Description

Adventure Travel, Ecuador, Climbing

Karl Egloff
International Mountain Guide / Professional Mountain Athlete
Cumbre Tours Ecuador

I was born and raised in Ecuador, studied business administration in Switzerland, dedicated myself to guiding all over the world (Switzerland, Ecuador, Venezuela, Turkey, Egypt) and decided to return to Ecuador to train professionally as a guide and open my own mountain agency.

Since 2014 I started to set speed records in important mountains such as the local ones, Cotopaxi-Cayambe-Chimborazo-Ilinizas as the emblematic 7summits Kilimanjaro - Aconcagua- Elbrus, Denali. In 2022 together with my partner we were able to set a speed record on the fifth highest mountain on the planet, Makalu 8482m without the use of oxygen and climb/descend the entire mountain from base camp in a single push without sleeping in any camp.

I am a father of two children and happily married to my Ecuadorian wife and between elite sport, projects, guiding and family I try to have a healthy and ambitious balance but above all fair for everyone. My project is called FKT 7 and it is about setting a world record in speed on the highest mountain of each continent but above all to continue guiding, receiving people from all over the world in Ecuador and with my agency all over the world, helping to fulfill the dream of many and to be part of it.

Summary

In this episode, Karl Egloff, a mountain guide and speed climber, shares his journey from early exposure to mountaineering to becoming a professional athlete. He discusses his passion for speed climbing and the challenges he has faced in pushing his limits. Karl also highlights the rewarding experiences he has had as a guide, including guiding a blind client to the summit of Aconcagua. Overall, Karl's story emphasizes the importance of connection and the transformative power of the mountains. In this conversation, Jason Elkins speaks with Karl Egglov, a mountaineer and founder of Cumbre Tours. They discuss Karl's passion for climbing and his experiences in the mountains. Karl shares his insights on climbing gear, training, and the beauty of the natural world. He also talks about the services offered by Cumbre Tours, including trekking tours and cultural experiences. The conversation concludes with Jason highlighting Karl's positive impact on others in the climbing community.

http://www.cumbretours.com/

Takeaways

• Early exposure to mountaineering shaped Karl's passion for the mountains and desire to become a mountain guide.
• Karl's speed climbing career has allowed him to push his limits and achieve world records, while also balancing his responsibilities as a father and guide.
• Guiding clients, especially those with unique challenges, has been a rewarding experience for Karl, emphasizing the importance of connection and the transformative power of the mountains.
• Karl's story highlights the need for balance and proper preparation when pursuing extreme sports, as well as the importance of having a plan B and prioritizing safety. Karl Egglov is a passionate mountaineer and founder of Cumbre Tours.
• Cumbre Tours offers a wide range of services, including climbing tours, trekking tours, and cultural experiences.
• Karl is knowledgeable about climbing gear and training and is always available to answer questions and provide advice.
• Karl has had a positive impact on others in the climbing community, mentoring and inspiring fellow climbers.

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