If you’ve ever dreamed of standing on top of the world, you’ve probably wondered, “How long does it take to climb Mount Everest?” As someone who has had the privilege of taking on this incredible challenge, I can share firsthand what it takes—both in terms of time and effort.
Climbing Mount Everest isn’t just about the weeks you spend on the mountain itself. The preparation begins months, even years, before you set foot in Nepal. You’ll need to build your physical strength, improve your endurance, and train your body to handle high altitudes. Many climbers spend at least a year preparing for the climb, which includes training hikes, strength workouts, and high-altitude treks.
Additionally, you’ll need to plan your expedition. This involves choosing a reliable guide company, securing permits, and gathering all the necessary gear. These steps alone can take several months of careful planning.
Reaching Everest Base Camp
The first physical step in climbing Everest is trekking to Base Camp, which is at an altitude of about 5,364 meters (17,598 feet). Most people take about 8-14 days to complete the trek from Lukla, depending on their fitness level and how well they acclimatize to the altitude. This trek is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and a taste of the local Sherpa culture.
The Climb: A Step-by-Step Timeline
Once you’ve reached Base Camp, the real climb begins. But don’t expect to head straight to the summit; climbing Everest is a gradual process. Here’s a typical timeline:
- Acclimatization and Rotation Period (4-6 weeks): The human body needs time to adjust to the thin air at high altitudes. Climbers spend several weeks moving between Base Camp and higher camps (Camp 1, Camp 2, and sometimes Camp 3), then returning to Base Camp to rest. This process is called “rotation,” and it helps your body acclimatize to the lack of oxygen.
- Waiting for the Summit Window (1-2 weeks): After completing your acclimatization rotations, you’ll return to Base Camp to wait for a favorable weather window. This is typically in late May, when winds calm down and temperatures become slightly more bearable.
- Summit Push (5-7 days): When the weather forecast is promising, climbers begin their final ascent. This involves moving from Base Camp to higher camps over several days. The final push to the summit usually starts late at night or early in the morning from Camp 4, located at about 7,920 meters (26,000 feet). Most climbers reach the summit within 8-12 hours and descend back to Camp 4 the same day.
Total Time on Everest
In total, climbers typically spend about 6-9 weeks on the mountain. This includes time for acclimatization, rest, and the actual climb. If you add the time it takes to trek to Base Camp and back, the entire expedition can take around 2-3 months.
Challenges That Affect the Timeline
While the timeline I’ve shared is typical, various factors can affect how long it takes to climb Everest. Here are a few:
- Weather: Unpredictable weather can delay the summit attempt by days or even weeks.
- Health: Altitude sickness or other medical issues can slow you down or force you to abandon the climb.
- Crowds: On busy days, climbers may face bottlenecks, especially near the summit.
- Experience: Seasoned climbers may move faster, while first-timers might need more time to acclimatize.
What It Feels Like to Finally Reach the Summit
After weeks of hard work, standing on the summit of Mount Everest is an indescribable feeling. At 8,849 meters (29,032 feet), you’re literally on top of the world. The view is breathtaking, and the sense of accomplishment is overwhelming. But you can’t stay long; the oxygen levels are dangerously low, and you still have to make the long, careful descent.
