What Is the Cost of Trekking on A Mountain?

One of the most challenging outdoor adventures is climbing the world’s highest mountains. Besides being mentally and physically prepared, you must be financially prepared because it can be costly. It is one major thing that keeps people from climbing mountains.  

Despite this, climbing mountains over the last few decades have become more affordable, according to Quartz. More and more people are climbing them. But what is the cost of trekking on a mountain? 

In this article, you’ll learn about some of the world’s tallest peaks. And in the subsequent section, you’ll discover the cost of trekking on these mountains. It would also help to note that these costs are approximate values of climbing these mountains. So, let’s get right on it.  

Mount Everest, Nepal

Ballpark Estimate: $84,123 

Mount Everest is the world’s tallest mountain at 29,030 feet and the most expensive climb. The expedition can take you through the foothills of the Himalayas to the Sherpa capital, where you can find details on Sherpa expedition via Kathmandu. Upon returning from the mountains, you’ll be able to explore, sightsee, and shop in the vibrant markets of Kathmandu’s capital. 

Between 2006 and 2019, two-thirds of climbers attempted to reach the summit compared to one-third in the preceding 15 years. The Davis’s University of Washington and the University of  California did a research study in 2020 to determine this. 

According to the study, the risk of dying on the mountain dropped from 1.9% and 1.7% in 1990-2005 to 0.5% and 1.1%, respectively. 

Mount Vinson, Antarctica

Ballpark Estimate: $46,618 

In the Ellsworth Mountains, 700 nautical miles from the South Pole, stands Mount Vinson, the highest mountain in Antarctica. Mount Vinson lies in a pristine environment in Antarctica, creating an otherworldly beauty that is hard to compare. It is costly to climb this mountain because of its remoteness and extreme climate. 

Mount Kilimanjaro

Ballpark Estimate: $2,500 to $8,000 

Mount Kilimanjaro has the reputation of being a long but straightforward hike. They call one of the most popular trails the Coca-Cola route since you can purchase drinks along the way. Kilimanjaro’s routes aren’t incredibly challenging, but your attitude and the guide you choose are vital factors in your success.  

Mount Elbrus

Ballpark Estimate: $1,175 to $5,600 

The 18,510 feet of Mt. Elbrus makes it one of the Seven Summits that deserves a lot more attention than it does. Climbers can access the area by cable cars, chair lifts, and huts throughout their ascents. However, it is still essential to acclimatize slowly and carefully to reach the summit. The skills of using crampons and an ice ax are equally important.

Aconcagua, Argentina

Ballpark Estimate: $8,395 

The mountain of Aconcagua is the tallest in all the Americas and outside of Asia. Approximately three people die on Aconcagua every year, earning the nickname “the Mountain of Death.” Climbers often underestimate it.  

It’s mostly a very long, challenging climb to the top. However, at 22,840 feet, hasty ascents will cause acute altitude sickness.  

How Does Your Money Get Spent Trekking on a Mountain?

There are four vital components to any mountain climb: travel, permits/insurance, supplies/gear, and guides.  

The following discussion breaks down the expenses as if an individual wanted to climb without joining a team, but almost no one does this as the numbers will show–it is just too expensive or risky.  

Gear and Clothing

All the above climbs require specialized gear, and they might cost about $8,000 to $13,000. There is significant overlap, especially between mountain ranges requiring clothing for extreme high-altitude expeditions that can exist in temperatures as low as -40°F to -70°F.

Cost of Mountaineering Training Course

It might cost you about $5,000 to $8,000 for a mountaineering training course. However, you don’t need training in high-altitude mountaineering if you’re an experienced climber.  

An alpine mountaineering course is a good idea if it has been a while since you climbed, so you can refresh your memory about how it feels to climb at altitude, with opportunities to become familiar with the latest tools and techniques. 

Cost of Passports and Visas when Climbing a Mountain

For all destinations, you must have a current passport, along with the appropriate visas and fees. It’ll cost you about $100 to get these documents.  

Cost of Permits for Climbing a Mountain

Climbers in Nepal and Tibet must get a climbing permit before setting foot on the mountain, depending on their route. 

In Nepal, where climbing permits cost $11,000, most climbers climb Everest’s south side because of logistical and support reasons. However, if they travel to Tibet, they will save some money as it costs only about $7,000. 

Miscellaneous Costs of Climbing a Mountain

Several other miscellaneous expenses also add up quickly that might cost about $10,000. For instance, these costs might include travel expenses to Kathmandu on Mount Everest, emergency-rescue insurance, visas, immunizations, and tips for guides and cooks. 

It is common for these expenses to vary widely, but they contribute significantly to the overall cost of the climb. 

Conclusion

The cost of trekking on a mountain can be an inexpensive undertaking, yet thousands still do it yearly. The allure of the mountains is apparent in the sacrifices so many will make to stand at its peak.