Cho Oyu

Climb the majestic Cho Oyu

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the summit of Cho Oyu, the “Turquoise Goddess.” This expedition promises breath taking views, cultural immersion, and the ultimate mountaineering challenge.

Enquire

From £26,260

47 days

From £26,260

Enquire

Overview

Cho Oyu, standing at 8,201 meters (26,906 feet), is the sixth highest mountain in the world and offers a technically straightforward yet demanding climb. Our journey begins in Kathmandu, where you’ll prepare and acclimatise before flying to Lhasa. From there, we travel overland to Chinese Base Camp. This route offers not only a spectacular view of the Tibetan landscape but also vital acclimatization opportunities.

The climb itself involves navigating the graceful North West face, ascending fairly easy-angled snow slopes, and tackling a steep serac barrier at 6,800 meters. The use of fixed lines ensures safety on the steeper sections. The acclimatisation process includes stays at intermediate camps and rotations up and down the mountain to prepare for the final summit push.

Summit day on Cho Oyu is a long and demanding climb, taking 6-9 hours to reach the expansive summit plateau. The journey rewards climbers with panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and the surrounding Himalayan giants, making every effort worthwhile.

Full details

This expedition is ideal for mountaineers looking to tackle their first 8000m peak. Cho Oyu, while technically less challenging than some other 8000m peaks, requires careful preparation and a high level of fitness due to its altitude. Our team of experienced guides ensures a supportive environment, providing expert instruction and safety measures throughout the climb. The cultural immersion in Tibet, combined with the rigorous climbing schedule, offers a holistic mountaineering experience.

Why choose Impact Ascents

At Impact Ascents, we pride ourselves on offering bespoke and specialist expeditions that prioritize environmental sustainability and positive impacts on local communities. Our team has extensive experience and a passion for adventure and mountaineering. We focus on creating personalised experiences, ensuring that each expedition is tailored to the needs and goals of our clients. Our commitment to ethical practices ensures that local teams and communities benefit from our operations.

Weekly Hints, Tips and Hacks

Stay connected and prepared with Impact Ascents’ weekly WhatsApp updates. Receive tailored hints, tips, and hacks specific to your expedition, designed to enhance your experience and ensure you’re well-equipped for every challenge. Our expert advice will help you make the most of your adventure.

Client testimonial

“This Cho Oyu expedition with Impact Ascents was an incredible experience. The guides were knowledgeable and supportive, making the challenging climb enjoyable. The cultural insights and the breath taking views from the summit were unforgettable. Highly recommended for any serious climber.”

Asad A

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu. Meet the team and prepare for the journey. Overnight at a hotel.
  • Day 2: Welcome brief, gear check, and permit and visa formalities and sight seeing in Kathmandu. Overnight at a hotel.
  • Day 3: Expedition briefing and collection of visas. Overnight at a hotel.
  • Day 4: Fly to Lhasa and transfer to hotel. Overnight at a hotel.
  • Day 5: Drive to Shigatse. Overnight at a hotel.
  • Day 6: Drive to Old Tingri. Overnight at a guesthouse.
  • Day 7: Rest day and acclimatization in Old Tingri. Overnight at a guesthouse.
  • Day 8: Drive to Chinese Base Camp via Rongbuk Monastery. Overnight in tents.
  • Days 9-11: Acclimatization and equipment check at Chinese Base Camp. Overnight in tents.
  • Day 12: Drive to Cho Oyu Base Camp. Overnight in tents.
  • Day 13: Rest day and acclimatization at Cho Oyu Base Camp. Overnight in tents.
  • Day 14: Trek to the intermediate camp. Overnight in tents.
  • Days 15-41: Climbing window. Includes rotations and acclimatization.
  • Day 42: Go down to Cho Oyu Base Camp. Overnight in tents.
  • Day 43: Drive back to Shigatse. Overnight at a hotel.
  • Day 44: Drive to Lhasa, overnight at a hotel.
  • Day 45: Fly back to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel. Overnight at a hotel.
  • Day 46: Leisure day in Kathmandu. Celebration dinner and overnight at a hotel.
  • Day 47: Depart Kathmandu.

Practical information

Whats included
  • Experienced climbing guides and support team
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu, Lhasa, and during the trek
  • Internal flights and overland transportation
  • All meals during the expedition
  • Climbing permits and national park fees
  • Group climbing equipment
  • Comprehensive medical kit
Whats excluded
  • International flights to and from Kathmandu
  • Personal climbing gear
  • Travel insurance
  • Tibet visa fees
  • Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, laundry, phone calls)
  • Tips for guides and porters
Requirements
  • High level of fitness and endurance
  • Previous high-altitude trekking and climbing experience
  • Ability to carry a heavy backpack
Equipment
  • Detailed gear list provided upon booking
  • Personal climbing equipment required (harness, helmet, crampons, etc.)
Cancellation
  • Cancellations 90 days before departure: full refund
  • Cancellations 60 days before departure: 50% refund
  • Cancellations less than 60 days: no refund
Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance with mountaineering coverage is required

Leaders

Our trip leaders are experienced mountaineers with numerous high-altitude climbs. They provide expert guidance and support throughout the expedition.

FAQs

What fitness level is required?

A high level of fitness and endurance is required, along with experience in high-altitude trekking and basic climbing skills.

What equipment is provided?
Will I have a personal guide?
Are international flights included?
What is the altitude of Cho Oyu?
What are the accommodation arrangements?
Is prior climbing experience necessary?
What if the weather is bad on summit day?
Is travel insurance mandatory?
How do I book this expedition?

Costs

  • Total cost: £26,260 per person
  • Includes permits, accommodation, meals, internal flights, and guiding services

Enhance your trip

For those looking to add extra support and comforts to their high-altitude adventure, explore our Expedition Extras page. From additional oxygen supplies to 1:1 personalised guidance, discover the options available to make your journey more secure and enjoyable.

Related trips

Gasherbrum II

The Gasherbrum II expedition offers climbers a chance to tackle one of the easier 8,000-meter...

Climb Mount Everest

Our Everest expedition takes you through the heart of the Himalayas, offering a perfect blend...

Climb Manaslu

Manaslu, standing at 8,163 meters, is a magnificent peak located in the Mansiri Himal range...