Prepare for your mountain at home

Uhuru Peak sits at 5,895 m, where only about 10% oxygen remains. Most climbers who miss the summit fail because of altitude sickness, not fitness. Six weeks of sleeping at altitude at home changes that.

Summit altitude

5,895 m

Oxygen at the summit

10.0%

The trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) keeps you above 3,500 m for two weeks. Those already acclimatised at home enjoy the trek from Namche Bazaar instead of surviving it.

Summit altitude

5,364 m

Oxygen at the summit

10.7%

The highest mountain outside Asia: 6,961 m, cold and dry. Every week of preparation counts here. Start five to seven weeks ahead and build up slowly.

Summit altitude

6,961 m

Oxygen at the summit

8.7%

The roof of the Alps at 4,808 m, often climbed in two or three days. That is exactly why acclimatising at home is so valuable: there is no time for it on the mountain.

Summit altitude

4,808 m

Oxygen at the summit

11.5%

Mera Peak, Island Peak, Chimborazo, Denali: above 6,000 m less than 10% oxygen is available. A seven-week programme is the norm here.

Summit altitude

6,000 m – 7,000 m

Oxygen at the summit

9.4%

Peak Lenin, Khan Tengri, Ama Dablam and the 8,000ers: pre-acclimatisation here is not optional but part of the expedition plan. Eight to ten weeks, with medical supervision.

Summit altitude

7,000 m+

Oxygen at the summit

8.2%