EXPERT’S EYE VIEW

David Pritt Adventure Peaks

WHAT’S IT LIKE?

“Having Sherpa support is essential. Don’t be tempted by a low-cost expedition that does not offer such support, and be sure the actual Sherpato-client ratio is stated. Anything less than 1:2 will not give you the support needed to make a successful summit. Do you need oxygen? I would always say YES, unless you have strong prior experience of 8000m peaks. Emergency oxygen, quality medical supplies, a stretcher and Gamow bag form the basic safety kit and a good operator would also have direct access to a pre-paid medical advice service back in the UK. Finally, an expedition leader is also essential.”

WHAT SKILLS DO I NEED?

“Don’t forget that at 8000m you are at extreme altitude and you’ll need experience in order to feel that it is indeed ‘easy’. Make sure you have experience of at least 7000m in conjunction with good solid logistics support, both in terms of staffing, mountain and safety equipment. Climb a glaciated 7000m peak first, such as Himlung Himal, Baruntse, Peak Lenin or Muztagh Ata.” HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

“The cost to climb in Tibet has risen enormously in the past couple of years and it is now normal to expect to pay in the region of £16,000 to £20,000+ for a well-organised expedition.”