How Long Does It Take to Climb Mount Everest?. A Comprehensive Guide

Climbing Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth at 29,032 feet (8,848.86 meters), is no small feat. For mountaineers, reaching the summit of this majestic mountain represents the pinnacle of adventure, endurance, and personal achievement. However, the question that often arises is: How long does it actually take to climb Mount Everest?

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The answer is not straightforward, as the time it takes to summit Everest can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. These factors include the route taken, weather conditions, climber experience, acclimatization, and even the specific year’s conditions on the mountain. On average, it takes around two months to complete the expedition. However, the actual time spent on the summit push itself is only a small part of the journey. Let’s dive into the specifics of the time frame, stages of the climb and factors that can influence the length of the journey to the top of the world.

Understanding the Everest Climb: Stages and Timelines

Climbing Mount Everest is not just about reaching the summit it’s about surviving the mountain’s treacherous conditions. Because of the altitude, weather, and unpredictable terrain, most climbers follow a structured approach to ensure that they have the best chance of success. The process generally takes around 60 to 70 days, divided into several key stages.

1. Trek to Base Camp (7 to 10 Days)

The journey to Everest starts long before reaching the summit. Most expeditions begin in Lukla, a small town in Nepal, which is known for its dangerous airport. From Lukla, climbers typically trek for 7 to 10 days to reach Everest Base Camp (EBC), located at 17,600 feet (5,364 meters). This trek is not just a means to get to the start of the climb; it also serves as a critical period for acclimatization.

During this part of the journey, climbers pass through villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche while adjusting to the decreasing oxygen levels. The trek itself is physically demanding but necessary to build strength and begin the acclimatization process. Taking time to acclimatize to the altitude is key to reducing the risks of altitude sickness, which is common as climbers ascend.

2. Acclimatization at Base Camp and Above (15 to 20 Days)

After reaching Base Camp, climbers spend a significant amount of time acclimatizing. This stage usually lasts around 15 to 20 days. The body needs time to adjust to the low oxygen levels at high altitudes. Climbers follow a process known as climb high, sleep low. This means they ascend to higher camps during the day and return to Base Camp or lower camps to sleep at night, allowing their bodies to gradually adjust.

During this acclimatization phase, climbers typically ascend to Camp 1 (at around 19,500 feet or 5,900 meters), then to Camp 2 (at about 21,000 feet or 6,400 meters), and sometimes even to Camp 3 (at 23,500 feet or 7,162 meters). The aim is not only to get used to the altitude but also to transport gear, establish supply lines, and familiarize themselves with the mountain’s terrain.

Many climbers also use this time to rest and prepare mentally for the more challenging parts of the climb ahead. Additionally, this stage provides the opportunity for climbers to interact with their team and Sherpas, who are instrumental in supporting the ascent.

3. Climbing to the Summit: The Final Push (4 to 7 Days)

The final summit push generally takes 4 to 7 days, depending on the conditions and climbers’ speed. However, the timing can vary due to weather and other external factors. The summit push involves a series of camps at progressively higher altitudes:

• Camp 2 (21,000 feet / 6,400 meters): This is the final major camp before reaching the summit. It’s from here that climbers will begin their push toward the summit.
• Camp 3 (23,500 feet / 7,162 meters): From Camp 2, climbers ascend to Camp 3, which involves a steep climb through the Lhotse Face, a near vertical wall of ice and snow.
• Camp 4 (26,000 feet / 7,925 meters): This is known as the South Col, located on the ridge between Everest and Lhotse. Camp 4 serves as the final base before the summit push. Here, climbers rest for a short period before making their final ascent to the summit.

The summit day is grueling. Climbers begin their final ascent from Camp 4 around midnight or early morning to ensure they reach the summit before the dangerous afternoon winds pick up. The climb to the summit involves navigating the South Summit, the Hillary Step (a famous rock face), and then the final ridge leading to the top. The journey from Camp 4 to the summit can take between 6 to 10 hours depending on weather, climber health, and the route conditions.

At the summit, climbers often spend a brief 15 to 30 minutes, taking in the view, snapping a few photos, and then beginning their descent. Due to the harsh conditions at the top, the oxygen level is about a third of what it is at sea level, making even basic tasks difficult.

4. Descent (2 to 4 Days)

After reaching the summit, the descent begins. It may take 2 to 4 days to return to Base Camp, depending on climbers’ stamina and the weather. This stage is often more dangerous than the ascent due to the increased risk of exhaustion, frostbite, and altitude sickness.

Descending too quickly can also cause problems such as HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) or HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema), so climbers typically continue to make their way down slowly, stopping to rest along the way. As a result, many climbers will spend the night at lower camps before continuing their journey down to Base Camp.

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Factors That Affect Climbing Time

While the average time to climb Mount Everest is between two months or 60 to 70 days, several factors can influence how long the expedition takes. These factors include:

1. Weather Conditions

Weather is one of the most unpredictable factors in the Everest climb. Climbers typically plan their ascent during the pre monsoon season (April to May), when the weather is more favorable. However, strong winds, heavy snow, and blizzards can delay the climb and make conditions dangerous. Climbers often have to wait for windows of calm weather to safely proceed.

2. Acclimatization Needs

Acclimatization is essential for preventing altitude sickness and ensuring that climbers’ bodies can handle the reduced oxygen levels as they ascend. Some climbers may require more time than others to acclimatize, which could extend their time on the mountain. Climbers who rush the process risk severe health issues, including pulmonary or cerebral edema, both of which can be fatal.

3. Route and Climbing Experience

The chosen route can also affect the time it takes to summit. Most climbers use the South Col Route, which is considered the most popular and relatively straightforward. However, other routes like the North Col (from Tibet) or the West Ridge can take longer and require more technical climbing. The experience and skill of the climber also play a significant role. More experienced climbers may take less time to complete the climb, while less experienced climbers may require additional time for safety or rest.

4. Logistics and Team Dynamics

Climbing Mount Everest is rarely a solo endeavor. Most climbers depend on a team of Sherpas, support staff, and guides to navigate the climb. The logistics of coordinating with a team, carrying supplies, and waiting for other climbers to clear routes can add time to the overall expedition. Furthermore, the presence of other climbers on the mountain, especially during peak season, can sometimes result in delays, particularly near the summit.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the time it takes to climb Mount Everest can vary greatly from person to person, but on average, it spans around 60 to 70 days. This includes the trek to Base Camp, the necessary acclimatization phase, the summit push, and the descent back down. While climbers may spend just a few days at higher altitudes, the majority of the expedition time is spent adjusting to the mountain’s extreme conditions. Factors like weather, route selection, and personal acclimatization needs all play a role in determining the exact time frame for each individual.

Climbing Mount Everest is not just about reaching the summit it’s about preparing for, enduring, and overcoming the challenges the mountain presents. With the right preparation, timing, and teamwork, climbers can reach the top of the world and safely return.