Cape Town - Despite a global pandemic and several Covid-19-related restrictions, a group of 15 South Africans reached Everest Base Camp in Nepal on a life-changing voyage.
The eight-day climb up the mountain entailed overnight accommodation in tea-houses located in small villages along the way. With interesting names like Phakding, Namche Bazar and Gorak Shep, these mountains also offer clean accommodation and basic food for all climbers hiking up the mountain.
The 65km climb is physically taxing and required a level of fitness and mental strength. One typically walks for five to six hours per day and altitude is more important than distance. The thin air makes even the shortest distances a difficult task.
The group was led by Klasie Wessels from Streetschool, which is based in Stellenbosch. Wessels said that the most challenging part of the trek were the physical challenges involved.
"Everest Base Camp, at an altitude of 5 363m, has 50% less oxygen than at sea level. In terms of fitness, one needs to be fit enough to walk for five to six hours per day for 15 consecutive days," said Wessels.
“One of the most challenging aspects of the journey was acclimatising to the high altitude of being that high above sea level. Pacing is more important than distance in terms of altitude. The climb is roughly 60km up and 60km down, with the change in altitude there are risks of altitude sickness and mental anxiety.”
The purpose of the journey was for climbers to develop a sense of appreciation for the beauty and richness of life and the opportunities that are presented to them. The journey aimed to be insightful and inspiring for all the hikers embarking on the journey through offering different perspectives.
Professor Sonia Human, was one of the people that hiked up the mountain alongside Wessels, she said that despite the physical challenges involved, the journey was the most life-changing journey she had embarked on.
“It was everything I could have ever hoped for. It was an emotional and spiritual journey. Being surrounded by the tallest mountains, that's so big really humbles you and makes you see how small you are in the greater scheme of things. I was so amazed by the kindness, dignity of the simplicity of the Nepalese people and the compassion they showed.”
John Thöle, who is from Somerset West, said the the two weeks they spent there was truly impactful. He described the journey as overwhelming and life-changing, as they were exposed to the Nepalese religion and culture which is completely different to the South Africa's.
“We were one of the first groups to start the trekking season,” said Wessels
“Our Nepalese hosts were so happy that we could do the trek despite the pandemic, especially since their livelihood depends on trekkers like us.”