Everest is the highest mountain in the world and presents an intimidating challenge for any climber. However, that hasn’t stopped Nepalese climber Apa Sherpa from accomplishing the feat a record 21 times, earning him the nickname ‘Super Sherpa’.

Having completed his 21st ascent last month, the 51-year old father of three has decided it will be his last and he will retire from active mountaineering to give younger climbers a chance.

Speaking in the Nepalese capital Kathmandu, Sherpa said: “I have decided to call it quits. Every time I go up Everest, my family worries about me. I would like to give young climbers a chance, but will not abandon the mountains I have invested my life in. I will train new climbers.”

Sherpa first scaled Everest’s 8,848 metre peak in 1990 and has spoken of the dramatic changes he has seen on the mountain in the last two decades. “The snow along the slopes had melted, exposing the bare rocks underneath, which made it very difficult for us to walk up the slope as there was no snow to dig our crampons into”.

Around 3,000 people have made it to Everest’s summit since Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay became the first to conquer the mountain in 1953, and Sherpa is concerned by the damage caused by increased footfall. He has dedicated his last four ascents to efforts to preserve Everest, which the Sherpa people consider sacred. Earlier this year Sherpa climbed Everest with a team, removing tonnes of rubbish left behind by earlier climbers.

With Everest summit season beginning in late April and May, now is the perfect time to see this natural wonder first-hand, before it’s too late. Join us for a trek to Everest Base Camp or volunteer in Nepal and soak up the rich Himalayan culture of this unique nation!