Notes and Photos by Epic Expeditions founder Chris Lininger.
June through August is go time for us in Pakistan. This summer, we had 3 diverse teams made up of people from 13 countries.
Embarking on the K2 Base Camp Trek this year felt different. I feel that the world has finally and completely moved on from the COVID era. Not having all of that noise hanging over our collective heads has been a huge relief.
With two out of three teams having finished the expeditions this season – and ALL teams having crossed the infamous Gondogoro La pass – it feels like a good time to reflect on all of the beautiful highs and lows one experiences over the course of a month in one of the world’s most wild and rugged mountain areas.
Wins and Gratitudes: Reflections from the Baltoro
The biggest win we had of the season is the fact that all three of our teams crossed Gondogoro La. Many factors have to line up to make this possible – crucially, the weather – which was pretty erratic this season in Pakistan.
Some weather forecasts were inaccurate leaving our team on the ground to make the call based on what they were visaully seeing on the ground. It was an exceptioanlly rainy season along the Baltoro Glacier – but our teams had good weather and views when it counted. Very grateful indeed!
Shout out to our first team led by Joao Freitas and Sohail Sahki – who were among the first people of the season to cross the pass in early July!
Another win I felt was the exceptionally strong bond my team had. We were a big group; 13 people as we added a few last-minute photographer friends to join the trip. Everyone was so supportive, kind, and encouraging to one another – which can be rare when you throw a bunch of strangers into a harsh environment!
For our core staff this year, we brought back some truly fantastic humans who I love seeing and working with every year. These guys go above and beyond to ensure the success of the team. From bringing us hot towels every night to carrying the backpack of a team member who might be struggling – our team this year was so solid. Cheers for all the hard work guys. You make my job that much easier!
There are so many more wins and highs to mention – but you get the idea.
Our 2023 K2 Base Camp Trek season was the stuff adventure dreams are made of and the sort of challenging trip that is so rewarding from a guide poerspective.
The Challenge: Trekking in one of the World's Harshest Environments
Like any real adventure, the road to alpine Karakoram glory is not paved with roses. In fact, it is not paved at all.
The individuals who join us for such an adventure are here for a reason. They are here to learn something not only about Pakistan, the Karakoram, and these incredible mountains but themselves.
Every single member of our team is in it together and when you are out there doing it – everyone is outside their own comfort zone and in the process of transcending something they might not have even felt before.
This is the power of raw adventure. All of the preparation in the world can never cover all of the unforeseen emotions, challenges, ailments, ecstacies, or joys that one encounters on the Baltoro.
To every K2 Base Camp Trek team member of 2023 – we saw the best version of you out there and what you are capable of. Keep going!
We are beyond stoked that each one of you decided to join our expedition in Pakistan this season.
Alright, guys – now onto the good stuff…
Here is a gallery of our favorite photographs from the July 4th – 24th K2 Base Camp Trek Trip:
Days 1 - 4: Askole to Urdukas Camp
Days 5 - 9: Goro 2 - K2 Base Camp
Days 10 - 13: Ali Camp - Gondogoro La - Kuisbang
Thanks for checking out this K2 Base Camp Trek 2023 field report and photo gallery. Which photos are your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.
If you are interested in joining us for the K2 Base Camp Trek next year, please visit the trip page or reach out to us.
Cheers Guys.
