Climbing Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, is an awe-inspiring and demanding challenge that requires meticulous preparation and extensive training. Attempting such a feat without prior mountaineering experience is dangerous and highly discouraged.
The cost of such an expedition can climb above $70,000. Because of the cost and extreme risk to the retrieval team, few bodies ever leave Everest. And many mountaineers prefer their bodies stay on the mountain if they pass there in the tradition taken from sailors lost at sea.
David Goettler summited Everest last year without Sherpa support. He carried his own gear up and down the mountain. He freely admitted that he had used the ropes at some points and he also took advantage of an empty tent platform along the way. Otherwise, he relied on his own abilities and decisions.
Firstly, everyone has to pay the Nepal government a permit fee. This is $11,000 per person. Secondly, you'll need oxygen bottles and equipment. You'll also need to cover the cost of the oxygen bottles and equipment for the Sherpas that are on your team.
Base Camp is located at 17,600 feet, well below the peak of Everest, which is 29,000 feet. Base Camp is where those planning to summit spend weeks acclimatizing and preparing for their journey. It is also the furthest you can go using only your legs, before other equipment like ropes and ice picks get involved.
Well, you will find that the top of the summit is the place which is the windiest place on the earth with the forceful and wild winds of the hurricane. Coldest month on top of Mount Everest, temperatures regularly reach -36 degrees Celsius (about -33° F) and and can drop as low as -60 degrees Celsius (-76° F).
Securing sponsorship is probably one of your best options if you wish to summit Mount Everest for free. Sponsors can provide you with the necessary gear along with the money you need for your ascent. All of these costs can indeed be paid for free by your sponsors. You must first develop a strong case for sponsorship.
On a standard 14-day return trek to EBC, you will be walking for 9 days with an average of 15 km a day. The other days will either be spent acclimatizing or in Kathmandu. Although 15 km a day is not a long distance, the steep and rocky terrain can slow you down.