Everest

Climbing the world’s highest mountain is technical, complex and terrifying. An attempt on the summit is fraught with unimaginable danger. It’s thought around 600 people successfully summit the behemoth each year, yet a similar number fail to do the same. Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay were the first men to reach Everest’s peak on 29 May 1953 — an unfathomable feat with their modest equipment. Today’s climbers have the advantage of new technology, but cuttingedge gear aside, Everest can be unpredictable and unforgiving. Once the preserve of hardy professionals, Everest’s lower slopes now attract thousands every year attempting to reach base camp. Don’t be fooled by the commercialism of the route — you’ll be trekking for around eight hours a day at altitudes of 18,000ft. If you ever need a harsh reminder that Mother Nature’s in charge, then Everest’s your answer.