K2 (8611m) is the second highest mountain in the world, and is located in the Karakoram, a segment of the Himalaya. We climb from Pakistan following the Abruzzi Spur, which is the most common route on the mountain. The route consists of a combination of steep snow slopes and difficult rock steps over fairly open ground. The vertical gain from base camp to the summit is over 3500m, and we place five camps.

The expedition guide is supported by our experienced climbing Sherpa and a team of Pakistani high altitude porters all very loyal to us. They are supported by an equally good team of cooks who have high levels of hygiene and care. The climber to Sherpa ratio is 1:2. Our guide will have previously climbed Mt Everest and summitted other 8000m peaks.

It is important to register your interest early to enable permits to be prepared.

The itinerary
K2 is a 72 day expedition. On day 1 we fly from Kathmandu to Islamabad, where we spend three days preparing for the expedition. We fly to Skardu on day 5 and drive to Askole on day 6. We then trek into K2 base camp over seven days. The climbing takes place from days 14-62. The return trip reverses the approach, and we return to Kathmandu on day 72.

Is this trip suitable for you?
Himalaya Guides is a professionally led "non-guided" expedition for experienced mountaneers who want to work as part of a team to tackle the mountain. We say "non-guided" because, compared to guiding operations on alpine-scale peaks such the European Alps, our leader and climbing Sherpa team working with you will not be able to protect your every move. You must therefore have broad mountaineering experience so that you are capable and willing to move between camps unassisted. You will have good support on the mountain from our climbing leader and Sherpa team. Our guiding and climbing experience can be viewed here.