Coronavirus Plan & Policies
**Coronavirus Plan & Policies**
In these unprecedented times we want you to know that as part of our CTSS family your safety and wellbeing remains our highest priority (always has been, and always will be!).
As leaders in the mountains we are no strangers to challenging times. We’ve weathered a lot in the past and we’re confident that we’ll get through this and emerge stronger, better equipped and more enthused than ever.
Covid Response Plan
We continue to closely monitor the situation in all of our destinations and recognise that things are constantly changing. We will endeavour are adapting many of our processes to be Covid safe in the mountains.
Please refer to our ‘Covid Response’ plan for how we are helping to reduce the spread.
Payments
We understand that while you are keen to get out there and get climbing again, it’s a really tricky time to commit to a trip right now.
To make thing easier and provide you with the greatest level of reassurance during Covid19 pandemic we have made the following temporary changes to our normal Terms & Conditions (With the exception of our Everest program which has its own special policy you can ask us about)
- Instead of our usual 25% deposits, we are accepting 15% deposits.
- Final payments will now be due 60 days prior to departure vs. the traditional 120 days. (Please note that our payment dates are dictated by the numerous upfront contracts and services that CTSS commits to on your behalf to make your expedition possible)
- Any deposits paid will be fully refundable up to the date of the final payment. There will be no processing or transaction fees levied by CTSS.
- If you need to cancel your trip for reasons related directly to the covid19 pandemic, we will offer you credit towards a future trip postponement minus any non-refundable expenses CTSS may have incurred on your behalf, if you are unable to accept the postponement and wish to cancel completely inside the 60 day payment term you will forfeit 50% of your program fees. (For any cancellations due to reasons outside of the Covid19 pandemic our usual Terms & Conditions apply.)
- If we are forced to cancel the expedition because of Covid19 pandemic, we will offer you a postponement with priority placing on a future departure. If you are unable to accept the offered postponement we will refund you any fees paid minus any non-refundable expenses CTSS may have already incurred on your behalf.
We hope your family and friends stay safe, healthy and well.
Application_Lite
Please download our application form below, fill it out completely and send it our way.
Application
CTSS Program Application
Step 1) Research the program you would like to join & contact us to chat through your options, so we can customize your experience.
Step 2) Moving forward, you may then fill out this online form completely, truthfully and to the best of your ability. Please refer to our Privacy Policy if you have any concerns. Your personal information is important to us and will be handled respectfully.
Step 3) At this stage, you will be required to pay an initial deposit of 25% of the program fees into our trust account to reserve your place.
Payment can be made by bank transfer or credit card (if paying by credit card please note there is a merchant surcharge fee of 2.9% which we will add to your total – to avoid this, we suggest a direct bank wire or transfer) Your spot will not be secured until monies have been received, and we have reviewed your application and accepted you to the program
Step 4) Upon receipt of your application and payment we will process your application.
Step 5) Upon acceptance, we will send you follow up forms such as the waiver forms, physicians medical form, travel and passport information form to make sure we have all of your data. We will also begin sending you the program emails to get you up to speed on all the details for your trip.
Step 6) Submit your remaining paperwork and balance payment 120 days before the program start date.
Note: This is an application. This application requires the acceptance of CTSS personnel before the applicant will be enrolled on the program. CTSS reserves the right to deny an applicant enrollment in its programs for any reason. If the applicant is under the age of 18, the application must be signed by their legal parent or guardian. They must also be accompanied by a legal parent or guardian on the program.
Please take this application seriously and answer all questions truthfully. Doing so will allow us to properly serve your needs.
Payment Procedure Options
Electronic Transfer, Bank Wire, Credit Card (please note there is +2.9% merchant fee), PayPal
To reserve a spot with CTSS you need to submit a deposit of 25% of the program price with this application.
The remaining 75% balance is due, and must be paid in full, 120 days prior to the program departure date. Please note that CTSS reserves the right to withdraw you from the program if paperwork and the final payment is not received by this time.
Price is based on double occupancy. Single rooms may be available where possible on the trip. Please refer to our single rooming options on the expeditions page and contact us to ensure this is locked in.
Direct Debit/Wire Transfer
Please contact us for our wire transfer details
Paypal
1) Log into the Paypal app and tap Send Money,
2) Enter our email: info@climbingthesevensummits.com
2) Enter the amount to send, review your payment details and where you’ll send your money from (your paypal balance, bank account or credit card)
3) Tap Send Now
4) Done – we will receive a notification when the money arrives in our paypal account and alert you
If CTSS incurs any costs or expenses on your behalf that are above and beyond the normal scope of program expenses outlined, including but not limited to search and rescue fees, or other unforeseen costs, you agree to reimburse those fees within 10 days of receipt. Other fees or schedule structures may apply – please refer to the program literature to see what’s not & ensure you have understand our cancellation and refund policy as well as what is not included in your program.
Insurance:
Each participant is required to purchase trip insurance for their program. CTSS will not buy trip insurance for you and we strongly recommend cancellation insurance.
Cancellation and Refund Policy:
All paperwork is to be returned and program fees are to be paid in full 120 days prior to the start of the program. CTSS reserves the right to withdraw enrolment from anyone who fails to meet these conditions.
We strongly recommend travel insurance that includes trip cancellation as your CTSS deposit and program fees are non-refundable in the instance of your cancellation, unforeseen events beyond our control, including but not limited to, illness, injury, strike, natural disasters, civil unrest, terrorism, flight cancellation, lost or stolen passports, a rejected or denied visa application or climbing permit. (Upon your application, we secure local outfitters, accommodation, permits, etc for you ahead of time and therefore deposits and program fees are non-recoverable)
If for some reason you need to transfer from one program to another, CTSS will do its best to accommodate you where possible, but this cannot be guaranteed as expenses already incurred may be non-recoverable.
Please be aware that if you have been admitted to a program but your doctor fails to sign your physician form by the due date, then your deposit will also be forfeited.
Mike Hamill

Mike Hamill
Director and Lead Guide of Climbing The Seven Summits
Mike Hamill is a 6-time Everest summiteer, world-class mountain guide, and author. He oversees every CTSS expedition.
A veteran climber, Mike has built his vast experience over twenty years as a senior mountain guide across all seven continents. Known as the foremost expert, he authored the book “Climbing the Seven Summits” and has made 6 laps of the acclaimed Seven Summits mountaineering challenge. In 2008 he completes the circuit in just over 200 days.
Expeditions under Mike Hamill’s guidance have maintained a 91% expedition success rate overall with an 80% client success rate on all expeditions.
An adventurer by nature, Mike has skied to the South Pole, cycled unsupported across the United States, competed at a national level as a Nordic skier and is an ultramarathoner, cyclist, traveler and philanthropist. He began his climbing career on the steep rock and ice of New England and New York State while obtaining a bachelor of science from St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York. He is originally from Hanover, New Hampshire, and Bridgton, Maine.
His love for the mountains and adventure continues to compel him to travel the globe and connect with the local mountain communities, particularly the Sherpa of the Khumbu region. This bond was his impetus in creating the “Tiger of the Snows Fund” a not-for-profit that provides grants to further education of mountain tourism workers and their families.
Mike is a familiar and well-respected face in the mountaineering community. He is passionate about imparting his knowledge, skills and experience to inspire others to harness their full potential in the mountains.
Climbing Resume
- Senior Climbing Guide for 20 years
- Has led over 120 major high altitude climbing expeditions Worldwide
- 6 Summits of Mt. Everest
- Has climbed all of the “Seven Summits,” the tallest mountains on each continent, at least 6 times, some as many as 25 times
- Has climbed the “Seven Summits” in 220 days
- He has 13 X 8,000m summits on three different mountains (Everest, Cho Oyu, and Shishapangma)
- Has led 23 X 8,000m expeditions
- Summited both Cho Oyu and Shishpangma (the World’s 6th and 14th tallest mountains) in 8 days
- 50 ascents of Mt. Rainier
- Skied to South Pole
- Cycled unsupported across the United States
- Tied the record for most Adirondack High Peaks climbed in one day (15)
- An active marathoner, ultra-marathoner, ironman, skier, cyclist, climber, traveler, and fly fisherman


Media
- Author, “Climbing the Seven Summits, A Comprehensive Guide to the Continents’ Highest Peaks,” The Mountaineers Books
- Featured in Discovery Channel’s “Everest: Beyond the Limit”, Season Three
- Author, "The Brotherhood of the Rope" The Wall Street Journal (April 27, 2014)
- Author, "Everest Guide's Diary Amid Quake, Avalanche" National Geographic (April 28, 2015)
- Author, "Deadly Day" Rock and Ice 219 (July, 2014)
- Author, Zymurgy, “Brewing on Everest” (July/Aug. 2012, Vol. 35 No.4)
- Wikipedia, Michael Hamill
- Featured in The Seattle Times (Oct. 8 2012)
- Featured in The News Tribune (Summer, 2012)
- Quoted in Rock and Ice, “The Maddening Crowd” by Freddie Wilkinson (Oct. 2012)
- Quoted in The Boston Gobe, "Boston Woman Tackling Peaks at a Record Pace" (April 3, 2013)
- Featured in St Lawrence University Alumni Magazine (Fall, 2011)
- Featured in NW Outdoors (2009)
- Featured in Outward Bound International Journal, "Climbing the Seven Summits" (2013)
- Featured in Wilderness and Environmental Journal, Book Review (Fall, 2013)
- Featured in the The Valley News (2009 and 2012)
- Author, "An Unfortunate Event: Inciting Violence on the Lhotse Face" (May, 2013)
- Quoted in The New Yorker, "The Manic Mountain" (June 3, 2013)
- Featured in "IMG Guide Mike Hamill Climbs the 7 Summits in 11 Months" IMG Blog (November 17th, 2008)
- "Climbing the Seven Summits" Reviewed in Action Asia Magazine (Summer, 2012)
- "Climbing the Seven Summits" Reviewed in Afar Magazine (Summer, 2012)
- Featured in The Valley News "Hanover Climber Uninjured in Earthquake" (April, 2015)
- Quoted, Rock and Ice 205 "Tipping Point on Everest" by Freddie Wilkinson (Oct. 2012)
Reviews
A Snapshot of CTSS & Mike Hamill's Success
Expeditions under Mike Hamill’s guidance have maintained a 91% expedition success rate overall, with an 80% client success rate on all expeditions.
Mike has led well over 120 expeditions and thousands of clients over 20 years on all seven continents.
Well over 150 climbers have stood on top of 8000m peaks under Mike’s direct guidance.
Here are some of Mike’s stats:
Don't take our word for it... Hear it directly from the climber's mouth
"I climbed Mount Vinson in Antarctica with CTSS. Their leadership was outstanding. Not only did they help me in any possible way during my months of preparation with tips and all necessary paperwork, they continued showing and executing their professionalism on the mountain as well. The food was excellent and added to the mood of the team. They really made the effort, over and over again, to include the team in decision making and made sure everyone got the attention they needed during a big climb like this. Absolutely fabulous. I highly recommend CTSS.”
- Arnaud, Netherlands

"I am transformed forever! If you want a life-changing, positive experience with guides who have heart and tons of experience for your personalized journey to the summit, CTSS and its local guides are the Mount Kilimanjaro choice. Ethical business practices that build up guide/porter team families and the local economy, made me feel happy to be their clients in even more ways. Do it now!"
- Marie Miyashiro, United States

“I will never forget that you believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. For that I will always be grateful.”
- Jason V

Your Safety & Success are our priorities.
It's what makes us the most trusted Mountaineering Guide Service in the world.
91%
Expedition success rate
200+
Climbers on top of 8000m peaks
82%
Climber summit rate

"I had the time of my life on the EBC trek and am so grateful for the opportunity! I truly had lots of fun every day meeting and getting to know people from all over the world, learning about the Nepal culture, eating their food, listening to everyone's stories (so inspirational), and I felt connected to so many people. The Sherpa, all guides, cooks, staff, and porters were simply the best! No doubt, CTSS employs quality, compassionate, funny, knowledgeable, and inspiring team members to ensure our safety, well-being, and happiness along the journey! Very pleased with the entire CTSS logistics and total operations. Again, thanks to CTSS, I had the joy and best experience of a lifetime! I look forward to returning to Nepal in the near future and continuing my journeys through more treks and mountain climbs around the globe with none other than CTSS!"
— Julie M, United States

An incredible experience from start to finish. I can’t say enough what a difference it makes to have a great guide who cares so much about the whole experience and a great time to make the journey so special. I hope this is the first of many climbs with CTSS for me.Kevin A, USA
I cannot even put into words how incredible that trip was for me – you truly run everything top notch and it shows in every single part of the trip. Your patience in teaching/coaching in a way that I didn’t feel intimidated by was amazing and so so appreciated. I am in awe of this whole experienceJulie M, USA
As expected you run a first class show from start to finish… I look forward to the next adventure.Len F, USA
“Tendi Sherpa – a truly amazing person and an inspirational leader… It is plain to see that the leaders of the other guiding companies hold him in the highest regard. As a client that gives you great confidence in your leader’s decision making. It was that decision making that made it such a successful trip. Thank you Tendi.”Richard W
“Tendi is a true superstar of the Himalayas. Under his ever watchful eye, he allowed me to build confidence, learn new skills and gain faith in myself. Seemingly everywhere at once, Tendi was always there ready and willing to assist me on how to climb smarter and safer. Kind, inspiring, courteous, strong and always smiling. There are truly no words I can write that do him justice. I look forward to more climbs with Tendi in the future” Peter W
“I had the pleasure of being guided by Tendi Sherpa, the most humble and respected individual on Mt. Everest. Tendi is famous in Nepal and widely regarded as one of the top three Sherpa. I have never met a more positive individual in my life, his laugh and smile are a permanent smile from Kathmandu airport to the roof of the world and back. During the 6 weeks we spent climbing together, he never once overlooked a clip, anchor or footstep. I can confidently say there is no safer way of climbing the tallest mountain in the world than by having Tendi by your side. With twelve Everest summits and perfect English, Tendi is like a Western guide on steroids. My favorite analogy was when I was told ‘Tendi could climb faster without oxygen and with me on his back, than I could running 6 liters per minute of oxygen” And it’s true! If you are going to take the time to climb Everest there’s no better way to stack the odds in your favor than climbing with Tendi Sherpa as your guide.”(Mat Wood – Dual Everest and Lhotse summiteer in under 24 hours)
Tendi Sherpa – a truly amazing person and an inspirational leader… It is plain to see that the leaders of the other guiding companies hold him in the highest regard. As a client that gives you great confidence in your leader’s decision making. It was that decision making that made it such a successful trip. Thank you Tendi.Richard W
Kind, inspiring, courteous, strong and always smiling. There are truly no words I can write that do him justice. I look forward to more climbs with Tendi in the future.Peter W
“I had the pleasure of being guided by Tendi Sherpa, the most humble and respected individual on Mt. Everest. Tendi is famous in Nepal and widely regarded as one of the top three Sherpa. I have never met a more positive individual in my life, his laugh and smile are a permanent smile from Kathmandu airport to the roof of the world and back. During the 6 weeks we spent climbing together, he never once overlooked a clip, anchor or footstep. I can confidently say there is no safer way of climbing the tallest mountain in the world than by having Tendi by your side. With twelve Everest summits and perfect english, Tendi is like a Western guide on steroids. My favourite analogy was when I was told ‘Tendi could climb faster without oxygen and with me on his back, than I could running 6 litres per minute of oxygen” And it’s true! If you are going to take the time to climb Everest there’s no better way to stack the odds in your favour than climbing with Tendi Sherpa as your guide”Mat Wood – Dual Everest and Lhotse summiteer in under 24 hours
CTSS is a class act! The team and facilities are world class. Every detail of the expedition was perfect. Mike’s decision making, Tendi’s guidance, the strength of our Sherpa team and the food Kumar was producing were second to none. You only had to see the look on the faces of team members from other operators…to know we had something special. I can’t wait to climb with CTSS again.Peter W
After doing research on the various Everest mountaineering guide companies, I could find no reason to use anyone other than Climbing The Seven Summits. Now that I’ve returned from a successful summit of Mt. Everest with CTSS, I would highly recommend them to any climber, for any summit in the world. CTSS provides an unparalleled level of guide expertise, and very experienced Sherpa support staff, as well as exceptional accommodations and sustenance. All of this, at very competitive pricing, with different levels of service available, depending on the climber’s experience. Mike Hamill has the highest level of integrity and mountaineering expertise, constantly adapting to the needs of the team members, as well as the changes on the mountain. CTSS has significantly raised the bar in the mountaineering world – and all the other companies know it.William B, (USA)
Having climbed and summited a few mountains with Mike, including Everest, Cho Oyu and Denali, I signed up with CTSS for Lhotse. From the beginning everything just worked. Paperwork was quick and efficient. Superb Base Camp set-up: tent, food, water, hygiene. Great team dynamics with the Everest climbers on the CTSS team. The Sherpa Mike gave me was compatible with me and I with him. The logistical planning Mike did for my climb was of a high quality, including daily weather reports and interpretation thereof, choosing dates for my rotations, and most importantly, planning my summit rotation in the smallest possible detail with contingencies built in for unplanned events. I called Mike from the summit of Lhotse at 6:30am on 19 May 2018. This Lhotse expedition ranks right up there as one of my best ever mountain experiences - could not have been better. 10/10. Thanks, Mike.Louis Carstens - 4x8,000m Seven Summits
"The word trust comes to mind when I think about CTSS and why I will continue to engage them in future. When undertaking activities as serious as mountain climbing you need people you can trust, not to just make the good times happen but who have your back if things go bad.”
- Scott Gorman

Thank you again for the trip of a lifetime.Rick B.
Mike, The trip was terrific. I was extremely impressed with your leadership qualities.Pete
Thanks you for showing me the great World of high altitude climbing on Aconcagua. It had a lasting impact on me personally and my climbing, and it was due to you!Ann S.
(Thanks) for all your help and guidance on the recent trip to Aconcagua. Your knowledge and experience are invaluable. I hope I get a chance to climb with you again soon.Mark G.
Again, thanks for an awesome adventure. It’s the people, the friendship and the camaraderie that make up for more than half of the experience. Thanks for being so great!! and getting me up and down that hill safely. I look forward to climbing with you again in the future.Jason V.
Thank you for a fantastic trip!Jordan W.
I wanted to thank you for the great experience of climbing and summiting Aconcagua. Your leadership of our group was great and I really enjoyed climbing and conversing with you. You have the right blend of experience, expertise, personality and leadership skills to manage such trips/climbs really well. I am looking forward to the prospect of climbing again with you in the coming months/years. Maybe Cho Oyu over the next few years.Bavesh P.
Thanks for a great trip! Can’t wait for the next adventure with you!Masha G.
Thanks Mike for an amazing expedition! These days will always remain on my mind.Vicky J.
I had the time of my life on Aconcagua. The trip was absolutely incredible, two weeks that I will treasure for the rest of my life. I have to say that Mike made the trip. He just inspires confidence and security. I knew that no matter what happened up there he could fix it for us. I would climb anything with him.Nicky M.
You’re one of the superhumans (by that I mean observant, thoughtful, authentic — as well as superman on a mountain) so I hope to know you for years to come!Jo M.
Mike Hamill — Seasoned pro, classic lead guide, everything you want in a team leader and I consider myself lucky/privileged to get to climb with him. I’m sort of thinking Superman but with the ego of Clark Kent… Everything that Mike could do to make better, he did make better and his judgement was excellent. The call he made to go for the summit was amazing.Ken S.
Thanks for an awesome trip on Aconcagua! You guys were excellent!Mike M.
Mike, there’s an aura about you that when you’re around everything will be ok. You chose the right profession, and I’m a better person because of it!! Cheers!!Bart W.
You are the very best — I’m glad we know you!Julie S.
“You guys are doing a fantastic job and although I’m just a client, I felt proud to be wearing a CTSS cap and it probably sounds silly but I felt honoured to hold the CTSS flag on the summit because of the way you conduct yourselves as a company. The way the expedition was put together was professional yet relaxed and I enjoyed every bit of it, seriously, the best experience of my life.”
- Tom D, Australia

"I recently had the privilege of embarking on a climbing expedition and summit attempt to Aconcagua, and I cannot express enough how exceptional the entire experience was. Opting for CTSS's custom private climb marked my second journey with CTSS and guide Nanika ‘Nani’. The custom private climb allows for greater flexibility in the schedule and additional time for acclimatization to the higher altitude. From start to finish, every aspect of the trip was meticulously organized, showcasing a level of professionalism and guide competency that truly set this adventure apart."
Organization: The organization of the Aconcagua expedition was impeccable. Right from the initial planning stages to the moment we descended from the summit, every detail was thoughtfully considered. Pre-trip communication was clear and thorough, ensuring that I was well-prepared for the challenges that lay ahead. Logistics, including transportation, accommodation, and meal arrangements, ran seamlessly, allowing me to focus on the climb itself. The attention to detail was evident, creating a sense of confidence and ease throughout the entire journey.
Guide: The expertise and professionalism of Nani were truly commendable. Nani's knowledge of Aconcagua and mountaineering in general instilled a sense of trust and security. Nani demonstrated exceptional patience while providing insightful guidance on technique and safety measures. His commitment to ensuring my well-being was unwavering, and his passion for the mountain and its history enriched the entire experience. His professionalism and dedication went above and beyond, making the ascent not only safe but also incredibly rewarding."
Overall: The overall experience of climbing Aconcagua with CTSS’s private custom program surpassed all of my expectations. The supporting staff and facilities on the mountain were top-notch, creating a supportive environment. The logistics implemented for safety were outstanding, providing an additional layer of reassurance. The breathtaking landscapes and challenging ascents made this expedition an unforgettable journey. I wholeheartedly recommend CTSS’s Aconcagua expedition. The meticulous organization, guide competency, and overall experience created a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will be etched in my memory forever. If you are seeking a challenging yet rewarding mountaineering experience, look no further - this expedition is the epitome of excellence.
- Viranuj S, United States


You are the very best — I’m glad we know you!Julie S.
A heartfelt thank you for another great adventure. I appreciate so much your patience and support. I’m looking forward to the next one — the challenge of training and preparing for it as well as the experience of living it… Great job!Jean D.
Thanks you for an amazing trip and climb of Denali! Memory of a lifetime!Warren W.
Mike, Thank you for helping me realize my dream of climbing the Seven Summits. I am glad our paths crossed in 2009 on Elbrus and we have had the opportunity to climb together. Your coaching, leadership, and mentoring have been instrumental in my growth as a mountaineer and a person. If it was not for your positive encouragement in 2010 after climbing Aconcagua I don’t know that I would’ve seized the opportunity to go climb Everest. It has been an amazing journey with a lot of great accomplishment and memories along the path to success. I am grateful that I have shared those experiences with you. Thank you again for all you have done to support me in my pursuit of the dream to climb the Seven Summits.Tim I.
It was a true honor to have been part of your team. I feel blessed to have spent time with one of the greatest modern mountain guides.Mark K.
Again, thank you for leading my best climb ever!Turner B.
I have to start with Mike here. I was a fan of his from Cho Oyu last year, and he didn’t let me down this year. Mike is a fantastic leader in all respects. His judgement is sound, he’s not afraid to make tough calls, he’s diplomatic, he takes charge and leads by example, he ensures good team morale, he’s technically brilliant, and he takes appropriate risks to ensure success. He was constantly examining the terrain for safety at all times in the lead and really had to make some tough calls about when to go up. He’s also a great conversationalist.Vanessa O.
We really enjoyed being with you for our 6th of the 7 summits! Thank you for all of your help, advice and wisdom to get all of us up and down Vinson safely.Kriss B.
Great climb! I really enjoyed your leadership. You made the right call all the time and I never worried about safety. And you handled difficult situation with professionalism. Terrific job! Thanks!Jim W.
It seems most guides can get clients up a mountain when all conditions are perfect, but the real pros shine when chaos strikes. I talked to several clients from other teams, and they were in disarray the morning of the storm. People straggling down on their own. Scary stuff. You handled our team with precision. Great communication with the members with briefings and what you expected for the next day. It was a honor to meet and climb with you.Mark K. (former NFL Player)
Mike, Thanks you for all your efforts in making this a successful expedition and introduction to Russia. It was a revelation to watch you work to help each team member have the best chance for summiting, but still look out for the welfare of the entire team.Scot B.
Mike, Thanks to you an ordinary Joe (me) got a chance to do something special. I will never forget everything you did for me and for our team. I wish you all the best.Doug B.
The word trust comes to mind when I think about CTSS and why I will continue to engage them in future. When crossing timezones, exploring foreign countries and undertaking activities as serious as mountain climbing you need people who you can trust, not to just make the good times happen but who will have your back if things go bad. CTSS demonstrated a high level of trust to me in three ways on this expedition: Firstly, CTSS has the capability to get things organised, delivered and done in a country far away from home. Everything ran smoothly, and we were provided with lots of information. Secondly, CTSS worked with a high standard of supporting guides. Each guide was hand picked by Mike and could demonstrate a track record beyond what was required for Aconcagua. I also found each guide to be personable, unique and lots of fun to work with. A special shout out to Luis who led us from camp each morning playing the flute! Also to Sasha who is an inspiring guide from Russia who would always lead the way with her big smile and warm heart. Finally, the team culture. Mike sets the tone for how he wants the team to behave ahead of time and leads by example. What this resulted in was a group of people who arrived as mountaineers, formed into a strong team and left as life long friends in just three weeks. It’s true that climbing the seven summits is a tough adventure and maybe not for those who only seek the peaceful sunrays of a tropical beach. However, for those with the capability and determination to embark on this journey of a lifetime, I hope the above gives you the confidence to put your trust in CTSSScott G (Australia)
After doing research on the various Everest mountaineering guide companies, I could find no reason to use anyone other than Climbing The Seven Summits. Now that I’ve returned from a successful summit of Mt. Everest with CTSS, I would highly recommend them to any climber, for any summit in the world. CTSS provides an unparalleled level of guide expertise, and very experienced Sherpa support staff, as well as exceptional accommodations and sustenance. All of this is provided at very competitive pricing, with different levels of service available, depending on the climber’s experience. Mike Hamill has the highest level of integrity and mountaineering expertise, constantly adapting to the needs of the team members, as well as the changes in the mountain. CTSS has significantly raised the bar in the mountaineering world – and all the other companies know it.William B, USA (Everest Summiteer 2019)
Our Speed Ascents
CTSS Speed Ascent Program
CTSS takes pride in being on the cutting edge of new approaches to climbing mountains that improve safety, success, and efficiency. Mike Hamill has years of experience using portable altitude chambers to successfully pre-acclimate climbers to the rarefied air found at altitude.
Through the “Speed Ascent Program,” we work with you to use specially designed altitude chambers in the comfort of your own bed so you can spend more time at home with your loved ones and less time away on expedition. Also, safety can be improved by mitigating the amount of time spent in harm’s way in the mountains at extreme altitudes.
We feel that these altitude chambers are not a complete substitute for acclimating naturally in the mountains but have found that they can be an incredible aide and a valuable tool to facilitate faster on-mountain acclimatization and mitigate the amount of time at altitude.
Do you have serious time constraints and need to spend more time focusing on work, productivity, and family at home rather than tediously acclimatizing on the mountain? If you think this option is right for you, please contact us directly, and we will work with you on a personal plan to allow our Speed Ascent Program to maximize results.
Why CTSS
We believe in the transformative power of the mountains to turn ordinary people into extraordinary achievers.
We will deploy the best guides and logistics in the world for your safety and success.
Discover your best self with Climbing the Seven Summits.
6x Reasons to Choose CTSS
Safety
Your safety and success are our priorities in that order. We make conservative decisions, plan redundancies and all our guides have wilderness medical training, safety & rescue plans & access to doctors 24/7 to help keep you safe.
Value for $
We keep our overheads low to pass savings on to you. We are proud to offer the best service for the most competitive price, without skimping on safety or taking shortcuts with logistics, staffing and infrastructure.
Holistic Approach
Our service goes far beyond the mountain. Think of us as your climbing coach, we’ll be there from start to finish to prepare, debrief and plan your progression as a mountaineer, whether your goal is a single summit or the Seven.
Guides & Team
Guides can make or break your climb. We hand pick the most qualified, tenured, tested and personable guides and Sherpa in the world. Owner and mountaineer Mike Hamill personally oversees the management of each expedition.
Our Values
We care about you, our people and the planet and we walk our talk by donating a percentage of every expedition to Tiger of the Snows fund which supports outdoor tourism workers all over the world and following strict Leave No Trace principles amongst other initiatives.
Success
We have an unparalleled summit success rate. How? We do it in a myriad of ways; like a great chef’s secret sauce, we've fine tuned the recipe over decades but most importantly, we believe in you & your ability to achieve your goals and are invested in putting you on top.
“I will never forget that you believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. For that I will always be grateful.”
— Jason V

“You guys are doing a fantastic job and although I’m just a client, I felt proud to be wearing a CTSS cap and it probably sounds silly but I felt honoured to hold the CTSS flag on the summit because of the way you conduct yourselves as a company. The way the expedition was put together was professional yet relaxed and I enjoyed every bit of it, seriously, the best experience of my life.”
- Tom D (Australia)
