The peaks of Mount Everest stand proud in Kathmandu, Nepal. Drawing mountain climbers from all over the world, the mountain trek once reserved for only the most experienced climbers is now open game for anyone willing to make the time and effort.

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A trek to the mountain’s ominous peak, at 29,000 feet, isn’t right for everyone, though. As a matter of fact, only around 1,000 people have gone all the way to the peak since the early 1950’s. Those who aren’t willing to take the risk can join tour groups that will guide them through the lower trails while teaching them about native culture.

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No matter what trails you’re preparing to take, there is a significant amount of preparation you need to make before you embark on your journey. Take the following into consideration before you book your flight to Kathmandu.

Physically Preparing to Climb Mount Everest

Your trek up Mount Everest will be the most incredible experience of your lifetime. With that in mind, you’ll want to make sure your body is in the right physical condition before you even make an attempt.

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Start by visiting your doctor for a complete physical. You’ll need to make sure you have great cardiac health and it will be important to make sure your blood pressure and cholesterol are under control. Poor cardiac health means your body won’t be able to properly pump blood throughout your body, resulting in a lack of oxygen in an already oxygen-depleted area as well as an inability to keep your body warm.

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You’ll also need to begin a physical training regime, including running and strength training. We highly recommend you take a mountain climbing course to refresh your technical skills before you start making practice climbs in high-altitude terrain. You should work with a skilled instructor or partner to practice climbing on all sorts of surfaces in all types of weather and should, at a minimum, practice for at least two or three years before attempting Mount Everest.

Financially Planning to Climb Mount Everest

One of the reasons so few make it to the top is not a lack of desire, but a lack of financial opportunity. The average trip to the peak of Mount Everest can range from $25,000 to $60,000 depending upon whether or not you’re arranging your own trip or working with a guided tour group.

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At least $10,000 of the cost will include your environmental protection deposit, insurance, and Sherpa fees. If you’re smart you’ll save your garbage and empty oxygen bottles for return at the end of the trip, at which point you’ll get your $4,000 environmental deposit back. Other fees include your airfare or travel arrangements, training and equipment, extra oxygen bottles, and lodging before and after the actual climb.

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Many climbers spend years raising the funds to make a trip up Mount Everest. If you’re an experience climber you may want to consider asking larger corporations to help sponsor your trip. We recommend approaching your own employer or some of the better known mountain climbing gear companies for help first.

Timing Your Mount Everest Climb

The best time of year to climb Mount Everest is in May. The weather during the month of May is more predictable, though you’ll still be subject to frigid temperatures and whiteout conditions.

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Make sure you pick the date for your climb at least six months in advance. You’ll need plenty of time to apply for your permits and obtain permission from the Nepal Ministry and Administration. You’ll also need to make arrangements with the Sherpa to help guide you and with local trekking groups to help you move your gear.

Mount Everest Safety Considerations

It’s important to pack the appropriate gear before making your trip. You’ll need first aid kits, standard medications, thermal mountain climbing clothing, extra oxygen bottles, and much more. Everything you carry should be specially graded for use in cold weather.

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No one can climb Mount Everest alone, nor would he be given the proper permits if he attempted to. If you’re not climbing with a guided tour group, make sure the team you are climbing with is experienced and is prepared to take all necessary safety precautions.

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The conditions on Mount Everest have been known to change quickly and dramatically. Climbing the summit, while a life changing experience, is also incredibly dangerous. Those you do so risk losing their life to injury, avalanche, frostbite, illness, and high-altitude afflictions. If you, at any time, feel ill or fatigued you should call off your trip and return to the base of the mountain.

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It takes years to properly prepare for climb to the peak of Mount Everest. Consider yourself special if you’re one of the lucky few who make it to the top. It’s a once in a lifetime experience not everyone will be able to enjoy!