Lenin Peak sits on the border of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan at 7,134 meters (23,406 ft). For a 7,000-meter (23,000-foot) peak the logistics are simple: fly into Osh, drive to a base camp with hot showers and Wi-Fi, and start climbing. The climbing is the hard part.
Above Camp 1 you’re on glacier the whole way. Roped travel, crevasse crossings, a few ladders, jumaring up fixed lines, and a summit day from Camp 3 at 6,100 meters (20,000 ft). Expect wind, snow camping and storms that build fast. We go up to Camp 3 once to acclimatize, come back down to rest at base camp, then go up again for the summit, with a spare day for weather.
Packs run 35 to 40 pounds going up and can reach 65 coming down after the summit. Porters can be hired above base camp at extra cost.
This trip is for climbers with glacier skills and at least one big peak behind them; a summit above 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) is recommended. We take applications, and AWE alumnae get priority. If you’re new to us, we’ll talk through your experience with you before a spot is offered.
Is this trip for you?
- You have glacier skills: roped travel, crampons and ice axe.
- You have at least one big peak behind you. A summit above 5,000 m (16,400 ft) is recommended.
- Strong backpacking experience and excellent fitness.
- You're comfortable descending steep, exposed ground with a heavy pack.
- You can be away for three weeks. AWE alumnae get priority, and we talk with every new climber first.
Not sure? Ask us. We'll tell you honestly whether it's the right next step, and what would get you ready.
Take the details with you
A printable trip overview: dates, day by day, what's included, what to bring and the questions people ask. Leave your name and email and the download link appears right here.
