Carstensz Pyramid Expeditions

Carstensz Pyramid, situated on the island of Papua, is one of the world’s prestigious Seven Summits. Located in the remote province of West Papua (formerly Irian Jaya) in Indonesia, it is the highest peak in the Australasian continent and is widely considered one of the most challenging of the Seven Summits to access. The climb involves technical 5th-class rock climbing along a striking limestone summit ridge, offering an exhilarating adventure for experienced mountaineers.

Standing as the tallest peak in the Surdinam Mountain Range, Carstensz Pyramid is nestled beside the glaciated Ngapulu Jaya. From its summit, climbers are rewarded with unparalleled views of lush jungle landscapes stretching toward the expansive blue waters of the Pacific Ocean—an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.

The island itself is among the most exotic and culturally rich destinations in the world. Its diverse local communities encompass numerous indigenous tribes, including the Dani, where traditional customs are still alive, with men often wearing the iconic penis gourd as part of their attire. Along the journey to the mountain, visitors frequently have the unique opportunity to visit a Dani village, immersing themselves in their fascinating way of life.

Access by Helicopter

We have designed a convenient helicopter access route to Carstensz Pyramid, offering a helicopter transfer from Timika to the base camp at Yellow Valley, located beneath the Carstensz Wall. The round trip from the base camp to the summit of Carstensz Pyramid typically takes between 10 to 12 hours, providing an efficient and scenic way to reach one of the world’s most iconic peaks.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Timika, Indonesia
Arrive in Timika, Indonesia, where you’ll be greeted by our team at the airport. Enjoy a transfer to your hotel, settle in, and relax in this tropical paradise. The evening will be free for you to explore Timika or unwind after your journey.

Day 2: Team Meeting & Gear Check
Start your day with a light breakfast, followed by a comprehensive gear check. We’ll ensure all your equipment is ready for the climb ahead. Afterward, we’ll visit the immigration office to take care of necessary paperwork. If needed, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the local supermarket for any last-minute supplies. The evening will be spent with a welcome dinner, followed by a briefing to prepare for the journey to Papua.

Day 3: Prepare for your helicopter ride
You’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel for a short rest. Afterward, prepare for your helicopter ride to Yellow Valley Base Camp (4,250m), a 30-minute flight offering stunning views. Once at the base camp, enjoy free time to acclimatize and explore the area. Optional light walks around base camp for better acclimatization. Overnight camping at base camp.

Day 4: Acclimatization & Rope Training
After breakfast, we’ll continue with our acclimatization process and conduct a rope training session to prepare for summit day. Rest, hydrate, and relax in the camp. Later, we’ll gather for a summit briefing during dinner. Overnight camping at base camp.

Day 5: Summit Push
Today is the day to summit Carstensz Pyramid! We’ll begin the ascent early at around 2 AM to make the most of favorable weather conditions. Expect a challenging but rewarding 10-12 hour round trip to the summit. You’ll carry only light essentials, such as water, snacks, extra clothing, and a camera. After reaching the summit, return to base camp for a well-deserved rest. Overnight camping at base camp.

Day 6: Helicopter Return to Timika
After packing in the morning and preparing for the helicopter ride, we’ll aim for a 6:30 AM pickup (weather permitting). Once back in Timika, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for a relaxing night, or if time permits, catch a connecting flight to Bali. Overnight in Timika.

Day 7-8: Departure
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and head to the airport for your return flight home, with memories of an unforgettable adventure.

Note: Helicopter flights are subject to weather conditions, which can occasionally cause delays of up to several days. We advise all climbers to plan with extra time in mind, allowing up to a week for potential weather-related delays.

Included and Excluded

Included in the Trip Fee:

Airport Transfers: Pickup and drop-off service at Timika Airport.

Accommodation: Three nights of accommodation in Timika (shared rooms). Note: Early arrivals may incur additional hotel fees.

Helicopter Transfer: Round-trip helicopter flight from Timika to Yellow Valley Base Camp (4,250m).

Meals: All fresh food and beverages provided during the climb.

Helicopter Return to Base: Return-to-base (RTB) helicopter costs included in case of early descent due to weather or other factors.

Camping Gear: High-quality sleeping tents (one tent per person), dining/mess tents, tables, chairs, and cooking utensils

Experienced Guides: Professional climbing guide and field assistant to ensure your safety and success.

Climbing Safety Equipment: Fixed ropes installed on the Carstensz Pyramid wall for added security during the climb.

Luggage Limit: Luggage limit of 15kg per person for the helicopter flight to and from Base Camp.

Permits: All necessary climbing permits and paperwork for Carstensz Pyramid.

Emergency Communication: Satellite phone service for emergency situations, as well as radio communication support at Base Camp

Not Included in the Trip Fee:

Flights to/from Timika: Domestic flights from Bali/Jakarta to Timika are not included. These can be arranged at an additional cost of $550 round trip.

Visa Costs: Visa fees are not included. Please check current immigration requirements. Due to COVID-19, there may be changes to visa policies (currently, there is no arrival visa).

Personal Climbing Gear: Personal climbing gear and equipment are not included (please refer to the gear list for recommended items).

Insurance: Personal insurance and coverage for emergency evacuation are required. Ensure your insurance covers Force Majeure situations.

Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses, including laundry, phone calls, and mini-bar charges in the hotel.

Meals in Timika: Meals in Timika outside the included services are not covered.

Delays and Trip Extensions: Costs incurred from delays or extended trips due to adverse weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.

Early Departure Costs: Additional costs associated with leaving the expedition early, or if the expedition finishes earlier than planned.

Tips : Tips for the guide and field assistants are not included.