contact the office for details or see our Private Customised Expeditions page for more detail.
Why are you sometimes more expensive than other operators?
Many of our trips are very similar in price to our competitors. Some companies even wait for us to set our prices and use ours as a guideline! Some of our main selling points, which sometimes do cost more, are internationally qualified Western guides, proven dependable local operators, small group sizes and safe client-to-guide ratios, quality equipment and high summit success rates, among other things. You do get what you pay for which is why we stand out from the rest. Many clients come to us after failing on one of our competitors ‘less expensive’ trips.
Which route? North or South?
The South Col route from Nepal offers the best chance of success for most climbers. High royalty fees by the Nepalese Government have created a large disparity between the costs of Everest expeditions from Nepal and Tibet.
We encourage you to research details about both sides of the mountain. People will argue the virtues of either of the two approaches. However, we maintain that the ‘entire package’ of the Nepal side makes it the preferred option; the delightful approach through the Sherpa homelands via the Khumbu Valley, enjoying Sherpa hospitality in modern lodges with good food, and all the while being impressed by the spectacular scenery of the incredible peaks of the lower Khumbu.
The Khumbu Icefall has a fearsome reputation and it is indeed, a phenomenal route to climb. Yet it is an integral characteristic of the south side that it is a ‘climbers route’ that requires a mountaineer to be well skilled in the use of crampons and ice axe. The Western Cwm is renowned for its phenomenal views of Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori and Cho Oyu. Our Camp 2 is situated directly beneath the imposing black hulk of the notorious Southwest Face. As one climbs higher up the route to South Col, the views become even more outstanding with incredible vistas along the Himalayan chain and out towards the lowlands of Nepal. We ascend 900m/3,000ft from the South Col on summit day via moderate snow slopes with the occasional rock step to climb over. As we approach the South Summit, the dawn breaks to reveal astounding views from Kanchenjunga in the east to Shishapangma off to the west, with all the peaks of the Khumbu well below us. The traverse along the summit ridge is exposed and exciting. When we make our way up the Hillary step we can look 2,400m/7,900ft straight down onto our Camp 2 in the Western Cwm and 3,000m/9,800ft down the opposite side of the ridge into Tibet! The summit itself provides ample space for the obligatory summit photo and is a time to reflect on the journey thus far. For many, it is one of the most poignant moments of a lifetime.
After the summit, we descend via the same route, losing height quickly and generally we arrive back at the South Col some 3-4 hours after leaving the summit. On the north side, climbers must do a long traverse and it is this feature where climbers cannot lose elevation quickly that can cause the demise of tired climbers, especially those who have run out of oxygen.
We only climb on Everest during the spring season because the weather becomes progressively warmer and the days longer. Winter winds have already scoured away much of the snow, which significantly reduces the snow avalanche hazard as well. Contrast this with the autumn. Typically as the expedition goes on, the days get shorter and colder with more snowfall. Consequently very few expeditions are undertaken in the fall and those that do have quite a low percentage chance of success.
By the time you first arrive at Base Camp at the foot of the Khumbu Icefall, a route will already be established with ropes and ladders through to Camp 1. Our strong Sherpa team will be busily involved in ferrying loads of equipment up the mountain. After a few days acclimatisation at Base Camp, you will climb through the Icefall to Camp 1 and rest there for a day. The following day, you will continue up the more gentle slopes of the Western Cwm to Camp 2 to rest and acclimatise for several more days. A day-climb up the Lhotse Face towards Camp 3 (7,300m/23,700ft) will complete this first foray before returning to Base Camp. During this time the guides and Sherpa climbers will be establishing the higher camps and stocking these with bottled oxygen for the summit climb.
The second trip on to the mountain will involve sleeping one night at Camp 3 for acclimatisation before returning to base camp for a rest period. In a perfect scenario, weather and health would remain constant, and these two trips up the mountain would take around 3 weeks. In reality, factors such as weather can add several days to the acclimatization process.
What are the skills/prior experience required for this climb?
You cannot just decide to write a cheque and go and climb Everest! A comprehensive climbing resume is required to join our team. Usually, we look for a few minimum requirements such as Denali for the cold and glacier travel experience and Aconcagua for the altitude experience. Beyond that, we look for well-rounded climbers with a wealth of experience. Summit day experience on an 8,000m peak such as Cho Oyu, prior to going to Everest is highly beneficial. Contact the office for further details and to discuss your individual background.
What is the Fast Track programme?
The Fast Track programme has been developed for those climbers who wish to maximise their time and are able to pre-acclimatise prior to arriving in Nepal with a system such as Hypoxico, or on other peaks to at least 5,500m/18,000ft. The itinerary follows a shortened 45-day schedule, rather than the longer 63-day schedule that our standard departure follows. It still requires a large commitment in terms of dedication, determination and discipline, ensuring that you follow a strict pre-acclimatisation programme prior to your arrival in Nepal to ensure your best chance of success.
How long is a typical day on the mountain?
It depends on the day and your level of acclimatisation. At the beginning of the trip, everything seems slower and longer, but as you get more adjusted to the mountain, the days go quicker. Average days can be 5-10 hours long. Summit day can be up to 20 hours long.
What sort of hotels do we stay at in the city?
We stay at the Radisson Hotel in Kathmandu which features a rooftop swimming pool and on-site dining. Ideally located in Lazmipat, the hotel is adjacent to the Narayanhiti Palace Museum and is within walking distance of popular attractions including Durbar Marg and Thamel.
Will I be sharing a tent or room with other climbers? Is there a single room option on this trip?
You will have your own tent in Base Camp, similar to the one pictured, but on the mountain, you will be sharing a tent with others. We generally book you into a single room in the hotel in Kathmandu whilst it is twin-share in the lodges on the trek into Base Camp. A single supplement is available and please contact our office for further details.
What kind of food do you have on the mountain and at Base Camp?
This will depend on what camp we are in. At Base Camp, we import tons of food from the USA and New Zealand so don’t be surprised by our sushi nights, fresh muffins, yoghurt for breakfast and pizza! On the mountain we usually have a wide variety of MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) which are significantly tastier than freeze-dried food, as they are real food vacuum sealed and ready to heat and eat! At Camp 2, our advanced Base Camp, we have Sherpa cook staff who prepare more ‘Base Camp like’ food... pizza, pasta, eggs and bacon! We work really hard to make sure our food is second to none. As evidence of this, other companies have tried to steal our master chefs over to their companies!
What is the best way to get to Nepal? From US? UK? Australia/NZ?
Most airlines fly direct to Bangkok from North America, Europe and Australia/NZ. From there, Thai Airways fly direct to Kathmandu once a day. Silk Air (Singapore Airlines) has flights three times a week and there are flights via Doha, Delhi and Hong Kong to Kathmandu.
When should I book my ticket?
Generally, we ask you to wait until 90 days prior to your trip start date to ensure your trip has met the minimum numbers and will operate. If you see a good deal and want to book your flights, then please ensure that you can make changes to your tickets or you run the risk of losing your ticket if we do have to cancel the trip. In such situations, we are usually able to help you book on to an alternate departure, either with us or another operator.
Can I get a cheap ticket online?
The problem with these tickets is that you usually end up having to pay quite a lot more if you have to make any changes to your ticket. We highly recommend using a travel agent for your travel as there are many intricacies that they can help you with. In the long run, they save you money! We use professional travel agents for all our staff and guides' travel bookings.
What if I arrive early or depart late?
Of course. On a trip as long as this, we request that you arrive in Kathmandu on the assigned date to assure your baggage makes it on time and you have time to recover from jet lag before trekking. It is hard to catch the group if you are arriving late and still waiting for lost baggage! Many people depart from our Nepal expeditions later so that they enjoy the sights and sounds of Kathmandu, but do keep in mind that this is long expedition and we find that people want to head home as quickly as possible after the climb finishes. We are happy to help arrange any extra hotel nights that are required.
Where do we meet? Will I be picked up?
An Adventure Consultants guide or agent will be waiting at Kathmandu Airport to pick you up off your flight on your arrival date.
Are there any entry or visa requirements?
Yes there are. You can apply online or you can complete the form on the plane as they are handed out on your arrival flight into Kathmandu. Be sure to have the suggested USD amount in cash for your visa application and have a passport photo for your arrival in Kathmandu. Currently a 90-day visa costs US$125 for most nationalities.
Do you have a recommended list of clothing we should bring?
Yes, you will be sent a personal clothing and equipment list once our office has received your trip registration form and deposit.
Do I really need all the equipment on the equipment list?
Yes, these lists have been carefully prepared. Please bring everything on the list!
How heavy will my pack be?
The weight of your pack will usually not exceed 5-7kg/10-15lb. What used to happen was on a 'carry' day, where you moved your personal gear between camps, your pack would be 9-18kg/20-40lb, sometimes higher if you chose to carry more of your equipment and on 'move' days, the weight went down to 5-7kg/10-15lb. Now, since we include carrying your personal overnight gear as part of the expedition, your pack weight is always in the 5-7kg/10-15lb range.
The trip is so long... can I bring food and other gear not on the list?
Absolutely! Most members of our Everest expeditions end up bringing “the kitchen sink!" We encourage you to bring some of your favourite goodies and tech toys, as Base Camp will become our home for two months or so. The more comfortable you are, the more energy you have for the climb, so every little thing helps!
What altitude medication will be available? Do we need to take tablets before/during the expedition?
All our guides carry extensive medical kits including Diamox, Dexamethasone, Nifedipine and Sildenafil for altitude illness. Some of our bigger expeditions even have their own doctor. Generally, there is no need to take prophylactic altitude medication before or during your expedition but if you have a previous history of altitude illness, then please discuss this with us and your physician.
You do, however, need to bring any medications you regularly use (don’t forget to tell us about them), plus extras. Also, bring a small first aid kit including a blister kit and mild headache medication for the normal altitude headaches.
Is bottled oxygen included?
Yes! AC provides a high flow oxygen package for all team members included in the expedition fee.
What sort of O2 masks do you use?
We use Summit and Topout masks plus regulators for all our Sherpas, guides and climbers.
What is the oxygen bottle size?
We use 4-litre Poisk bottles, which are the lightest available at 3.5kg/8lbs each.
What are the benefits of bottled oxygen?
Climbers have reported having better energy levels, a better appetite, more warmth, a higher degree of strength and greater enjoyment on summit day than those without. They also enjoy a higher rate of success!
How many climbers will be on this expedition?
We have a maximum of 12 members with 3 guides on our Everest expedition, but we have most often had a group size of around 8 members with 2 guides. This is to ensure we can maintain safety and our attention to detail. There may be more in Base Camp and in the camps on the mountain if there are private expeditions, but they will generally travel separately from the main team.
Can I contact other climbers or guides for this expedition?
Yes, we encourage that. Perhaps there is someone in your area that can become a training partner, perhaps they can help you source some hard-to-find gear. The bottom line is that it’s a good idea to have some contact with folks that you will share this experience with. We respect the privacy of each team member and check with each person before releasing any contact details.
Can my friends and family come along to Base Camp for the expedition?
Sure! This is one of the best parts of the start of the expedition, having family and friends trek to Base Camp to see you off on your journey. Base Camp for non-climbers is not a very hospitable place, but we strive to make your guests comfortable and welcome. Guests for the duration of the expedition are allowed on a case by case basis. The reason for this is simple... on the trip, our job is to be climbing, spending time just at Base Camp can be quite boring sometimes, so we usually encourage guests to trek in at the beginning or end of the expedition so as to join you during the most exciting parts of the trip! Contact us for more details.
How much should I tip my guide staff? What about the Sherpa staff?
This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from US$20 to US$15,000 for an Everest expedition tip. It is worth remembering that you will have a high degree of contact with some of the Sherpa staff, while others will be working away in the background providing necessary services to keep the expedition running and therefore we feel it is appropriate to include them in the tipping pool.We generally recommend each climber bring US$1,000-$2,000 to contribute to the tip pool.
What is the conditioning level needed for this climb?
You should be in the best shape of your life! This is our longest expedition of the year. It requires patience, stamina, mental fortitude, and a strong will. Summit day can sometimes be over 20 hours long! Day by day the challenges are different, but the more prepared you are, both mentally and physically, the smoother your trip will go. Check out our training page for more information on fitness for climbing.
How do you train for a trip like this?
Our standard response to this question is that for Everest, you become a climber first, and everything else during this portion of your life comes second. This is the level of dedication to your training, both mental and physical, that you need to have. We have specific ideas around training and great book suggestions to help you along. Please look over our training page for details. If you require more information, please contact our office and we will be happy to put you in touch with one of our senior guides for a consultation and we can also link you with our training coach to design a training programme for you.
What type of communication is available on the expedition?
We have one of the most sophisticated communication systems around. A Wi-Fi connection is available at Base Camp and included in the expedition fee (fair-use policy applies). We power all our communications equipment with solar, using generators only as backup. On the mountain, we discourage phone calls as they distract from the climb and we often are limited by our power availability. If you need a private communications setup, this is also possible for a fee. Contact our office for details.
I want to contact my friend or relative, who is on one of your trips, how can I reach them?
We send daily internet dispatches, and we receive updates from our guides while they are in the field. The best place to reach a loved one is through our office.
Will there be any power source for charging batteries and electronic equipment throughout the expedition? What voltage requirements?
We take solar panels and battery power packs on our expeditions. Our first priority is to charge our computers, satellite phones and expedition electrical equipment. There is usually enough power to then charge your personal electrical equipment. If your equipment has a cigarette lighter type car charger, bring that and you can plug it in to charge. We do NOT recommend bringing rechargeable digital cameras; they tend to run out when power is not available. Use cameras with replaceable batteries and we recommend lithium batteries. We can cater for special power requirements at an extra cost—please enquire with our office. Many of the lodges also have power available with typical Asian plugs (two horizontal prongs) and they have battery recharging systems and pricing on offer.
What weather report service do you use?
We receive comprehensive weather forecasts from our Swiss meteorologists which enable us to plan our ascent around favourable weather. Additional meteorological interpretation provided by veteran high altitude guides through our head office in New Zealand helps manage the decision-making process.
What insurance will I need?
In addition to evacuation and medical insurance, we recommend that our expedition members buy trip cancellation insurance upon sign up for the expedition. We also highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy to provide cover for trip interruption, baggage loss, damage or theft, delayed flights or other such incidents that may occur during your trip. Contact us or see our webpage on expedition insurance advice.
Do I need evacuation insurance?
Absolutely! Evacuation from the mountain can be expensive and you need to be insured accordingly, as well as having coverage for repatriation and travel medical expenses. Read your policy's fine print to make sure it covers you for mountaineering and helicopter evacuation.
Who do you recommend for insurance?
You will be sent information specific to your expedition as part of your welcome package and requirements differ depending on where you are travelling and your home location.
What is trip cancellation insurance?
Trip cancellation insurance is an option that may allow you to cancel your trip without losing the total cost of the trip. Adventure Consultants highly recommends cancellation insurance for all of our trips. If circumstances cause us to cancel a trip (minimum numbers are not reached or travel to a country becomes too dangerous) then we refund your fees paid but trip cancellation insurance covers your airfare and any other costs you may have incurred.
How much should I budget for this expedition? How much cash should I plan to bring?
As this is our biggest and longest trip, we usually suggest members bring around US$2,500. This will cover everything from gifts to bottled drinks, tips and anything else that catches your eye on the trail. ATM cash machines work in Kathmandu, but only give the local currency, rupees.
What is your cancellation policy? Refund policy?
Please see the 'Payment Conditions' section above for the cancellation and refund policy for this particular trip. There is also a downloadable pdf document in the 'Trip Notes' section above.
Team members should take out private insurance if they wish to be covered against cancellation due to medical or personal reasons. This is called trip cancellation insurance and can be obtained from your normal travel agent.
Can I pay by credit card?
We can accept both the trip deposit and balance payment on credit card. Please note that there is a 3% fee for all card transactions. Please contact our office or visit our secure online payment system page.
What is included in the cost of my trip? Does it include airfare?
You can find information on expedition inclusions and exclusions in the 'Payment Conditions' section above. International airfares are not included in the trip price, but we can recommend excellent travel agents with whom we have worked should you require help with arranging your airfare.
I love the photographs in your brochure and on your website, are they for sale?
Yes, our images are available for licensing or purchase. Please contact our office for further information.
What is the best equipment for photography in alpine environments?
There is an extensive section in our reference notes, which are sent out upon receipt of your trip registration form and deposit, explaining about photography in the mountains.
Remember photos are wonderful records of your expedition but keep camera gear simple and light to best enjoy the trip you are on. Disposable and digital cameras are the lightest weight, but all cameras have maintenance issues that need to be carefully considered before bringing them to high elevations.
What about the Maoists in Nepal?
The Maoist problem which partly crippled the economy of Nepal for the past decade garnered major international interest. The Maoists have now formed part of the Nepalese government and there is a comprehensive peace agreement in place so we hope the troubles of the past are put behind the Nepalese people. Our sources in Nepal keep us up to date with the political situation and if there are significant changes we will be sure to advise you.
I want to become a mountain guide, where do I start?
Those with limited experience generally start by taking an alpine climbing course and then go out and climb for a few years. You generally should have at least 5 years of climbing and/or teaching/guiding experience. You need avalanche and medical training and then you can apply to do an NZ Mountain Guides Course or the equivalent in your country, aligned with the IFMGA.
Please see Adventure Consultants Mountain Guide Scholarships on our Career Opportunities page and check the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association for more information.
 Surviving the Extremes: Mount Everest PodcastJuly 2020 - Katja Seyffardt interviews AC CEO Guy Cotter on the mental mindset of high altitude mountaineering and the fortitude and resilience he has built over his 30 year climbing career. A 3-part podcast. |
 The Wild Podcast - Life & Death on Everest29 April, 2020 - In this episode of The Wild Podcast, Guy Cotter, CEO of Adventure Consultants talks about his history in the mountains, his influences and his experiences. |
 Alan Arnette - Virtual Everest 2020 Interview with Guy Cotter12 April, 2020 - Alan Arnette interviews Guy Cotter as part of his Virtual Everest 2020 Coverage and Support the Climbing Sherpas Fundraising efforts. |
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 The Denver Channel - Colorado Woman on Top of the World23 June 2017 - Sometimes the biggest accomplishments in life happen by chance. For 45-year-old Wendy Gustin, of Golden, it was a bad break in her career that led to her standing atop the world. |
 Newcastle Herald - Leah Jay climbs Everest23 May 2017 - Australian businesswoman Leah Jay has reached the summit of Everest in memory of her son who died in 2008 after a battle with Motor Neuron Disease. |
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 Alan Arnette Blog Fixing EverestAlan Arnette interviews AC CEO Guy Cotter on the state of commercial guiding on Everest, and his recent article on 'Fixing Everest'. |
 Stuff NZ - Changes to the Hillary Step on Everest19 August 2016 - Adventure Consultants Everest Expedition Leader Mike Roberts discusses changes he saw to the Hillary Step this year following the 2015 Nepal earthquakes. |
 Stuff NZ - AC Everest Team Successfully Summit19 May 2016 - Wanaka expedition leader Mike Roberts, of Adventure Consultants, successfully guided a team of 21 climbers to the top of Mt Everest. |
 Action Asia article on Guy Cotter - Jan 2016We recently caught up with Guy Cotter of expedition guides, Adventure Consultants, and asked about his involvement with the movie 'Everest' and the rebuilding of Nepal post-earthquake. |
 Mens Health Oct 2015 Peak PerformanceIt's a razor-thin line between life and death on Everest. After facing his own tragedy on the mountain, Guy Cotter emerged a more capable man. Use his lessons to scale your own heights. By Aaron Scott. |
 Guy Cotter talks about the Everest movie to Huffington Post |
 Guy Cotter Discusses All Things EverestJuly 7, 2015 - Ellis Brigham's blog recounts events on Everest in 1996, the New Everest movie and Everest 2015 with Adventure Consultants CEO Guy Cotter. |
 Explorers Web Interview with Suze Kelly Everest Earthquake Debrief.June 11, 2015 - Suze Kelly "It was like walking in to the scene from a plane crash"... |
 Southland Times - AC Vows to return to Earthquake stricken NepalJune 8, 2015 - A Wanaka guiding company has vowed to return to Nepal in September and is encouraging adventurers not to turn away from the earthquake-stricken nation and its people. |
| The Daily Mail - Sam Worthington scales new heights in chilling movie Everest June 5, 2015 - He is known for intense roles, having portrayed paralysed renegade Marine veteran Jake Sully in Avatar...The British-born star, 38, plays New Zealand climbing expert Guy Cotter... |
| Wanaka Mountaineer Mixing with Stars 14 Nov 2014 - The Otago Daily Times shares a little about the upcoming Universal Pictures 3-D film recounting Everest 1996 where Avatar's Sam Worthington plays Guy Cotter. |
| Radio New Zealand - Break on Everest Climbs May Allow for Better Planning May 2014 - Interview with AC Director Guy Cotter |
| National Geographic Daily News - Climbing Finished for Season on Everest after Deadly Avalanche? May 2014 - Mark Jenkins interviews AC Director Guy Cotter. |
| Huffington Post - Watching the Sun Rise on the Summit of Mt Everest 10 June, 2013 - AC 2013 Everest Expedition member, Cason Crane, blogs about his reasons for climbing Everest and the world's Seven Summits. |
| Polygon - Dean Hall on the Roof of the World: How Illness Persuaded the Creator of Dayz to Climb Mt Everest 7 June 2013 - Great article by Dave Tach about AC Everest 2013 team member Dean Hall and what led him to his goal of climbing the world's highest mountain. |
| TV3 - 60 Years on, New Zealander's Still Climbing Everest 27 May, 2013 - TV3 News interviews AC CEO Guy Cotter from Namche, Nepal while on his way back to Kathmandu from Everest/Lhotse. |
| New Zealand Herald - Record Breaking Glory on Mt Everest 22 May 2013 - AC Lead Everest Guide, Dean Staples', reached the summit of the world's highest peak for the ninth time this May, a record number of ascents for a kiwi. |
| Otago Daily Times - Meeting with Famous Climber 21 May, 2013 - Wanaka climber and Adventure Consultants director Guy Cotter was on a high before he even left Everest Base Camp last week after meeting one of his idols, Reinhold Messner, who is considered by many to be the greatest climber in history... |
| Otago Daily Times - Father-Son Everest Trip 28 April, 2013 - Hall is one of eight people from around the globe making the ascent as part of the Adventure Consultants expedition from Wanaka. His father, Otago Regional Council emergency management co-ordinator Graeme Hall, travelled with him as far as Base Camp and returned to Dunedin this week after seeing his son off on his perilous trek... |
| Otago Daily Times - Wanaka-Hawea Climbers on Top of Everest 5 January, 2013 - 6 AC guides profiled as the highest number of Everest ascents outside of Nepal concentrated in one town, per capita! |
| Wilderness Magazine - View from the Top Kiwi climber Peter Cammell writes of his experience climbing Everest in 2012 with Adventure Consultants. |
Between 1990 and 2019, Adventure Consultants has seen 360 summits of Mount Everest. These summits include the following nationalities:
23 May 2023
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal/USA (22nd summit)
Anna Ott, Germany
Cris Salomon, USA
Lisa Jelly, United Kingdom
Rebecca Heah, Australia
Chewang Dorji Sherpa, Nepal
Da Chiri Sherpa, Nepal
Lhakpa Chiring Sherpa, Nepal
Nima Chiri Sherpa, Nepal
Pasang Bhote, Nepal (12th summit)
Pasang Rinji Sherpa, Nepal
Sanduk Dorji Tamang, Nepal
23rd May 2019
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal/USA (20th summit)
Rob Kelso-Smith, Ireland (6th summit)
Leifer Svavarsson, Iceland (2nd summit)
Lýdur Gudmundsson, Iceland
Sophie Hilaire, USA
Greg Johnson, UK/Australia
Alexander Pancoe, USA
Roman Tschupp, Switzerland
Pasang Angchu Bhote, Nepal (3rd summit)
Dawa Bhote, Nepal (4th summit)
Guru Bhote, Nepal (2nd summit)
Passang Bhote, Nepal (11th summit)
Nima Chhiring Sherpa, Nepal (10th summit)
Chheten Dorji Sherpa, Nepal (7th summit)
Chhewang Dorji Sherpa, Nepal (12th summit)
Da Geljen Sherpa, Nepal
Pemba Sherpa, Nepal (3rd summit)
Rinjin Sherpa, Nepal (6th summit)
Dawa Wongchu Sherpa, Nepal (4th summit)
19th May 2018
Rob Kelso-Smith, Ireland (4th summit)
Lydia Bradey, New Zealand (5th summit)
Mike Davies, New Zealand
Gary Ervin, USA
Brad Horn, Australia
Robin Moore, USA
Michael Read, New Zealand
Penny Webster, New Zealand
Rinji Sherpa, Nepal (5th summit)
Cheten Dorjie Sherpa, Nepal (5th summit)
Chhiring Namgel Sherpa, Nepal (5th summit)
Dawa Wongchu Sherpa, Nepal (2nd summit)
Chhewang Dorjee, Nepal (10th summit)
Kaljang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal (12th summit)
Phura Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Rinjen Palden Sherpa, Nepal (2nd summit)
Guru Bhote, Nepal
Pemba Nuru, Nepal (2nd summit)
Pasang Angiu Bhote, Nepal (2nd summit)
Pemba Sherpa, Nepal
Mingma Tenjing Sherpa, Nepal (2nd summit)
16th May 2018
Guy Cotter, New Zealand (5th summit)
Leow Kah Shin, Singapore
Pasang Bhote, Nepal (9th summit)
Nima Chhiring Sherpa, Nepal (9th summit)
Pemba (Prakash) Sherpa, Nepal
13th May 2018 (Rope fixing team)
Da Thuk Bhote, Nepal (4th summit)
Tenjing Geljen Sherpa, Nepal (4th summit)
27th May 2017
Michael Haugen, USA (2nd summit)
Scott Simper, USA (2nd summit)
Paul Pender, USA
Sangee Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal (9th summit)
Pemba Choti Sherpa, Nepal (12th summit)
Ang Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal (9th summit)
Nima Nuru Sherpa, Nepal
Mingmar Tenji Sherpa, Nepal
Passang Wongchu Bhote, Nepal
22nd May 2017
Mike Roberts, New Zealand (9th summit)
Rob Kelso-Smith, Ireland (3rd summit, 1st from Nepal side)
Charley Mace, USA (2nd summit)
Suze Kelly, New Zealand
Leah Jay, Australia
Wendy Gustin, USA
Lionel Brecx, USA
Kami Rita Sherpa, Nepal (16th summit)
Chewang Dorji Sherpa, Nepal (9th summit)
Nima Tsering Sherpa, Nepal (7th summit)
Tenjing Geljen Sherpa, Nepal (3rd summit)
Umang Bhote, Nepal
Nawang Rapke Sherpa, Nepal
Passang Bhote, Nepal (8th summit)
Dawa Bhote, Nepal (2nd summit)
Dipen Bhote, Nepal
21st May 2017
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal/USA (19th summit)
Paul Pheby, UK/Hong Kong
Rinjin Sherpa, Nepal (4th summit)
Pemba Nuru Sherpa, Nepal
Rinji Palden Sherpa, Nepal
19th May 2016
Mike Roberts, New Zealand (8th summit)
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal/USA (18th summit)
Lydia Bradey, New Zealand (4th summit)
Brian Dagg, New Zealand
Danny Guard, New Zealand
Silvia Vasquez-Lavado, Peru (First Peruvian woman to summit)
Maria (Masha) Vladimirovna Gordon, UK
Colin O’Brady, USA
Da Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal (13th summit)
Pemba Chhoti Sherpa, Nepal (11th summit)
Kami Rita Sherpa, Nepal (14th summit)
Purba Chhoter Sherpa (Ang Jangbu), Nepal (8th summit)
Nima Nuru Sherpa, Nepal
Chhewang Dorji Sherpa, Nepal (9th summit)
Chhiring (Tsering) Namgel Sherpa, Nepal (4th summit)
Ngima Rita Sherpa, Nepal
Kipa Sherpa, Nepal
Dawa Wongchu Sherpa, Nepal
Da Thuk Bhote, Nepal (3rd summit)
Dawa Bhote, Nepal
Passang Bhote, Nepal (7th summit)
Mark Milewski, USA (20th May summit)
Nima Tsering, Nepal (6th summit, twice this year - 11th May and 20th May)
We returned to Nepal in the spring of 2015, and our climbing team had climbed to Camp 1 and 2 when Nepal's 7.8 magnitude earthquake occurred on April 25. In the subsequent avalanche that tore through Everest Base Camp the AC camp was hit hard, and we sadly lost six of our expedition staff. The Sherpas, guides and team members were airlifted down to Base Camp by helicopter with our Nepalese staff then returning to their homes to begin the re-build of their homes and lives.
We had a strong team in 2014, but tragically a serac fall in the icefall claimed the lives of 16 Nepalese high altitude workers and Sherpas, and all expeditions were halted on the mountain.
19, 20 and 21 May 2013
Dean Staples, New Zealand (9th summit)
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal / USA (17th summit)
Lydia Bradey, New Zealand (3rd summit)
Mike Roberts, New Zealand (7th summit)
Josef Hochmeister, Austria
Lukas Hochmeister, Austria
Cason Crane, USA
Simon Gower, Australia
Ingolfur Gissurarson, Iceland
Dean Hall, New Zealand
Thomas Stromstedt, Sweden
Mark Whetu, New Zealand (7th summit)
Dawa Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal (12th summit)
Sange Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal (8th summit)
Pemba Chhoti Sherpa, Nepal (10th summit)
Kami Rita Sherpa, Nepal (13th summit)
Phurtemba Sherpa, Nepal
Phurba Tenji Sherpa, Nepal
Datuk Bhote, Nepal
Ang Gelu Sherpa, Nepal (5th summit)
Ang Nawang Sherpa, Nepal
Kaji Sherpa, Nepal
Mingma Sherpa, Nepal
Phurba Ongyal Sherpa, Nepal
Rinji Sherpa, Nepal
Lhakpa Sherpa, Nepal (3rd summit)
Lhakpa Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal (9th summit)
Ang Phurba Sherpa, Nepal
Namgyal Sherpa, Nepal
Passang Bhote, Nepal
Tendi Sherpa, Nepal
Ang Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal
Ang Pemba Sherpa, Nepal
Karma Sherpa, Nepal
Dendi Sherpa, Nepal
Lhakpa Tenzing Sherpa, Nepal
25 May 2012
Victor Saunders, UK (6th summit)
Jakob Lindquist, Sweden
Sange Dorjee, Nepal (7th summit)
Datuck Bhote, Nepal
Tshewang Rinjin, Nepal
Lhakpa Sherpa, Nepal (2nd summit)
19 May 2012
Mike Roberts, New Zealand (6th summit)
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal/USA (16th summit)
Dean Staples, New Zealand (8th summit)
Joan Clofent, Spain
Neil Beard, UK
Peter Cammell, New Zealand
Wilfred Moshi, Tanzania (First Tanzanian to summit)
Izabela Smolokowska, Poland
Kami Rita, Thame, Nepal (12th summit)
Nawang Shera, Sanam Guidel, Nepal
Dawa Jangbu Sherpa, Pangboche, Nepal (11th summit)
Pemba Choti, Thame, Nepal (9th summit)
Ang Sona, Khunde, Nepal (4th summit)
Lhakpa Dorjee, Sanam Guidel, Nepal (8th summit)
Lhakpa Tenzing, Sanam Guidel, Nepal (3rd summit)
Ang Gelu, Khotang, Nepal (3rd summit)
19 May 2011
Mike Roberts, New Zealand (5th summit)
Basil Geoghegan, Ireland
Dennis Uhlir, USA
Sange Dorji Sherpa, Nepal
Pasang Bhote, Nepal
Kami Rita Sherpa, Nepal (summited also on 5 May 2011)
Lhakpa Sherpa, Nepal
Rinjin Sherpa, Nepal
13 May 2011
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal/USA (15th summit)
Dominic Jude, UK
Dominika Dillier Degelo, Switzerland
Jesse Kao, Canada
Dawa Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal (10th summit)
Pemba Chhoti Sherpa, Nepal (8th summit)
Ang Sona Sherpa, Nepal
Namgyal Sherpa, Nepal
Lhakpa Bhote, Nepal
Temba Sherpa, Nepal (6th summit)
11 May 2011
Dean Staples, New Zealand (7th summit)
Paul Hameister, Australia
Lhakpa Dorje, Nepal (7th summit)
Tendi Sherpa, Nepal
Gelu Sherpa, Nepal
Summit day on 22 May, 2010
Mike Roberts, New Zealand (4th summit)
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal/USA (14th summit)
Amanda Ramsden, South Africa (1st SA woman to complete the 7 Summits)
Tony Hampson-Tindale, South Africa / New Zealand
James Haydock, Ireland
Lhakpa Dorje Sherpa, Nepal
Dawa Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal
Sange Dorji Sherpa, Nepal
Temba Sherpa, Nepal
Pemba Choti Sherpa, Nepal
Pasang Bhote, Nepal
Ang Sona Sherpa, Nepal
Summit day on 19 May 2009
David Hamilton, UK (5th summit)
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal/USA (13th summit)
Neill Johanson, Australia
Hamish Fulton, UK
Carsten Bennike, Denmark
Sasko Kedev, Macedonia
Pasang Tenzing Sherpa, Nepal
Dawa Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal
Pemba Choti Sherpa, Nepal
Sange Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Temba Sherpa, Nepal
Pasang Bhote, Nepal
Nawang Chongba Sherpa, Nepal
Phu Tsheri Sherpa, Nepal
Kul Bahadur Magar, Nepal
Summit day on 24 May 2008
Mike Roberts, New Zealand (3rd summit)
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal/USA (12th summit)
Victor Saunders, UK (4th summit)
Lydia Bradey, New Zealand (2nd summit, this time using oxygen!)
Robyn Faike, USA
Cheryl Bart, Australia (First mother daughter team to summit)
Nikki Bart, Australia (First mother daughter team to summit)
Philip Drowley, UK
Steven Novick, USA
Hedd-wynn Williams, Canada
Carol Masheter, USA
Lhakpa Dorjey Sherpa, Nepal
Phu Tashi Sherpa, Nepal
Dawa Zangbu Sherpa, Nepal
Sangay Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Ang Sona Sherpa, Nepal
Pemba Choti Sherpa, Nepal
Tendi Sherpa, Nepal
Temba Sherpa, Nepal
Namgyal Sherpa, Nepal
Passang Bhote #1, Nepal
Passang Bhote #2, Nepal
Nima Tenzing Sherpa, Nepal
20 May 2007
Mike Roberts, New Zealand (2nd summit)
Cedric Hayden, USA
Lhakpa Dorjey Sherpa, Nepal
Nima Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Pasang Bhote Sherpa, Nepal
21 May 2007
Guy Cotter, New Zealand
Luis Benitez, USA
Mark Sedon, New Zealand
Chris Burrows, USA
Andrea Moore, UK
Sebastien Glorie, Belgium
Baxter Gillespie, USA
Dave Arnett, USA
Passang Tenzing, Nepal
Da Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal
Phu Tashi Sherpa, Nepal
Sonam Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal
Pemba Chhoti Sherpa, Nepal
Mingma Tenzing Sherpa, Nepal
Sange Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Temba Sherpa, Nepal
Tashi Thundu Sherpa, Nepal
Tendi Sherpa, Nepal
Phurba Ridar Bhote, Nepal
Dawa Finjo Bhote, Nepal
19 May 2006
Guy Cotter, New Zealand
Dean Staples, New Zealand
Victor Saunders, UK
Christopher Bell, UK
Andrew Chandler, USA/UK
Ana Elisa Boscarioli, Brazil (First Brazilian woman)
Steven Harvey, New Zealand
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal (11th summit)
Phu Tashi Sherpa, Nepal
Dawa Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal
Sonam Gyalgen Sherpa (Lakpa Chhiri Sherpa), Nepal
Tashi Thundu Sherpa, Nepal
Lhakpa Dorjey Sherpa, Nepal
Pasang Bhote, Nepal
24 May 2006
Luis Benitez, USA
Steve Moffat, New Zealand
Len Stanmore, Canada
Rob Follows, Canada
Katrina Sandling, Canada
Passang Tenzing Sherpa, Nepal
Phurba Sherpa, Nepal
Lhakpa Tenzing Sherpa, Nepal
Lhakpa Tharkey Sherpa, Nepal
Pemba Choti Sherpa, Nepal
Namgyal Sherpa, Nepal
Sangey Dorje Sherpa, Nepal
Passang Sherpa, Nepal
Pemba Gyalgen Sherpa, Nepal
We had a strong team in 2005, but unfortunately bad weather prevented the summit attempt.
Luis Benitez, USA (4th summit, first westerner to summit 4 years in a row)
Anthony Baldry, Australia
Samantha O'Carroll, Ireland
John Rost, USA
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal (10th summit)
Phu Tashi Sherpa, Nepal
Lhakpa Tarkey Sherpa, Nepal
Passang Tenzing Sherpa, Nepal
Nuru Gyalzen Sherpa, Nepal
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal (9th summit)
Passang Tenzing Sherpa, Nepal
Chuldim Sherpa, Nepal
Bill Crouse, USA
David Hiddleston, New Zealand
Ellen Miller, USA
Haraldur Olafsson, Iceland
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal (8th summit)
Passang Tenzing Sherpa, Nepal
Lhakpa Dorje Sherpa, Nepal
In 2001 we had a successful Makalu Expedition.
Ang Dorjee Sherpa made a speed summit attempt, but along with David Hiddleston had to turn back from the South Summit.
In 1998 we had a successful Dhaulagiri Expedition, and in 1999 a successful Shishapangma Expedition.
Guy Cotter, New Zealand
Ed Viesturs, USA
David Carter, USA
Tashi Tenzing, Nepal/Australia (Grandson of Tenzing Norgay)
Veikka Gustafsson, Finland (Oxygenless ascent)
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Mingma Tshering Sherpa, Nepal
Rob Hall, New Zealand (First Westerner to summit 5 times)
Andy Harris, New Zealand
Mike Groom, Australia
John Krakauer, USA
Doug Hansen, USA
Yasuko Namba, Japan (Second Japanese woman to summit)
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Norbu Sherpa, Nepal
Note: The tragic events of this expedition have been well publicised in recent years. On the descent from the summit the expedition was caught in a storm. Rob Hall was trapped on the South Summit with Doug Hansen and subsequently both died. Mountain Guide Andy Harris and climber Yasuko Namba also died; Andy was last seen returning to the South Summit to give aid to Rob Hall. A full account of the climb can be read in numerous books including Colin Monteath's book 'Hall and Ball; Kiwi Mountaineers, from Mt Cook to Everest'; Jon Krakauer's 1997 best seller 'Into Thin Air' which ultimately led to the 2015 Hollywood feature fim 'Everest'.
Guy Cotter, David Hiddleston and Jim Litch assisted from Base Camp with the rescue of the 15 surviving members.
Guy subsequently took over the reins of Adventure Consultants in June 1996.
Lobsang Jangbu Sherpa, Nepal
Rob Hall, New Zealand (First Westerner to summit 4 times)
Ed Viesturs, USA
Hall Wendel, USA
David Taylor, USA
David Keaton, USA
Erling Kagge, Norway (First to reach Everest and the two Poles)
Hellmut Seitzl, Germany (At 56 years, second oldest person)
Ekkert Gundelach, Germany
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Norbu Sherpa, Nepal
Nima Gombu Sherpa, Nepal
Rob Hall, New Zealand
Jan Arnold, New Zealand
John Gluckman, New Zealand
Veikka Gustafsson, Finland (First Finnish climber to summit)
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Ang Chumbi Sherpa, Nepal
Norbu Sherpa, Nepal
Rob Hall, New Zealand
Gary Ball, New Zealand
Guy Cotter, New Zealand
Ned Gillette, USA
Randall Danta, USA
Doug Mantle, USA
Doron Erel, Israel (First Israeli climber to summit)
Ingrid Baeyens, Belgium (First Belgian woman climber to summit)
Cham Yick Kai, Hong Kong (First Hong Kong climber to summit)
Sonam Tshering Sherpa, Nepal
Apa Sherpa, Nepal
Ang Dawa Sherpa, Nepal
Ang Dorjee Sherpa, Nepal
Tashi Sherpa, Nepal
Rob Hall, New Zealand
Gary Ball, New Zealand
Peter Hillary, New Zealand
Rudy van Snick, Belgium (First Belgian climber)
Mickey Reutersward, Sweden (First Swedish climber)
Oskar Kihlborg, Sweden
Apa Sherpa, Nepal
Lydia Bradey
Ang Dorjee Sherpa
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Mind Over Mountains - Completing the Explorer's Grand Slam
NZ Herald - Kiwi Mountaineer Guy Cotter on conquering Mt Everest
Stuff - 'Buyer Beware' for cut-price Mt Everest Expeditions
Chicago Tribune - Tackling Mount Everest
AC Everest Base Camp
AC Everest Base Camp Facilities - Alaska Structures
2013 AC Climbers Experience
Reinhold Messner praises AC Basecamp
Everest Summit Day 2007
Heather's Tent
