The group is back at Base Camp after having completed the first phase of acclimatization. We spent two nights at Camp I and two nights at Camp II.
After the first night at Camp II we went for a hike up to the base of the Lhotse Face from where we could see the rest of the route going up to Camp III and continuing on through the Yellow Band as it is known because of its color below the South Col. We could see a few tents and a group of Sherpas working hard fixing lines up the route.
The next day we woke up very early in order to descend the Khumbu Icefall before it got too hot and dangerous. We realized the exposure of this area when we saw that a big serac had collapsed, taking with it the ladders that were placed there to surmount that part of the route.
Well, we had to rappel after gathering some courage and we hurried to get to safety. Ellie and friends welcomed us at Base Camp just in time to have lunch. Today part of the group went for a hike up to Kala Pattar, at 5545 meters. One has a magnificent view of the summit of Everest, the South Col, Nupste, Ama Dablam, and Pumori from up there. The next days will be for rest and preparation at Base Camp before we go for our second phase of acclimatization with the objective of spending one night at Camp III.
The spirit of the group is up and we have started to exchange books to pass the time. Take care and so long!
P.S. Hello friends in Sacramento, CA, from Karl.
— Jose Luis Peralvo, Alpine Ascents International Guide and MountainZone.com Correspondent
