Kangchenjunga & Makalu · climb
Makalu guides
No reviewed guides yet.
Been here with a guide? Write a review to help other travellers choose.
Also serving Makalu
Pro guides who run trips here but have no reviews for Makalu yet.
Bold Himalaya
ERTI 3.75 overall
Based in Nepal
About Makalu
- Elevation
- 8,481 m (27,825 ft)
- Country
- Nepal
Climbing history
First ascent on May 15, 1955 by French expedition led by Jean Franco. At 8,485m, the fifth highest peak in the world. Known for its perfect pyramid shape and technical difficulty. Fewer than 400 successful ascents.
Notable itineraries
Makalu Base Camp Trek (18-22 days): Challenging trek through Arun Valley to base camp at 4,870m. Sherpani Col Trek: Technical mountaineering route crossing high passes to Everest region. Normal Route (climbers): Northwest ridge requiring advanced skills. West Face: Technical climbing route.
Weather and best time to go
Weather: During the climbing season, temperatures are generally warm in the valley on the approach to Makalu. Temperatures then drop rapidly as elevation is gained and are well below freezing at the summit. The spring climbing season generally means there is more snow on the mountain. Toward the end of the autumn climbing season, temperatures are the coldest., Best Time to Visit: April to May, September to October, Average Expedition Length 50 to 60 days
Currency
Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the official currency. Very remote region with limited facilities. Combination of teahouse and camping required. Restricted area permits needed. Budget $3,500-5,000 for organized trek.
Languages
Official: Nepali. Regional: Rai, Sherpa languages in different valleys. The Arun Valley is home to diverse ethnic communities. English limited to guide staff. Rich biodiversity with rare wildlife.
Every review is checked by our team before it's published, and guides cannot pay for a better rating.
Recommended gear for Makalu
High-altitude essentials picked for 8,000m expeditions. Recommended by our expert team.
- Rab Expedition 8000 Suit (Men's) (8000m suit): View at CampSaver
- La Sportiva Olympus Mons S Boots (8000m boot): View at CampSaver
- Black Diamond Absolute Mitts (expedition mitts): View at CampSaver
- Rab Expedition 1200 Sleeping Bag (down sleeping bag): View at CampSaver
- Petzl Ascension Ascender (ascender): View at CampSaver
- Global Rescue membership (rescue and evacuation): View at Global Rescue
Affiliate links: we may earn a commission if you buy through them.