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K2 Flash™

Climb one of the most prestigious mountains in only 4 weeks.

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

Acclimatization for this expedition is already done at home. While a traditional K2 expedition takes around two months, our Flash™ Expedition saves time and additionally increases safety and chances of success. (4 weeks)

Finally, our proven Flash™ style is also available for one of the most beautiful, difficult and prestigous mountains on earth. All while increasing safety and chances of success! One of our mountaineers could already climb K2 in Flash™ expedition style taking only 21 days from/to New York – without supplemental oxygen!

Thanks to our pre-acclimatization at home, we have spared ourselves multiple ascents and descents on the objectively dangerous and technically challenging K2. As soon as the weather is fine, we will start a direct summit attempt via the beautiful normal route on the southeast ridge (Abbruzzensporn). Sherpas and high altitude porters will accompany us and oxygen will be available for each member. If we are successful, the absolute culmination of every mountaineer’s life awaits us!

We will fly in our proven and experienced Sherpas from Nepal, who will support our Pakistani high altitude porters and insure the route. This is an additional safety factor.


Info for K2

For the K2 you have to be a very experienced mountaineer with eight thousand meter experience. The Abbruzzensporn at K2 is the most difficult normal route on an eight-thousander. We recommend oxygen for the summit day at the latest (this is included in the price). This means that the statistically most accident-prone passage under the Hängeserac after the shoulder and the bottleneck can be climbed much faster and safer both on the ascent and the descent. The fixed ropes in the summit area are only laid during the ascent to the summit. If you want to ascend without oxygen, you can do so, as long as you can prove that you have the appropriate experience and skills.

Adventure Factor brave
Experience / Emotion lifechanging
Fitness / Struggle challenging
Risk the height and the bottleneck
Comfort Expedition style

Highlights:

  • The mountain of all mountains in only 4 weeks
  • Sherpas and oxygen
  • Cesen oder Abbruzzi Route depending on the conditions
  • IFMGA/AMGA lead guide
  • high camp equipment

For pictures and reports of our K2 and Broad Peak Expedition 2017 (as the first Austrian organizer) and 2018 take a look at our blog.

The K2 can also be booked as a double header expedition in combination with the Broad Peak.

Trip dates:

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

Registration for the K2 Flash™ expedition is subject to a personal consultation.

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 member 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 members home via hypoxic tents: every member will receive an individual training schedule and will be acclimatized in 4-8 weeks to a altitude of around 7000m. 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 4 weeks. If you have any questions, read our FAQs or contact us directly.

Due to the complex logistics of this expedition, there may be changes to the planned itinerary during the trip. The exact itinerary depends on the weather, snow conditions, the progress of insurance work on the route and the timetable of other groups in order to avoid potential traffic jams as far as possible. For a successful ascent, in addition to the basic conditions created by us such as oxygen supply, sherpasupport, base camp, route, high camp etc., a large portion of luck, good weather, condition, ability and mental strength of the members are required.

The expedition can be extended, if the conditions require it and the members wish this and bear the additional costs incurred. We move in a very remote, politically highly sensitive area where official or environmental restrictions of our freedom of movement must be reckoned with at any time.

The following schedule is planned:

Day 1 - 7: Arrival in Islamabad and spectacular hike to K2 base camp.

Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad or meeting point at the Hotel Envoy Continental in IslamabadTag free for the members during the expedition leader last administrative things with the authorities handles.

Day 2: A flight to Skardu awaits us. Expect beautiful views of the Pakistani mountains. Overnight stay at hotel in Skardu.

Day 3: We spend the day in the small but lively town Skardu at 2300m. The porters are organized, the luggage is loaded and one can make last errands or undertake a hike.

Day 4-7: Shortest possible way from Skardu to the base camp via Gondogoro pass. This usually takes around 4 days. On the last day we arrive at the K2 base camp at Godwin-Austen glacier.

Day 8 - 22: Ascent to the summit of K2

Day 8 – 22: Thanks to the pre-acclimatization at home we will only need around 2 weeks for our K2 ascent. First we refuel, organize material and might take a first acclimatization-rotation. Due to our pre-acclimatization at home, we have spared ourselves multiple ascents and descents passing the objectively dangerous and technically challenging sections, thus increasing the safety. Then we wait for a suitable weather window for a direct ascent attempt over the Abbruzzensporn with 4 high camps. Camp 1 at about 6000m we reach relatively easy over a 40 gad steep firn flank. From there we go through snow gullies and combined terrain to the first key point, the approx. 25m high house chimney insured with fixed ropes. Shortly afterwards we reach camp 2 at 6600m.
The further way to Camp 3 depends strongly on the conditions. Snow flanks, rock passages and combined terrain with individual steep turns change until our southeast spur meets the east ridge (Black Pyramid). From here easier along the east ridge to camp 3 at 7350m. The way from Camp 3 to Camp 4 at 7900m on the shoulder is a technically easy snow ridge and ridge. In Camp 4 you see two things very prominent: the intoxicating panorama on one side and the dangerous Hängeserac with the infamous “Bottleneck” on the other side. This is the most dangerous part of the route.
The bottleneck is the key point for the next summit day and is secured with fixed ropes. From here on at the latest we use oxygen, which allows us to pass this dangerous passage faster and safer both in the ascent and in the descent. About 100m after the bottleneck, the terrain covers itself and the last meters lead over a simple snow slope to the summit. Should the weather allow it, we still have time for a second summit attempt. Also here we recommend to book a rebookable return flight to be able to extend the expedition a few days if necessary or to travel home earlier if we can finish the expedition already earlier successfully.

Day 23 - 28: Disassembly, return to Islamabad and flight home

Day 23-26: Dismantling of the base camp and return to Skardu via the Gondogoro Pass. Overnight in tent and hotel in Skardu.

Day 27: Flight back to Islamabad. Finally back in civilization, we will enjoy a good nights sleep in nice beds in a hotel in Islamabad.

Day 28: Islamabad or return flight

check_circle_outline  What the price includes:

  • All organisation for the expedition
  • High altitude generator and tent for 7 weeks prior to the Expedition
  • IFMGA/AMGA lead guide
  • 2 nights in an upscale hotel in a very safe quarter of Islamabad in a single room
  • All transfers including transport to/from Skardu by plane or private shuttle (depending on weather) and to/from Askole in all-terrain vehicles
  • Full board for the duration of the whole trip (half board in Islamabad)
  • All drinks included in Basecamp
  • Double rooms on stop-overs during our trip to the mountain
  • Porters to the base camp and back (40kg of personal luggage per member)
  • 1 tent per member at base camp
  • 1 tent per two members during the approach and for the high camps
  • A mat for the approach and the base camp
  • High camp equipment (tents, stove, gas, dishes, food)
  • All the fixing and safety material for the route
  • Use of the fixed ropes along the route
  • 1 Nepalese Climbing Sherpa per member
  • Climbing Sherpas for the team
  • Rental oxygen package with a mask, regulator and bottles for the summit push
  • Insurance and equipment for all staff
  • Emergency oxygen
  • Pharmaceutical travel kit, high altitude emergency medicine, pulsoxymeter
  • Kitchen crew
  • A comfortable, heated common tent, shower tent, etc. at base camp
  • Satellite communications and WIFI for a fee and depending on availability
  • Solar charging
  • Additional power generator 2 hours per day etc. at the base camp
  • Radio transmitter for base camp and high camps
  • All fees & permits
  • Government escort officer
  • Government deposit for helicopter rescue (actual costs must be paid by insurance / Global Rescue membership)
  • Environmental fee
  • weather reports
  • Safety and liability of an EU based tour operator

highlight_off  What the price does not include:

  • International flight to Islamabad
  • Excess baggage on the flight to/from Skardu in case a flight is possible (20kg + 7kg hand luggage is included, but the costs for excess baggage are manageable and not comparable with European standards)
  • Lunch in Islamabad
  • Personal insurance
  • Visa for Pakistan
  • Personal medication
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Summit bonus for personal summit sherpas
  • Tips
  • Personal mountain and climbing equipment
  • Sleeping bags for the base camp and high camp
  • Fees for satellite phones, emails

Why Flash™?

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 members’ home, 4-8 weeks prior to our actual departure to Pakistan. 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 around 7000m. 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 members 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, best oxygen-support, the latest equipment, an experienced team (some of our Sherpas have climbed Mount Everest up to 20 times) and our vast organizational experiences allow the total expedition duration to be shortened significantly. So far, we are the only operator at Broad Peak and K2 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.

info  General

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, slow acclimatization, and recommend our eight thousander expedition members 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.

language   Entry Requirements

EU or Swiss citizens:

Pakistan:

When entering the country, you need a passport with a validity of at least 6 more months. Each member must apply for the mountaineering visa early enough via the following website: https://visa.nadra.gov.pk

All required documents will be sent and announced by Furtenbach Adventures well in advance. 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.

https   Insurance possibilities

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 members 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.

work  Equipment

Unless specified otherwise in the detailed program, all high camp equipment will be provided by us. You need to bring your own personal equipment such as down clothing, expedition shoes, an isolated sleeping mat and a sleeping bag with a comfort range of – 20 to -25 degrees Celsius for the high camp. Following your booking we will send you a detailed equipment list. We will be happy to advise you personally during the selection and purchase of required equipment. With years of expedition experience, we know what has proved its worth and what not.

insert_chart_outlined   Difficulty / Technique

The ascent always lies in the members personal responsibility, while led by the mountain guide and expedition leader. Members 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 members adhere to the instructions and decisions made by the mountain guide. Regardless, each member 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 members: 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 member 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.

landscape  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.

For expeditions to 7000 and 8000 meter peaks the following fees apply for cancellations on the part of the client prior to travel: until 3 months prior to departure 50%, within 3 months prior departure 100%.

The tour operator will be released from the contract if the specified minimum number of members 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.

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