Mera Peak is one of the most alluring trekking peaks in Nepal as it involves a culturally stimulating journey through remote picturesque villages and forests, followed by a gentle climb the summit.
Mera Peak is perhaps best known because it is Nepal’s highest trekking peak and successful summits are rewarded with a spectacular panorama of five 8,000m peaks.
The climb of Mera comes at the end of a week-long trekking and acclimatisation programme designed to give you the best possible chance of an enjoyable yet successful journey.
The trip initiates in Kathmandu where we make preparations and enjoy the diversity of this ancient city before embarking on a flight into the town of Lukla in the Khumbu Valley, the entrance way to the Everest region.
Adventure Consultants is renowned for the quality of its service and strategy applied to high altitude expedition climbing. Our reputation is attributed to meticulous planning and experienced logistics coordination. We have a philosophy of investing in every expedition to offer our climbers the best possible chance of success.
We employ strong and specialised Expedition Leaders and Sherpa staff who are recognised as some of the most pre-eminent mountaineers in the industry.
Many operators make statements about their services that are intentionally designed to mislead or avoid addressing important issues. The reality on the mountain is that unless you have a strong and experienced leader with sufficient Sherpa staff in support, the chances of summiting are dramatically reduced. Expeditions that are operated by local staff, with no qualified and experienced western guides, are generally not able to offer you a legitimate level of safety or success. These expeditions have the highest ratio of accident and frostbite injury on trips which may seem cheap at the time when booking but the long term effects make the price difference irrelevant.
The AC approach to making expeditions work for you is reflected in the quality and safety of the expeditions we run along with our consistently high success rate.
Dates 2023
Trip 1: Pre-monsoon April 18 – May 11, 2023
Trip 2: Post-monsoon September 25 – October 18, 2023
Dates 2024
Trip 1: Pre-monsoon April 18 – May 11, 2024
Trip 2: Post-monsoon September 25 – October 18, 2024
Pricing Schedule 2023/2024
The cost of the expedition ex Kathmandu, Nepal is US$6,990 per person.
Inclusions
The price of your trip includes the following:
Exclusions
The price of your trip does not include:
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 or Amex) plus a 3% credit card transaction fee.
Deposit
A deposit of US$500 is payable to secure a place on the expedition trek.
Balance
The balance is payable 90 days prior to your trip start date.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Once you have paid your deposit your trip is confirmed, subject to payment of the balance of fees owing 90 days prior to your trip commencement date. An expedition trek member may then cancel his/her participation on the following basis:
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 Adventure Consultants' Mera Peak Expedition.
You can view the trip notes online by clicking the image or download a pdf by clicking the following link:
Team Membership
For the Mera Peak climb we will take a maximum of 12 people hence spaces are limited.
Our Guides
The expedition leader will be scheduled approximately six months out from the trip start. All of our trip leaders to Himalayan peaks have extensive experience at high altitude and a proven record of safety, success and compatibility.
Head Office Support Team
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
Expedition members will be provided with pre-trip medical advice and a medical questionnaire and asked to visit their family physician to receive a full medical examination. This information will be sighted only by the expedition leader and our medical adviser and treated with full confidentiality.
Level of Experience Required
This trip offers highlights of non-technical climbing at moderate to high altitude, and even though it is not technically difficult, the climb incorporates a lot of the components of the higher expedition peaks. An ascent of Mera Peak is regarded as the ideal introduction to Himalayan climbing. Whether you’ve climbed mountains before, or you just have aspirations to experience Himalayan expedition life, this introductory trip will enable you to truly savour the realities of expeditioning and many a Mera Peak climber has been inspired onto other high mountains.
The climbing is low angle and involves the use of two camps on the mountain before making the attempt at the top. You will be supervised and supported by your qualified Western guide who will teach you the necessary skills while experiencing this fantastic and safe adventure.
While previous mountaineering experience is not essential before attempting to climb Mera Peak, it is highly recommended. For a person who is regularly active in the outdoors with a reasonable amount of multi-day alpine ski touring or trekking with a backpack, Mera peak will not pose too many difficulties apart from the altitude component. For others who have little outdoor experience it would be extremely beneficial to partake in a basic mountaineering course prior to undertaking this trip. An introduction to basic snow craft and rope skills will be taught during the Mera Peak ascent by your guides. As with any foray into the mountains your fitness is a major contribution to enjoyment and success and for those not regularly exercising we recommend you sign up for a mountain-specific training program.
Difficulty Rating
Each of our trips is individually rated according to its physical and technical difficulty, displayed in the icons towards the top of each trip page. You can click on the accompanying question mark for additional descriptions and the full run-down of our grading system is available on our Difficulty Ratings page.
What You Carry
On the trek into Base Camp you will carry a small daypack with your rain jacket, camera, water bottles and snacks. Bring trekking boots for the walk and some spare shoes for relaxing during the evening. In addition, you should have your own small personal medical kit to care for cuts, blisters etc.
On the mountain, we have the luxury of a strong Sherpa team that will carry most of the team equipment, food and ropes. You are expected to carry your personal gear. This reinforces the need to take just the right amount of equipment with you on the mountain and to ensure you are ‘pack fit’ before you arrive on the expedition. See our Fitness Training Programs for information on how we can help you prepare for the expedition.
History
The first ascent of Mera Peak was made by J.O.M Roberts and Sen Tenzing on 20 May 1953, using what has now become the standard route from Mera La. A subsequent ascent didn’t occur until 1975, when French climbers Jolly, Baus and Honills climbed the North Peak.
Food
Food will be of the highest standard possible, given the remoteness of the situation. We will take meals in lodges and teahouses along the trail and will supplement this with some of our favourite imported snacks and coffee! On the mountain we usually have 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! We are able to accommodate most dietary requirements but do please inform us in advance.
Clothing & Equipment
Expedition trek members will be sent a list detailing all necessary clothing and equipment to be individually provided.
| Day | |
| 1 | Arrive Kathmandu |
| 2 | Gear checks and sightseeing in Kathmandu |
| 3 | Fly to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft), trek to Paiyu (2,750m/9,020ft) |
| 4 | Trek to Panggom (2,800m/9,815ft) |
| 5 | Trek to Najing Dingma (2,820m/9,250ft) |
| 6 | Cross the Surke La (3,030m/9,940ft) and continue to Cholem Kharka (3,550m/11,645ft) |
| 7 | Rest Day/Acclimatisation hike |
| 8 | Trek to Khola Kharka (4,200m/13,800ft) |
| 9 | To Khote (3,700m/12,140ft) |
| 10 | Trek to Tangnag (4,250m/13,940ft) |
| 11 | Rest day/Acclimatisation hike |
| 12 | To Mera Base Camp / Khare (4,800m/15,750ft) |
| 13 | Acclimatisation and fixed ropes training day |
| 14 | Climb to High Camp (5,800m/19,030ft) |
| 15 | Summit bid (6,476m/21,246ft), return to Base Camp (4,800m/15,750ft) |
| 16 | Contingency day |
| 17 | Trek to Khote (3,700m/12,140ft) |
| 18 | Trek to Thaktor (4,200m/13,800ft) |
| 19 | Trek to Thuli Kharka (4,450m/14,600ft) |
| 20 | Trek to Chutanga via Zatrwa La Pass (4,600m/15,100ft) |
| 21 | Trek to Lukla |
| 22 | Contingency day in Lukla |
| 23 | Fly Lukla to Kathmandu |
| 24 | Depart Kathmandu - Trip ends |
You will be met from your flight into Kathmandu by our staff then we all congregate at our hotel for a comprehensive briefing for the trip. This also provides an opportunity to check personal equipment. There are plentiful stores with trekking equipment available for purchase so any forgotten item is easily replaced.
On the day following your arrival and after our preparations are finalised, we make the best of our opportunity to visit some of the incredible sites in the Kathmandu valley when we visit monasteries and sacred sites. A quick walk up the steps to the Monkey Temple always gets the blood flowing!
Our flight to Lukla (2,860m/9,383ft) comes very early in the morning to make the best of the stable morning weather patterns and before long we are enjoying the scenic wonders of the Himalaya as we begin our trek to Paiyu (2,750m/9,020ft). Initially, we head down the valley, away from the popular and often busy Khumbu Valley and Everest region to Paiyu and Panggom. Now we can we enjoy the isolated, rarely visited villages before crossing the Panggom La (3,174m/10,413ft) and down through the rhododendron forest.
Over the next few days, we trek up through the phenomenal virgin forest, climbing above the treeline to a series of alpine lakes, before descending once more to the valley which opens up give us amazing views of the surrounding mountains, including our objective, Mera Peak. Although strenuous at times, our acclimatisation is greatly aided by this foray above 4,000m/13,000ft.
Tangnag is a great place for a rest day and an opportunity to take in the surroundings. From here we head off for an acclimatisation hike up towards the Base Camp of one of Nepal’s most challenging trekking peaks, Kusum Kanguru (6,367m/20,889ft).
We depart Tangnag (4,250m/13,940ft) to climb up the valley and through lateral moraine and grassy meadows to Mera Base Camp which is a small village called Khare (4,800m/15,750ft). As we ascend, some of our climbing route will come into view, looking much easier than the south face we’ve been walking around.
We utilise some time at base camp for further preparations including revisions and instruction in the use of climbing harness, crampons and axe. We’ll practice travelling roped up and prepare our mountain equipment. The route we take is reasonably straightforward, but it is preferable to learn the techniques in a comfortable environment. There is sometimes one small portion of fixed rope near the summit, so instruction will be given in this technique also.
Making the final approach to the summit reveals an amazing panorama of the highest mountains on earth: Makalu (8,481m/27,825ft) and Everest (8,850m/29,035ft), looming over peaks like Baruntse (7,129m/23,389ft), Chamlang (7,319m/24,012ft) and Nau Lekh (6,360m/20,866ft).
We aim to make the summit early to mid-morning and return to base camp that afternoon/evening.
After the climb, we descend to Base Camp, before continuing on to the small village of Khote (3,700m/12,140ft) the following day. After overnighting in Khote we trek through to Thaktor (4,200m/13,800ft) and climb up to Thuli Kharka (4,450m/14,600ft) the following day. We then have an early start for our crossing of the Zatrwa La (4,600m/15,100ft). Depending on conditions we may fix a rope on the steeper section and care is required if there has been recent snowfall. We descend to Chutanga (3,430m/11,250ft) and then the next day have an easy walk into Lukla for our flight to Kathmandu and a celebratory meal back in the lively city. The following day the trip finishes and your guide will coordinate airport drop offs for your flight home.
City Tour
Experience the sights of Kathmandu with a qualified English speaking guide. See some ancient temples nestled within the city, places that have remained the same for centuries. But don't just see them; get a valuable insight from a knowledgeable local guide. You will be amazed. Kathmandu has more surprises than you can imagine.
Luxury Hotel Upgrades
Kathmandu has a wealth of accommodation options. On our standard expedition departure we stay at a good, western standard, mid-range hotel but if you feel you would like to upgrade to luxury style, we can assist with booking alternative hotels.
Just a few hours drive from Kathmandu is the beautiful Himalayan region of Langtang National Park. We offer two pre-acclimatisation trips to either the Langtang or Gosain Kunda lakes area. An ideal opportunity to pre-acclimatise prior to your Himalayan expedition. Click on the image below for trek trip notes or contact our office for more information.
Langtang Villages – 8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 1 – Arrive in Kathmandu, gear checks and trek briefing
Day 2 – Drive to Shyabrubesi (1,550m/5,085ft)
Day 3 – Trek to Lama Hotel (2,380m/7,810ft)
Day 4 – Trek to Langtang Villages (3,430m/11,250ft)
Day 5 – Trek to Kyanjin Gompa (3,870m/12,700ft)
Day 6 – Trek to Kyanjin Ri (4,770m/15,650ft), return to Lama Hotel
Day 7 – Trek back to Shyabrubesi
Day 8 – Return to Kathmandu
Gosain Kunda Lakes - 8 Days / 7 Nights
Day 1 – Arrive in Kathmandu, gear checks and trek briefing
Day 2 – Drive to Dhunche (1,950m/6,400ft)
Day 3 – Trek to Thulo Shyabru (2,200m/7,220ft)
Day 4 – Trek to Shing Gompa (3,584m/11,759ft)
Day 5 – Trek to Gosain Kunda (4,381m/14,373ft)
Day 6 – Trek back to Shing Gompa
Day 7 – Trek back to Dhunche
Day 8 – Return to Kathmandu
Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is one of the major draw cards in Nepal outside of the Himalayas. This World Heritage listed wildlife reserve protects over 932km² of wilderness and is home to a raft of different wildlife. While there you will have the opportunity to see one-horned rhinoceroses, monkeys and deer. If you are really lucky you might even see a Royal Bengal Tiger. Since you are in Nepal, why not stay a little longer and experience this gem. For more information check out our Chitwan page.
Pokhara and Tiger Mountain Lodge
Perched 1,000 feet above the Pokhara Valley with a spectacular Himalayan backdrop, Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge provides a perfect haven, the essence of tranquillity. This side trip is ideal for guests pre- and post-expedition, or for those wishing to take day walks exploring local communities, bird-watching, gentle exercise, or just to relax in a typical Nepalese rural setting. For more information check out our Pokhara page.
We are also able to offer Privately Guided Expeditions where you have the services of a top AC western guide as well as your own Sherpa support team to work exclusively with you on the expedition to ensure your needs are best met. AC have been fortunate to work with many privately guided groups over the years with exceptional results.
Trekking Option for Non-climbing Family and Friends
Your family or friends may wish to join you on your Expedition but may not like the idea of actually climbing a mountain. We can arrange for them to accompany you on the trek, either for the full duration of the expedition, or for the Mustang Trek component, which makes for an achievable 3-week trip away from home. Please contact us for more information.
Additional Sherpa Support
We offer a service giving members the option to have their gear carried on ‘camp moving’ days, so all you have to carry is your jacket and water bottle and items required for the day. This option is popular with those who have difficulty recovering after a carrying a heavy load at altitude.
Personal Sherpa
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 Himalayan ascents under their belts, and are friendly and supportive companions along the way!
Personal Communications & Personal Tent on the Mountain
You may also like to talk to us about other options such as personal communication systems (own satellite phone and internet connection at Base Camp), or the provision of a personal tent on the mountain.
Film Your Expedition
Have a cameraman join your expedition and document the entire thing! Choose from a variety of options for different budgets. You could have a full colour book and short film, or a full documentary for television. Your trip is the trip of a lifetime; why not keep it to show your friends and family. Contact us or see our specialty Film and Photo Services page for more information.
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.
The following is to serve as a helpful guideline on our Himalayan Trekking Peaks Expeditions. Please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions as our team is here to help!
info@adventure.co.nz
NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)
Please note you will be emailed a set of Reference Notes 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.
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 on the history of Adventure Consultants here.
A few outfitters claim to have the same level of experience and prestige as Adventure Consultants. In this league, what makes you the first choice for your climbers?
We are renowned for the quality of service and strategy applied to our expeditions. Our reputation is attributed to the meticulous planning and logistics coordination provided by our head office. Once on the ground in Nepal, you can expect to be well looked after by our guides so that you can relax and enjoy trekking and climbing in this amazing country.
What sort of hotels do we stay at in the city?
Our climbers usually stay at the Hotel Radisson in Kathmandu, which is only a 15-minute walk from the tourist centre of Thamel. The Radisson is situated in a quiet location and boasts a fitness centre, sauna and steam room, three restaurants, a bar, café and a rooftop swimming pool! A perfect place to begin and end your trip.
What showers and laundry facilities will be available on the expedition?
Hot showers are available in some of the lodges during the trekking phase for a small fee. We advise people to bring wet-wipes for the impromptu wash in between available showers and some lodges also provide a laundry service for a small fee.
Please note that on the Dhaulagiri Circuit and Dhampus Peak, there are generally no showers available, although a bowl of hot water will be available for washing on most days. Most days also start with a 'hot face towel' delivered to your tent or dining table. Likewise, no laundry facilities are available due to the lack of drying opportunities.
What food will be available?
You’ll get breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, plus ample hot and cold drinks. We can cater for vegetarians as well as many other special diets as long as we are informed of this prior to the trip. All of our expeditions provide excellent local and Western food! If you have any special treat you like, we encourage you to bring some along.
What is the food like?
When staying in the lodges, expect hearty food like yak steak, local favourites such as dal bhat and Western-style dishes such as pizza. When in camp, our well-trained cooks prepare high-quality Western food as well as popular local dishes and we usually bring a few treats from New Zealand such as Kiwi bacon, cheese and salami, fresh coffee and yoghurt. Once on the mountain, we typically focus on MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) which are real food, freeze-dried and vacuum sealed. Please indicate any specific dietary requirements you may have on your application form. We are happy to accommodate those with specific diets.
What are the lodges like? Can I have my own room or tent?
We book tidy, clean and modern lodges using the best that are available in each village. They are well-known locations to us and we have a good relationship with the lodge owners. If you prefer, we can book private rooms for you at an added cost. Our standard trips are based on shared rooms, usually twin-share and sometimes triple-share.
In camps, you will be sleeping in a high-quality mountain tent, shared with one other climber. You will be greeted each morning with a cup of bed tea, served by our smiling cook staff. Evening meals will be served in our comfortable dining tent. A single supplement is available – please contact our office to enquire.
What is the best way to get to Nepal?
Regular flights operate into Kathmandu via Bangkok, Doha, Hong Kong, Singapore and Delhi.
Do I need to arrive the day before the trip starts? And when should I book my flight to leave?
No, our trip programmes all have an arrival day and a departure day built into them. You are welcome, and encouraged, to arrive a bit earlier to explore Kathmandu, if you have the time. Before your expedition you will receive a “final details” letter and this will let you know the time and place to meet your guides. An AC representative will meet you at the airport and the first of many team briefings will take place on the evening of Day One. Please do not book to depart before the scheduled final trip itinerary day.
My travel agent says I can just get an ‘e’ ticket (electronic ticket) and will not need to be actually issued a physical ticket.
'E' tickets are the standard practice these days. Do ensure you print your itinerary and have your booking number with you, as this allows our local agents to assist with changing your return flight plans if need be, while you are in the mountains.
When should I book my ticket?
Generally, we ask you to wait until your expedition's balance payment 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 ensure you can make changes to your tickets or you run the risk of losing your ticket if we do have to cancel the trip.
Where do we meet? Will I be picked up?
You should fly into Kathmandu International Airport (KTM) and an Adventure Consultants guide or representative will be there to pick you up off your flight. Even if you are arriving before the scheduled trip start date, we can often still make arrangements for a pick up.
What if I am arriving early or departing late?
Adventure Consultants can make reservations for you and can often make recommendations for attractions to enjoy while waiting for your trip to begin. Please let our office know your specific plans as we love to pass on Kathmandu sightseeing tips.
Do I need to get a visa?
Yes. For most nationalities, a visa can either be obtained on arrival into Kathmandu or can be issued online prior through Nepal's online system. 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 40-day visa costs $40 and 90-day visa costs US$100.
Do you have a recommended list of clothing we should bring?
Once we have received your application, we will email out your Reference Notes which include detailed equipment lists. Any questions you have after reading through this can be directed to our designated Equipment Coordinator, who can assist you by recommending and sourcing a range of suitable clothing and equipment via our gear retail service.
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 warm do we need our sleeping bags to be? Will there be extra blankets available if required?
This will be clearly stated in your recommended gear list. It will depend on where you are going, but in general you will need a sleeping bag warm enough for you in conditions that can be as cold as -15°C. Blankets are generally not available so pay careful attention to the bags we recommend. We suggest buying a sleeping bag big enough to allow you to wear extra clothes in if it is especially cold. Sleeping in a warm hat can also greatly improve a bag's warmth.
Will there be any oxygen carried on the expedition? Is this included in our expedition fee?
Most of our expeditions take oxygen as a medical backup and we also take PACs (Personal Altitude Chambers) with us. A trekker or climber with mountain sickness is placed inside the chamber and it is inflated around them. It increases the air pressure and any altitude related illness is usually immediately fixed. The climber then feels better and can usually walk down to lower elevations to recover.
What altitude medication will be available on the expedition? Do we need to take tablets before/during the trek?
All our guides carry extensive medical kits including various medications for altitude illness. If you have a previous history of altitude illness then discuss this with us and your physician, otherwise there should be no need to take preventative medication before or during your trip.
You 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.
How much weight will we carry on the expedition?
You will carry your day pack with warm clothes, water, snacks, sun block, camera and whatever else you need for the day. Generally, it will be light, 5 -10kgs/10-20lbs. On summit day(s), you will add your down jacket, technical climbing gear (which you will be wearing most of the time) and heavier gloves.
How many guides/Sherpas will be assigned to our group?
A ratio of climbers to Western guides is stated on each trip’s web page in the downloadable ‘Trip Notes’. Sherpa guides are assigned depending on the size of the group and type of expedition.
Who goes on your trips?
Our climbers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, interests, countries and skill levels, ranging from those seeking skill development to those seeking assistance with the world's highest mountains, or purely adventure. We provide courses, expeditions, treks and guided ascents for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.
I would like to arrange a private trip, is this possible?
We are happy to arrange a private group trip and we have run many successful private trips and expeditions including summits of 8,000m peaks such as Gasherbrum 2 and Kanchenjunga, all of the Seven Summits and remote destinations such as Antarctica. Some clients enjoy the added privacy and schedule flexibility that a private expedition allows, so you can hike and climb at your own pace and enjoy the mountains on your own terms. There is no specific group size, but obviously larger groups are more cost-effective. Please contact the office for more information or visit our Private Customised Expeditions page.
What kind of physical condition should I be in for the expedition?
We cannot recommend enough being fit prior to the expedition as this will make all the difference to your enjoyment and success. Focus on pack carrying on steep and varied terrain, aiming to carry 5-10% more than the maximum expedition pack weight you will carry (approximately 10-15kg/20-30lbs).
Endurance training is also important as you will have to be able to trek, carrying a light pack for 4-6 hours on most days. Summit day(s) can be 10-14 hours long, so do fit some longer days into your training also.
Add back-to-back days of pack carrying in the weeks and months prior to your departure. This can be in the form of overnight backpacking or with the first day on stairs or in the gym, building up to the maximum altitude gain required on summit day (check your itinerary for this information), and a second day of flatter, outdoor walking with a lighter pack.
How do I know this is the right trip for me?
We offer trips to suit all levels of ability and ambition, from your first mountain experience to extreme ascents and everything in between. To help you navigate the choices available, our trips are graded by both the level of physical exertion and the level of skill required, allowing you to find your perfect expedition match. These ratings are displayed in the icons at the top of each expedition page, with a further explanation available by clicking on the accompanying question mark. A full run-down of the categories can be found on our Difficulty Ratings page and our team is more than happy to discuss your experience to find the right trip for you.
Will there be any access to a satellite phone? If so, what will be the charges for usage?
Yes, most of our expedition guides take satellite phones and you are welcome to use these at US$3 per minute. Most often, your guide will post daily dispatches on the AC website in which your friends and family can follow your progress.
I want to contact my friend or relative, who is on one of your trips, how can I reach them?
Many of our treks and climbs 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, etc. available throughout the expedition?
Many of the lodges have power available with typical Asian plugs (two horizontal prongs) and offer recharging for a fee. We can cater for special power requirements at an extra cost or advise on the purchase of a suitable personal solar charging system - please enquire with our office.
What insurance do we need to get?
On all of our international expeditions, you will require insurance to cover any personal or medical mishaps that may occur before or during the expedition. Click here for more information on expedition insurance.
Do I need evacuation insurance?
Yes, it is very important. Many of our expeditions are in remote places with no roads and developing medical services. In the unlikely event that you get sick, you want to get to good medical care ASAP.
Who do you recommend for insurance?
Coverage varies based on your nationality and the trip that you are taking with us. When you have booked on a trip with us, we will send you comprehensive information on various insurance options which will serve as a good starting point for obtaining the best coverage.
What is trip cancellation insurance?
We recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance to all our expedition and trek members. You should purchase the insurance upon sign up for your expedition or at the very least when you pay the balance payment. It is very important to buy trip cancellation insurance (in addition to your evacuation and comprehensive travel insurance) as it is not unknown for people to have unforeseen circumstances that force them to cancel their trips for reasons such as family illness and injury to self, etc..
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 online payment system.
What is included in the cost of my trip? Does it include airfare?
Please see the 'Payment Conditions' section above for the inclusions and exclusions for this particular trip. There is also a downloadable pdf document in the 'Trip Notes' section above. International airfares are not included in the trip price. We can, however, recommend excellent travel agents with whom we have worked should you require help with arranging your international airfare.
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 ‘cheaper’ trips.
How do I sign up for a trip?
The best way to reserve your space on the trip is to contact our office or complete our online booking form (click 'Book Now' below). Your deposit can be submitted by bank transfer (please see 'Payment Details' in the 'Payment Conditions' section above) or via our secure online payment system.
info@adventure.co.nz
NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)
I love the photographs in your brochure and on your website, are they for sale?
Yes, our images are available for licensing or purchase and please contact our office for more information.
What is the best equipment for photography in alpine environments?
There is an extensive section in our reference notes, which are emailed out upon receipt of your trip 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.
Dispatches - Mera Peak 2017
Dispatches - Mera Peak 2016 #2
Dispatches - Mera Peak 2016 #1
Dispatches - Mera Peak 2015
Dispatches - Mera Peak 2014
Dispatches - Mera Peak 2006
