Trek to Everest Base Camp

If there is one epic adventure on the planet, it has to be the trek to the base of mighty Mt. Everest (29,035'), Mother Goddess of the Snows. This is one of the greatest hikes in the world and the realization of a dream for many. Our perfectly planned trek brings us to the top of Kala Patar (18,365'), a non-technical peak with sensational views of Everest’s magnificent Southwest Face, and then to Everest Base Camp itself by way of the great Khumbu Glacier. En route, we acclimatize and explore with three very special Exploration Days that take us off the main Everest route for spectacular hikes to remote Ama Dablam Base Camp (15,400') and high into the Chukhung Valley. Amazing hikes, stunning Himalayan panoramas, exquisite Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, the delights of Sherpa culture, and the most experienced and safety-oriented Trip Leaders in the Himalaya combine to make this the journey of a lifetime. A mix of hotels, Sherpa-run lodges, and our renowned full-service camping round out the accommodations on this unforgettable adventure.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-2
Kathmandu

In this fabled city, we explore golden temples and fascinating artisan markets.

Days 3-6
Lukla / Namche / Tengboche

After flying to Lukla, we trek to the remarkable Sherpa village of Namche Bazaar (11,270'). We have a day to explore this famous Sherpa hub, where yaks roam the streets and bustling outdoor markets are held twice a week. Hiking farther up into the Khumbu Valley, we come to Tengboche Monastery (12,650'), gloriously surrounded by spectacular mountains. Ama Dablam (22,494'), one of the most spectacular peaks in the Himalaya, rises regally just up the valley.

Days 7-10
Ama Dablam Base Camp / Chukhung

The next few days bring us across remarkable terrain seldom explored by most trekkers. Hiking through rhododendron forests, we reach our camp below spectacular Ama Dablam. The next day, we feast our eyes on amazing perspectives of the icy giants of the Everest region on our hike to Ama Dablam Base Camp (15,400'). Heading farther off the main trail, we camp at spectacularly located Dingboche (14,100'), where our options include a hike to the settlement of Chukhung (15,584'), surrounded by massive glaciers, or a hike toward Island Peak Base Camp (16,690').

Days 11-14
Kala Patar / Everest Base Camp

A ridge walk takes us back to the main Everest trail, where we hike up the Khumbu Glacier’s moraine to the yak grazing pastures at Lobuche. On Day 12, we make our much-anticipated ascent of Kala Patar—“Black Rock”—the highest point of our trek at 18,365 feet. Here we experience the classic up-close view of Everest, a magnificent panorama of its entire South Face and most of the West Ridge (one of the best views one can get without climbing it!). The next day, our optional hike to Everest Base Camp grants us the incredible vista of the Khumbu Icefall and a fascinating journey in mountaineering history.

Days 15-20
Lukla / Kathmandu

Trek back to Lukla, fly to Kathmandu on Day 18, and depart on Day 20.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

What the Trip is Like

This trip is Level 6, Very Strenuous. Most hiking is between 10,000 and 16,000 feet, and the maximum elevation reached is 17,000 feet with optional day hikes to 18,365 feet. For the most part, you can hike at your own speed; the group will spread out along the trail during the day to cover a normal maximum of 6 to 10 miles per day (4-8 hours of hiking). There are a number of days on this trek when the walks are shorter, as well as rest days, allowing opportunity for day hikes and for exploring the villages, monasteries, and beautiful surroundings near our campsites. Trail conditions can be primitive, and there is a good bit of up-and-down (often 2,000- to 3,000-foot gain or loss in elevation per day). Extremely cold conditions are normally encountered in the Upper Khumbu.

 

Every participant must understand that this trek is truly challenging—you should be in excellent physical condition. Even though trip members carry only a daypack (with camera, jacket, rain gear, water bottle, and other small necessities you may need while on trek), we recommend that you make a special effort to get in top physical shape for the trip.

 

There are also dangers inherent in any expedition traveling to remote wilderness regions, especially when they involve travel to high altitude. These dangers include everything from rock falls to the possibility of a serious fall, accident or sickness without access to the means of rapid evacuation. The availability of medical supplies or the adequacy of medical attention, once provided, cannot be guaranteed and cannot be expected to measure up to western standards. Each trek is an expedition. Although we are accompanied by a support crew staffed by experienced veterans of the Nepal Himalaya, it takes cooperation and flexibility from each participant to ensure a successful trek.

 

Explanation of Trip Levels