The number of permits continues to rise for Everest. Now at 290 spread across 30 teams, it appears Everest will be crowded again for this spring of 2021. Reports are coming in of low snow amounts this past winter so rockfall may be an issue, especially with so many people climbing together. We saw this same objective danger on K2 this past winter.

Base Camp is filling up as more teams continue to end their trek. They are taking a few days to rest and brush up on skills before making their first rotation to Camps 1 and 2 in the Western Cwm. Internet service at EBC appears to be spotty according to many reports I'm getting. Climbers are having to do "walkabouts" to find a signal. This happens all the time with Ncell, the mobile phone provider, but for EverestLink, it's usually more reliable and available. I'm sure they will improve it.

There appears the be the usual profiles on the peak Many who had permits for last year, jumped at the chance to go this year.  Also, there are the "repeat" customers who have tried before and not made it for a variety of reasons and, also, as usual, there are those who are seeking to make a name by a "first." Let's drill down on a few.