Makalu Expedition

Fifth tallest mountain in the world

5 Reviews

Trip Overview

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey to conquer the majestic Mt. Makalu, standing at 8481 meters, as Taktok Brothers Expeditions takes you on an adventure of a lifetime. Located at the border of Nepal and Tibet, only 19 kilometers from Mt. Everest, Mt. Makalu boasts a distinctive pyramid shape formed by sharp ridges from all four sides.

The allure of Mt. Makalu has attracted adventurers since its first ascent on 15th May 1955 by Jean Couzy and Lionel Terray of the French Expedition. The standard route, via the saddle between Makalu Peak and Kang Chun Tse, presents both challenges and rewards. Considered one of the most difficult peaks among the 8000ers, Mt. Makalu demands strength, experience, and advanced mountaineering skills.

Navigating steep pitches and sharp ridges, climbers face significant exposure and risks. Taktok Brothers ensures a safe ascent with proper acclimatization and experienced guides and climbing Sherpas who set up fixed ropes above the base camp, facilitating a secure climb.

The expedition route traverses the remote and isolated Makalu Barun Valley, offering exceptional natural beauty and rare mountain ecosystems. Witness cascading waterfalls, rocky landscapes behind dense forests, and vibrant flowers in bloom. This adventure promises a unique blend of excitement, serenity, and tranquility, providing a respite from the chaos of everyday life.

Preparation for Makalu Expedition: Given the technical challenges, prior experience in high-altitude mountaineering, including climbs of 7000m and lower 8000m peaks, is essential. Train your body for physical strength and your mind for endurance and determination. Taktok Brothers offers a 1:1 climber to Sherpa ratio, ensuring the best possible climbing experience.

Best Season for Makalu Expedition: Optimal seasons for the Makalu Expedition are Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May), featuring clear weather and predictable conditions. The trekking trail dazzles with blossoming flowers, vibrant Rhododendron blooms, and a mild mix of heat and cold. However, Taktok Brothers Expeditions tailors plans for any season, ensuring a perfect travel experience.

Embark on the Makalu Expedition with Taktok Brothers and conquer new heights with confidence and adventure.

  • Season
    Autumn/Spring
  • Destination
    Makalu Region, Nepal
  • Duration
    50 Days
  • Altitude
    8463 m
  • Groups
    1-15 Peoples
  • Walk per day
    5 - 6 Hours

Itinerary

When you arrive in Kathmandu, our team will be there to greet you at the airport. If you haven't already, you'll need to get your Entry Visa. Afterward, we'll take you to your hotel so you can rest.

  • Altitude 1400m
  • Meals N/A
  • Accomodation 3-5 star hotel

The next day, we'll handle all the necessary paperwork and permits for the expedition. You'll also get a briefing about what to expect during the adventure. If you like, you can explore the city or do some shopping in the evening.

  • Altitude 1400m
  • Meals Breakfast
  • Accomodation 3-5 star hotel

We'll have an early breakfast and then take a quick flight to Tumlingtar, a place surrounded by deep valleys. From there, we'll meet the team and drive for about 4-5 hours to Num, a small village in the Koshi region, where we'll stay overnight in tents.

  • Altitude 1560m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation Camping

Leaving Num, we'll descend for about 2.5 hours to reach the Neguwa River, cross a suspension bridge, and then start a walk-through forests and small settlements. We'll pass terraced fields and stop at a check post in the Makalu Conservation Area to get the necessary permits.

  • Altitude 1510m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation camping

The trail from Sheduwa to Tashi Gaon is easy, with some flat areas and gentle ascents. After about 4 hours of walking, we'll reach Tashi Gaon, a Sherpa village adorned with prayer flags. We'll set up camp here for the night.

  • Altitude 2070m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation camping

This part of the journey involves walking uphill through Rhododendron and pine tree forests. We'll camp at Khongma, which has only one tea house, and enjoy meals prepared by our team.

  • Altitude 3760m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation camping

We'll start the day by climbing up to a beautiful lake called "Kalo Pokhari." Then, we'll descend to Mumbuk.

  • Altitude 3250m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation camping

The trail from Mumbuk becomes more adventurous as we pass through an area prone to landslides. As we ascend, you'll be treated to stunning views of various peaks, including Mt. Tutse and Peak 7.

  • Altitude 4320m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation camping

Moving from Nehe Kharka, we'll ascend to the Lower Base Camp of Mt. Makalu. Here, you'll have captivating views of several peaks, including Mt. Makalu. We'll spend two more days here to acclimatize and prepare for the expedition.

  • Altitude 4870m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation camping

After acclimatizing at the lower base camp, we'll take a hike up to the higher base camp, situated at around 5600 m.

  • Altitude 5600m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation full board camp service

We'll embark on our expedition to Mt. Makalu, which includes several rotations around the higher camps to prepare for the final summit push. Our Sherpas will set up fixed ropes for safety. When the weather is right and everyone is ready, we'll make the push for the summit. We aim to reach the top at sunrise. After enjoying the view, we'll head back down to the base camp.

  • Altitude 8481m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation full board camp service

Before we leave, we ensure we clean up all our waste and trash, following eco-friendly practices. After cleaning up the base camp, we'll prepare to head back to Yangle Kharka.

  • Altitude 4870m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation full board camp service

We'll retrace our steps on an adventurous trail, and you'll spend the night in tents at Yangle Kharka.

  • Altitude 3600m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation camping

On our way back, the trail offers more views of landslides. After 4-5 hours of walking, we'll reach Khongma, where we'll camp for the night.

  • Altitude 3560m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation camping

As we head back, there's more downhill trekking. We'll return to Sheduwa through Tashigaon.

  • Altitude 1510m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation camping

Our trail starts with a steep descent, followed by an ascent to Num. From Num, we'll drive to Khandbari and stay overnight in a hotel.

  • Altitude 866m
  • Meals BLD
  • Accomodation Hotel/Lodge

After a night in Khandbari, we'll have breakfast and drive to Tumlingtar airport, followed by a flight back to Kathmandu, where you can relax at your hotel.

  • Altitude 1400m
  • Meals Breakfast & lunch
  • Accomodation 3-5 star hotel

You have a day in Kathmandu to relax or explore Thamel, a bustling tourist area. You can go shopping, dine at a nice restaurant, enjoy spa services, and more. You can also explore the city's attractions, including Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, and Bouddhanath Stupa. In the evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner.

  • Altitude 1400m
  • Meals Breakfast
  • Accomodation 3-5 star hotel

If you haven't planned any other adventures in Nepal, it's time to say goodbye. One of our team members will take you to the airport three hours before your flight. Safe travel!

  • Altitude 1400m
  • Meals Breakfast
  • Accomodation N/A

Includes

  • Private vehicle transfers for airport pickup and drop-off from International and Domestic Airports to the hotel.
  • Four nights of hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with a Bed and Breakfast (B&B) plan.
  • Domestic flights: Kathmandu-Tumlingtar-Kathmandu with a guide and other staff.
  • All land transportation for members, climbers, staff, porters, guides, and Liaison Officer.
  • Makalu Expedition Permit and National Park Entry Fees.
  • Garbage Management and Shipment fees.
  • Lodging and food (3-time full course meals) during the overall trek.
  • Base Camp facilities including food, tents for dining, sleeping, toilet, and shower, tables, sleeping mattresses, pillows, quilts, and all essentials.
  • Wages and allowances for porters, guides, Climbing Sherpas, Cooks, and helpers.
  • Fees for the Liaison Officer.
  • Luggage carriage fee (up to 60 kg per member).
  • Insurance coverage for all Nepali staff and members.
  • Solar panels for light and charging at the base camp.
  • Heater service in the Dining Tent.
  • Four oxygen cylinders per member and one cylinder for the high altitude climbing Sherpa.
  • Permits for satellite phones.
  • One walkie-talkie per member for communication.
  • High Camp Service including cooking gas, utensils, gears, and equipment in high camps.
  • All taxes imposed by the Government of Nepal.
  • Comprehensive Medical Kit.
  • Makalu Climbing Certificate issued by MoCTCA (After the successful ascent of Mt. Makalu).

Excludes

  • International flight tickets to/from your country.
  • Nepal Entry visa fee (obtained at the airport upon arrival).
  • Lunch and Dinner during your stay in Kathmandu.
  • An extended stay in the hotel after 4 nights in Kathmandu.
  • Expenses incurred due to an extended stay in Kathmandu.
  • Travel and Medical Insurance for the climbing member.
  • Personal expenses like alcoholic beverages, telephone, Internet bills, laundry, etc.
  • Bonus and tips for climbing Sherpa ($1000), BC Cook ($200), and please calculate some tips for BC staff as well.
  • Emergency Rescue and Evacuation (Recommended to purchase an insurance policy that covers emergency repatriation).
  • Anything not mentioned in the Cost Inclusions section.

Trip Notes

Weather Dependency: Trekking and mountain climbing in the Himalayas are significantly influenced by weather conditions. While we meticulously plan our trips for the most favorable times, unforeseen scenarios may lead to road blockages. In such cases, please be aware that additional expenses for extra days beyond the itinerary will be the responsibility of the client. Taktok Brothers Expeditions will, however, ensure necessary arrangements for the accommodation of porters and guides.

International Flights: Taktok Brothers Expeditions will not be held liable for compensations due to missed international flights. Nevertheless, we are committed to assisting you in minimizing any losses by facilitating necessary arrangements. To avoid flight-related issues, we recommend maintaining flexible time frames both before and after the scheduled trip departure.

Itinerary Adjustments: Given the remote and challenging nature of the areas we explore, where climatic conditions and geography can lead to trail distortions, itinerary adjustments may become necessary. Please rest assured that any required modifications will not compromise the quality of service provided by Taktok Brothers Expeditions.

Cost of Expedition

The cost of your expedition is influenced by various factors, including group size, royalty and permit costs in different seasons, hotel accommodation categories, the number of allocated Sherpas, and equipment. Additionally, the type of arrangement and package customization contribute to the expedition cost. We prefer discussing these details directly with our clients to tailor the cost according to your preferences. Feel free to contact Taktok Brothers Expeditions for comprehensive information about your selected package.

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Testimonials

Our client reviews

Lisa Ligina

November 5, 2023

Taktok Brothers made my trek in Nepal an unforgettable experience. The entire trip, from planning to execution, was seamless. The team’s deep understanding of the local culture added a unique layer to the adventure. If you want an authentic trekking experience, Taktok Brothers are the ones to go with!

David De-Gia

November 5, 2023

My trek with Taktok Brothers was a dream come true. The staff’s passion for the mountains and their commitment to responsible tourism shone through at every step. I’ll cherish the memories of this journey, and I’m already planning my next adventure with them.

Maria D-Closk

November 5, 2023

I can’t say enough good things about Taktok Brothers! Their attention to safety and the overall well-being of their clients is commendable. The trek was challenging yet rewarding, and I always felt in good hands. If you’re looking for a trekking company in Nepal, these guys are the real deal.

James Cook

November 5, 2023

Taktok Brothers provided a well-organized and memorable trekking adventure in Nepal. Their guides are not only experts in the trails but also wonderful companions. We trekked through remote villages and breathtaking scenery, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. This company comes highly recommended!

Sarah James

November 5, 2023

I had an incredible trekking experience with Taktok Brothers! From the moment I arrived in Nepal, their team took care of every detail. Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and made the trek enjoyable. The stunning landscapes and cultural experiences made this trip unforgettable. I highly recommend them for your next adventure!

Luis Stitzinger

November 5, 2023

I am aware that even though being a mere entity in this cosmic drama, I have braved plethora of hardships and have languished at the other side of the rainbows.

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