1. Prepare for the Altitude

Above 8,000 meters, your body is in the upper realm of the “death zone.” Even simple tasks take effort, and recovery is slower than you’d expect. The key to success is patience.

Move slowly. Drink water consistently. Eat even when you don’t feel like it. Follow the acclimatization plan carefully and don’t rush the process. On Cho Oyu, making steady decisions matters more than speed.

The climbers who summit are rarely the fastest. They’re the most disciplined.

2. Build a Strong Foundation Beforehand

Cho Oyu shouldn’t be your first expedition style climb. We strongly recommend having experience on at least one 6,000m or 7,000m peak. Climbs like Aconcagua or other Himalayan expeditions help you get familiar with rotations, load carries, fixed lines, and living at Base Camp for long stretches.

The technical difficulty on Cho Oyu is moderate compared to some 8,000m peaks, but the altitude and length make it tough. A solid foundation really increases both safety and success.

3. Be Prepared for a Long Expedition

Cho Oyu isn’t a quick climb. You’ll spend several weeks at Base Camp, doing acclimatization rotations and waiting for a safe summit window.

Patience is important. Weather delays are just part of Himalayan mountaineering. Keeping a positive attitude and staying focused during quieter periods can make a real difference to your overall experience.

Think of this as a full expedition, not just a summit attempt.

4. Focus on Conserving Energy

At 8,000 meters, efficiency is everything. Move deliberately. Avoid wasting energy. Organize your gear carefully so you’re not searching for things in the cold.

Small habits matter: managing your layers well, staying hydrated, eating consistently, and resting properly between rotations all help you be ready for the summit.

Summit day on Cho Oyu is long and demanding. The energy you save during the expedition is what you’ll rely on above Camp 3.

5. Trust the Process and the Team

Climbing Cho Oyu is a team effort. From Base Camp logistics to high camp strategy, success depends on good communication and working together.

Our approach is conservative and well planned. We focus on acclimatization, safety, and sound judgment rather than aggressive summit pushes. We encourage every climber to talk openly about how they’re feeling, both physically and mentally.

The strongest expeditions are built on trust, patience, and shared focus.

6. Commit Fully to the Goal

Cho Oyu is often seen as a stepping stone to Everest, but it deserves the same respect as any 8,000m mountain. If you’re committing to this climb, commit fully: physically, mentally, and logistically.

1. Practice Cardio Training

Success on Cho Oyu depends a lot on your aerobic base. You’ll spend weeks moving slowly at altitude, carrying loads between camps, and conserving energy for the summit rotation.

We recommend consistent cardio training 4 to 6 days a week for several months before you leave. Focus on long, steady efforts rather than short, intense workouts. Uphill hiking, stair climbing, cycling, ski touring, or long trail runs all work well.

You want to be comfortable sustaining effort for several hours without getting really tired. At 8,000m, being efficient matters more than being fast.

2. Train with Heavy Load

Unlike trekking peaks, Cho Oyu requires you to carry gear between camps during acclimatization rotations. Even with support, you need to be physically ready to move with weight at altitude.

Work pack training into your routine. Start light and gradually increase the load. Long uphill hikes with a 10 to 20kg backpack will get your legs, back, and hips ready for what the expedition demands.

Strong legs and durable joints are important for staying strong deep into the climb.

3. Focus on Strength and Muscular Endurance

High altitude mountaineering isn’t about explosive power. It’s about sustained output over time. Focus on functional strength: step ups, lunges, squats, deadlifts, and core work.

Step ups with a weighted pack are especially helpful, as they mimic the climbing motion you’ll use over and over on Cho Oyu.

Muscular endurance reduces fatigue during rotations and helps save energy for summit day.

4. Develop Mental Endurance

Cho Oyu is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. You’ll spend long periods in cold, thin air, often waiting for weather windows. Patience, staying steady emotionally, and keeping your focus are really important.

Train in uncomfortable conditions. Long hikes in bad weather, early morning sessions, or training on back to back days help build resilience. The more comfortable you are being uncomfortable, the better you’ll do at altitude.

5. Gain Prior High Altitude Experience

We strongly recommend that climbers have experience on 6,000m or 7,000m peaks before attempting Cho Oyu. Mountains like Aconcagua, Manaslu, or other expedition style climbs give you valuable exposure to altitude, pacing, and multi-week expeditions.

Cho Oyu might be called a “first 8000er” by some, but it’s not an entry level mountain. The foundation you build beforehand makes a real difference.

6. Start Early and Train Consistently

We suggest beginning structured training at least six months before you leave. Consistency matters much more than the occasional extreme session.

Gradual progression builds durability, reduces your risk of injury, and makes sure you arrive at Base Camp feeling confident and capable.

We’re an international climbing company known for delivering quality expeditions on the world’s highest peaks. On Cho Oyu, our focus is on getting the details right, with experienced guides, careful planning, and thorough preparation.

We maintain manageable team sizes so each climber gets the attention and support an 8,000m expedition requires. This isn’t about rushing rotations or treating summit day as a race. Our goal is to provide clear guidance, prioritize safety, and offer steady leadership throughout the climb.

How difficult is Cho Oyu?

Cho Oyu is seen as one of the more accessible 8,000m peaks from a technical standpoint. But at 8,201 meters, the altitude makes it a serious and demanding expedition.

The climbing involves glacier travel, fixed ropes, and sustained movement at extreme altitude. It’s less technical than some other 8,000m mountains, but it still requires solid fitness, prior expedition experience, and good mental resilience.

Is Cho Oyu a good first 8,000m peak?

Yes, for many experienced climbers, Cho Oyu is a suitable first 8,000m objective. The relatively straightforward route and structured acclimatization rotations make it a logical next step from 6,000m and 7,000m peaks.

That said, we strongly recommend having high altitude experience before attempting Cho Oyu. Climbers who’ve done peaks like Aconcagua or other expedition style mountains usually do much better.

How long does a Cho Oyu expedition take?

A typical Cho Oyu expedition lasts around 6 to 8 weeks. This includes travel, acclimatization rotations, rest periods at Base Camp, and waiting for a safe summit weather window.

Patience is important. Himalayan expeditions depend on weather, and being flexible is part of the process.

Do I need to use supplemental oxygen?

Most climbers use supplemental oxygen on Cho Oyu above a certain altitude, especially for summit day. Oxygen improves safety margins and performance in the “death zone” significantly.

We talk through oxygen strategy with each client individually, based on experience, goals, and previous high altitude exposure.

What are the main risks on Cho Oyu?

The main risks on Cho Oyu relate to extreme altitude, cold temperatures, and changing weather. Like all 8,000m peaks, altitude illness is a serious consideration and needs to be managed carefully through structured acclimatization.

Our approach is conservative and safety focused. Careful pacing, strong leadership, and honest communication are all important parts of a successful expedition.

 
 
 
 
  
 
Excellent5.0420 reviews
 
5.0
 
Excellent420 reviews
 
 Write a review 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Scott Medley 
 
24 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
+0
Amazing trip to Ecuador. The Ian Taylor team made everything easy prior to the trip and during. We didn’t have to think about anything other than what adventure lies ahead. I will be planning future trip with this company.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Heather Egan 
 
21 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
+6
Roland, Shibani and the whole team were amazing!! We had the best time on the mountain and while the Summit night was very difficult, Roland, Shibani and “Ruff Ruff” (as we nicknamed him) went above and beyond to get us to the top!! Thank you for the best time and helping our accomplishment.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Karin Schmitt 
 
15 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
An outstanding Kilimanjaro experience with Ian Taylor Trekking Our whole family climbed Kilimanjaro with Ian Taylor Trekking, and it was a truly fantastic experience from start to finish. The guides were outstanding. They know the mountain incredibly well, but what impressed us just as much was their calmness, professionalism and positive energy. Throughout the trek, we always felt that we were in very good hands. The supporting team was equally impressive, and their enthusiasm and friendliness created such a positive atmosphere throughout the climb. For us, the small group size was particularly important. It made the experience feel much more personal and allowed the guides to really pay attention to everyone in the group. The whole trek was exceptionally well organised, and yet it never felt rigid or impersonal. And then there was the food! We honestly hadn't expected to eat so well on a mountain. At times it felt almost like a glamping experience rather than a trek — fantastic food, a wonderful support team and everything taken care of, while still having the real adventure of climbing Kilimanjaro. Most of all, Ian Taylor Trekking gave us the confidence to enjoy the mountain rather than worry about the logistics. The guides' knowledge of Kilimanjaro, the excellent organisation and the incredibly positive team made this a very special experience for our whole family. We would wholeheartedly recommend Ian Taylor Trekking to anyone considering Kilimanjaro. It was an unforgettable adventure, and we are so glad we chose them.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 jose ahedo diaz 
 
14 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
On August 1st I summited Kilimanjiaro for the second time with ITT. 9 years after the first summit I got to the roof of Africa with two very special partners, my Dad and my 16-year old son! It was amazing. In 2017 the experience was great but this time it was even better. It is fantastic to experience how the ITT Africa team keeps improving. The route was adjusted and summiting got easier. Logistics were impressive and the crew has still grown in efficiency and experience management. Congratulations Athumani and team for your great work!!!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 sue wright 
 
6 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
My second trip with Ian Taylor. The Inca trail to Machu pichu. Thanks so much to Ian Taylor for making this happen! I am retired and haven’t done a serious trek before. I really wasn’t sure if I was taking on too much, but with the advice of the company (I started slowly with the one day trek last year before taking on the full challenge this year) and the support of the amazing guides and porters, I successfully completed the 5 day Inca trail. Unforgettable views, food and campsites (and endless steps up Dead Woman’s Pass!) They even produced an unexpected birthday cake on the trail for my son’s birthday! Thankyou so much!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Charlie Wenner 
 
3 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
My wife and I summited Kilimanjaro with ITT and I can't recommend them enough! All future expeditions that we do will be through Ian Taylor Trekking - no need to look anywhere else! UPDATE: Completed another expedition to Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with ITT. No better company to do trekking with!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Janet Copeland 
 
27 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
+1
I’ve just completed the Classic 5 day Inca Trail. This was my 3rd trek with Ian Taylor Trekking after hiking Everest Base Camp and Kilimanjaro with them a few years back. I  cannot say enough good things about this company. The support services are so communicative and helpful with comprehensive pre trip prep and the teams on the ground, no matter the country, are incredible. The work they put in to ensure you’re safe, comfortable and happy is of such a high standard. As a solo traveller on this last trip I set out knowing I could trust them to provide a fantastic trip and they did not disappoint. The guide, Percy, and his team were incredibly calm, supportive and encouraging even during the tough days. They took such amazing care of our small group, particularly anyone struggling. Every trip I come back from with Ian Taylor Trekking makes me immediately want to go on another one and I’m already looking! Thank you guys so much for another incredible experience x
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Nikki Rossetter 
 
14 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Ian Taylor Trekking was truly a life-changing experience. From the very beginning, the company set us up for success by clearly communicating expectations around fitness, health preparedness, and training requirements. Their team was responsive, easy to communicate with, and provided helpful reminders and guidance at just the right times. I especially appreciated the detailed dossier, which became an invaluable resource that I referenced repeatedly in the months leading up to the trek. We trained at elevations of 5,000–6,000 feet for about three months before the trip, hiking 1-2 times per week up and down terrain, and while the Inka trek was certainly challenging, it was challenging in all the right ways. We felt well prepared and able to fully enjoy the experience because of the expectations Ian Taylor Trekking helped us establish. One of the aspects that mattered most to me was safety and ensuring that our travel positively impacted the local community. Ian Taylor Trekking excels in both areas. They genuinely employ and empower local people, and we were honored to work with our incredible guide, Aldo Quispe Cusihuaman. His name is very important to our experience - he is what set the entire trip apart. Aldo made this journey extraordinary. He is an expert historian, fluent in Quechua, Spanish, and English, and his knowledge of the land, culture, and history brought every moment to life. We were provided with rich historical context and accurate information far beyond anything we could have hoped for. His passion, expertise, and connection to the region transformed this trek from an amazing trip into a deeply meaningful experience. Quite simply, if it weren't for Aldo, our journey would not have been nearly as special or life altering. Ian Taylor Trekking is incredibly fortunate to have him on their team, and future trekkers are equally fortunate to learn from him. I cannot recommend Ian Taylor Trekking highly enough for anyone seeking a safe, well-organized, authentic, and unforgettable trekking experience.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Natthapol Songdej 
 
13 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We had an amazing and unforgettable multigenerational family trip on the 5 day Inca trail trek (which is definitely the way to go!) with Ian Taylor trekking ranging from my 74 yo mother to 13 yr old daughter and 10 yr old son. This was led by Miguel Mayorga with Lis Magali, who were wonderful, so knowledgeable, kind, caring, humorous, and took great care of our family as if their own. We truly couldn’t imagine doing this without them. The experience was seamless, from initial contact with Laura, who answered many questions for us along the way, to our contacts with Erin prior to the trip, and “on the ground” with Percy. They also arranged a great Rainbow Mountain trip for us. Extremely special and meaningful was the Inca trail trek itself and we couldn’t have imagined a better experience than with Miguel and Lis, who became part of our family, and the caring and enthusiastic team of porters, leading and supporting us along the way. The food was also second to none and highly nutritious – it was amazing how they could prepare those meals. They even prepared an absolutely delicious cake for my birthday during first night of camp! It was a once in a lifetime experience for us and created memories that we will be reminiscing, sharing, and talking about forever. Thank you!!!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Eve Songdej-Tran 
 
13 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
+5
My family completed the 5-day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu with Ian Taylor Trekking, and the experience was nothing short of incredible. Our head guide, Miguel Mayorga, second guide, Lis Magali, and the entire team of porters exceeded every expectation. They were professional, knowledgeable, personable, and genuinely cared about making this an unforgettable experience. Miguel and Lis took exceptional care of my 74-year-old mom, ensuring she could trek safely and efficiently each day. When my sister’s air mattress was punctured one night, Lis immediately offered her own (fortunately, the porters were able to repair it with a patch kit). On our first night at camp, the chef even surprised my brother with a homemade cake for his birthday. These are just a few examples of how this team consistently went above and beyond. Miguel’s deep knowledge of the Inca Empire, combined with his engaging storytelling, made reaching Machu Picchu even more meaningful. He set clear expectations each day, was honest about the challenges ahead, and always encouraged us along the way. Lis was equally thoughtful, regularly checking in to make sure everyone was comfortable with the pace and doing well. The porters were absolutely amazing. Every morning as we set off on the day’s trek, they cheered us on with so much enthusiasm, and they welcomed us at every rest stop with smiles and encouragement. Their positivity, kindness, and incredible hard work were truly inspiring. Thank you to Miguel, Lis, the chef, and the entire porter team for creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our family. We will never forget this journey—it simply wouldn’t have been the same without all of you!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Pooja Rao 
 
13 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Our family recently completed a 5 day Inca trail trek with Ian Taylor. Along with our extended family, we also had our 2 children (13 and 10 years old) on the trek. It was truly an amazing experience. All lodging and meals were taken care of. The food on the trek was amazing- fresh and nutritious- and we all looked forward to all the meals. The trek itself was challenging but being able to do it together with family was amazing and our absolutely amazing tour guide Miguel Mayorga was encouraging, humorous and so knowledgeable. He and his wonderful assistant Lis Magali took care of us all as if we were all their own family. They made the hard work fun and very rewarding. Along with the incredible staff who travelled with us who took such good care of us, I wouldn’t change anything about this incredible trek. If you’re ready to learn about one of the world’s greatest civilizations, all while challenging yourself physically and mentally in the most beautiful of environments with some of the kindest people I have ever met, I highly recommend this trek!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Norm Borger 
 
12 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Ian Taylor Trekking made hiking the Inca Trail an absolutely incredible experience. I commend them and highly recommend them. From start to finish Ian Taylor was present. Every detail was taken care of to include pre and post activities booked through Ian Taylor. The food; I was stunned by the quality and type of food that was swrved. I have no words. It was above and beyond. I consider myself pretty adapt at cooking backcountry meals but these were at another level. truly impressive.Everything having to do with the trek went without a hitch; hotel checkin, airport transfers, to and from the airport, amazing all around. I woud definitely use Ian Taylor Trekking in the future.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Anne Songdej 
 
10 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
+6
Best trekking experience!! My family and I (8 in total) did the 5-day Inca Trail. Our head tour guide, Miguel Mayorga, and assistant, Liz, along with the chef, sous chef, and porters were extremely warm and highly professional! It was no easy feat taking care of my mother who is 74 years old and my nephew who was 10 years old!!! They took special care of all our individual needs, ensured our safety, while also anticipating and strategizing how we should group up ahead of time. The food on the trek was amazing!!!! The culinary, seasonal foods, and the snack time once we arrived at camp was a once in a lifetime experience. Arriving to the porters’ warm welcome was always a highlight!!! Thank you!!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 John Carver 
 
3 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
+0
I recently completed my second trek with Ian Taylor Trekking – and also my second time hiking with Ian! This time I did the 5 day Classic Inca Trail. Based on my earlier experience with Ian Taylors team in Tanzania and Mt. Kilimanjaro, followed by an unforgettable safari with them, I knew this would be another amazing experience. From the time you first contact the company (usually Erin or Ian’s wife Laura), you get quick friendly and competent service. If you then follow the preparation training and packing recommendations from Ian, you are pretty much set for success. You show up, follow the support guidance from the superb guides and large support staff, and you have a great time, even when things get challenging. The simply amazing food, trekking accommodations waiting for you each day, and many small things along the way - like a wake up morning hot drink served at your tent, happy hour popcorn and snacks, wash up materials after each days hike, and fun group pictures along the trail (to name just a few things) all add to an environment where you build a supportive and collective team, not only with your fellow trekkers, but with the Ian Taylor team too. It’s so impressive. There are many trekking companies that can take you places. But, I can’t think of any company that can provide such a safe, comfortable and fun experience as this company. And, the company commitment to staff and community are exceptional. You will seldom find companies that give so much back to their employees and communities where they live and work. They truly care. I’ve already booked my next Ian Taylor trek for the El Camino in September 2027 and can’t wait for it to start!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Erin Jones 
 
12 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
The 5-Day Classic Inca Trail was my third trip with Ian Taylor Trekking. After two seamless adventures with the team (Everest Base Camp and Kilimanjaro), I had signed up for the Inca Trail before the end of my last trek. It's not just the attention to detail before and during the trip—airport transfers, luggage storage and delivery, meals, detailed training plans, and packing lists. It's also the way Ian Taylor Trekking invests in local communities and how well they treat and pay their staff. You can genuinely see the difference in the happiness and professionalism of the team compared to other operators on the trail. The way the staff are treated is reflected in the quality of the experience. From the moment you arrive, you're set up to succeed, with safety always being the priority. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, the food is outstanding (honestly hard to believe you're on a trek), and the whole experience is genuinely enjoyable. And that's not something I say lightly as a girl who lives at sea level and HATES the cold. If you're thinking about booking with Ian Taylor Trekking, save yourself the research. This was my third trip with the team and I insist you book with them. I can't wait for my next Ian Taylor Trekking adventure.