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Ama Dablam Flash™

One of the most beautiful mountains in the world. In just 17 days.

Time is a valuable commodity. We are about to change the fundamentals of high-mountain expeditions.

Acclimatization for this expedition is already done at home. While a traditional Ama Dablam expedition takes one month, our Flash™ Expedition saves time and additionally increases safety and chances of success. (17 days only)

A stunning trekking route in a less frequented part of the Khumbu leads us to the Ama Dablam base camp, passing the Cho La Pass with an altitude of 5420m. This assists us – in addition to the hypoxic-tents at home – in reaching a profound acclimatization, so that once we arrive at this technically quite challenging mountain no further acclimatization rounds are needed and we can start a direct ascent attempt on the beautiful Ama Dablam. Almost sleek alpine style. However, we do not want to do without our Sherpas who set up the high camp and the route. So all we have to do at the base camp is to wait for the perfect weather window. Then our time has come. On one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. On the Ama Dablam.

One of the main reasons for a failed climb of a high summit is the long acclimatization time at the mountain. The repeated ascents and descents, the threat of catching an infection at the base camp, where many people must live in a very crowded space, robs many climbers the energy even before the actual climb has started. To raise the chances of success, we begin with the acclimatization process via hypoxic tents at the participants’ home, 4 weeks prior to our actual departure to Nepal. Those tents are going to be set up by our experts and under their supervision, the expedition members body will slowly be acclimatized to a height that is equivalent to the highest Camp at Ama Dablam. Furtenbach Adventures is using hypoxic tents since almost two decades and we have a long experience with these means of acclimatization for high altitude mountaineering. In 2016, our team was the first successful Everest expedition, where all participants where pre-acclimatized with hypoxic tents. This decreased the time we had to acclimatize at the mountain significantly, before we could start our ascent to the summit. After reaching the summit, we were also the only team that was able to descend in one go to Camp 2. This higher performance capacity contributes largely to the safety aspect, thanks to proper pre-acclimatization.

These special preparations, combined with small groups, the latest equipment, an experienced team (some of our Sherpas have climbed Mount Everest up to 19 times) and our vast organizational experiences allow a total expedition duration of only 17 days. So far, we are the only operator at Ama Dablam that can offer such a short period without increasing any risks. Since decades, the fundamental techniques, equipment, high-altitude medicine and weather forecasts have been developed over time. The climbing tactics however have remained the same as they were in the 1970s. We are about to change that by providing a modern climbing alternative which meets the current state of the art and respects the general principles of safety.

Adventure Factor courageous
Experience / Emotion mindblowing
Fitness / Struggle workout
Risk demanding
Comfort expedition style

Highlights:

  • One of the most beautiful mountains in the world
  • Shortened duration of the expedition
  • IFMGA/AMGA lead guide
  • Limited number of participants for more safety and higher chances of success
  • The Ama Dablam Flash™ expedition is exclusively available at Furtenbach Adventures, no other operator reaches the 17-days mark
  • Ama Dablam Flash™ 2021: 8 days from Kathmandu to summit
  • Ama Dablam Flash™ 2022: 10 days from Kathmandu to summit

Prior to the registration for the Ama Dablam Flash™ expedition, a personal talk is required.

This link shows you our normal Ama Dablam & Nirekha expedition.

Trip dates:

Booking code:-
Minimum members:-
Price per person: 0

Preparation:

In order to enable an expedition in such a short time frame, appropriate preparation is vital. The preparation starts with an individual consultation talk, where goals and training topics are defined. Every participant must have comprehensive mountain experience in high altitudes. Fitness and mental resilience must be trained intensively during the months prior to the expedition. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of careful acclimatization. This will take place at the participants home via hypoxic tents: every participant will receive an individual training schedule and will be acclimatized in 4 weeks prior to the expedition. As a result, most of the risky and exhausting acclimatization ascents can be skipped and the total duration of the expedition can be limited to 17 days. If you have any questions, read our FAQs or contact us directly.

The following schedule is planned:

The exact schedule on the expedition depends on regulatory requirements, the weather and snow conditions. In addition, keep in mind that we are in a very remote and politically sensitive area where our freedom of movement may be limited at any time due to governmental or environmental restrictions.

In addition to the basic framework which we provide, for example Sherpa support, base camp, route, high camp etc., a successful ascent also requires a great deal of luck, good weather, good physical condition and mental strength of the participants. We allow maximum flexibility. The expedition can be extended if required by the circumstances, if the participants wish to do so and are ready to bear the additional costs incurred.

Day 1-7: Arrival in Kathmandu, onward journey and trek to basecamp

Day 1 Arrival and get-together at the hotel in Kathmandu. Everyone will be met at the airport and taken to the hotel, regardless of whether the journey was booked individually or not. And then we will get off to a comfortable start… check in and get to know the others while enjoying a beer on the terrace and the emerging excitement of belonging to the distinguished expedition team.

Day 2 Flight to Namche Bazaar (3.440m). The ones who are there the first time, will be impressed. Even though there’s quite something going on nowadays.

Day 3 Trek to Dole (4.230m).

Day 4 Trek to Machhermo (4410m).

Day 5 An easy trekking day takes us to Dragnag (4690m).

Day 6 Trek passing the Cho La Pass (5420m) for further acclimatization, followed by a descend to Periche (4240m).

Day 7 Our last trekking day follows the way to our last Lodge before Basecamp. When we arrive in the basecamp our Sherpas have already prepared the high camps and the route.

Day 8 - 13: Ama Dablam summit ascent

Day 8-13 Climbing period Ama Dablam. We are well acclimatized and start the climb directly with two camps at 5600m and 5900m. No up and downs for acclimatizing on this rocky ridge. Spare days for bad weather or 2nd attempt.

Day 14 - 17: Return to Kathmandu

Day 14 After a – hopefully – successful climb we start our journey back. Trek to Namche via Tengpoche

Day 15 Flight with the helicopter to Kathmandu

Day 16 Reserve day for helicopter flight in case of bad weather

Day 17 Flight home

check_circle_outline  Included:

  • Organisation of the expedition
  • High altitude generator and tent for 5 weeks prior to the expedition
  • IFMGA/AMGA lead guide
  • 1 night in upscale hotel in Kathmandu in a single room
  • Domestic flights Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu (incl. 20kg personal luggage and hand luggage)
  • All transfers (jeep / private shuttle)
  • Fullboard during whole expedition (in Kathmandu only breakfast)
  • Drinks at shared meals (no alcoholic drinks)
  • Double occupancy in lodges or 1 tent each 2 members during trek to the mountain
  • Porter / Yak to basecamp and back (25kg personal gear / member)
  • 1 tent each 2 members for approach and high camps
  • High camp equipment (tents, stove, gas, dishes, food)
  • Fixed ropes, fixing material
  • 1 Sherpa per climber
  • Climbing sherpas for the group
  • Gear, Insurance and helicopter rescue for all staff members
  • Medical emergency oxygen
  • Emergency medicine, pulseoxymeter
  • Kitchen staff
  • Comfortable Dome tent in basecamp, shower tent
  • Satellite communication and WIFI for a fee and depending on availability
  • Solar charging
  • Radios
  • All fees and permits
  • weather forecast
  • Safety and liability of an EU based tour operator

highlight_off Not included:

  • International Airfare to Kathmandu (ask for an offer)
  • Lunch in Kathmandu
  • excess luggage for flight Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu
  • Shipping costs for high altitude generator and tent outside of the EU and US
  • personal insurance
  • Visum for Nepal
  • Personal medicine
  • Personal climbing Sherpa (available for an extra charge)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tips
  • Personal climbing gear
  • Sleeping bag
  • High camp mat
  • Fees for satellite communication
  • All not specifically mentioned included services

Why Flash™?

A main reason for unsuccessful ascents of a high mountain is the long acclimatization time on the mountain. The multiple ascents and descents and the danger of infections in the base camp, where many people are in a confined space, rob many climbers of their strength before the actual ascent has even begun.

In order to increase the chances of success, we start with acclimatisation using a hypoxia tent in which the oxygen content of high altitudes can be simulated at your home 4 weeks before the start of the journey. All participants sleep in hypoxia tents and acclimatize their bodies under the guidance and guidance of an expert to an altitude equivalent to the last camp on the Ama Dablam.

We have almost two decades of experience in the use of hypoxia systems for pre-acclimatisation in high-altitude mountaineering. In 2016, our Everest team was the first successful Everest expedition in history to pre-acclimatise all participants in hypoxia tents. Our team was fully acclimatized and ready for the summit ascent within a very short time. We were the only team that was able to descend directly to Camp 2 after the summit. The higher efficiency  is a big safety aspect, which is also due to the pre-acclimatization.

This special preparation, combined with a small group, the best equipment and an experienced team (some of our sherpas have already been to Everest 19 times), as well as our extensive experience as expedition organisers, make it possible to shorten the expedition duration to only 17 days.

We are the only organizer to achieve such a short expedition time without increasing the risk. We are once again leading the way in the development of expedition mountaineering and are among the pioneers of a climbing tactic that will be widespread in a few years’ time.

info  General Infos

Tour operator for this trip: Furtenbach Adventures. 

An expedition to high altitudes still presents an enormous challenge despite modern equipment and tactics. Besides technical and fitness requirements, the high altitude still poses the largest hurdle. That is why we place great emphasis on prudent acclimatization, and use for our flash™ expedition participants the possibility of pre-acclimatization in a high altitude tent at home (see also FAQ).

Weather and conditions on the mountain can lead to program or route changes. Participation in the expedition lies in your own individual responsibility. Furtenbach Adventures assumes no liability for accidents, damages or loss of materials.

If you are not sure that taking part in an expedition like this is the right thing for you, feel free to contact us on Tel +43 512 204134 or e-mail [email protected] for a personal consultation.

This package in general is not suitable for persons with reduced mobility.

https  Insurance

We strongly recommend taking out a travel insurance (including trip cancellation, interruption, medical and luggage insurance) For this journey, the Global Rescue Signature Travel Insurance is suitable. The price of the insurance depends on the trip and the personal data of the traveller. We happily make you an offer after booking or upon request.

To cover search and rescue costs in the mountains, we ask our expedition participants to take out a “medical only”-membership at Global Rescue. This membership can be concluded here before departure: https://ss.globalrescue.com/partner/furtenbach/. Further information are provided after your booking.

language  Entry Requirements

EU or Swiss citizens:

Nepal:
When entering the country, you need a passport with a validity of at least 6 more months. You can get a visa on arrival directly at the airport or in advance directly at your embassy.
We recommend to get a “multiple entry” visa for 90 days.
Get further information directly on the official website: https://www.immigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa

Information about recommended vaccines and health regulations: http://www.who.int/ith/en/

Travelers must be able to prove their return or onward ticket when entering the country.

More detailed information regarding entry, visa and health requirements for this travel destination will be provided once you’ve communicated your nationality.

work  Equipment

Unless specified in the detailed trip notes, all high camp equipment is provided by us. You need to bring your own personal equipment such as down clothing, expedition boots, an insulated sleep mat and a sleeping bag with a comfort range of -20 to -25 degrees Celsius for the high camps. Once you have booked we will send you a detailed equipment list. We are happy to advise you on the selection and purchase of any equipment required. With years of expedition experience, we know what works and what does not.

insert_chart_outlined  Difficulty / Technique

The ascent always lies in the participant‘s personal responsibility, while led by the mountain guide and expedition leader. Participants must be able to move safely and independently in mixed terrain (rock, snow, ice) and – if required – independently build rope teams under the guidance of the mountain guide. Cooperation, camaraderie and support on the mountain increases the chances of success for all. The guide is there to provide guidance for the whole group, the possibilities for him to respond to individual needs is limited. It is imperative that participants adhere to the instructions and decisions made by the mountain guide. Regardless, each participant must know their own physical limits, and be able to make a timely decision to turn back.

For expeditions offered by us, unless otherwise specified in the detailed program, the following is required of participants: independent getting on and off the fixed ropes on cliffs, snow, ice and firn snow slopes, as well as the independent use of crampons and ice axes in mixed terrain. On climbing passages, as well as very dangerous and exposed places, fixed ropes are attached by mountain guides and by the Sherpa team.

perm_identity Physical fitness

A key success factor in expeditions is being in good shape. Train in the months before the expedition! Several hour climbs with a backpack and around 1000 meters per day should not be a problem for you. You have to carry your own personal equipment on the mountain, unless an optional personal Sherpa is booked. The porters are available for the group and set up the high camp and insure the route. We will gladly provide individual advice on how to best prepare yourself mentally and physically for an expedition!

local_hospital Health

We recommend that each participant undergoes a medical examination prior to the expedition. Good health is a prerequisite for participation. Particularly important is a visit to the dentist because previously unnoticed dental problems can become quite acute due to the sudden change in pressure conditions in higher altitudes.

check_box  Experience

We are very familiar with the charm and attraction of an eight-thousander! However, we want to make certain that you can ascend safely, come back alive, and be able to enjoy the expedition while on it and not afterwards. Therefore, in order to participate in our eight-thousander expeditions, you must already have collected some experience at high altitudes and mountaineering. When booking, please let us know which heights you have already reached and which high mountains you have climbed. If you are a newcomer, no problem, we offer a bespoke program aimed to train you for reaching your desired destination.

In order to participate in our seven-and six-thousander expeditions, you should have at least some experience on the four-thousander peaks of the Alps or other mountain ranges. Our offer for newcomers applies here as well, we can train you to become prudent and safe high altitude climbers!

We offer a special introductory weekend for all those who want to learn about – or refresh their knowledge of – all the skills and techniques needed on an expedition. More info here.

payment Payment

Deposit Payment is made less than eleven months prior to the end of the trip and is a maximum of 20% of the price. The balance must be paid no earlier than 20 days prior to departure. Please find more information regarding the payment in our GTC.

 

directions_run Right of withdrawal

The traveller has the right to withdraw from the travel contract at any time by paying the according cancellation fee stated in the General Terms of Conditions of Furtenbach Adventures GmbH.
The following fees apply for cancellations on the part of the client prior to travel:

until 30 days prior to departure…………………………. 30%
29 – 20 days prior to departure…………………….. 40%
19 -10 days prior to departure…………………….. 70%
9 – 4 days prior to departure………………………… 80%
from the 3rd day prior to departure (72 hours)………100%
on the day of departure………………………………… 100% of the tour fee.

The tour operator will be released from the contract if the specified minimum number of participants is not achieved and if the customer has been notified about the cancellation in writing within the following periods: until 20 days prior to departure.