Skip to main content

PRICE

$5,195
Includes Helicopter Flights to and from Lukla

SCHEDULE

Spring
March 25 – April 11, 2024
March 24 – April 10, 2025
Lead Guide: Naga Dorjee Sherpa

DETAILS

18 days in Nepal
Trekking Grade: Advanced

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Talk to an ADVENTURE expert
425.749.7421

BOOK THIS TRIP »

OVERVIEW

There is no trek on the planet like the journey to Everest Base Camp. The adventure begins in the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, then leads through the towering peaks and Sherpa villages of the Khumbu Valley to the most famous mountaineering camp in the world: Everest Base Camp during the heart of the busy spring climbing season.

On your trek, you will visit Buddhist monasteries, enjoy fresh baked apple pie in Sherpa tea houses, and walk among the giants of the Himalaya: Ama Dablam, Pumori, Nuptse and Lhotse. From Base Camp, we ascend to the foot of the Khumbu Icefall at 17,600 feet, or to Kala Pattar at 18,519 feet where we watch the sunset on Everest and its neighbors. For anyone who wants to experience firsthand the majesty of the highest peaks in the world and the community of mountaineers who climb them, there is no better choice than a trek to Everest Base Camp.

Mountain Gurus has been leading adventures into the peaks of the Nepal Himalaya for more than 25 years. We are proud of the experience we’ve gained and the relationships we’ve built. Our strong ties in the local Sherpa communities allow us to provide the finest, full-service treks available. In the Khumbu Valley, we stay in some of the best family-owned lodges and tea houses. In Base Camp, we overnight in a tent camp with exceptional amenities. Our treks are led by an experienced American mountain guide who carefully plans the itinerary to give you ample time to walk at your own pace, take photos and acclimatize – increasing the odds that you will reach Base Camp and ensuring that you enjoy the journey along the way.

Everest Base Camp Trek • 18 Days

Everest Base Camp lies at the head of the Khumbu Valley of Nepal, home of the famous Sherpa people known for their warm hospitality and rich cultural traditions. On the way to base camp, you will explore a land of towering Himalayan peaks, ancient monasteries, and tales of legendary mountaineers and the mythical Yeti.

We offer an 18-day, fully-supported Expedition Trek that can be extended with a 3-day climb up either Island Peak (20,305 feet) or Lobuche East (20,075 feet). No matter which itinerary you choose, you will spend one night at Everest Base Camp at the height of the spring climbing season. Our expedition is hosted by an American mountain guide and our itinerary provides ample time for acclimatization along the route, allowing for a 98% success rate.

While in Kathmandu, our team stays at the historic, 5-Star Hotel Aloft in the bustling Thamel district. While trekking in the Khumbu, we stay at the very best, family-owned tea houses and lodges, including the Beyul Hermitage + Farm in Chhuserma.

As an alternative, we offer the option of trekking to Everest Base Camp during the quieter fall season. Few climbers attempt Everest in autumn and overnighting there is not feasible. Instead we hike up Kala Pattar from Gorak Shep and visit Ama Dablam basecamp from the village of Pangboche.

Related treks: Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Island Peak or Lobuche Peak Climb • 3 Days

Climbing a twenty-thousand-foot trekking peak in Nepal is an excellent introduction to the world of Himalayan mountaineering. Our Everest Base Camp Trek may be extended for three days to ascend either Island Peak (20,305 feet) or Lobuche Peak (20,075 feet). While non-technical, these climbs are a thrilling and truly spectacular expedition experience.

Need help choosing a trip?
Read our Four-Legged Stool blog post for tips on finding the right adventure for you.

Why Trek to Everest Base Camp with Mountain Gurus?

Mountain Gurus’ founder has been guiding trips to Nepal since 1993, and he considers it one of the finest places on earth to walk in the mountains. We know the Everest region thoroughly, and we know how to provide safe, successful, enjoyable treks. Our Western and Sherpa guides are friendly and knowledgeable with many years of experience leading first-rate trips. We stay in the finest lodges and tea houses, and we offer delicious meals carefully prepared according to hygienic food standards. Our treks are supported by top-notch, well-paid porter staff. Additionally, our team utilizes helicopters for the famed flight to Lukla from Kathmandu to begin our adventure. Using helicopters means that our team leaves directly from Kathmandu, avoiding a middle-of-the-night departure and a drive of several hours to catch a fixed-wing flight. It also means that our flights are far more reliable than those on fixed-wing craft, which are often disrupted by troublesome weather patterns in the area. This is just one of many features of our trek born of our many years of experience operating in Nepal.

We craft our itineraries to give you ample time to acclimatize, and to trek at your own pace while photographing one of the most stunning destinations on Earth. Our trek is fully supported: you will carry only a small trekking backpack with essential hiking clothing and camera gear.

Mount Everest Base Camp Trekker Review: “We couldn’t have asked for a better guide”

My husband, sister, brother-in-law, and I recently got back from doing the Mount Everest Base Camp trek with Mountain Gurus in April and it was SO amazing! We did a ton of research before booking our trip (we looked at many companies in depth over the course of two years) before choosing Mountain Gurus, and it was definitely the best decision we could have made.

We couldn’t have asked for a better guide or for better Sherpas that were chosen carefully by MG. We all felt so safe, well taken care of, and welcome on the trek because of them. And because MG has years of experience traveling and trekking through Nepal, they go out of their way to carefully craft an itinerary and route that’s unique from other companies. We stayed at tea houses that MG has had close relationships with for many years, we got off the busy “Everest highway” a lot and were able to hike in quiet, beautiful, and charming places that weren’t packed with other trekkers, and our night spent at base camp was truly one of the best nights any of us have ever had. We were hosted at base camp by Mountain Gurus. They were beyond welcoming to us and really went out of their way to make us feel at home. Summiters came into our dinner tent on their own to happily talk to us about their camp, their summits, what’s going on this year, etc. They gave us tours of the camp, introduced us to the kitchen staff, and just seemed so excited to host us. It was unbelievable! The relationships MG have formed over the years are obviously very special, and we’re so thankful that we got to be a part of that. Everything went so far above and beyond our expectations.

“One thing I was so nervous about going into the trek was getting altitude sickness, but the MG guide and Sherpas really made sure our health was the top priority. They always checked in to make sure were were feeling OK, drinking enough water, and eating well. They helped us get through long hiking days and cold nights, and were just a constant and comforting source for us through our time on Everest. We all felt like we were in the best hands possible.

If you’re thinking of doing EBC and aren’t sure who to go with or are overwhelmed with the company choices, go with Mountain Gurus. Not only will you have the BEST time and create memories that you will cherish forever, but you will have the very best people with you and guiding you through it. I can’t recommend MG enough!” by CAITLIN GALLAGHER May 2019 article on POPSUGAR

World Class Trekking Guides

Trek to the top of the world with our world class guides. These guides have committed their lives to the mountains and, regardless of who leads your trek, you’ll be in the safe and experienced hands of a true professional. Between our Nepalese staff and our western trekking guides, we have years of experience and a spotless safety record operating in the spectacular Himalaya.

The Beyul Hermitage + Farm

Enjoy the lush gardens, expansive vistas, and warm Sherpa hospitality of the Beyul Hermitage + Farm. On our first afternoon in the Khumbu Region, we relax from our flight from Kathmandu in this luxury lodge and farmhouse set among the waterfalls and woodlands of Chhuserma. Located on the historic Sir Edmund Hillary Trail just a short walk from the main path used by trekkers today, our stay at the Beyul allows us to set foot in two worlds at once: the lively bustle of the Khumbu today, and the region as it once was. The Beyul is owned by Nima Sherpa, a gracious host and talented chef from the Solukhumbu area, who delights his guests with stories of his climbing exploits and his beloved Sherpa culture. The vast majority of the food served at the Beyul is organic, sourced from the farm itself and nearby gardens and villages.

How challenging is an Everest Base Camp Trek?

The journey to Everest Base Camp is a literal walk in the park – Sagarmatha National Park, one of the world’s most beautiful protected areas – and a multi-day trekking adventure that will lead you to relatively high altitudes at the foot of the planet’s tallest peak. It is drastically less rigorous than an Everest summit climb, but participants should be active, in good health, and ready to hike for 4 to 6 hours each day carrying a light day pack. Nepal is a hilly country. So be prepared to move at a moderate pace up long, slow inclines. At the top of each one you will be rewarded with some of the world’s most amazing mountain vistas.

Prior trekking and mountaineering experience will be beneficial during the trip to Everest Base Camp, but are not necessary. Our knowledgeable staff will provide personal attention in the weeks and months leading up to your trek to ensure that you arrive in Nepal well-prepared, well-trained and ready for an incredible and successful adventure.

How safe is an Everest Base Camp Trek?

At Mountain Gurus, we pride ourselves on our safety record. Proper planning, the best equipment, and experienced guides are the hallmarks of our expeditions. We work hard to ensure that while your trek to Everest Base Camp may be challenging and rewarding, it will never be dangerous.

From altitude to storms, traveling in the Himalaya involves various hazards. Our guides have the training and experience to mitigate those risks. Each of our guides has more than a decade of experience. Collectively, they have led hundreds of successful treks in the Himalaya and to Everest. On our Sherpa Guided itineraries, we employ Nepal-based guides who are dedicated to their profession, understand western culture, speak English fluently, and have traveled extensively abroad. Many of our staff have guided summit climbs on Mount Everest, Cho Oyu, and other 8,000-meter peaks. Our guides have been there before and have the experience to keep you safe on this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Trek Highlights

  • 13 days trekking to Everest Base Camp
  • Our trek allows ample time for acclimatization and allows you to trek at your own pace
  • 4 nights at the 5-Star Hotel Aloft Kathmandu Thamel (includes breakfast)
  • Co-led by an American mountain guide and Nepalese Sherpa trekking guide
  • Welcome and final dinner in Kathmandu
  • Guided temple tour in Kathmandu and lunch at Boudhanath Stupa
  • Tea house trek in comfortable family owned lodges
  • One night camping at EBC during the spring Everest climbing season
  • Fully supported trek includes meals and porter service
  • Lukla helicopter flight and airport transfers
  • Friendly MG office staff will help you prepare for your adventure

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1 • Arrive Kathmandu
Day 2 • Kathmandu Tour
Day 3 • Flight to Lukla • Chhuserma
Day 4 • Namche Bazaar • 11,300 ft
Day 5 • Namche Bazaar
Day 6 • Khumjung
Day 7 • Pangboche
Day 8 • Pheriche • 13,950 ft
Day 9 • Pheriche
Day 10 • Lobuche • 16,100 ft
Day 11 • Everest Base Camp • 17,600 ft
Day 12 • Dingboche
Day 13 • Kenjoma
Day 14 • Monjo
Day 15 • Lukla
Day 16 • Flight to Kathmandu
Day 17 • Kathmandu
Day 18 • Depart

Island Peak

Day 13 • Island Peak Base Camp • 16,300 ft
Day 14 • Island Peak High Camp • 18,000 ft
Day 15 • Summit Day • Imja Tse • 20,305 ft
Day 16 – 21 • Chhukung – Kathmandu

What customers are saying about Mountain Gurus!

“Mountain Gurus, The very best there is. When you absolutely, positively, have to climb every peak on the planet; accept no substitutes.” ~ Grey Y, Spring 2015

“Thanks for everything, as hard as it was for me, it was perfect!! ~ George S, March 2012

“Thank you for the experience Dennis. Your company is first rate. I will make sure that anyone that I know who is interested in high altitude adventure must call you first.” ~ John H, October 2011

“Thanks again for all of your guidance, support, wisdom and encouragement on the mountain. The trip was amazing. Outstanding, Thank You” ~ Carlos N, Spring 2011

“A very special trip. The sight of the Himalayas is very humbling and moving and I’m from Colorado! Every turn is a photo op. Thank you Dennis for your time in putting this together. It was an experience of a lifetime and made special with your direction and our Sherpa guide Naga Dorjee. Not one detail was missed and my concerns and frankly fears faded away allowing me to fully enjoy the experience. Bravo!” ~ Jim L, Spring 2011

ITINERARY

Everest Base Camp Trek

Trek begins and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal

Day 1 • Arrive Kathmandu

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal (KTM). A Mountain Gurus representative will transfer you to the 5-Star Hotel Aloft, located in the bustling Thamel district of Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal. Our adventure begins here, surrounded by shops, restaurants and ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples.

Accommodations: Hotel Aloft Kathmandu Thamel

Day 2 • Kathmandu • 4,593 feet

After breakfast we embark on a tour of Kathmandu’s world heritage sites. We visit Swayambunath Temple, set on a hill in the Kathmandu Valley. Swayambunath means “divine trees,” but it is also known as the “Monkey Temple” for the many curious monkeys that climb on its ancient statues and architecture. We then visit Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most important Hindu temple, on the banks of the Bagmati River. We enjoy a lunch of traditional Nepalese cuisine at a rooftop cafe overlooking the massive dome of Boudhanath Stupa in the northeast corner of the city. The stupa is one of the largest in the world and is a sacred site for Nepal’s large Tibetan Buddhist community. Built in the 14th century, its iconic, painted eyes gaze wisely out over the valley. We return to the Hotel Aloft for a trek orientation and our delicious welcome dinner.

Accommodations: Hotel Aloft Kathmandu Thamel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Welcome Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 3 • Flight to Lukla • Chhuserma • 8,700 feet

We transfer to Kathmandu’s domestic airport for our morning flight to Lukla. The views from the helicopter are nothing less than remarkable as we fly above the lush, terraced farms of the Nepalese foothills with Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest, rising above us. In Lukla, our Sherpa staff welcomes us with a cup of tea or coffee. Then we begin our trek into the Khumbu Region. We hike for several hours through small farming villages, Buddhist shrines and rhododendron forests to a suspension bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, which leads to the Beyul Hermitage + Farm in Chhuserma. In the afternoon we can relax and explore the old hermitage.

Vertical Descent Trekking: 600 feet
Trekking Time: 3-4 hours

Accommodations: The Beyul Hermitage + Farm in Chhuserma
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 4 • Namche Bazaar • 11,300 feet

We say goodbye to our friends at the Beyul and depart Chhuserma. For the next hour we hike the old forested trail to Everest, walked by early mountaineers including Sir Edmund Hillary. If time allows, we’ll visit the Thaktul Monastery. Our path soon joins the main Everest trail and we continue along the banks of the Dudh Koshi. We cross this “Milky River“ many times as we ascend through small Sherpa farming villages fluttering with prayer flags and surrounded by “Mani Stones,” prayer stones carved with Buddhist mantras. Porters and pack animals carry all of our expedition gear, leaving us free to walk with light day packs.

After we enter Sagarmatha National Park, our trail climbs steeply through conifer and rhododendron forests toward our first glimpse of Everest and toward Namche Bazaar, the main trading center of the Sherpa people and the gateway of the Khumbu Valley.

Vertical Ascent Trekking: 2,600 feet
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours

Accommodations: Lodge in Namche
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 5 • Namche Bazaar • 11,300 feet

We begin our day with an acclimatization hike above Namche Bazaar to Sunrise Point. We’re rewarded with a spectacular view of Lhotse, the distinctive pyramid of Ama Dablam, and Mount Everest rising above the massive Nuptse Face. On the way down, we explore the lively village of Namche, with its shops and street merchants selling an assortment of Tibetan wares. As we walk the stone-paved streets, we cannot help but stop for a slice of apple pie and a cup of coffee in the local bakery. We spend the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying the fresh mountain atmosphere.

Vertical Ascent Trekking: 300 feet to Sunrise Point
Trekking Time: 1 hour roundtrip

Accommodations: Lodge in Namche
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 6 • Khumjung • 12,402 feet / Phortse • 12,900 feet

After breakfast, we trek above Namche to the Syangboche Airport and visit the Everest View Hotel for a cup of tea. After a short hike, we arrive in Khumjung for an additional night of acclimatization before our ascent to higher altitudes. In the afternoon we may enjoy a walk to the Khumjung School, also known as the Hillary School, or visit the local hospital and a nearby monastery that displays an alleged Yeti scalp.

Alternatively, if the group is feeling well-acclimatized, we continue trekking up across the Mong La (Mong Pass) and descend to Phortse Tenga. Then we cross the Dudh Koshi and ascend to Phortse, a beautiful Sherpa farming village tucked off the main trekking circuit at 12,900 feet.

Vertical Ascent Trekking: 1,100 feet to Khumjung or 1,600 feet to Phortse
Trekking Time: 4-6 hours

Accommodations: Lodge in Khumjung or Phortse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 7 • Pangboche • 13,100 feet

From Khumjung, we descend and briefly rejoin the main Everest trail. Our route then crosses a suspension bridge over the Imja Khola, and traverses sheer valley walls surrounded by magnificent views. Ama Dablam, Kantenga and Thamserku tower above us. We climb steeply to our lodge for the night in Pangboche, traditionally the highest year-round settlement in the Khumbu Valley.

NOTE: Departing from Khumjung today allows us to avoid large crowds of trekkers hiking out of Namche. On our return journey, we’ll take the main Everest trail back into Namche as an opportunity to enjoy fresh terrain that we did not see on the approach to Base Camp.

Vertical Ascent Trekking: 700 feet
Trekking Time: 4-6 hours

Accommodations: Lodge in Pangboche
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 8 • Pheriche • 13,950 feet

After breakfast we visit the upper Pangboche monastery, where a Lama offers blessings of safety and success to mountaineers attempting Mount Everest. We then depart for Pheriche along a trail that offers simply spectacular views of Ama Dablam, the “mother’s charm box.” Those who are feeling fit and well-acclimatized may choose to trek to Ama Dablam Base Camp at 15,000 feet before continuing to Pheriche. The side trek to Base Camp adds 3 to 4 hours to the day’s itinerary. Vegetation dwindles as we enter the alpine climate zone and walk into Pheriche.

Vertical Ascent Trekking: 850 feet
Trekking Time: 4-8 hours

Accommodations: Lodge in Pheriche
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 9 • Pheriche • 13,950 feet

Today we rest and acclimatize. In the morning we trek to as high as 17,000 feet on the ridge above Dingboche for spectacular views of Makalu, the world’s fifth highest peak. In the afternoon we may visit the Himalayan Rescue Association for an acclimatization lecture.

Vertical Ascent Trekking: 3,050 feet
Trekking Time: 2-3 hours

Accommodations: Lodge in Pheriche
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 10 • Lobuche • 16,100 feet

We follow the river out of Pheriche through pastures where yaks graze. Our trail traverses a lateral moraine, crosses a stream of meltwater pouring out of the Khumbu Glacier, and then ascends to Dughla. We climb the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier and pass stone memorials for climbers who have perished on nearby summits. Then we take the trail to Lobuche beneath stunning views of Nuptse and Pumori with other peaks just coming into view.

Vertical Ascent Trekking: 2,150 feet
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours

Accommodations: Lodge in Lobuche
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 11 • Gorak Shep • 16,942 feet • Everest Base Camp • 17,600 feet

We trek out of Lobuche following the moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Before long, our trail leads onto exposed glacial ice and then meanders through ice features and rocky debris to the tiny year-round outpost of Gorak Shep. We eat lunch and continue toward the foot of the Khumbu Icefall and Everest Base Camp itself, passing yak trains laden with supplies for climbing expeditions. In the spring climbing season, Everest Base Camp is crammed with tents, a small city of mountaineering activity. We may choose to hike above base camp to the beginning of the route through the massive, jumbled seracs of the icefall.

We settle into our expedition camp. then gather in our heated, carpeted dining tent for a delicious meal prepared by our basecamp chefs. Before going to sleep, we may have the opportunity to talk with our Everest climbing team about their quest toward the Roof of the World.

Vertical Ascent Trekking: 1,500 feet
Trekking Time: 3-5 hours

Accommodations: Tented Camp at Everest Base Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

In the fall trekking season, we overnight at Gorak Shep and climb Kala Pattar. The next morning, we make a day trip to Everest Base Camp. Overnighting at Everest Base Camp is feasible only during the spring climbing season when climbers are attempting Mount Everest. Camping facilities are not available in base camp in the fall. Kala Pattar is a high point on a ridge leading to Pumori that offers an exceptional vantage point for photographs of Mount Everest. We stay on Kala Pattar until sunset when golden alpenglow illuminates the world’s highest mountain. Then we descend to camp by headlamp.

Day 12 • Dingboche • 14,250 feet

We descend the glacier back into the lush, beautiful Khumbu Valley, surrounded by spectacular snowcapped peaks. From Dingboche, we enjoy superb views of Lhotse, Island Peak and the north face of Ama Dablam.

Vertical Descent Trekking: 3,350 feet
Trekking Time: 3-5 hours

Accommodations: Lodge in Dingboche
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 13 • Tengboche Monastery • 12,850 feet • Kenjoma

We leave Dingboche and descend to Pangboche, then cross a suspension bridge high above the Imja Khola. We eat lunch in Deboche, a quaint village set among conifer and rhododendron forests. In the afternoon, a short climb takes us to the historic Tengboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region and the residence of the revered Buddhist teacher, or “Rinpoche,” Nawang Tenzing Jangpo. We continue through rhododendron forest to Kenjoma or, if time allows, two more hours to Namche.

Vertical Descent Trekking: 2,000 feet
Trekking Time: 4-6 hours

Accommodations: Lodge in Kenjoma
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 14 – 15 • Namche Bazaar • Lukla

Over the next two days we descend to Monjo and Lukla.

Accommodations: Lodge in Namche and Lukla
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)

Day 16 • Flight to Kathmandu

After saying farewell to our Sherpa staff, we depart to Kathmandu on an early morning flight.

Accommodations: Hotel Aloft Kathmandu Thamel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Final Dinner (B, D)

Day 17 • Kathmandu

Contingency day. Spend the day exploring the Thamel District.

Accommodations: Hotel Aloft Kathmandu Thamel
Meals Included: Breakfast (B)

Day 18 • Depart Kathmandu

Transport to Tribhuvan International Airport for flights home.

Meals Included: Breakfast (B)

Itinerary Notes
Mountain Gurus makes every effort to uphold the scheduled itinerary, although our guides are given discretion to adapt the itinerary for reasons beyond our control or due to the needs of the group. Meal schedule: (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner

DETAILS

Price

$5,195

Island Peak Climb: $1,995
Lobuche Peak Climb: $1,995

Rates are quoted based on double/twin sharing hotel accommodations while in Kathmandu and lodges during the trek. Single room fees apply.

Deposit and Payments

  • A non-refundable deposit of $1000.00 per person secures your reservation.
  • The balance is due 120 days prior to the start date.
  • The balance can be paid by credit card with a surcharge of 3.0%, or Zelle payment network.
  • If your balance payment is not received 120 days before the start of your program, your reservation will be canceled, and all program fees forfeited.

Price Includes

  • Round-trip helicopter flights KTM-Lukla
  • Sagarmatha National Park fees
  • Scheduled land transportation in Nepal
  • Hotels in Kathmandu
  • Lodges during the trek
  • Tented accommodations at basecamp
  • Guided sightseeing tour
  • Local trekking guide
  • Western mountain guide for groups of sufficient size
  • Scheduled porter service based on the itinerary
  • Baggage transport (limited to 15kg / 33lbs)
  • All group equipment for the trek (including emergency oxygen)

Price Does Not Include

  • International airfare and meals during travel
  • Visa fees
  • Non-scheduled airport transfers
  • Non-scheduled meals
  • Personal gear
  • Trip cancellation insurance (highly recommended)
  • Single room supplement (hotels only) $600
  • Medical and evacuation coverage
  • Early departure fees
  • Excess baggage fees
  • Tips and gratuities

GEAR LIST

A complete clothing and equipment list specific to your trip will be sent to you in the PreClimb information upon reservation.

Head and Face

  • Warm Hat: Wool or synthetic, must cover the ears
  • Buff or Neck Gaiter
  • Sun Hat or Baseball Cap
  • Sunglasses: Essential eye protection at altitude.
  • Sunscreen: SPF 30+
  • Lip Balm: SPF 30+
  • LED Headlamp: Bring one extra set of batteries.

Upper Body

  • Baselayer Tops: Three synthetic shirts for trekking. Three cotton shirts for lodges.
  • Mid-layer Top: A synthetic or fleece top
  • Softshell Jacket: A breathable but wind-and-weather resistant jacket. Hoods are highly recommended.
  • Hardshell Jacket: GORE-TEX© or fully waterproof shell. Hoods are highly recommended.
  • Light Insulated Jacket: Light synthetic insulated or down jacket
  • Insulated Jacket: A warm, 700+ fill down jacket

Handwear

  • Lightweight Gloves: One pair (WINDSTOPPER© is recommended)

Lower Body

  • Baselayer Bottom: One pair. Synthetic, no cotton
  • Trekking Pants: One pair. Synthetic, stretchy, non-insulated
  • Hardshell Pants: Bring a good pair of rain/wind pants.
  • Insulated Pants: One pair of synthetic insulated pants with full side zips.

Footwear

  • Trekking Socks: Six pair wool or synthetic medium weight
  • Hiking Boots or Trekking Shoes: One pair medium weight hiking boots, or hiking shoes with adequate ankle support, large enough to be comfortable with your warm socks
  • Sport Sandals or Camp Shoes: These are to wear in lodges.

Sleeping

  • Sleeping Bag: Bring a warm bag (rated to 20ᵒ fahrenheit).

Packing and Backpack

  • Backpack: One 30-liter pack with good support and adequate space for personal, trekking gear
  • Duffel: One large, 60- to 70-liter, durable, waterproof duffel for transporting gear via porters
  • Liner Bags: Several large plastic contractor bags to keep gear dry

Trekking Gear

  • Trekking Poles: Adjustable and collapsible.

Hydration

  • Water Bottle: Two, 1-liter wide-mouth plastic bottles. NALGENE©

Personal Health and First Aid

  • Snacks and electrolyte drink mix, such as Nuun
  • Small soap and shampoo
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Small personal first-aid kit with medications. Consider including antibiotics such as Azithromyacin for upper respiratory, Ciproflaxin for gastrointestinal, Diamox / acetalzolamide 125 mg for altitude, and NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen,
  • Toilet paper
  • 1 or 2 small bottles of hand sanitizer
  • Earplugs
  • Camera, other electronics as desired

TRAVEL & FITNESS

Travel

Program Location:
Begins and ends in Kathmandu, Nepal

Visa/Entry Information:
Passport must have six months or more validity remaining at the time of entry. American citizens may obtain a visa prior to travel or upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

• 15 days multiple-entry tourist visa ($30 USD)
• 30 days multiple-entry tourist visa ($50 USD)
• 90 days multiple-entry tourist visa ($125 USD)

Health & Immunizations:
Immunizations are not required for entry into Nepal. Consult your doctor, local travel clinic or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for updated immunization recommendations for Nepal.

Flight Travel Information:
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu, Nepal

International Departures:
Itineraries reflect the date and time you will need to arrive in-country for a program. Mountain Gurus programs begin and end in the country’s destination city. When booking your flight, you will need to account for travel time and crossing the international dateline if applicable. It is easiest to give your booking agent the day and time you will need to arrive.

Meals and Food:
All meals are provided as per meal schedule. See itinerary.

Gear:
A complete clothing and equipment list specific to your program will be sent to you in the pre-departure packet upon reservation. For your safety and comfort, it is extremely important that you adhere strictly to the equipment list.

Everest Trek Fitness & Training

Trekking Grade: Advanced

On the approach trek, you will hike for 4 to 8 hours per day while carrying a 20-pound day pack. Porters and pack animals will carry group expedition gear and your additional personal equipment. You will spend each evening resting and recharging in a local tea house or lodge. To fully enjoy this trek, you should be in good physical condition with some prior experience at altitude.

Before the expedition, we recommend that you run, hike local peaks, and backpack to build your strength, stamina, and comfort in the outdoors.

Here’s a suggested progression of treks before attempting the Everest Basecamp Trek:

  • Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Fuji, Morocco High Atlas, Machu Picchu
  • Northwest Climb such as Mount Baker (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Mountain Gurus

Since 2008, we have offered world-class Seven Summits expeditions, high-altitude climbs, and specialized treks around the globe from the Himalayas to the Andes, and from the heights of Africa to the rainforests of the Amazon Basin. We make safety our foremost priority. We employ some of the most talented guides in the industry, and we maintain low client-to-guide ratios to ensure that you enjoy the best possible experience. Our business is rooted in environmental and social stewardship. We also offer a wide selection of mountaineering courses and climbs in the Pacific Northwest through our partner company, Northwest Alpine Guides. To learn more about our services, history and philosophy, please visit: Why Choose Mountain Gurus.

What are the physical requirements needed for this trek?

For this trek, you must be able to hike for 4 to 8 hours each day while carrying a small day pack. On some days, we’ll gain as many as 2,000 to 3,000 feet of elevation. You should have strong hiking skills and be in excellent physical condition for this expedition.

Who will be guiding?

Our expedition treks are led either by a Nepalese trekking guide or by a professional American mountain guide, in either case with experience leading international mountaineering expeditions. They will be assisted by a staff of highly experienced Sherpa guides and porters.

What are the Nepal trekking seasons?

Nepal’s trekking season is dictated by the schedule of the annual monsoon, which brings heavy rain and snow from June to September. Trekking conditions are excellent from in the pre-monsoon season from March through May, when we have the opportunity to visit Everest Base Camp during the busy spring climbing season. October and November also bring superb trekking opportunities, with more solitude in the mountains and often beautiful weather. In the fall, it is not possible for us to overnight at Base Camp because few if any climbing teams will be on the mountain. The winter months are very cold in the high mountains.

How much will my pack weigh?

During the trek you will only carry the gear you’ll use for each day. Porters will carry all of your extra clothing items and overnight gear. At no point will you carry your own camping gear or any group expedition equipment. For your comfort, your day pack should not weigh more than 15 to 20 pounds.

TREKS & ADVENTURES

Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Fuji

Northern Thailand Explorer

All Treks & Adventures