Everest Base Camp ‘Ultimate’ Adventure (Includes Helicopter Flights)

The 'Ultimate' Way to Experience Everest Base Camp

Our 13-day Everest Base Camp ‘Ultimate’ Adventure Trek includes a helicopter Flight from Kathmandu to Lukla to begin your trek and a helicopter Flight from Gorak Shep the day after reaching Everest Base Camp down to Lukla where you will change helicopters to complete you   flight directly to Kathmandu.

These flights offer sensational mountain views and an insight into the lives of the Sherpa people.

To stand at Everest Base Camp and view Mt Everest is an emotional, spiritual and mystical experience. The power and energy of Everest is intoxicating, and you will be in awe of the size and majesty of the world’s greatest mountain.

Overview

EVEREST BASE CAMP ‘ULTIMATE’ ADVENTURE (INCLUDES HELICOPTER FLIGHTS)

The ultimate 13 day challenge of Everest Base Camp Trek offers breath taking mountain panoramas, if you like to walk then this is one of the most inspiring places in the world.

To walk in the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary, Tenzing Norgay and the many other legendary climbers is an incredible experience.

Adventurers and trekkers have been fascinated and captivated by this goliath of a mountain and the most popular trek in the Himalayas is Everest Base Camp.

To stand at Everest Base Camp and view Mt Everest is an emotional, spiritual and mystical experience. The power and energy of Everest & Everest Base Camp is intoxicating, and you will be in awe of the size and majesty of the world’s greatest mountain.

We follow the trail up to Namche and onto to the famous Tengboche Monastery, located high on a ridge where a magnificent 360-degree panorama awaits.

The views of Everest, the Lhotse-Nuptse Wall, Ama Dablam and Kantega dominate this peaceful and spiritual location – surely one of the most tranquil and inspiring places in the world.

About MT. Everest

Elevation: 29,035 feet (8,848 meters)
Height: 29,035 feet (8,848 meters).
Location: On the border of Nepal and Tibet/China, Asia
Coordinates: 27°59′17″ N / 86°55′31″ E

First successful Ascent

Sir Edmund Hillary (New Zealand) and Tenzing Norgay (Nepal) on May 29, 1953.

Native Name for Everest

Mount Everest is known as Chomolangma, meaning “Goddess Mother of Snows” in Tibet/China and Sagarmatha, meaning “Mother of the Universe” in Nepal. This mountain, like many others, is sacred to the local people in Tibet and Nepal.

Everest was named after a surveyor George Everest

British surveyors named Mount Everest after George Everest (properly pronounced “I-ver-ist”). Everest actually despised mountaineering and was not alive when the mountain was named after him. Everest was a Surveyor General in India in the 19th century.

Glaciers shape Mt. Everest

Mount Everest is a huge pyramid formation with three faces and three major ridges on the north, south, and west ridges. Glaciers are responsible for the shape that carved out Mt Everest pyramid and today 5 major glaciers continue to shift Mount Everest. These glaciers are known as Kangshung Glacier on the east; Rongbuk Glacier on the north; East Rongbuk Glacier on the northeast; and Khumbu Glacier on the west and southwest. The Khumbu region is where our Everest Base Camp trek takes place.

Two ascent routes to the summit

The South Nepalese side ascends the Southeast Ridge, called the South Col Route, and the North Tibetan side ascends the Northeast Ridge or known as the North Col Route. The Northeast ridge is often referred to as the most technical although the Hillary step on the South Col route is no easy feat.

First to climb to summit without supplemental oxygen

In 1978 Reinhold Messner and Peter Habeler were the first to climb Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen. In 1980 Reinhold Messner made the first solo summit ascent, which was also via a new route from the mountain’s north side.

Most climbers on Summit in a Day

The most climbers to reach the summit in a single day was 40. This occurred on May 10, 1993.

Day 1

Arrival at Kathmandu 1360m

On arrival at Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport you will be warmly received by our ground staff and then transferred to your hotel in the hub of Kathmandu city.

Accommodation included
Overnight Kathmandu: 4* Marriott Hotel Kathmandu

Day 2

Acclimatisation, sightseeing and trek briefing

We meet for breakfast and then enjoy some sightseeing around the local area. Later that afternoon, after we return to the hotel, we will hold a briefing about your trek.

Accommodation and breakfast included
Overnight Kathmandu: 4* Marriott Hotel Kathmandu.

Day 3

Trek starts with a Helicopter Flight to Lukla – where we then trek to Phakding

Today our trek starts. After an early breakfast, you are flown by Helicopter from Kathmandu to Lukla. After reaching Lukla we will meet our porters and start trekking towards Phakding (2610m) passing through the colourful Sherpa villages along the way.

Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Overnight at a lodge.

Day 4

Trek to Namche Bazaar 3440m

After breakfast our trek continues. We cross bridges over DudhKosi River passing through the interesting villages of Toc-Toc, Bhenkar and Monjo. We arrive at the entrance gate to Sagarmatha National Park and trek beside the river for few hours until we climb a steep uphill to reach Namche Bazaar. At Namche there are good facilities such as restaurants, pubs, cyber café, post office, and banks.

Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Overnight at a lodge.

Day 5

Acclimatization Day at Namche Bazaar 3440m

A perfect place for a rest day and to acclimatize before heading to higher altitude areas. During the morning we head out for a short hike to the Everest View Hotel, or a walk up to the top of Namche hill with views of Everest, Amadablam and adjoining peaks. We also visit the museum.

Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Overnight at a lodge

Day 6

Trek to Tengboche

From Namche we trek on a scenic path downhill to the Imjatse river. We stop for lunch at Phunge-Tenga and then climb uphill through rhododendrons and the pine tree forest. Rhododendrons are the national flower of Nepal. As we trek through the forest we have views of snow-capped peaks. On reaching Thyangboche we visit the famous Tibetan Buddhist Monastery nestled amidst the magnificent panorama of Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Kangtenga, Thamasarku, Kwande and the majestic Amadablam.

Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Overnight at a lodge

Day 7

Trek to Dingboche

Morning downhill walk for a few hours and over the Imjatse River. After the bridge walk we are in open country where the tree lines fade to a few short juniper and dwarf rhododendron bushes. Its then uphill to reach at Pangboche village at 3,900 metres, the last permanent village before Dingboche and beyond. From here it is a slow climb to Somara and a stop for lunch. We continue to walk, then climb to Dingboche village, which is located in the Imjatse valley with its panorama of mountains.

Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Overnight lodge

Day 8

Acclimatization day at Dingboche

Another rest day for proper acclimatization with a short hike to Nakarjung hills for the best views of Mt Makalu and other adjoining peaks.

Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Overnight lodge

Day 9

Trek to Lobuche

After a great rest at Dingboche we have a morning walk with a steep climb for an hour but are rewarded with commanding views. Then it is a gentle trail to Thugla for lunch. Thugla is where the Khumbu glacier melts into a raging river. The trail from Pheriche joins, after a break, for a steep hour climb to Thulga pass, with its stone memorials of the unfortunate climbers who died climbing Mt. Everest, Lhotse and other high mountains.

Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Overnight lodge

Day 10

Trek to Gorakshep and to Everest Base Camp at 5364m

Today we reach the highlight of our adventure at Everest Base Camp. We walk for a few hours with a short steep climb in between the glacier and moraine, reaching Gorakshep, beneath Mt. Pumori and Kalapathar. Our walk continues towards Everest Base Camp. At base camp we enjoy the view of Khumbu Ice Fall and glaciers. After reflecting on this lifetime experience we return to Gorakshep.

Accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Overnight at a lodge.

Day 11

Trek to Kalapathher 5545m in the morning – Helicopter to Kathmandu

For those interested, before 5am, we climb up to Kalapther 5445m for great view of Mt. Everest and back down to lodge (this is optional) for breakfast to be ready for our helicopter flight back to Kathmandu.

Accommodation, breakfast included
Overnight 4* Marriott KTM

Day 12

Free day at Kathmandu

Shop, relax, email family and friends or visit famous world heritage sites such as Kathmandu Darbar Square, Monkey Temple, Buddhanath and Pasupatinath Temple. Evening farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant with culture program.

Overnight 4-star hotel in Kathmandu

Day 13

Departure Day

A Life Himalaya representative will drop you at the airport prior to your flight for your departure.

Breakfast included

The Cost includes

  • Airport pick up and drop offs in Kathmandu.
  • 4 nights, 4-star Marriott hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast.
  • Helicopter Flight From Kathmandu to Lukla to begin your trek – Luggage allowed – (10kg Big bag & 5kg hand bag)
  • Return Helicopter Flight From Gorak Shep to Pangboche
  • Return Helicopter Flight From Pangboche to Kathmandu
  • Private transportation pick up and drops.
  • Best Lodge accommodation & full board meals throughout the trek.
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner included chosen from the lodge menu during the trek.
  • Twin share Lodge accommodation during the trek.
  • Government license holder trek guide, helpful, friendly and strong, porters (13 porter for 25 people) and their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, transportation, accident insurance for all staff.
  • Sagarmatha National Park (Mt. Everest) trek permit fee.
  • Everest base camp trail map.
  • First Aid kits for the staff and the group.
  • Services coordination of emergency and rescue operations
  • Government taxes & office service charge.
  • Farewell dinner with Nepali cultural program in reputed typical Nepali restaurant.

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Example below is of Everest Base Camp. More tours and itineraries on the Trek Dates and Tours Tab above

Trip Highlight

High Altitude Travel Notes

(Dr Jim Duff, 01/04/2008)

More useful information on these and other subjects can be found in my book ‘Pocket First Aid and Wilderness Medicine’, which can be obtained via www.treksafe.com.au.

As you ascend to altitudes above 2000m, your body has to acclimatize to the decreasing amount of oxygen available. If the ascent is too fast and/or the height gain too much, these acclimatization mechanisms do not have time to work, and symptoms and signs of altitude illness (also called high altitude illness) will appear.

Altitude illness becomes common above 2500m and presents in the following ways:

AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness): common but not life-threatening if dealt with correctly.
HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema): less common but life-threatening.
HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema): less common but life-threatening.

If you think you or your ‘buddy’ are becoming ill, TELL YOUR LEADER IMMEDIATELY.
Warning: do not ascend with symptoms of altitude illness as this has led to many deaths from HAPE/HACE.

Everest - High Altitude Travel Notes

Acetazolamide: Allergy And Side Effects

The side effects of acetazolamide include allergy. Avoid it if there is a history of a severe allergic reaction to acetazolamide or sulfa containing medications (mainly the sulphonamidetype antibiotics such as co-trimoxazole, Septrin™, Bactrim™). Note that if the sulfa allergy is mild (rash, diarrhoea, etc), test doses of acetazolamide (125 mg 12-hourly for 2 days) may be tried well before departure (but do not attempt this if the sulfa allergy is severe!). Most people with mild sulfa allergy can take acetazolamide.

Common side effects of acetazolamide include:

  • Paraesthesiae (tingling) in lips, fingers, toes or other body parts and a metallic taste when drinking carbonated drinks are the most obvious. Both side effects are milder with lower doses and disappear on stopping the medication
  • Acetazolamide can cause photosensitivity (sunburn more easily) so use hats, gloves, sunscreen
  • Extra urine output. The effect of acetazolamide to increase urine output is mild (people pee more as part of the normal acclimatization process as they ascend)
  • Rarer side effects include: flushing, headache, dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea, tiredness

Note: the medication acetozolamide used for Acute Mountain Sickness has to be obtained from a doctor on prescription. As its use for AMS is not officially recognized, some doctors may be reluctant to prescribe it for you. Showing your doctor this handout may help.

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

A diagnosis of AMS is made when there has been a height gain in the last few days, AND:

  • The victim has a headache (typically throbbing, often worse when bending over or lying down)
  • PLUS there is one or more of the following symptoms:
    • Fatigue and weakness
    • Loss of appetite, or nausea, or vomiting
    • Dizziness, light headedness
    • Poor sleep, disturbed sleep, frequent waking, periodic breathing
Altitude Illness: Ams, Hace And Hape

Notes for doctors and trek/expedition leaders (Dr Jim Duff, 03/01/2007)

As you ascend to altitudes above 2000m, your body has to acclimatize to the decreasing amount of oxygen available. The three main acclimatization mechanisms are:

  • Deeper breathing and an increased respiratory rate (from 8 to12 breaths/min at rest at sea level to around 20 breaths/min at 6000m). This starts immediately on arrival at altitude.
  • Producing more urine. This starts within hours and takes a day or two. If this mechanism is not efficient, the characteristic puffiness of early AMS appears in the face, hands and feet. (water retention)
  • An increase in the number of red cells in the blood. This only begins after a week at high altitude.
  • If the ascent is too fast and/or the height gain too much, these mechanisms do not have time to work, and symptoms and signs of altitude illness (also called high altitude illness or altitude sickness) will appear.

Altitude illness becomes common above 2500m and presents in the following ways:

  • AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness): common but not life-threatening if dealt with correctly.
  • HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema): less common but life-threatening.
  • HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema): less common but life-threatening.

Depending on the altitude gain and speed of ascent, the incidence AMS ranges from 20 to 80%. HAPE is roughly twice as common as HACE and together they occur in approximately

1 to 2% of people going to high altitude. These three forms of altitude illness can vary from mild to severe, and may develop rapidly (over hours) or slowly (over days). HACE and HAPE can occur individually or together.

People often refuse to admit they have altitude illness and blame their symptoms on cold, heat, infection, alcohol, insomnia, exercise, unfitness or migraine, and risk death by continuing to ascend.

Warning: do not ascend with symptoms or signs of altitude illness, as this has led to many deaths from HAPE/HACE.

Diarrhoea (And Food Poisoning)

Diarrhoea in developing countries has a greater than 50% incidence for first-time travellers staying for more than a short time. In these countries it is more likely to need antibiotic treatment than it is at home. Diarrhoea can vary from mild to severe; it can result in dehydration and salts loss with resulting depletion of energy and fitness. This can result in failure to complete your holiday, trek or to summit.

Reduce your risk of diarrhoea by frequent hand washing/drying and avoiding hand-to-mouth contact.

Fitness And Training

The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday. Plan your training well in advance and seek advice if you are not sure of what is expected of you. Lack of personal fitness can cause problems. Turning back may be difficult to arrange, and causing delays in bad weather can be especially dangerous.

Over-exertion is a risk factor for altitude illness. Nepal and Kilimanjaro trips involve strenuous days. On Kili, the summit day involves climbing 1200m (4000ft) and descending 2200m (7200ft). summit of Kilimanjaro, there is only 50% of the oxygen that is available at sea level. http://www.treksafe.com.au/medical/documents/altitudeillness.pdf for more information.

Flexible Schedule Tight Schedule
  • FAST ACCLIMATIZERS LOW RISK MEDIUM RISK
  • SLOW ACCLIMATIZERS MEDIUM RISK HIGH RISK
  • AMS (ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS)

AMS varies from mild to severe and the main symptoms are due to the accumulation of fluid in and around the brain. Typically, symptoms appear within 12 hours of the ascent. If the victim now rests at the same altitude, symptoms usually disappear quickly over several hours (but for ‘slow acclimatizers’ this can take up to 3 days!) and they are now acclimatized to this altitude. AMS may reappear as they ascend higher still, as acclimatization to the new altitude has to take place all over again.

Symptoms & signs

A diagnosis of AMS is made when there has been a height gain in the last few days, AND:

  • The victim has a headache (typically throbbing, often worse when bending over or lying down)
  • PLUS there is one or more of the following symptoms:
    • Fatigue and weakness
    • Loss of appetite, or nausea, or vomiting
    • Dizziness, light headedness
    • Poor sleep, disturbed sleep, frequent waking, periodic breathing

In AMS, the victim’s level of consciousness is normal.

Note: AMS and HACE are two extremes of the same condition and it can help to think of AMS as ‘mild HACE’.

Note: the only early signs of altitude illness in a young child (under 7 years old) may be an increased fussiness, crying, loss of interest and/or loss of appetite.

Fluids

Dehydration occurs at low altitude, where heat and humidity cause excessive sweating and is also common at high altitude due to exercising in cold dry air. Travellers need to drink enough fluid (as soups, beverages or water) to keep hydrated (you are hydrated if your urine is ‘pale and plentiful’. Infrequent small amounts of strong smelling, dark coloured urine means you are dehydrated)! Discipline yourself to stop and drink at least every hour.

Going Back Up Again?
  • Anyone seriously ill with HACE or HAPE needing oxygen, treatment in a hyperbaric bag or dexamethasone or nifedipine, should descend immediately after treatment. As, even if they feel completely recovered, symptoms may rapidly re-appear with even mild exertion or further ascent.
  • Cautious re-ascent may be considered once symptom-free for 4 weeks (ideally seek the advice of a doctor qualified in mountain medicine). Long haul jet flights should be avoided while symptomatic, unless oxygen is available
  • If re-ascent is unavoidable (e.g. driving out of Tibet over high passes), give:
    • Acetazolamide 250 mg 12-hourly
    • If the original problem was HACE, add dexamethasone (4 mg 12-hourly)
    • If the problem was HAPE, add modified release nifedipine (20 mg 12-hourly)
    • Give oxygen while crossing passes
  • If symptoms of AMS disappear and the person is feeling well (and has been off dexamethasone for at least 3 days), they may try re-ascending slowly while continuing to take acetazolamide. Otherwise, continue descending Acetazolamide (Diamox)

Acetazolamide increases the breathing rate at altitude and speeds up the acclimatization process. A dose takes 12 hours to become fully effective.

Acetazolamide does NOT mask the onset of AMS, HACE or HAPE. However, taking acetazolamide does not guarantee that altitude illness will not develop.

There are three situations where acetazolamide is useful:

1. Prevention of AMS

Acetazolamide reduces the incidence of AMS, however routine preventative use for all trekkers on all treks is NOT recommended. It is recommended for those who have a past history of altitude illness, or for everyone when rapid height gain is unavoidable, such as:

  • Any ascent to 5000m or more (e.g. Kilimanjaro 5895m) under 7 days: consider using 125 to 250 mg 12-hourly from the start of the ascent until back below 3000m
  • Flying or driving rapidly to altitude (e.g. Lhasa 3660m, Leh 3500m, Cuzco 3470m, La Paz 3880m, etc): consider using 125 mg 12-hourly, start 24 hours before flying and continue for 2 or 3 days after arrival or the rest of the time at altitude. This is especially useful if the traveller’s itinerary does not allow for 2-3 rest days on arrival at altitude.

2. Treatment of altitude illness

If someone with mild AMS has a flexible schedule, the preferred option is to rest at the same altitude until symptoms disappear. This ideal approach is sometimes not possible on treks and the argument for prompt use of acetazolamide is stronger. In this situation, a person with persistent symptoms of mild AMS despite treatment should start acetazolamide (125 to 250 mg 12-hourly) as this offers the best chance to safely continue their trek (given that no-one should ascend with symptoms of altitude illness).

See treatment of more severe AMS, HAPE or HACE above.

3. Poor sleep, disturbed sleep or periodic breathing at altitude

Poor sleep is common at altitude; first, check warmth of sleeping bag, improve ground insulation, avoid caffeine, check peeing arrangement and offer reassurance to the anxious. A trial of acetazolamide is indicated for sleep disturbance at altitude, particularly if the insomnia is associated with periodic breathing. This is recognized by repeated cycles of normal or fast breathing followed by a long pause, then several gasping breaths. The sufferer often wakes feeling like they are suffocating. This can be frightening for the sufferer’s tent ‘buddy’!

In the morning the victim feels tired and unwell.

Acetazolamide is often called ‘the high altitude sleeping pill’ (125 mg one hour before going to bed. If the problem persists, increase the dose to 250 mg).

HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema)

The important symptoms and signs are: severe headache, loss of physical coordination and a declining level of consciousness. This is a deadly condition and immediate descent is the treatment.

HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema)

HACE is the accumulation of fluid in and around the brain. The important symptoms and signs are: severe headache, loss of physical coordination and a declining level of consciousness.

Typically, symptoms and signs of AMS become worse and HACE develops (but HACE may come on so quickly that the AMS stage is not noticed). Also, HACE may develop in the later stages of HAPE.

Symptoms & signs

A diagnosis of HACE is made when there has been a height gain in the last few days, AND:

  • The victim has a severe headache (not relieved by ibuprofen, paracetamol or aspirin)
  • There is a loss of physical coordination (ataxia):
    • Clumsiness: the victim has difficulty (and often asks for help) with simple tasks such as tying their shoelaces or packing their bag. When examined they fail to do, or have difficulty doing (or refuse to do!) the finger-nose test
    • Staggering, falling over. When examined they fail to do, or have difficulty doing (or refuse to do) the heel-to-toe walking test or the standing test
  • Their level of consciousness is declining:
    • Early on, this presents as loss of mental abilities such as memory or mental arithmetic. When asked, the victim cannot do or have difficulty doing (or refuse to do) simple mental tests
    • Later on, they become confused, drowsy, semiconscious, unconscious (and will die if not treated urgently)
  • Other symptoms and signs that may appear:
    • Nausea and/or vomiting, which may be severe and persistent
    • Changes in behaviour (uncooperative, aggressive or apathetic, “Leave me alone”, etc)
    • Hallucinations, blurred or double vision, seeing haloes around objects, fits or localized stroke signs may all occur but are less common

Tests For Hace

Failure or difficulty doing any one of these tests means the victim has HACE. If the victim refuses to cooperate, assume they are suffering from HACE. If in doubt about the victim’s performance of the tests, compare with a healthy person. Be prepared to repeat these tests to monitor progress.

  • Finger-nose test. With eyes closed, the victim repeatedly and rapidly alternates between touching the tip of their nose with an index finger, then extending this arm to point into the distance (useful test if the victim is in a sleeping bag or cannot stand up).
  • Heel-to-toe walking test. The victim is asked to take 10 very small steps in a straight line, placing the heel of one foot in front of the toes of the other foot as they go. Reasonably flat ground is necessary and the victim should not be helped, but be prepared to catch the victim if they fall over! Excessive wobbling is difficulty (to do the test), falling over is failure.
  • Standing test. The victim stands, feet together and arms folded across their chest, and then closes their eyes (the victim should not be helped, but be prepared to catch the victim if they fall over! Excessive wobbling is difficulty (to do the test), falling over is failure.
  • Mental tests are used to assess level of consciousness. You must take into consideration pre-existing verbal/arithmetic skills and culture; it is a decline in ability over time that is significant. Examples of tests include: “Spell your name backwards”, “Take 3 from 50 and keep taking 3 from the result”, or ask their birth date, about recent news events, etc.
HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema)

The important sign is breathlessness. This is a deadly condition and immediate descent is the treatment. For more information on HACE and HAPE, see http://www.treksafe.com.au/medical/documents/altitudeillnessfordoctors_003.pdf.

HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema)

HAPE is the accumulation of fluid in the lungs. The important sign is breathlessness. HAPE may appear on its own without any preceding symptoms of AMS (this happens in about 50% of cases) or it may develop at the same time as AMS or HACE. Severe cases of HAPE may result in the development of HACE in the later stages.

HAPE may develop very rapidly (in 1 to 2 hours) or very gradually over days. It often develops during or after the second night at a new altitude. HAPE can develop while descending from a higher altitude. It is the commonest cause of death due to altitude illness. HAPE is more likely to occur in people with colds or chest infections. It is easily mistaken for a chest infection/pneumonia. If you have the slightest doubt, treat for both.

Symptoms & signs

  • Reduced physical performance (tiredness, fatigue) and a dry cough are often the earliest signs of HAPE
  • Breathlessness:
    • Early stages: more breathless than usual with exercise, takes a little longer to get breath back after exercise
    • Later stages: marked breathlessness during exercise, takes longer to get breath back after exercise. This finally progresses to breathlessness at rest
    • At any stage, the victim may become breathless while lying flat and prefer to sleep propped up
  • Breathing rate at rest increases as HAPE progresses. (At sea level, resting breathing rate is 8 to 12 breaths/min at rest. At 6000m, normal acclimatized resting breathing rate is approximately 20 breaths/min)
  • A dry cough
  • As HAPE gets worse, the cough may start to bring up white frothy sputum. Later still, this frothy sputum may become bloodstained (pink or rust coloured): this is a serious sign
  • ‘Wet’ sounds (fine crackles) may be heard in the lungs when the victim breathes in deeply (place your ear on the bare skin of the victim’s back below the shoulder blades; compare with a healthy person)
  • Note: wet sounds may be difficult to hear (or absent), even in severe HAPE
  • As HAPE gets worse, lips, tongue or nails may become blue due to lack of oxygen in the blood
  • There may be: fever (up to 38.5ºC), a sense of inner cold, or pains in the chest or even upper belly
  • As HAPE worsens, the victim becomes confused, drowsy, semiconscious, unconscious (and will die if not treated urgently)
Medications At Altitude
  • At altitude (above 2500m) some medications such as sedatives, strong painkillers, antihistamines and most sleeping tablets (except zopiclone and zolipidem) may depress breathing. This may make altitude illness more likely or more severe, especially at night. If you have to use any of these medications, consider giving acetozolamide (Diamox) 125 to 250 mg 12-hourly to stimulate breathing, and check the person frequently.
  • At altitude, antimalarial medications may cause nausea and psychotic episodes
  • Oral contraceptives (“the pill”) slightly increase the blood’s tendency to clot, so they should be avoided above 5000m
  • Aspirin and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g. ibuprofen) may cause bleeding in the eye (retina) at high altitude (over 5000m) especially if coughing is present.
Medications For Mild Ams
  • Treat headache with ibuprofen or paracetamol
  • Consider treating persistent nausea or vomiting with prochlorperazine (Stemetil) or other anti-vomiting medication
  • Consider starting acetazolamide (Diamox) 125 to 250 mg 12-hourly for the rest of the time at altitude

Hypothermia, dehydration and low blood sugar (due to not eating) share many symptoms and signs with AMS and may be present at the same time. So always re-warm, re-hydrate, resugar.

If the illness is more severe, DESCEND. Other specific treatments will be given by your leader/doctor.

Painkillers And Medications

If pain relief is needed at altitude, paracetamol is a safe option, while ibuprofen is better at treating the headache of acute mountain sickness. Neither drug will mask symptoms of altitude illness.

Porter Care

If you employ porters directly or indirectly through a company, you must take care of them. This means they should have adequate clothing, footwear, food and shelter. This is especially so above the tree line. The maximum legal load a trekking porter should carry varies from country to country: 20 kg on Kilimanjaro, 25 kg in Peru and 30 kg in Nepal.

Many trekkers take far too much ‘stuff’ with them and you should aim to travel light. If you want to take more, be prepared to hire another porter. If you are concerned for your porters speak out there and then!

More information about porters and their needs can be found on http://www.ippg.net/.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions

If you suffer from any of these medical conditions: asthma, high blood pressure/heart disease, diabetes, epilepsy or mental illness; please discuss it with your doctor before your trekking holiday or wilderness adventure holiday.

Visit http://www.treksafe.com.au/medical/notes_for_doctors_and_leaders.htm for more information on these conditions to aid your assessment and preparation. These notes are for medical practitioners.

Preventing problems THE BUDDY SYSTEM

Pairing up to keep an eye on each other makes early recognition of illness/problems easier. Buddies should voice their concerns to the leader/doctor as soon as possible.

Preventing Altitude Illness

Above 2000m, altitude illness (AMS, HACE and HAPE) is a possibility, and above 2500m it becomes common.

  • As a rough guide, above 2500m the maximum daily height gain between sleeping altitudes should not exceed 300m (slow acclimatizers) to 500m (fast acclimatizers), with a rest day every third day (or after every 1000m of ascent).Over 5000m, the daily height gain for the slow and fast acclimatizers is halved to 150m and 250 meters per day, respectively
  • If you must fly or drive rapidly to 2500m or higher, spend a minimum of two nights at your arrival altitude (or lower if possible) or until symptoms disappear, before ascending further. If ascending rapidly to 3000m or higher, consider using acetazolamide (Diamox)
  • Avoid overexertion and breathlessness while acclimatizing, especially if experiencing symptoms of AMS.
  • Drink enough liquid to keep your urine pale and plentiful
  • Avoid alcohol, excess caffeine, salt and protein
  • Warning: do not ascend with symptoms of AMS, consult your leader/doctor ADVENTURE TRAVEL ADVICE, including trekking.
    (Dr Jim Duff, 1/04/08)
Recognizing Someone Is Becoming Unwell

These signs and changes in behaviour are particularly important when they are ‘out of character’:

  • Loss of appetite, missing meals
  • Tiredness, lethargy; coming to camp late and last, going to bed early, being last to get out of bed.
  • Personality changes: anxiety, irritability, excitability, anger, aggression, complaining, social withdrawal, depression, loss of concentration, talking more/less.
  • Clumsiness, staggering, falling over, dropping things, inability to tie shoelaces or pack or carry one’s own bag.
  • Breathlessness, confusion, drowsiness
  • This can be memorized as: “Grumble, mumble, stumble, tumble”.
Risk Of Developing Altitude Illness

In any group there will be ‘fast’ and ‘slow’ acclimatizers needing different ascent rates. While a flexible schedule is always preferred, the fact is that many trekkers are on tight schedules (Often, but not always, members of commercial groups) leading to a higher incidence of altitude illness. Slow acclimatizers in these tight schedule situations are at extra risk, and prompt diagnosis and treatment becomes even more important.

However, even if a trekker has a flexible schedule, they may still feel pressurized to ascend with symptoms (by pride, peer pressure, rivalry, not wanting to appear weak, etc).

Interestingly, fit and impatient young people can be more at risk of altitude illness than unfit and patient older ones!

Sunburn, Blisters, Etc
  • Wear a wide brimmed hat to reduce the risk of sunburn and heat exhaustion. Cover up or protect noses, necks, ears, the backs of hands on walking poles, and backs of knees and calves.
  • Acetozolamide (Diamox) and doxycycline (an antibiotic often taken for malaria prevention) can cause a person to sunburn more easily (photosensitivity), so extra sun protection is needed.
  • Stop and treat blisters at the first sign of rubbing and apply blister dressing
  • Walking poles are very useful while trekking, practice with them pre-departure
  • Mittens are much warmer than finger gloves
Treatment Of Altitude Illness

If someone is ill at altitude after a recent height gain, carry out a full secondary survey (especially level of consciousness and breathing rate), a ‘Lake Louise Score’ and the tests/examination for HACE and HAPE.

Because the victims of altitude illness often fail to take care of themselves, they are likely to develop hypothermia, dehydration and/or low blood sugar (due to not eating).

There comes a point when it is vital that the leader/doctor/companion starts making decisions for the victim (e.g. ordering immediate descent), even if the victim disagrees.

General treatment of altitude illness

  • Descent is the treatment of altitude illness. Prompt descent will begin to reverse the symptoms. Descend immediately if symptoms are severe, even if it means at night or in bad weather. Resting at the same altitude is only acceptable if the victim has mild AMS and is improving with treatment
  • Oxygen: give oxygen, either as bottled oxygen or in a hyperbaric bag if the symptoms are severe and descent is not immediately possible (e.g. dangerous terrain or weather, not enough helpers to carry an unconscious victim, waiting for a helicopter) or the victim is too ill to move
  • Rest is recommended even for mild symptoms. With more serious illness, if at all possible avoid even the slightest exertion, as just walking a few steps may make symptoms worse or reappear; carry the victim or, as a minimum, assist them to walk and carry their rucksack
  • Keep the victim warm and hydrated, give occasional sugary drinks
  • Prop the victim up in a semi-reclining position, as lying flat can make them feel worse
  • If at any stage the victim has difficulty breathing, is turning blue or lapsing into unconsciousness, assist their breathing with mouth-to-mouth before they stop breathing.
Treatment Of Mild Ams
  • Rest at the same (or lower) altitude until the symptoms clear (this will take a few hours to a few days)
  • Avoid unnecessary exertion
  • Keep warm, drink enough fluid to maintain hydration and occasional sugary drinks
  • Rest in a semi-reclining position if this is more comfortable
What Else Could It Be?

If the illness comes on after 4 days at a new altitude and/or does not respond to descent, oxygen, dexamethasone and/or nifedipine, reconsider your diagnosis:

  • HACE may be difficult to distinguish from: migraine, meningitis, diabetic coma, CO poisoning
  • HAPE may be difficult to distinguish from: pneumonia, asthma, pulmonary embolus (a blood clot from a DVT), heart attack, hyperventilation (panic attack)
  • Hypothermia, dehydration or low blood sugar (due to not eating) share similar symptoms to altitude illness

Unless absolutely sure, treat as HACE or HAPE (or both) PLUS your alternative diagnosis.

Note: the basic treatment of all of these problems is roughly the same: re-warm, re-hydrate, ‘resugar’, re-oxygenate and descend.

Nepal/Everest Base Camp Trekking Gear List

The following gives you a general idea of the personal items to be brought by you to trek in the Everest Base Camp region of Nepal. The personal items are of individual interest, and choice. The most important fact he/she must consider is the time of the year, trekking days, region and altitude.

In a supported trek, heavy items are carried by porters or Yaks during the trek and personal belongings of the trekkers that they may need for the day like money, water bottle, rain gear, camera, sun cream and toilet paper etc. should be carried by you. So you are briefed to pack items in two different bags

Everest Gear List Nepal

Acetazolamide: Allergy And Side Effects

The side effects of acetazolamide include allergy. Avoid it if there is a history of a severe allergic reaction to acetazolamide or sulfa containing medications (mainly the sulphonamidetype antibiotics such as co-trimoxazole, Septrin™, Bactrim™). Note that if the sulfa allergy is mild (rash, diarrhoea, etc), test doses of acetazolamide (125 mg 12-hourly for 2 days) may be tried well before departure (but do not attempt this if the sulfa allergy is severe!). Most people with mild sulfa allergy can take acetazolamide.

Common side effects of acetazolamide include:

  • Paraesthesiae (tingling) in lips, fingers, toes or other body parts and a metallic taste when drinking carbonated drinks are the most obvious. Both side effects are milder with lower doses and disappear on stopping the medication
  • Acetazolamide can cause photosensitivity (sunburn more easily) so use hats, gloves, sunscreen
  • Extra urine output. The effect of acetazolamide to increase urine output is mild (people pee more as part of the normal acclimatization process as they ascend)
  • Rarer side effects include: flushing, headache, dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea, tiredness

Note: the medication acetozolamide used for Acute Mountain Sickness has to be obtained from a doctor on prescription. As its use for AMS is not officially recognized, some doctors may be reluctant to prescribe it for you. Showing your doctor this handout may help.

Core Body
  • 2 cotton t-shirts.
  • 1 synthetic t-shirt.
  • 2 long sleeve polyester, or other synthetic lightweight, light colour shirts for sunny days. V-neck zipper provides additional venting options which are good for changing temperatures.
  • 1 expedition weight long underwear top.
  • 1 soft shell jacket, water resistant, with insulation, underarm ventilation zippers. Full front zipper is preferable for ventilation.
  • 1 hard shell with hood, waterproof, pay particular attention to venting options under / on the arms and inner chest pockets provide convenient access without taking off your pack, truly a great design option.
  • 1 medium to heavy weight expedition down parka w/hood.
  • 2 women sports bras Synthetic, no cotton!
Feet
  • 4 pair of liner socks, synthetic or capilene
  • 3 pair heavy weight socks to be worn over liner socks
  • 1 pair light weight socks, a good option for the lower / warmer parts of the trail
  • 1 pair light to medium weight water proof hiking/trekking boots. Ensure a good fit with layered socks and you have wore then before to get used to it (otherwise you will get lots of blister)
  • 1 pair light trekking shoes or sneakers. Good for around the camp/lodges and in Kathmandu
  • 1 pair hiking gaiters, good for keeping dust and rocks out of your shoes / boots as well as keep your feet dry as necessary (Optional)
  • 1 pair sandals (Optional)
General
  • Duffel or Rucksack bag (Wild Spirit will supply complimentary water and wind proof duffel/kit bag but one extra big duffel bag is necessary for non-trek items left at the hotel in Kathmandu)
  • Daypack
  • Down Jacket (Your own Down Jacket is recommended but Wild Spirit also supply complimentary down which need to be return at the completion of the trek)
  • 4 seasons Sleeping bag (Your own sleeping bag is recommended but Wild Spirit also supply complimentary sleeping bags which need to be return at the completion of the trek)
Going Back Up Again?
  • Anyone seriously ill with HACE or HAPE needing oxygen, treatment in a hyperbaric bag or dexamethasone or nifedipine, should descend immediately after treatment. As, even if they feel completely recovered, symptoms may rapidly re-appear with even mild exertion or further ascent.
  • Cautious re-ascent may be considered once symptom-free for 4 weeks (ideally seek the advice of a doctor qualified in mountain medicine). Long haul jet flights should be avoided while symptomatic, unless oxygen is available
  • If re-ascent is unavoidable (e.g. driving out of Tibet over high passes), give:
    • Acetazolamide 250 mg 12-hourly
    • If the original problem was HACE, add dexamethasone (4 mg 12-hourly)
    • If the problem was HAPE, add modified release nifedipine (20 mg 12-hourly)
    • Give oxygen while crossing passes
  • If symptoms of AMS disappear and the person is feeling well (and has been off dexamethasone for at least 3 days), they may try re-ascending slowly while continuing to take acetazolamide. Otherwise, continue descending Acetazolamide (Diamox)

Acetazolamide increases the breathing rate at altitude and speeds up the acclimatization process. A dose takes 12 hours to become fully effective.

Acetazolamide does NOT mask the onset of AMS, HACE or HAPE. However, taking acetazolamide does not guarantee that altitude illness will not develop.

There are three situations where acetazolamide is useful:

1. Prevention of AMS

Acetazolamide reduces the incidence of AMS, however routine preventative use for all trekkers on all treks is NOT recommended. It is recommended for those who have a past history of altitude illness, or for everyone when rapid height gain is unavoidable, such as:

  • Any ascent to 5000m or more (e.g. Kilimanjaro 5895m) under 7 days: consider using 125 to 250 mg 12-hourly from the start of the ascent until back below 3000m
  • Flying or driving rapidly to altitude (e.g. Lhasa 3660m, Leh 3500m, Cuzco 3470m, La Paz 3880m, etc): consider using 125 mg 12-hourly, start 24 hours before flying and continue for 2 or 3 days after arrival or the rest of the time at altitude. This is especially useful if the traveller’s itinerary does not allow for 2-3 rest days on arrival at altitude.

2. Treatment of altitude illness

If someone with mild AMS has a flexible schedule, the preferred option is to rest at the same altitude until symptoms disappear. This ideal approach is sometimes not possible on treks and the argument for prompt use of acetazolamide is stronger. In this situation, a person with persistent symptoms of mild AMS despite treatment should start acetazolamide (125 to 250 mg 12-hourly) as this offers the best chance to safely continue their trek (given that no-one should ascend with symptoms of altitude illness).

See treatment of more severe AMS, HAPE or HACE above.

3. Poor sleep, disturbed sleep or periodic breathing at altitude

Poor sleep is common at altitude; first, check warmth of sleeping bag, improve ground insulation, avoid caffeine, check peeing arrangement and offer reassurance to the anxious. A trial of acetazolamide is indicated for sleep disturbance at altitude, particularly if the insomnia is associated with periodic breathing. This is recognized by repeated cycles of normal or fast breathing followed by a long pause, then several gasping breaths. The sufferer often wakes feeling like they are suffocating. This can be frightening for the sufferer’s tent ‘buddy’!

In the morning the victim feels tired and unwell.

Acetazolamide is often called ‘the high altitude sleeping pill’ (125 mg one hour before going to bed. If the problem persists, increase the dose to 250 mg).

Lower Body – Legs
  • 2-3 pairs nylon hiking shorts – Quick drying type, not cotton!
  • Underwear, stay away from cotton
  • 2 pair lightweight long underwear – capilene or other synthetic
  • 1 pair soft shell pants – synthetic, full zip from top and bottom preferable
  • 2 pair trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts
  • 1 pair hard shell pants. Waterproof / breathable, Gore-Tex or equivalent is best. Should zip from the top and bottom – this makes it easier to put on over boots without getting undressed should the weather change once you are underway for the day
  • 1 pair cotton pants (loose jeans/khakis)
  • 1 full length loose skirt. Women should plan to wear skirts or pants when walking around Kathmandu.
  • All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large puncture resistant plastic bags.
Medications At Altitude
  • At altitude (above 2500m) some medications such as sedatives, strong painkillers, antihistamines and most sleeping tablets (except zopiclone and zolipidem) may depress breathing. This may make altitude illness more likely or more severe, especially at night. If you have to use any of these medications, consider giving acetozolamide (Diamox) 125 to 250 mg 12-hourly to stimulate breathing, and check the person frequently.
  • At altitude, antimalarial medications may cause nausea and psychotic episodes
  • Oral contraceptives (“the pill”) slightly increase the blood’s tendency to clot, so they should be avoided above 5000m
  • Aspirin and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g. ibuprofen) may cause bleeding in the eye (retina) at high altitude (over 5000m) especially if coughing is present.
Medicines And First Aid Kits
  • Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude related headaches
  • Ibuprofen for general aches and pains
  • Immodium or Pepto bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhoea
  • Diamox (commonly prescribed as Acetazolamide) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness. Please discuss with us before starting to take this medicine
  • 1 small personal sized first-aid kit with blister treatments such as mole skin, band aids, some waterproof tape, anti-infection ointments, etc. Your guides will have more extensive medical gear, but you should have the basics for general use.
Miscellaneous, But Important
  • Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies)
  • Airline ticket(s)
  • VISA (If required and acquired in advance)
  • Immunization Record
  • Durable wallet / pouch for travel documents, money & passport
  • 2 Water bottles 1 litre wide-mouth Nalgene and 1 insulator
  • Lip balm. At least SPF 20, 2 sticks. A string taped to the stick is helpful, to hang around your neck and some are now being sold with a cord already attached. Handy as it avoid you having to stop and look for it
  • Sunscreen. SPF 40 is recommended and should be relatively new since it loses its’ effectiveness over time
  • Pocket knife or small Swiss Army type
  • Water purification Iodine tablets or Polar-pure crystals
  • Toiletry kit. Be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc
  • 3-4 Large durable plastic bags, for keeping miscellaneous gear dry inside you pack. Also nice for separating clean from dirty laundry
  • Nylon stuff sacks for food and gear storage
  • Large zip lock bags are also useful for separating things and keeping them dry
  • 2 bandanas
  • Ear plugs
Optional
  • 1 pair adjustable trekking poles. Although these are listed as optional these can be of great assistance to people who may think of themselves and generally clumsy or with bad knees, ankles, etc., especially when going downhill (Optional)
  • Favourite snack foods, no more than 2 pounds (Optional)
  • Paperback books, cards, MP3 player (there are a couple of stops where you could recharge. Avoid players with moving hardware as it may not function, remember, keep these items light weight (Optional)
  • Binoculars (Optional)
  • 1 light weight point & shoot camera or 1 large SLR. Digital cameras are ok, but you must keep the batteries warm when not in use (Optional)
  • Hydration bladder with drinking tube and tube insulator (Optional)
  • A pee bottle for men and pee funnel for woman, some swear by them to avoid that chilly late night trip (Optional)
  • 1 small stainless steel thermos (Optional)
Treatment Of Altitude Illness

If someone is ill at altitude after a recent height gain, carry out a full secondary survey (especially level of consciousness and breathing rate), a ‘Lake Louise Score’ and the tests/examination for HACE and HAPE.

Because the victims of altitude illness often fail to take care of themselves, they are likely to develop hypothermia, dehydration and/or low blood sugar (due to not eating).

There comes a point when it is vital that the leader/doctor/companion starts making decisions for the victim (e.g. ordering immediate descent), even if the victim disagrees.

General treatment of altitude illness

  • Descent is the treatment of altitude illness. Prompt descent will begin to reverse the symptoms. Descend immediately if symptoms are severe, even if it means at night or in bad weather. Resting at the same altitude is only acceptable if the victim has mild AMS and is improving with treatment
  • Oxygen: give oxygen, either as bottled oxygen or in a hyperbaric bag if the symptoms are severe and descent is not immediately possible (e.g. dangerous terrain or weather, not enough helpers to carry an unconscious victim, waiting for a helicopter) or the victim is too ill to move
  • Rest is recommended even for mild symptoms. With more serious illness, if at all possible avoid even the slightest exertion, as just walking a few steps may make symptoms worse or reappear; carry the victim or, as a minimum, assist them to walk and carry their rucksack
  • Keep the victim warm and hydrated, give occasional sugary drinks
  • Prop the victim up in a semi-reclining position, as lying flat can make them feel worse
  • If at any stage the victim has difficulty breathing, is turning blue or lapsing into unconsciousness, assist their breathing with mouth-to-mouth before they stop breathing.
Upper Body – Head / Ears / Eyes
  • Shade hat or baseball cap – some people drape a bandana down the back of their head and then put a baseball cap on to hold it is place. This can be a flexible alternative while keeping the sun off your ears and neck.
  • Warm wool or synthetic hat that cover your ears
  • Balaclava – The lightweight, thinner variety
  • Glacier glasses 100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case (i.e. Julbo or Cebe). This is to protect your eyes from the stronger rays of the sun due to the thinner atmosphere which can cause a painful condition known as snow blindness. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient. If you wear prescription glasses, speak to your doctor about prescription glacier glasses, perhaps with transitional lenses
  • Headlamp – Black Diamond and Petzl both make several good ones. Make sure to bring extra batteries and that they are lithium batteries so that they will last in the colder temperatures. These are indispensable for getting around at night, reading, etc., so don’t go cheap here
  • Some people like ear-muffs; These are optional, a good hat, balaclava, and hooded jacket should really be sufficient, but this is a personal choice for some people (Optional)
  • A neck warmer is another piece of gear for extra warmth if you feel you will need it (Optional)
    Hand
  • 1 pair liner gloves thin wool or synthetic, useful alone on mild days or as a layer inside other gloves / mitts for additional warmth.
  • 1 pair warm gloves (heavier fleece or wool).
  • 1 Pair shell gloves or mitts Gore-Tex is preferred for keeping hands dry.
  • Instant hand warmers are always nice in a pinch, but really shouldn’t be necessary on the trek. Bringing appropriate hand protection as recommended above, should be sufficient (Optional)
What Else Could It Be?

If the illness comes on after 4 days at a new altitude and/or does not respond to descent, oxygen, dexamethasone and/or nifedipine, reconsider your diagnosis:

  • HACE may be difficult to distinguish from: migraine, meningitis, diabetic coma, CO poisoning
  • HAPE may be difficult to distinguish from: pneumonia, asthma, pulmonary embolus (a blood clot from a DVT), heart attack, hyperventilation (panic attack)
  • Hypothermia, dehydration or low blood sugar (due to not eating) share similar symptoms to altitude illness

Unless absolutely sure, treat as HACE or HAPE (or both) PLUS your alternative diagnosis.

Note: the basic treatment of all of these problems is roughly the same: re-warm, re-hydrate, ‘resugar’, re-oxygenate and descend.

This list is only a guide. While you are required to bring everything on this list, there are numerous options, brands, and versions of each piece of equipment, use your experience and the listed features to find the best gear for you. Some of the above equipments can be easily find in stores around Kathmandu in much cheaper price.

Please Note: Tight fitting, figure-hugging clothing, such as those made with Lycra can often be offensive to locals, especially to women. If you find these items comfortable as a base layer, please pack something to wear on top of them.

Island Peak Gear List

The following gives you a general idea of the personal items that you can bring for the trek.

The personal items are of individual interest, and choice. The most important fact that one should keep on mind is that one should have enough clothes to tackle the cold weather in the Himalayas.

In a supported trek, heavy items are carried by porters or yaks and personal belongings that you may need for the day like money, water bottle, rain gear, camera, sun cream and toilet paper etc. should be carried by yourself. So you are briefed to pack items in two different bags.

We will supply complimentary water and wind proof duffel bag which you can use on the trek and is carried by porter/s. The duffel bag is yours to keep after the trek. You can leave your bag with your non-trek items at the hotel in Kathmandu and collect them after the trek.

All the equipments like Base camp tents, kitchen accessories and all the group climbing equipments ( climbing rope, ice screw, somw bar, ice hammer) is provided by the company.

Everest Gear List Island Peak

Climbing gear

The Climbing equipment is much more expensive to buy. So, please let us know if you want to rent the equipments at the additional cost of USD 250 per person. The Following equipments are essential for climbing Island peak.

  • 1 Pair plastic shell mountaineering boots with high altitude liners
  • 1 Pair of crampons (steel, no aluminium).
  • 1 Alpine climbing harness.
  • 1 Mountaineering axe with leash (sized properly for your height)
  • 1 Ascender (right or left handed as appropriate)
  • 1 Belay device (Black Diamond ATC or ATC Guide are good options)
  • 2 D-Shaped locking carabiners
  • 2 Non-locking carabiners
  • 1 Pair expedition style gaiters (ensure fit over your boots)
  • Neck gaiter
  • Ski goggles (optional)
  • Climbing helmet (optional)
Core Body
  • T-shirts (2).
  • Light and expedition weight thermal tops.
  • Fleece jacket or pullover.
  • Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional).
  • Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket.
  • 2 women sports bras, Synthetic, no cotton!
Feet
  • 4 pairs of liner socks, synthetic or capilene.
  • 3 pairs heavy weight socks to be worn over liner socks.
  • 1 pair light weight socks, a good option for the lower / warmer parts of the trail.
  • 1 pair light to medium weight water proof hiking/trekking boots. Ensure a good fit with layered socks and you have worn then before to get used to it (otherwise you will get lots of blister).
  • 1 pair light trekking shoes or sneakers. Good for around the camp/lodges and in Kathmandu.
  • 1 pair hiking gaiters, good for keeping dust and rocks out of your shoes / boots as well as keep your feet dry as necessary (Optional).
  • 1 pair sandals (Optional).
General
  • 4 seasons Sleeping bag (Optional/we can provide one if you need it but is to be returned after the trek)
  • Duffel or Rucksack bag or suitcase (We will provide one complimentary ACE duffel bag for you to keep.)
  • Daypack
  • Down Jacket (Optional/we can provide if you need one but is to be returned after the trek)
Hand
  • 1 pair liner gloves, thin wool or synthetic, useful alone on mild days or as a layer inside other gloves / mitts for additional warmth.
  • 1 pair warm gloves (heavier fleece or wool).
  • 1 pair shell gloves or mitts; Gore-Tex is preferred for keeping hands dry.
  • Instant hand warmers are always nice in a pinch, but really shouldn’t be necessary on the trek. Bringing appropriate hand protection as recommended above, should be sufficient (optional).
Lower Body – Legs
  • 2 pairs nylon hiking shorts – Quick drying type, not cotton!
  • Underwear, stay away from cotton (4).
  • 2 pairs lightweight long underwear – capilene or other synthetic.
  • 1 pair soft shell pants – synthetic, full zip from top and bottom preferable.
  • 2 pairs trekking pants, preferably that zip on/off at the knees so they double as shorts.
  • 1 pair hard shell pants. Waterproof / breathable, Gore-Tex or equivalent is best. Should zip from the top and bottom – this makes it easier to put on over boots without getting undressed should the weather change once you are underway for the day.
  • 1 pair cotton pants (loose jeans/khakis).
  • All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large puncture resistant plastic bags.
Medicines And First Aid Kits

(Please note our guide will also carry the first aid kit bag during the trek. However we still recommend you to bring your personal first aid kit as well)

  • Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude related headaches.
  • Ibuprofen for general aches and pains.
  • Imodium or Pepto bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea.
  • Diamox (commonly prescribed as Acetazolamide) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness. Please discuss with us before starting to take this medicine.
  • 1 small personal sized first-aid kit with blister treatments such as mole skin, band-aids, some waterproof tape, anti-infection ointments, etc. Your guides will have more extensive medical gear, but you should have the basics for general use.
Miscellaneous, But Important !
  • Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies).
  • Airline ticket (Please make a copy and leave on at our office in KTM just in case if you need to change the date of your).
  • Durable wallet / pouch for travel documents, money & passport.
  • Lip balm. At least SPF 20, 2 sticks. A string taped to the stick is helpful, to hang around your neck and some are now being sold with a cord already attached. Handy as it avoids you from having to stop and look for it.
  • Sunscreen. SPF 40 is recommended and should be relatively new since it loses its’ effectiveness over time.
  • Pocket knife or small Swiss Army type.
  • Water purification Iodine tablets or Polar-pure crystals.
  • Toiletry kit. Be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.
  • 2 bandanas.
Optional
  • Favourite snack foods, no more than 2 pounds (Optional).
  • Paperback books, cards, mp3 player (there are a couple of stops where you could recharge. Avoid players with moving hardware as it may not function. Remember, keep these items light weight (Optional).
  • Binoculars (Optional).
  • 1 light weight point & shoot camera or 1 large SLR. Digital cameras are ok, but you must keep the batteries warm when not in use (Optional).
  • Hydration bladder with drinking tube and tube insulator (Optional).
  • A pee bottle for men and pee funnel for woman, some swear by them to avoid that chilly late night trip (Optional).
  • 1 small stainless steel thermos (Optional).
Upper Body – Head / Ears / Eyes
  • Shade hat or baseball cap – some people drape a bandana down the back of their head and then put a baseball cap on to hold it in place. This can be a flexible alternative while keeping the sun off your ears and neck.
  • Warm wool or synthetic hat that covers your ears.
  • Balaclava – lightweight, thinner variety.
  • Glacier glasses-100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case (i.e. Julbo or Cebe). This is to protect your eyes from the stronger rays of the sun due to the thinner atmosphere which can cause a painful condition known as snow blindness. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient. If you wear prescription glasses, speak to your doctor about prescription glacier glasses, perhaps with transitional lenses.
  • Headlamp – Black Diamond and Petzl both make several good ones. Make sure to bring extra batteries and that they are lithium batteries so that they will last in the colder temperatures. These are indispensable for getting around at night, reading, etc. so, don’t go cheap here.
  • Some people like ear-muffs; These are optional; a good hat, balaclava, and hooded jacket should really be sufficient, but this is a personal choice for some people (optional).
  • A neck warmer is another piece of gear for extra warmth if you feel you will need it (optional).

This list is only a guide. While you are required to bring everything on this list, there are numerous options, brands, and versions of each piece of equipment. Use your experience and the listed features to find the best gear for you. Some of the above equipments can be easily found in stores in Kathmandu for cheaper prices.

Please Note: Tight fitting, figure-hugging clothing, such as those made with Lycra can often be offensive to locals, especially to women. If you find these items comfortable as a base layer, please pack something to wear on top of them.

FAQ - Everest Base Camp

FAQ - Everest Base Camp

Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?

Holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation and food.

Can I charge my digital camera or other equipments on my trip?

These facilities will be available in most of the places in your hotel reception by paying some service charges. Remember to bring TWO and THREE pin travel adapters!

Can I obtain the visa for Nepal upon on arrival at the airport?

YES, you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport size photos.

Can I use credit cards in the places I visit in trekking?

In the cities, yes – to some extent. Once you are out of the cities, all you need is cash. Please change the currency in local Nepali Rupees before you go to the mountains.

Do I need to tip my guide and porters? How much would that be?

This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from USD 20 to USD 1000 per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small gesture of thanks to your guides and local porters. The level of the tip should reflect the level of satisfaction from and personal involvement with your guide. However, we recommend you to spend minimum 10% of your total trip cost for tipping entire local staffs, the ratio of tipping guide and porter will be given to you at the pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu before starting the trek.

Do we book our own international flights to and from Nepal?

Yes, you need to book your own International flights.

Do you guys have a PAC Portable Altitude Chamber?

Yes, we do have PAC but we don’t use it for Everest Base camp trek since you only have to stay a night above 5000 meters. We will surely provide one if required.

Do you know about how many miles the trek is?

Total distance of the entire trek is about 75 miles.

Do you use yaks/porters on the trek or do we carry all of our own gear?

Whilst on the trek, our porter will take care of your luggage. All you need to carry is your small day bag for your personal belongings like camera, water bottle, sun cream etc only.

Do your guides have trekking guide certificates from the Hotel Management and Tourism Centre? Have they received first aid training for high altitude?

Yes, they have all received 45-day training from the Hotel Management and Tourism Centre in Nepal. The guides have also received high altitude first aid training from KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project).

How much additional money do I need per day?

It depends on your spending habits. Generally, in Kathmandu, you can allocate USD 10 to USD 15 for a lunch and a dinner. USD 15 to USD 18 per person a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates, pay for the hot shower and a few drinks during the trekking.

I am a Vegetarian, is that a Problem ?

No problem at all because the lodges mostly serve the vegetarian meals. We always recommend our clients to eat vegetarian meals to avoid the food poisoning, eating heavy meals and non- vegetarian meals at the high altitude is not really safe for the stomach.

I would like to extend my holiday, any recommendations?

Yes, there are a plenty of options and choices to extend your holiday before or after your main trip.

Is the food in mountain prepared to international standard in terms of safety?

YES, the food is very safe during the trekking and we recommend you to eat the vegetarian and local food. Please follow the suggestion of our guide on the trek.

Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

Is this a guaranteed departure even if I am alone stating in the request trip?

YES all our trips are guaranteed to run. We never cancel the trip due to not having enough participants, we can arrange the trip for one person as well.

Is water provided and is there still water available at higher altitudes? Is it filtered/boiled? Readily available?

Bottled water is easily available at the lodges and tea houses. You can buy bottled water at the cost of USD 2 at lower elevations to USD 4 to higher elevation per litre. You can also drink the normal tap or spring water if you bring the purifying aid with you.

What immunizations will I need?

No vaccinations are compulsory in Himalaya, but we do recommend you are covered for diphtheria & TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, *malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus.

We also recommend, a dental check-up prior to travelling and that you know your blood group in case of emergency.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions which might affect you on tour, you make these known to your tour leader.

What is the best season for this trekking?

Our trekking season extends from mid- September to May. From early September the monsoonal rains decrease. By end of September through to December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights. February, March, April, May, October, November, December are the best time to do Everest base camp trek.

What is the success rate for your trips?

We have up to 98% success rate for our Everest treks.

What is the temperature rating of the sleeping bag that you lend to trekkers?

The temperature rating of the sleeping bags we provide are about -10 deg C, we can provide liner or extra blanket if the sleeping bag is not warm enough for you.

What is the weather and temperature like in trekking?

Every trekking trip up the mighty Mt. Everest presents its own amazing, unforgettable moments that forever live on in the hearts and minds of those brave enough to make the climb. One of the most unpredictable elements of the Everest region is the weather. If you’re not properly prepared for the twists, turns and volatility of the conditions that can occur in this breathtaking region, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable and unpleasant situation.

Generally speaking, the nights are much cooler than the daytime hours in the Everest region. Many first-time trekkers are surprised to learn about the incredible range that may occur in a given day. During the day, the thermometer could reach temps as high as 25 degrees C, only to dip down as low as -20 degrees C in less than 24 hours. While there’s no way to know exactly what each day in the mountains will bring, the weather and temperature ranges tend to be somewhat predictable based on the month and season.

Spring – March / April / May / June
Spring is one of the best times of the year to visit the Everest region, although because of this, it can become somewhat crowded. One can meet many other Everest climbers during this season and base camp is full of tents. The beautiful clear blue sky can be seen and the many different species of flower are visible in the lower altitude.

During springtime, the average temperature is 17 degrees C with a maximum of 25 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -15 degrees C in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.

July / August through Mid-September are Monsoon Season
This season is not really recommended to travel as it rains in the lower altitudes, below 3500 meters. In areas above 4000 meters, it rains sometimes and although it is also sometimes dry, very few people travel during this season. There are positives to trekking during the monsoon months, however. The excess rainfall can provide ample chance to see spectacular views of the waterfall and it’s also the best season to avoid the crowds. The maximum temperature during the monsoon season averages 25 degrees C during sunny days with a minimum -15 degrees C in the morning and night at areas above 4000 meters. The average temperature tends to hover around a comfortable 18 degrees C.

Autumn – End of September / October / November
Similar to springtime, autumn in the Everest region is also a crowded season, but it’s one of the best times to trek. While it lacks the beauty of flowers, the clear blue sky can be seen, affording incredible views from just about every angle.

The average temperature during the fall is 15 degrees C with a maximum temp of 20 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -10 degrees C in the morning and at night, for areas above 4000 meters altitude.

Regardless of time of year, trekkers should always plan accordingly and bring clothing for both cooler and warmer temps. Layering is always recommended, as are pants that can double as shorts. For a full list of clothing and materials to bring to account for various temperatures and weather changes that can occur in the Everest region, visitors should work closely with their travel provider. This will ensure that the adventure will be enjoyable no matter what the weather and that every possible scenario will be accounted for ahead of time.

What mode of transportation do you use?

Depending on the nature of the travel, the transportation to and from the destination varies from domestic flights to vehicular transportation to even piggyback rides on mules and yaks. We provide you only those options which enhance your local experience while allowing you to travel comfortably and efficiently. We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours and pickups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, vans or alternatively 4WD SUVs, more manoeuvrable in travelling along the narrow and bumpy roads of Nepal. All the vehicles are usually air-conditioned unless we are travelling in cooler areas.
For domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu), we use Tara Air, Agni Air -popular domestic airlines.

What opportunities will I have for shower along the trek?

In major places (Namche Bazar, Lukla), we arrange guesthouse with hot shower. And in the rest of the places, hotel water in bucket will be provided for shower; it would cost you extra about USD 3-4 per shower.

What safety measures are in place? What safety equipment do your guides carry with them on trek to deal with sickness/accidents?

Our guides are well trained for the high altitude problems and first aid. They always carry the first aid kit bag during the trek. However we still recommend you to bring your personal first aid kit as well. All our guides carry the local mobile phones and SAT phones for the emergency.

What sort of accommodation can I expect in Kathmandu and in trekking?

We use standard rooms at three star hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Along the trekking routes, teahouses/lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. We can also offer you sleeping bags if needed (to be returned after the trip) but it is a good idea to always have your own sleeping equipment. The lodges in trekking routes usually provide single and double rooms, or occasionally a dormitory. At times when possible, dining will be around a bon fire. In tea houses, food will be prepared in the kitchen which you should not enter without permission. The toilet in tea houses provides essential and basic facilities and is always outside the room.

What sort of food can I expect in trekking?

Most teahouses (lodges) in Everest Base Camp trails cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian fare. Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, daal bhat(rice and lentils), bread, soup, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season) and even some desserts like apple pies, pancakes, and some interesting attempts at custard. You will find a lot of garlic on the menu because it assists with acclimatization – eat some every day. In many larger villages you may find some meat items on the menu. You can always get hot chocolate, tea, and hot lemon drinks, as well as soft drinks, and treats like chocolate and crisps. Each day dinner and breakfast will be at a lodge you’ll stay at while lunch will be taken on the way to destination.

What type of shape do I need to be in, is this trip for me?

Everest base camp standard trek is suitable for average people who are moderately fit, thus no previous experience is required. Some physical fitness programs such as running, swimming, hiking is recommended before you embark on your journey. Whilst on the trek, it is common to experience some discomfort before being fully acclimatized.

To prepare for a strenuous trek you should begin training at least two to three months before your departure. As a guideline, an hour of aerobic exercise three to four times per week would be considered a minimum requirement. The best preparation is bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridgeline ascents per comfortable and able to enjoy the trek to the fullest.

When I pay the remainder of the money on arrival in Kathmandu, how do you take that money? US cash or credit card?

You can clear the remainder of the money upon your arrival in Kathmandu or even before you arrive in Kathmandu. You can use USD cash, American Express, Travellers Cheque, Master or Visa cards for the payment options. There will be 4% bank levy when paying by credit cards.

Where do we toilet along the trail? Is it similar to Kilimanjaro and just wherever we can find privacy?

At most cases you can use the toilet provided by the tea houses/lodges on the trail but normally in case of emergency, you just do toilet along the trail wherever you find privacy.

Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

Will there be a place to store items/clothing not required for the trek?

The hotel in Kathmandu does provide the free storage services. So you can leave all your items that are not required for the trekking at your hotel.

Everest Base Camp

What immunizations will I need?

No vaccinations are compulsory in Himalaya, but we do recommend you are covered for diphtheria & TB, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, *malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus.

We also recommend, a dental check-up prior to travelling and that you know your blood group in case of emergency.

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions which might affect you on tour, you make these known to your tour leader.

Can I obtain the visa for Nepal upon on arrival at the airport?

YES, you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 30 days can be obtained by paying US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 90 days can be obtained by paying US $ 100. Please bring 2 copies of passport size photos.

I would like to extend my holiday, any recommendations?

Yes, there are a plenty of options and choices to extend your holiday before or after your main trip.

Do you guys have a PAC Portable Altitude Chamber?

Yes, we do have PAC but we don’t use it for Everest Base camp trek since you only have to stay a night above 5000 meters. We will surely provide one if required.

What is the temperature rating of the sleeping bag that you lend to trekkers?

The temperature rating of the sleeping bags we provide are about -10 deg C, we can provide liner or extra blanket if the sleeping bag is not warm enough for you.

Will there be a place to store items/clothing not required for the trek?

The hotel in Kathmandu does provide the free storage services. So you can leave all your items that are not required for the trekking at your hotel.

Do you use yaks/porters on the trek or do we carry all of our own gear?

Whilst on the trek, our porter will take care of your luggage. All you need to carry is your small day bag for your personal belongings like camera, water bottle, sun cream etc only.

Can I add extra days to my trekking trip?

Holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation and food.

Where do we toilet along the trail? Is it similar to Kilimanjaro and just wherever we can find privacy?

At most cases you can use the toilet provided by the tea houses/lodges on the trail but normally in case of emergency, you just do toilet along the trail wherever you find privacy.

What opportunities will I have for shower along the trek?

In major places (Namche Bazar, Lukla), we arrange guesthouse with hot shower. And in the rest of the places, hotel water in bucket will be provided for shower; it would cost you extra about USD 3-4 per shower.

Do I need to tip my guide and porters? How much would that be?

This is a difficult thing to gauge. We have seen everything from USD 20 to USD 1000 per person for guides and porters. Tipping is not required, but a small gesture of thanks to your guides and local porters. The level of the tip should reflect the level of satisfaction from and personal involvement with your guide. However, we recommend you to spend minimum 10% of your total trip cost for tipping entire local staffs, the ratio of tipping guide and porter will be given to you at the pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu before starting the trek.

How much additional money do I need per day?

It depends on your spending habits. Generally, in Kathmandu, you can allocate USD 10 to USD 15 for a lunch and a dinner. USD 15 to USD 18 per person a day will be enough to buy bottles of water, chocolates, pay for the hot shower and a few drinks during the trekking.

Can I use credit cards in the places I visit in trekking?

In the cities, yes – to some extent. Once you are out of the cities, all you need is cash. Please change the currency in local Nepali Rupees before you go to the mountains.

Is there any communication while we are on trekking?

There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.

Can I charge my digital camera or other equipments on my trip?

These facilities will be available in most of the places in your hotel reception by paying some service charges. Remember to bring TWO and THREE pin travel adapters!

Do we book our own international flights to and from Nepal?

Yes, you need to book your own International flights.

Do you know about how many miles the trek is?

Total distance of the entire trek is about 75 miles.

What safety measures are in place? What safety equipment do your guides carry with them on trek to deal with sickness/accidents?

Our guides are well trained for the high altitude problems and first aid. They always carry the first aid kit bag during the trek. However we still recommend you to bring your personal first aid kit as well. All our guides carry the local mobile phones and SAT phones for the emergency.

Do your guides have trekking guide certificates from the Hotel Management and Tourism Centre? Have they received first aid training for high altitude?

Yes, they have all received 45-day training from the Hotel Management and Tourism Centre in Nepal. The guides have also received high altitude first aid training from KEEP (Kathmandu Environmental Education Project).

I am a Vegetarian, is that a Problem ?

No problem at all because the lodges mostly serve the vegetarian meals. We always recommend our clients to eat vegetarian meals to avoid the food poisoning, eating heavy meals and non- vegetarian meals at the high altitude is not really safe for the stomach.

What is the weather and temperature like in trekking?

Every trekking trip up the mighty Mt. Everest presents its own amazing, unforgettable moments that forever live on in the hearts and minds of those brave enough to make the climb. One of the most unpredictable elements of the Everest region is the weather. If you’re not properly prepared for the twists, turns and volatility of the conditions that can occur in this breathtaking region, you might find yourself in an uncomfortable and unpleasant situation.

Generally speaking, the nights are much cooler than the daytime hours in the Everest region. Many first-time trekkers are surprised to learn about the incredible range that may occur in a given day. During the day, the thermometer could reach temps as high as 25 degrees C, only to dip down as low as -20 degrees C in less than 24 hours. While there’s no way to know exactly what each day in the mountains will bring, the weather and temperature ranges tend to be somewhat predictable based on the month and season.

Spring – March / April / May / June
Spring is one of the best times of the year to visit the Everest region, although because of this, it can become somewhat crowded. One can meet many other Everest climbers during this season and base camp is full of tents. The beautiful clear blue sky can be seen and the many different species of flower are visible in the lower altitude.

During springtime, the average temperature is 17 degrees C with a maximum of 25 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -15 degrees C in the morning and at night for areas above 4000 meters.

July / August through Mid-September are Monsoon Season
This season is not really recommended to travel as it rains in the lower altitudes, below 3500 meters. In areas above 4000 meters, it rains sometimes and although it is also sometimes dry, very few people travel during this season. There are positives to trekking during the monsoon months, however. The excess rainfall can provide ample chance to see spectacular views of the waterfall and it’s also the best season to avoid the crowds. The maximum temperature during the monsoon season averages 25 degrees C during sunny days with a minimum -15 degrees C in the morning and night at areas above 4000 meters. The average temperature tends to hover around a comfortable 18 degrees C.

Autumn – End of September / October / November
Similar to springtime, autumn in the Everest region is also a crowded season, but it’s one of the best times to trek. While it lacks the beauty of flowers, the clear blue sky can be seen, affording incredible views from just about every angle.

The average temperature during the fall is 15 degrees C with a maximum temp of 20 degrees C during sunny days and a minimum of -10 degrees C in the morning and at night, for areas above 4000 meters altitude.

Regardless of time of year, trekkers should always plan accordingly and bring clothing for both cooler and warmer temps. Layering is always recommended, as are pants that can double as shorts. For a full list of clothing and materials to bring to account for various temperatures and weather changes that can occur in the Everest region, visitors should work closely with their travel provider. This will ensure that the adventure will be enjoyable no matter what the weather and that every possible scenario will be accounted for ahead of time.

What is the best season for this trekking?

Our trekking season extends from mid- September to May. From early September the monsoonal rains decrease. By end of September through to December the weather is usually stable with mild to warm days, cold nights. February, March, April, May, October, November, December are the best time to do Everest base camp trek.

What mode of transportation do you use?

Depending on the nature of the travel, the transportation to and from the destination varies from domestic flights to vehicular transportation to even piggyback rides on mules and yaks. We provide you only those options which enhance your local experience while allowing you to travel comfortably and efficiently. We use private tourist vehicles for sightseeing, city tours and pickups. Depending on the group size we use cars, minibus, vans or alternatively 4WD SUVs, more manoeuvrable in travelling along the narrow and bumpy roads of Nepal. All the vehicles are usually air-conditioned unless we are travelling in cooler areas.
For domestic flights (Kathmandu – Lukla – Kathmandu), we use Tara Air, Agni Air -popular domestic airlines.

Is water provided and is there still water available at higher altitudes? Is it filtered/boiled? Readily available?

Bottled water is easily available at the lodges and tea houses. You can buy bottled water at the cost of USD 2 at lower elevations to USD 4 to higher elevation per litre. You can also drink the normal tap or spring water if you bring the purifying aid with you.

Is the food in mountain prepared to international standard in terms of safety?

YES, the food is very safe during the trekking and we recommend you to eat the vegetarian and local food. Please follow the suggestion of our guide on the trek.

What sort of food can I expect in trekking?

Most teahouses (lodges) in Everest Base Camp trails cook a delicious range of mostly vegetarian fare. Pasta, tuna bakes, noodles, potatoes, eggs, daal bhat(rice and lentils), bread, soup, fresh vegetables (variety depends on the season) and even some desserts like apple pies, pancakes, and some interesting attempts at custard. You will find a lot of garlic on the menu because it assists with acclimatization – eat some every day. In many larger villages you may find some meat items on the menu. You can always get hot chocolate, tea, and hot lemon drinks, as well as soft drinks, and treats like chocolate and crisps. Each day dinner and breakfast will be at a lodge you’ll stay at while lunch will be taken on the way to destination.

When I pay the remainder of the money on arrival in Kathmandu, how do you take that money? US cash or credit card?

You can clear the remainder of the money upon your arrival in Kathmandu or even before you arrive in Kathmandu. You can use USD cash, American Express, Travellers Cheque, Master or Visa cards for the payment options. There will be 4% bank levy when paying by credit cards.

Is this a guaranteed departure even if I am alone stating in the request trip?

YES all our trips are guaranteed to run. We never cancel the trip due to not having enough participants, we can arrange the trip for one person as well.

Is there a possibility of getting separate rooms for the Kathmandu portion of the trip? If so how much extra will this cost?

Yes! We can surely book separate rooms in Kathmandu for your portion of the trip. During the trek we will try our best but normally the lodges have twin sharing and dormitory styled room instead of a single room. The lodges will provide a private room for one person when the room is free and additional cost is not required.

The additional cost is USD 70 per person for booking a single room in Kathmandu for four nights when booking for groups of two or more than two people.

What sort of accommodation can I expect in Kathmandu and in trekking?

We use standard rooms at three star hotels in Kathmandu with breakfast included. Along the trekking routes, teahouses/lodges generally provide basic clean facilities with a mattress and a quilt or blanket. We can also offer you sleeping bags if needed (to be returned after the trip) but it is a good idea to always have your own sleeping equipment. The lodges in trekking routes usually provide single and double rooms, or occasionally a dormitory. At times when possible, dining will be around a bon fire. In tea houses, food will be prepared in the kitchen which you should not enter without permission. The toilet in tea houses provides essential and basic facilities and is always outside the room.

Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival?

Yes, our airport representative will be there to greet you at the airport. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.

What type of shape do I need to be in, is this trip for me?

Everest base camp standard trek is suitable for average people who are moderately fit, thus no previous experience is required. Some physical fitness programs such as running, swimming, hiking is recommended before you embark on your journey. Whilst on the trek, it is common to experience some discomfort before being fully acclimatized.

To prepare for a strenuous trek you should begin training at least two to three months before your departure. As a guideline, an hour of aerobic exercise three to four times per week would be considered a minimum requirement. The best preparation is bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridgeline ascents per comfortable and able to enjoy the trek to the fullest.

What is the success rate for your trips?

We have up to 98% success rate for our Everest treks.