One of the most sought-after climbs in the world, it takes a lot of skill to complete the Carstensz Pyramid climb.
We’ll address some of the most often asked inquiries regarding ascending the Carstensz Pyramid in this blog article. Read on to find out more about this amazing mountaineering expedition, whether you’re an experienced climber or just getting started.
How high is Carstensz Pyramid?
The highest peak in Oceania is Carstensz Pyramid, sometimes referred to as Puncak Jaya, and it is located at a height of 4,884 meters (16,024 feet) above sea level.
Where is Carstensz Pyramid located?
Carstensz Pyramid can be found southwest of Puncak Jaya Regency in the Sudirman Range of the highlands of Central Papua, Indonesia.
Who first Climbed Carstensz Pyramid?
The first documented ascent of the Carstensz Pyramid was not until 1962. This was led by Austrian mountaineer Heinrich Harrer who was immortalised in the blockbuster Hollywood film Seven Years in Tibet. He summited Carstensz Pyramid with three other expedition members – the New Zealand mountaineer Philip Temple, the Australian rock climber Russell Kippax, and the Dutch patrol officer Albertus Huizenga.
How safe is the Carstensz Pyramid climb?
Yes, the Carstensz Pyramid climb is climbed by thousands of people each year yet it is a challenging mountain mostly due to several factors; It is one of the more demanding climbs in the Seven Summits, despite having the lowest elevation. It is the most technical requiring proficient rock climbing skills.
What are the routes for the Carstensz Pyramid climb?
Most expeditions to Carstensz Pyramid / Puncak Jaya take the standard route to climb this peak. The standard route ascends from its base camp up the north face and along the summit ridge, which is all hard rock surface.
The standard route requires expedition members to fly into the nearest major town normally Timika, and then take a small aircraft over the mountain range to one of the local villages near the peak. It is then typically a five-day hike via the Jungle route to the base camp through a very dense rainforest with regular rainfall. The one-day summit bid is technically challenging for those with little rock climbing experience, and it can be quite cold with temperatures at or below freezing near the summit. It takes 3-4 days to descend from the peak’s base camp.
What is the best time to climb Carstensz Pyramid?
The best time of year to climb the Carstensz Pyramid is the dry season between April and November.
How cold does it get on the Carstensz Pyramid climb?
Carstensz Pyramid is classified as an extremely challenging expedition due to the severe weather and changing conditions both politically and in regard to the climate.
The equatorial climate of the Carstensz Pyramid, makes the weather constantly change; in the lower plateau where the terrain is covered in the rainforest there can be extensive rainfall and rainstorms, and at other times blistering humidity and sun exposure. As you ascend higher on the rocky platform it can get extremely cold.
How long does it take to climb Carstensz Pyramid?
Many Carstensz Pyramid itineraries are usually two weeks long depending on whether you choose to helicopter into base camp or whether you prefer to trek into base camp.
The common itinerary, including the recommended acclimatization days, for trekking to Carstensz Pyramid, is:
- DAY 1: Arrive in Bali, Indonesia. We’ll meet in Bali, Indonesia to start our Carstensz Pyramid climb.
- DAY 2: Team Meeting Day. Today we’ll spend reviewing our gear and holding pre-trip team meetings. We’ll have our “Welcome Dinner” this evening and get ready for the early-morning flights to Papua tomorrow.
- DAY 3: Arrive in Papua. We’ll arrive in Timika early in the day because most flights from Bali to Papua take off extremely early in the morning.
- Day 4: Fly by Helicopter to Carstensz Pyramid Base Camp.
- Day 5: Acclimatize at Base Camp.
- Day 6: Carstensz Pyramid Summit Day! Today we’ll get an early start to try to beat the afternoon rain. It is typically a 6-8 hour push to the summit and we hope to enjoy the sunrise on the summit ridge.
- Day 7-9: Contingency Day.
- Day 10: Fly back to Timika.
- Day 11: Flight to Bali.
- Day 12: Flights home
Will I get Altitude Sickness on the Carstensz Pyramid climb?
You need to keep in mind that you will likely encounter some altitude-related symptoms. Most people will suffer some symptoms after spending at least 24 hours at an elevation of over 2,500m. While some people may get headaches and a queasy feeling, many only experiences mild breathlessness.
The symptoms are probably going to get worse when you climb over 4,000 and ultimately 5,000 meters. The chances of these being anything other than uncomfortable, though, are incredibly slim. Also, any chance of severe altitude sickness will be reduced if there is enough time incorporated into the schedule for acclimatization as well as enough time for being well-hydrated, fed, and rested.
What are the meals like on the Carstensz Pyramid climb?
Most people don’t trek to Carstensz Pyramid for 5-star cuisine, however, that doesn’t mean you will go hungry. You will be eating your meals mainly at each of the camps along the route. The food is hearty warm soups, stews, pasta and vegetables.
How do I book an expedition to climb Carstensz Pyramid?
If you are interested in taking on this incredible challenge, then join one of our upcoming treks to Carstensz Pyramid – Coming Soon
