Here is the opportunity to add your name to the list of people who have trekked to the renowned Mount Everest Base Camp, but we are giving you the chance to do it in style. This trek is justifiably the most popular and perhaps the greatest of all the trekking itineraries available today. Nepal offers a range of picturesque scenery including thick forests, stunning valleys and glacial rivers. With a magical blend of culture, scenery and challenging undertakings – this will always be one of the most rewarding mountain journeys a person can make.
Mount Everest
Base Camp Adventure
Mount Everest - Base Camp Adventure
Mount Everest - Adventure Highlights
- Trek through the heart of the Himalaya all the way to Mount Everest
- Experience the vibrant and colourful city of Kathmandu
- Enjoy the contrast between the bustle of the towns and the breath-taking tranquillity of the mountains
- Spend fourteen nights enduring the temperament of the world’s most famous mountain
- The trek is an unparalleled blend of fascinating culture, incredible scenery and endeavour
- The route takes you through tiny villages, remote valleys, impressive monasteries and high mountain passes
- Determination is rewarded with stunning views of Ama Dablam, Mt. Everest, Lhotse and the mountain scenery of the Khumbu region
- Experience an insight into the culture and way of life of the famous Sherpa people
- Soak up the unique atmosphere at Mt Everest’s Base Camp
ALTITUDE
5,550m/ 18,209ft elevation
DURATION
18 Days
TECHNICAL AND FITNESS LEVEL
No special technical skills are needed. You will be in the hands of some of the finest Expedition Leaders who will make the trip as comfortable for you as possible. We’ll be doing a lot of walking, the majority of it uphill. Not only that, we’ll be going into a more rarefied atmosphere the further you climb, which makes it tougher. With greater fitness comes greater enjoyment of the trek, so it is worth spending some time working on your fitness before you leave, but you don’t need to be an athlete to go on the expedition. The key to your fitness should be endurance. We are here to support you every step of the way. Even before you go we’ll be on-hand to give you expert advice and can provide a comprehensive personalised training plan should you desire.
RECOMMENDED GROUP SIZE
4-12 People
ACCOMMODATION
- 3 nights in a luxury hotel
- 14 nights in high-end bespoke tenting on the mountain
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to trek to Mt. Everest Base Camp is in April, May, October or November. However, the time between December and March is still possible but can be colder. If you have a pre-formed group (family, friends or an organisation) we would be delighted to organise a trip around dates that suit your group.
Your itinerary at a glance
| Day | Destination | Accom. (B/L/D) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Kathmandu | Luxury hotel (D) | A chance to relax post flight and before the trek begins |
| 2 | Fly to Lukla | Camping at Monju at 2,835m (B/L/D) | See the stunning scenery of Nepal from the sky |
| 3-4 | Namche Bazaar | Camping at 3,400m (B/L/D) | This charming Sherpa village gives you a chance to rest, acclimatise and explore |
| 5 | Deboche | Camping at 3,800m (B/L/D) | Discover Thyangboche’s famous monastery |
| 6-7 | Pheriche | Camping at 4,300m (B/L/D) | Experience the areas roaring glacial rivers |
| 8 | Pheriche | Camping at 4,300m (B/L/D) | A chance to visit the Himalayan Association Medical Clinic |
| 9 | Lobuche | Camping at 4,900m (B/L/D) | Visit memorials of past mountaineers |
| 10 | Gorak Shep (5,164m) and Climb Kala Patthar (5,550m) | Camping at 5,550m (B/L/D) | Watch the sun setting on the summit of Mount Everest |
| 11 | Everest Base Camp | Camping at 5,550m (B/L/D) | Reach Everest Base Camp |
| 12 | Descent to Gorek Shep | Camping at 5,164m (B/L/D) | Start your descent |
| 13 | Descent to Pangboche | Camping at 3,850 (B/L/D) | Stunning views of the Khumbu valley |
| 14 | Descent to Namche | Camping at 3,400m (B/L/D) | One last chance to experience this unique village |
| 15 | Descent to Lukla | Camping at 2,800m (B/L/D) | Gradual downhill trail |
| 16-17 | Kathmandu | Luxury hotel (B) | A chance to experience Nepal’s capital’s timeless cultural and artistic heritage |
| 18 | Return home | (B) | Flight home or onward journey |
*B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
**Please note that there may be weather dependent delays to internal flights to and from Lukla. In the case of significant delays, international flights departing from Kathmandu may be missed. Should you wish to consider extending your itinerary in Kathmandu to mitigate these circumstances, please discuss with the team prior to your trip. We will ensure that all suitable accommodation and meals will be provided. However, rescheduled international flights will be at your own expense.
Mount Everest - Your Itinerary in Detail
DAY ONE
Travel to Kathmandu where we’ll be met by an amazing blend of cultures, religions and people. Today will give you the chance to check in to your luxury accommodation, relax post flight and prepare for the trek. In the evening you will receive a comprehensive brief from your Expedition Leader on the adventure you are about to undertake.
DAY TWO
The day starts with an early morning flight into Lukla (2,800m), from where we’ll begin the trek into the Khumbu region. The views from the airplane are amazing, providing dramatic scenes of terraced hills and the distant Himalayan giants, as the plane flies beneath the summits of nearby mountains. After landing on one of the world’s most exhilarating runways we’ll meet the rest of our local team and we will begin a three to four hour trek to Monju (2,835m), where we’ll spend the night.
DAY THREE
The trek continues along the banks of the Dudh Kosi. Crossing this roaring river on suspension bridges laden with prayer flags is bound to be a thrilling experience. After entering Sagamartha National Park, the trail climbs steeply with breathtaking views to Namche Bazaar (3,400m), the gateway to the Khumbu region and the lively trading post of the valley.
DAY FOUR
Today is a rest and acclimatisation day. Namche is the Sherpa capital and a bustling village filled with markets and traditional Sherpa houses. There’s an optional morning hike to the Sherpa museum from where we can view Mt. Everest, Lhotse (the 4th highest peak in the world- 8,516 m) and the beautiful Ama Dablam (6,812m). The Sherpa Museum houses an exhibit on traditional Sherpa lifestyles and a fabulous photography display. The rest of the day can be spent at leisure.
DAY FIVE
From Namche Bazaar, we will trek along the contour of the hills, looking down onto the deep and lush valleys below. The route travels through Thyangboche, the spiritual centre of the Khumbu. At Thyangboche there is a famous monastery, which is home to incredibly ornate wall hangings, a giant sculpture of Buddha, and the musical instruments and robes of the Lamas. Some time can be spent here before the trek continues downhill into rhododendron forests, culminating in Tengboche (3,800m) where a secluded camp awaits our arrival.
DAY SIX
The trek continues along the roaring glacial waters of the Dudh Kosi with magnificent views of the mountains. We’ll cross another exciting suspension bridge on the Imja Khola, and climb to Pangboche amongst thousands of inscribed Mani stones. From Pangboche the route winds high above the valley floor, passing through various Sherpa settlements until it reaches your resting place for the next two days, Pheriche (4,300m).
DAY SEVEN
We are now above 4,000m so this is a valuable rest and acclimatisation day to allow climbers to adjust to the rarefied atmosphere. There is the option of a light hike up the valley to take a few more photographs of the spectacular 6,000m peaks of Tawoche, Cholatse, Island Peak and the 8,000m wall of Lhotse. On a clear day we may see Mount Makulu, another giant standing above 8,000m and the 5th highest mountain in the world. Today’s activities can be variable and flexible to suit you. Take a gentle hike through the valley or visit the Himalayan Association Medical Clinic in Pheriche.
DAY EIGHT
Another rest day in Pheriche.
DAY NINE
From Pheriche, the trail traverses through farmlands and meadows. Stop in Dzugla (4,570m) for lunch before continuing along the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. En route we’ll pass stone memorials to climbers who have died on the mountains- look carefully and you’ll find touching memorials to famous mountaineers. The trail concludes at Lobuche (4,900m) with camp set up just below the terminal moraine of the tributary glacier.
DAY TEN
An early morning start winds through the terminal moraine of the Khumbu glacier to a camp at Gorak Shep (5,410m), situated at the base of Kala Patthar. This was the original Base Camp used by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay on their successful ascent of Everest, before the Base Camp moved closer to the mountain on the edge of the Khumbu Icefall. From Gorak Shep, ascend the non-technical Kala Patthar (5,550m) and admire the incredible views. From here we can clearly see the summit of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse and Ama Dablam. Here’s the unforgettable chance to watch the sun set slowly onto Everest. This is the classical shot so often used for iconic pictures of Everest and highlights the beauty of nature at its best.
DAY ELEVEN
Journey to the Base Camp of Mount Everest (5,550m), as used by today’s best mountaineers, located at the foot of the Khumbu icefall. This can be a strenuous day but the satisfaction of having achieved our objective, and conquering a significant part of Mount Everest will make it all worthwhile. On arrival at Everest Base Camp, we will have the chance to explore this historic area in detail.
DAY TWELVE
Drop back down to Gorek Shep (5,165m) today as we begin our descent.
DAY THIRTEEN
Follow the route back down the Khumbu valley to Pangboche (3,850m).
DAY FOURTEEN
Descent to Namche (3,400m)
DAY FIFTEEN
Arrive back in Lukla (2,800m) where we can relax and unwind. We’ll be able to enjoy the local culture of the village, which offers many shops, restaurants and teahouses.
DAY SIXTEEN – SEVENTEEN:
Return to Kathmandu and check into the luxury hotel located in the heart of the city. You will be able to use the rest of the trip to relax and explore the area.
Kathmandu offers the chance to visit Durbar Square, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The square holds the palaces of the Malla and Shah kings who once ruled over the city. Along with these palaces, the square holds courtyards of temples that boast fantastic architecture. Surrounding the square are bustling markets where you will be able to find a whole range of Nepalese goods from clothing, jewelry to cultural handicrafts. This is a wonderful place to get a real feel for the city. You will also have the option to visit one of the holy places of Hinduism, The Temple of Pashupatinath. This is situated north of Kathmandu, next to the Baghmati River, and is renowned for where the Hindu ritual of cremation washing takes place. Many relatives who join the funeral procession take a bath in the Bagmati River, which is thought to purify the people spiritually.
DAY EIGHTEEN
Depart Kathmandu.
Pricing Information
This trek will depart with a minimum of 4 people and a maximum of 12*.
From £9,495.00per person based on two people sharing (£500.00 single supplement).
A non-refundable deposit of £1,995.00 will be required.
Included
- Expedition Leader from ‘The Adventure Boutique’
- Local guides, local chefs and porters
- All scheduled accommodation
- All permits and park fees
- Scheduled meals
- All scheduled transfers
Excluded
- Travel insurance
- International Flights
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips
* We can accommodate private groups less than 4 or more than 12 people. Please ring for further information.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’re climbing mountains here, isn’t this a bit extreme?
We’re not kitting you out with ropes and crampons so no technical climbing skills are needed, but we are going quite high, with several uphill and downhill trails passing through Sherpa villages en route. However, the high-end camping provided allows you to focus on climbing the mountain rather than worrying about whether your tent will be wet in the morning. Our proven in- depth knowledge and expertise with expedition logistics and equipment gives you the attention to detail and edge over other Everest Base Camp ascents. This allows you to solely concentrate on the climb and enjoy the stunning surroundings.
How are we catered for?
A quality local chef and kitchen team will accompany the group when camping throughout the trip; you will not fail to be anything but amazed by their creativity on the mountain. You will be provided with proper balanced meals to enjoy, that will be nutritious yet tasty. These meals will be tailored to your dietary needs.
What are the toilet facilities on the mountain?
We will specially be bringing ‘Portaloos’ for you all the way up the mountain to each of our campsites. This is to offer you the comforts that are missed by others on mountain treks ensuring you are made to feel as happy as possible.
Do you provide expert training advice in advance of the trip?
Yes. Even before you go we’ll be on-hand to give you expert advice and can provide you with a comprehensive personalised training plan should you desire. Our Expedition Leaders have a high level of experience and can give you sound advice based on their numerous past experiences.
You say we’re going high – do I need to acclimatise?
Absolutely – it’s vital, for this reason several acclimatisation days have been built into the trek to allow your body time to adjust to the increasing elevation.
What is the weather going to be like?
The climate during your trip will vary between warm in Kathmandu (20° – 30°C), to relatively warm on the lower trekking trails (15° – 25° daytime) to cold at the higher elevations (0° – 5° daytime). Night time temperatures at Gorak Shep and Base Camp can drop below freezing. The majority of the days should be dry with little rain.
What clothing/equipment do I need?
The Adventure Boutique team will give you a full comprehensive kit list when you sign up and be on-hand if you have any questions before the trek.
I see we have porters, do they really carry everything for me?
Yes, the porters are there to make life as easy as possible for you without detracting from the challenge of trekking to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world. Every ounce of weight becomes magnified at altitude, so we want you to save as much energy as possible to successfully reach base camp. All you need to carry is a light daypack, containing essentials described in the daypack kit list that will be provided. Even if you don’t want to carry this, we can organise a local guide to personally carry it for you.
Do I need to tip our local staff?
You do not need to tip the local staff. Unlike other companies, we have included the tipping into the price so there are no hidden surprises when you arrive in the country. Tipping the Expedition Leader is at your discretion but will be much appreciated, especially after you witness their dedication and professionalism in looking after you and helping you to the base camp.
Will I require any spending money?
Throughout the experience, you won’t need much spending money as the trip is comprehensively covered in the initial cost. You may require money for the very occasional meal not shown on the schedule and any alcoholic drinks. You may also wish to buy some souvenirs or make a satellite phone call home or for work purposes. It will be best to bring your usual currency and this can be changed into local currency soon after arrival.
Do I need special insurance?
You should not need specialist-climbing insurance, but check with your insurer that you are covered trekking to the altitude you will be reaching (5,550m). If you do not have adequate insurance cover, The Adventure Boutique team can refer you to appropriate insurers.
Do I need visas?
This is dependent on your nationality, The Adventure Boutique team can advise you on this upon signing up. British citizens can obtain, in advance, from the Nepalese Embassy in London or on arrival in Nepal.
Do I need any vaccinations?
Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible. Sources of information include: www.fco.gov.uk, www.hpa.org.uk, www.nathnac.org, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic. Clients travelling to worldwide destinations are recommended to seek advice from the sources mentioned above and, where recommended, obtain vaccinations or tablets for protection against, for example, Malaria, Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid.
How large are the groups?
The group size should be a maximum of twelve people. The number of participants is kept to a level where quality can be maintained. We at The Adventure Boutique do not want you to become a number on the mountain or a blur after the trek has finished. We normally have a maximum number so as not to allow the groups to become too large. We believe that by doing this, the Expedition Leaders will be able to look after you more carefully, in turn you will find the group dynamics work better and your success rate and enjoyment level increases immeasurably. If you are a group of friends of more than twelve, then obviously we will work together to accommodate you. If you would like to have a more personalised trip below the recommended group size, we would happy be to facilitate this for you too.
What is the minimum age a person has to be to go on this expedition?
The minimum age is 16 years old accompanied by a legal guardian or 18 years old otherwise. If you do have children and want to bring them, we would be happy to facilitate this. We would be happy to make necessary arrangements to accommodate a young person into a private group.
Is there a maximum age?
There is no maximum age limit, providing you are fit and in good health.
Will my mobile work? Can I stay in touch with the office or my family?
You may find some mobile phone reception during the trek, but don’t be surprised if your phone does not work. We specially carry a satellite phone in case of emergencies, but we also realise people may need to keep in touch with their loved ones or have some work commitments to deal with. The satellite phone can be used for a charge.
Can I organise this adventure exclusively for myself, my friends and family?
If you have a group of friends or family who want to travel together, a bespoke date can certainly be arranged to suit your party. If you do have your own group and want to discuss any variations in the schedule or particular objectives, feel free to discuss this with The Adventure Boutique team.