Makalu is for experienced high-altitude mountaineers with a strong record on glaciated peaks. You should be confident using fixed ropes and moving on exposed snow, ice and rock. Tell us about your previous climbs so we can discuss whether the expedition is suitable for you. For a trek without the summit climb, see our Makalu Base Camp Trek.

Makalu Expedition
Makalu Expedition is typically a 56-day expedition.
22,990
Duration
56 Days
Per person · 2–10 travelers
Ask about departure dates
Private departure from US$ 22,990 · 2–10 travelers
- Traveling with a group? Ask about group rates
- We’ll help tailor the trek to your budget
Duration
Max elevation
From group price
Per person · 2–10 travelers
Amigo traveler rating: 4.9/5 across 548 reviews · Google, Tripadvisor, Amigo website
Is this trek right for you?
Technical, extreme adventures requiring training and experience.
Trekking involves altitude, weather, and trail risks. A planned itinerary, acclimatization days, and guide support cannot guarantee safety or reaching the planned destination. Conditions may require changes to the route.
Getting around
Private Car & Flight
PDFYour trip planning kit
Makalu Expedition
Trip overview
- Service level
- Amigo Plus
- Comfort profile
- Expedition Grade
- Accommodation standard
- Hotel/ Lodge/Tent
Route highlights
Attempt Makalu with an experienced high-altitude expedition team.
Trek through the Arun Valley towards Makalu Base Camp.
Prepare for glacier travel and technical climbing at extreme altitude.
Allow time for acclimatisation and a suitable summit weather window.
Mount Makalu, the fifth highest mountain in the world (8,485m) and located 12miles southeast of Mt Everest, is a pyramid-shaped mountain in Nepal. Located on the border of Nepal and Tibet, the summit ridge is also the demarcation point that indicates the border between Nepal and Tibet. One of the most difficult mountains in the world to climb was, however, first attempted on May 15, 1955, by Lionel Terray and Jean Couzy of a French expedition led by Jean Franco.
Read full trip overviewShow less
Mount Makalu Expedition: Makalu Expedition is typically a 56-day expedition. Out of 56 days, days 16–46 are set aside for climbing and acclimatisation and the remaining days as the trekking period. The expedition starts with a flight to Tumlingtar, which is at an elevation of just 920m. However, in just 10 days, the trail passing through the narrow gorges of the Arun Valley, rhododendron forest, and local pastures rises into the high alpine country, leaving the subtropical valley behind. Your eyes get a chance to feast on the incredible diversity of flora, fauna, and the pristine culture of the local people, en route to and from the base camp.
The ascent is made past the southeast peak and along the southeast ridge. The Makalu base camp is set at an altitude of 4,870m. Three high camps: camp I at 6500m, camp II at 7,300m, and camp III at 7900m are set above the base camp. C1 and C2 are set at the bottom of the southeast peak ridge and the final camp, C3, is at the beginning of the southeast ridge. The climb is moderately technical with exposure on the southeast ridge and requires some fixed rope set-up from 5800m- 6100m and from 6500m to 7500m. Starting base of the West Face, we climb into the hanging ice fall to the right part of the ice-fall. Now from the plateau above the ice-fall, the trail heads towards the ice-rock wall that extends to 7400m high. The final section of the summit involves technical rock climbing. The top greets you with a heavenly surrounding view.
The Makalu Expedition package is one of the best expedition packages offered by Amigo Treks and Expedition. Our standard package ensures comprehensive mountaineering logistic service required from Kathmandu up to the summit. The company makes the arrangement of bed and breakfast in Kathmandu; however, full board (meal and accommodation), is arranged in a teahouse during the trek and in a tented camp during the climb. The company also ensures that the climbing and trekking guides are English speaking, trained, licensed, and experienced.
All necessary permits, climbing documents, traveling logistics including airfares, ground transportation, porters and other individual services required by the Mountaineers will be arranged by the company. Dining tents, expedition quality personal tents, kitchen tents, toilet facilities, portable shower facilities, and tent accommodation required by our staff will also be arranged by the company. Moreover, we also provide satellite phones, internet access, handheld radios for communication purposes between high camps and base camps, while on the mountain, and a solar panel to charge batteries.
Late Spring and autumn are the best seasons to attempt Mt. Makalu. Come in a group for a special group discount. Moreover, if you are looking to attempt some other mountains, we make the best arrangement for Mt. Pumori Expedition, Mt. Everest Expedition, Manaslu Expedition, and even Annapurna Expedition.
Day-by-day route outline
Review the route day by day, or expand all days to compare the details.
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
Day details
On arrival at Kathmandu airport, an Amigo representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Settle in and confirm the arrangements for the expedition briefing.
Day 2
Days 2–3: Expedition preparation and briefing
Day details
Meet the expedition team in Kathmandu for the briefing, equipment checks and preparations. These two days provide time to organise personal gear and the documentation needed before travel to Tumlingtar.
Day 4
Fly to Tumlingtar and trek to Manebhanjyang
Day details
Fly from Kathmandu to Tumlingtar when weather permits and begin the approach towards Manebhanjyang. Meet the trekking crew and settle into the pace of the journey through eastern Nepal.
Day 5
Trek to Kuwapani
Day details
Continue from Manebhanjyang towards Kuwapani on the route through the eastern hills. The team will set the pace and arrange stops according to the trail and conditions.
Day 6
Flexible trekking day towards Num
Day details
This is a flexible trekking day on the approach towards Num. The precise walking section and overnight stop will be set by the expedition team according to trail conditions and the group’s progress.
Day 7
Trek to Num
Day details
Continue towards Num through the hills of the Arun region. Expect changes in elevation and weather as the approach moves towards the upper valley.
Day 8
Trek to Seduwa
Day details
Leave Num and descend towards the Arun River before climbing towards Seduwa. The route involves substantial changes in elevation, so walk steadily and allow the team to manage the pace.
Day 9
Trek to Tashigaon
Day details
Trek from Seduwa towards Tashigaon through inhabited hillside country. This is an opportunity to settle into the rhythm of the trek before the route enters higher terrain.
Day 10
Trek to Khongma
Day details
Climb from Tashigaon towards Khongma on a demanding ascent into higher country. The team will monitor acclimatisation and adjust the pace or schedule if needed; report any altitude symptoms promptly.
Day 11
Trek towards Sano Pokhari
Day details
Continue from the Khongma area towards Sano Pokhari through high mountain terrain. Weather and trail conditions can affect progress; the team will choose the route and stopping point accordingly.
Day 12
Trek to Mumbuk
Day details
Trek onwards towards Mumbuk. The high approach can involve exposed sections and changing weather, so follow the guide’s instructions and keep the day flexible.
Day 13
Trek to Yangle Kharka
Day details
Continue towards Yangle Kharka through the Barun valley. The route enters increasingly remote country, with views of the surrounding mountains when conditions are clear.
Day 14
Trek to Hillary Base Camp
Day details
Trek from Yangle Kharka towards Hillary Base Camp on the approach to Makalu. The terrain is high and remote; keep a steady pace and tell the guide how you are feeling.
Day 15
Trek to Makalu Base Camp
Day details
Continue to Makalu Base Camp and settle into the expedition camp. Meet the climbing team, organise personal equipment and discuss the acclimatisation plan before moving higher.
Day 16
Days 16–46: Makalu climbing and acclimatisation period
Day details
Days 16–46 are reserved for acclimatisation, equipment checks, rotations to higher camps and a summit attempt if conditions permit. Makalu is a serious high-altitude climb involving glacier travel and steep snow, ice and rock. The climbing leader will decide the route and timing according to weather, conditions and the team’s health; a summit cannot be guaranteed.
Day 47
Clean base camp and prepare for the return
Day details
After the climbing period, pack equipment, clear the camp and organise loads for the return. The team will review weather and trail conditions before departure.
Day 48
Trek to Yak Kharka
Day details
Begin the descent from base camp towards Yak Kharka. The day’s pace and exact stopping arrangements will depend on the team and the condition of the trail.
Day 49
Trek to Mumbuk
Day details
Continue back through the Barun valley towards Mumbuk. Expect remote trails and changing weather as the team retraces the approach.
Day 50
Trek to Tashigaon
Day details
Trek from the Mumbuk area towards Tashigaon on the return across the high approach. This is a demanding section; the leader may adjust the plan to the weather and the group’s condition.
Day 51
Trek to Num
Day details
Continue from Tashigaon towards Num, descending through the villages and valleys of the approach. The route includes changes in elevation and may be adjusted for local conditions.
Day 52
Trek to Chichira
Day details
Leave Num and continue towards Chichira. The landscape becomes more settled as the team makes its way back through the eastern hills.
Day 53
Trek to Tumlingtar via Khandbari
Day details
Continue to Tumlingtar via Khandbari. The team will organise the practical arrangements for the final section according to local trail and road conditions.
Day 54
Fly from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu
Day details
Fly from Tumlingtar to Kathmandu when conditions permit and transfer to the hotel. Flights may be delayed by weather, so allow flexibility in onward plans.
Day 55
Free day in Kathmandu
Day details
Keep a free day in Kathmandu to rest after the expedition. Optional sightseeing or personal errands can be arranged independently and are at your own expense.
Day 56
Departure transfer
Day details
After breakfast, transfer to Kathmandu airport for your onward flight. We will confirm your pickup time and departure arrangements.
What is included in the trip price
The essentials and support items that are already built into the package.
Cost Includes
Arrival and departure transfers by private car
Accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast (4*deluxe)
Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu
One day guided city tour in Kathmandu valley
Kathmandu to Tumlingtar and return air tickets
All meals (Lunch/Dinner/Breakfast) during the trek
Accommodation (Lodge/Guest House) while on a trek
Trekking Permits and TIMS permits for the trek
Trekking guide during the trek and climbing Sherpa while climbing
Required porters and yak to carry luggages and other essentials supplies
Special climbing permits and its procedure
Garbage deposit fees
All wages, equipments, medical and accidental Insurances for all involved staffs during the trip
First Aid medical kits for the Group and the staffs.
Satellite phone carrying by Guide for communication with company staff and available for members with the cost of US$ 4 per minute call.
Required fixed and dynamic rope during climbing period.
Gamow Bags/Oxygen
What to budget for separately
Items travelers usually pay for separately, depending on style, spending habits, and optional upgrades.
Cost Excludes
Nepal arrival visa fees
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Monument entrance fees while on Kathmandu tour only
All snacks, energy drinks, mineral water, cigarettes, packed food
Personal nature items, Laundry Expenses, Tips
Expenses incurred towards usage of landlines, mobiles, walkie-talkies or satellite phone And Internet expenses
Clothing, Packing Items or Bags, Personal Medical Kit, Camera/Video Fees or Trekking Gears
Rescue, Repatriation, Medicines, Medical Tests and Hospitalization expenses
Medical Insurance and emergency rescue evacuation if required.
Personal climbing gears
Group rates by party size
Per-person rates adjust automatically with your party size. Member discounts apply where available.
2-10 travelers
US$ 22,990
per personQuestions travelers usually ask before booking
These route questions cover Nepal, expedition in nepal planning, and the logistics travelers usually want clarified before they commit.
We generally plan Makalu for late spring or autumn. Conditions on the mountain, the team’s acclimatisation and a suitable weather window determine the climbing schedule; reaching the summit cannot be guaranteed.
The standard expedition is 56 days, including the approach from Tumlingtar and time for climbing. Weather, health and route conditions may require changes to the plan.
Makalu is a serious 8,000-metre expedition in a remote area. Climbers face crevasses, steep snow and ice, exposed terrain, extreme altitude and changeable weather. It calls for technical experience, endurance and careful acclimatisation.
The package lists a four-star deluxe hotel with breakfast in Kathmandu and lodges or guesthouses during the trek. During the climb, the expedition description provides for tent accommodation at camp.
The package includes airport transfers by private car and return flights between Kathmandu and Tumlingtar. From the Tumlingtar area, the expedition continues overland and on foot toward base camp. Weather may affect flights.
We arrange the special climbing permit and the trekking permits listed in the package. You will need a valid passport and Nepal visa; we will confirm the current paperwork and route requirements with you before departure.
The package lists breakfast at the Kathmandu hotel, welcome and farewell dinners, and breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek. The expedition description also provides meals at camp during the climb. Please tell us about dietary needs before departure.
The package lists the fixed and dynamic ropes needed during the climb. Personal climbing gear is excluded. Ask us for the equipment list and to confirm any additional group gear before booking.
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