Family-Friendly Adventures with Climbing the Seven Summits
At Climbing the Seven Summits, we believe that adventures are best when shared. That’s why we’ve designed select expeditions to welcome friends and family to join you for all or part of your journey. These experiences not only deepen the joy of your adventure but also foster a greater understanding of the mountaineering world for your loved ones. Whether they’re tagging along for the trek, enjoying luxurious add-ons, or simply celebrating your success afterward, these trips are crafted to create lifelong memories together. So, why not bring them along and turn your next climb into a shared adventure of a lifetime?
Why Bring Family Along?
Inviting friends and family on your expedition offers more than just companionship—it enriches the entire experience. Sharing a once-in-a-lifetime journey with loved ones not only strengthens bonds and eases the challenges of time apart but also gives them a front-row seat to your expedition, fostering a deeper appreciation for mountaineering and building excitement for future adventures together. From cheering you on from Everest Base Camp to joining in post-climb celebrations in Ecuador or Tanzania, their support can boost morale and create a shared sense of accomplishment.
Mount Everest: Sharing the Journey
Climbing Mount Everest is a monumental goal, and having loved ones nearby can elevate the experience for everyone involved. At CTSS, we’ve designed options that seamlessly align with the goals of every climber—whether you’re aiming for the summit, tackling a partial climb to Camp 2 or Camp 3, taking on our 3 Peaks program, or climbing Lobuche. Family and friends can join in on the journey, experiencing the thrill of the expedition and providing invaluable support.
CTSS offers several ways for friends and family to be part of the Everest experience:
Everest Base Camp Trek & Stay: Family and friends can join you on an unforgettable journey through lush valleys, vibrant rhododendron forests, and dramatic Himalayan landscapes. This iconic trek not only brings them to the base of the world’s tallest peak but also offers a deep immersion into the local Sherpa culture. Along the way, trekkers will pass through picturesque villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, where they can visit Buddhist monasteries and soak in spectacular views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. The pinnacle of the experience comes with two nights spent at Everest Base Camp proper, where your loved ones can witness the high-altitude atmosphere of the mountaineering community. From mingling with climbers to exploring icefalls, it’s an adventure that offers both physical challenges and cultural enrichment.
Rugged Luxury: Trek in style with guided support from an Everest summiteer as we pull out all the stops for our signature luxury trek to Everest Base Camp. Stay in 5-star accommodations and top mountain lodges. Like our traditional Everest Base Camp Trek & Stay, our Rugged Luxury trekkers will enjoy exclusive access to Everest Base Camp, which most trekkers never reach, and spend two nights in luxury geodesic dome tents. Celebrate with a champagne toast on the Khumbu Glacier, join a beginner-friendly ice climbing clinic, and even sip the world’s highest cappuccino. For the ultimate luxury, skip the hike down with a helicopter flight back to Kathmandu, where you can unwind with a massage and enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Nepalese cuisine at a top restaurant.
Lobuche East: If your family and friends are looking for an introductory or beginner-friendly mountaineering experience, they are welcome to join you on your acclimatization climb of Lobuche East (20,075ft/6,119m). Known for its breathtaking summit views of the Everest massif, Makalu, and Ama Dablam, it’s often considered one of the best summits in the Himalayas. This climb combines rock, snow, and ice, with steep fixed lines and excellent training for bigger, more technical peaks. It’s ideal for first-time Himalayan climbers familiar with crampons, ice axes, and harnesses. A training refresher will be offered at Lobuche Base Camp before the ascent.
3 Peaks (Lobuche, Pokalde, and Island Peak): For the more ambitious, our 3 Peaks program will take your companions on an epic journey through some of the Khumbu’s most iconic peaks: Lobuche East, Pokalde (19,048ft/5,806m), and Island Peak (20,209ft/6,160m). Starting alongside you on Lobuche, they’ll then accompany you to Everest Base Camp for the true Everest experience alongside summiteers. After their two-night stay at base camp, they’ll split off to trek and summit Pokalde. Finally, they cross into the famed Imja Tse Valley and ascend Island Peak, which offers some of the best summit views the Himalayas have to offer. This expedition is perfect for climbers eager to take on a multi-peak challenge in one of the most stunning regions on Earth. Climbers should be familiar with crampon and ice axe use. We will run a training refresher at Lobuche Base Camp before the ascent to dust off any cobwebs.
Extended Stay Options: For those wanting to stay more than two nights or take on a climbing objective of their own, we offer extended stays at Everest Base Camp. Whether an additional night or the entire expedition season, our team can organize an extended stay for your support team.
Mount Kilimanjaro: Safari and Zanzibar Getaways
Climbing Africa’s highest peak is a monumental achievement, but the adventure doesn’t have to end there. Our post-expedition add-ons beckon you to stay and savor the culture and landscapes of Tanzania and invite your friends and family to join in the experience.
- 3-Day African Safari: Explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Tarangire National Park, known for its ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds. You’ll also spot giraffes, zebras, and lions as you drive through open savannahs. Then, journey to the Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s “Eden.” This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the elusive black rhino, lions, and flamingos gliding across soda lakes. With dramatic volcanic scenery as your backdrop, your safari will feel like stepping into a wildlife documentary. Each night, relax in luxury lodges or camps where gourmet meals and campfire stories await.
- 4-Day Zanzibar Getaway: After the challenge of Kilimanjaro, indulge in total relaxation on Zanzibar’s world-famous beaches. Sink your toes into soft, white sand and float in the warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Explore Stone Town, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history comes alive through winding alleyways, bustling markets, and a fusion of Swahili and Arabic architecture. For a livelier vibe, head to Nungwi, known for its vibrant nightlife and beach parties under the stars. Whether sipping cocktails at sunset or diving among coral reefs teeming with marine life, Zanzibar offers the perfect mix of adventure and luxury.
For those craving more, we offer custom luxury itineraries such as safaris in the Serengeti, gorilla trekking in Rwanda, or even visiting Victoria Falls. Whatever your dream African experience, CTSS can make it happen!
Our Ecuador Volcanoes expedition climbs Cayambe (18,996ft/5,790m) and Cotopaxi (19,347ft/5,897m), with the opportunity to add on a third Ecuadorean giant, Chimborazo (20,548ft/6,263m). It is an ideal choice for climbers who want to experience high-altitude climbing while enjoying creature comforts like haciendas, mountain huts, and hot springs, making it a perfect expedition for friends and family to join.
- Join Acclimatization Hikes and Stay in Mountain Huts: Family and friends can share in the adventure by following the same acclimatization itinerary and enjoying scenic hikes through Andean landscapes. These treks lead to charming mountain huts where non-climbers can relax by a crackling fire, enjoy hearty meals, and soak in the beauty of Ecuador’s volcanic peaks before reuniting with you after your climb to celebrate with a shared meal, panoramic views, and stories of adventure.
- Explore Quito and Hot Springs: Non-climbing companions can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its historic streets, visit ornate churches, and sample local cuisine in bustling markets. For a more tranquil escape, they can relax in the soothing hot springs of Papallacta, surrounded by lush cloud forests. Visits to centuries-old haciendas offer a taste of colonial history and luxurious hospitality, making their stay as memorable as your climb.
- 4-Day Galápagos Adventure: End your journey with a once-in-a-lifetime Galápagos Islands adventure. Follow in Darwin’s footsteps as you explore this ecological paradise, encountering giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas. Snorkel with sea lions, hike volcanic landscapes, and marvel at the islands’ unique biodiversity. Whether on a luxury cruise or staying on the islands, this bucket-list experience offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
No matter what your companions seek—adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion—Ecuador offers a diverse and unforgettable experience for everyone.
Pico de Orizaba: Culture, History, and Adventure
Our Orizaba Express expedition is another family-friendly option, blending cultural exploration with adventure in the heart of Mexico. For this itinerary, your loved ones can join you before, during, or after the climb to experience the rich culture, famous archeological sites, and delicious eats.
- Discover Teotihuacan’s Ancient Pyramids: A must-see for history lovers, Teotihuacan offers a fascinating journey through one of Mesoamerica’s greatest civilizations. Family and friends can explore this sprawling archaeological site, climb the iconic Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, and walk along the Avenue of the Dead while learning about its cultural significance.
- Immerse in Mexico’s Vibrant Culture: Beyond Teotihuacan, companions can dive into the lively streets of Mexico City. Visit world-class museums like the National Museum of Anthropology, stroll through neighborhoods such as Coyoacán, or relax in historic haciendas. Foodies will delight in Mexico’s diverse culinary scene, sampling everything from street tacos to gourmet dishes, making every meal an adventure.
Whether seeking cultural exploration or quiet relaxation, companions can enjoy a meaningful journey while you pursue your climbing goals.
