How Animals Power the Mount Everest Expedition
Without yaks, the Mount Everest expedition industry would grind to a halt. These high-altitude animals are the lifeline of Everest trekking, carrying everything from oxygen cylinders to dining tables to the foot of the Mount Everest summit.
Yaks thrive above 3,000m. Their thick coats and specialized lungs allow them to carry heavy loads in sub-zero temperatures. Watching a yak caravan move toward Everest Base Camp is one of the most iconic sights of any Mount Everest expedition.
The 'Golden Rule' of Everest trekking: always stay on the mountainside when yaks pass. Being on the cliffside puts you at risk of being accidentally pushed off. Respecting the animals is vital for safety on the way to the Mount Everest summit.
Yak herding is a primary source of income for many Sherpa families. By booking an Everest trekking trip, you are supporting a traditional way of life that has coexisted with Mount Everest expeditions for a century.
The yaks are the unsung heroes of the Khumbu. Their strength and resilience make the dream of the Mount Everest summit possible for thousands every year.
