Here we are offering something really special: a guided expedition to Broad Peak, so that we can tackle the legendary K2, optimally acclimatized, on an already equipped route with prepared high camps, with the help of oxygen and Nepalese Sherpas. And if that feels like too much, just leave it at the Broad Peak.
The Furtenbach Adventures K2 and Broad Peak expeditions is truly a unique opportunity. A treat for connoisseurs and experts alike. From a purely statistical point of view, the Broad Peak is one of the objectively safest eight-thousanders which also has a very high success rate. The route is direct, relatively short and the few difficult passages are secured with fixed ropes. Because of this, and because of its lower altitude, the Broad Peak is the first eight-thousander for many high-altitude mountaineers. The Karakoram is often described as climatically harsher and colder than the Himalayan mountains. This, however, arises from a rather subjective sensation as opposed to scientifically validated values. First you hike for one week via the Baltoro glacier over boulders, ice and moraines to the mountain. Not through forests and meadows as is often the case in the Himalayas. It’s all barren and thus acts inhospitable. But in reality it is not colder. There are even days when you can sit on the Broad Peak summit in ski touring pants and a light windbreaker.
Following the Broad Peak, some will return home and others will undertake a short hike to the almost visible K2 base camp. Work is already underway on the mountain and while the group recovers and waits for suitable weather, the high camp and the route are being prepared. Thanks to our acclimatization on the adjacent Broad Peak, we have spared ourselves multiple ascents and descents on the objectively more dangerous and technically more challenging K2. As soon as the weather is good, we will embark on a direct summit attempt via the beautiful normal route on the south east ridge (Abbruzzi spur). Sherpas and porters will accompany us and each member will have oxygen available. If we succeed, it amounts to the crowning glory of every mountaineer’s life!
We will fly in our experienced Sherpas from Nepal to support our Pakistani high altitude porters and secure the route.
This is an additional safety factor.