Everest19 Base Camp Puja

OUR TEAM BLESSES BASE CAMP, AND BEGS SAGARMATHA FOR A SAFE PASSAGE

Before stepping into the ice fall, and beginning our step by step journey to 8848m, all of our team members participate in our Puja ceremony, chosen on an auspicious date in the Buddhist calender. We pray for a safe expedition and the right of passage.

In the center of camp, a stone cairn is constructed and prayer flags radiate across camp from its center. The Puja is always a moving experience as we join forces at the early stages of the season.

Meanwhile, to get those muscles used to burning away with little oxygen (it’s not onlt our legs that have to acclimate), the team have been making hikes up the flanks of Mount Pumori, from where the view down to EBC and of the ice fall is incredible, if not somewhat intimidating!

“Willie and Damian set the bar as high as the mountains they climb!”

“In my experience, few provide a more complete, safe and rewarding expedition experience than the Benegas Brothers. When it comes to expedition judgement, safety and climbing ethics, Willie and Damian set the bar as high as the mountains they climb. There’s a lot more to high altitude climbing expeditions than just getting to the top. Team dynamics, the opportunities to learn skills, making lifelong friends, enjoying new cultures and cuisine are some of the important elements of an expedition. In my experience, few provide a more complete, safe and rewarding expedition experience than the Benegas Brothers. When it comes to expedition judgement, safety and climbing ethics, Willie and Damian set the bar as high as the mountains they climb. My son Matt and I have 100% trust and confidence in Willie and Damian and when I’m not climbing with Matt, it’s reassuring to know he’s with the Benegas Brothers. ”

–Mike Moniz