Such a worthwhile trip, including because of our fantastic guide Valerie Parkinson. Valerie’s knowledge and passion for the region and its people is palpable and she is also an engaging person with interesting stories about her own exploits over the years. Yes the hiking is not easy, the creature comforts are lacking and the food is (though better than expected) simple and repetitive; however, it is all part of the amazing experience of trekking to EBC. If you think you have the stamina, fitness and willingness to poop in a hole, then do this trek! And do it with Valerie if you can as having a native English-speaking guide who understands your own cultural context is so much better than a local guide.
Mount Everest
Top 5 Mount Everest Highlights
Mount Everest Trips
For many, Everest Base Camp is the ultimate trekking goal, other than taking on Sagarmāthā herself. The classic Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal is a demanding climb but it should not be beyond most competent walkers. The view from Base Camp across the Khumbu Icefall and its sharp ice seracs is breath-taking. From Kala Patthar, a magnificent view of Everest’s summit can be savoured.
At 5400m, Everest Base Camp is the starting point for many of the expeditions that take on the summit – look out for our special Expedition Departures that stay at Base Camp as the teams prepare for their summit attempt.
For experienced trekkers with their sights set higher still, we offer Everest tours to the quieter Gokyo valley, adorned with a string of turquoise glacial lakes and the seldom-visited Thame Valley. These treks have the added challenge of crossing high passes, including the Cho La and the Renzo La, but also include an Everest Base Camp trek. More technical, yet still classified as a trekking peak, is Island Peak (6189m). We visit Everest Base Camp before crossing into the Dingboche valley for the summit attempt.
Please be aware that previous trekking experience is required.
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The Annapurnas or Everest?
For years trekkers and walkers have argued about the differences between the Annapurnas and the Everest region. The simple answer is they are both spectacular yet different; the former lays claim to the Annapurna Sanctuary and the view from Poon Hill, whereas the latter has Everest Base Camp, the Sherpa heartland and the hilltop monastery at Thyangboche.
Both offer big mountain panoramas; the Everest region is perhaps more stark and rugged in appearance as most of the trekking here is above the tree line, and all of our Everest treks involve taking the mountain flight to Lukla. What you cannot escape is the fabulous warm hospitality of the Nepali people and the superb support of our experienced staff on the trek. All of our treks in the Everest region are point-to-point treks staying in the local teahouses.
Jim Patti Everest Base Camp Trek – Expedition Departures
Stephanie Tugwell Everest Base Camp TrekAbsolutely amazing trip from start to finish. Met at the airport by a smiling Tenzi Sherpa, couldn’t have had a more welcoming greeting. Thorough briefing before an early start off into the mountains. Kept fully informed all the way along the trek. Always kept upbeat by Tenzis ready smile and laugh.
Stunning scenery and totally awe inspiring to walk among the highest mountains in the world.
Anna Lastuvkova Everest Base Camp TrekEverest Base Camp is a trip to remember. Starting in the bustling city of Kathmandu where you get the first impressions of Nepal. Hot and busy.
Followed by evening briefieng where you meet your group for the first time. Early morning start with the biggest adventure of getting on a small plane to Lukla 😀 Yes, the trails to Base camp can get busy. We were quite lucky that despite the busy season in April, we still had good amount of time walking alone as a group and passing others at the teahouses. The trek itself is not difficult. The pace is very slow to make sure you acclimatise well, but be prepared for long days of walking -albeit very slowly. We were so lucky to have clear skies coming up and the views were breathtaking. From the first time you get to see Mount Everest to being surrounded by the changing landscape of 6000+ metre giants. All of us made it to Base Camp together after 8 days of ups and downs. It really is an unforgettable trip and for me so much more about the journey itself, rather than stepping your foot in EBC. You get used to the life in the valley, locals, animals passing by, beautiful monasteries and everpresent prayer flags. Food is quite tasty and mostly carbs, which we all appreciated the colder it got. We were so well taken care of by our leader and guides and big thank you goes to them for making us safe and always well fed and happy 🙂
If you love mountains, I can only recommend this trip.
FAQs on Mount Everest
Can a beginner go to Everest Base Camp?
While a base camp hiking trip may not require the same level of mountaineering skill as a climb to the summit itself, we advise that you have a high level of fitness and hiking skill before you take up this exhilarating challenge. Training focuses in the months leading up to your trip should include cardio fitness and leg strength. Practise steep hikes too, if you can.
How much does it cost to tour Everest Base Camp?
The costs of our Base Camp treks vary depending on which one you choose. As a guideline, you can expect to pay from £2,500 (excluding flights). Each trek is 11-18 days long and includes the guidance of an expert tour leader, accommodation, transport, porterage, and breakfasts, among other things.
How hard is it to hike to Everest Base Camp?
Hiking to Everest Base Camp is relatively tough, so you should make sure you’re confident in your level of fitness before you book your trip.
When you view each of our Everest Base Camp treks, you’ll find an activity level rating that gives you a better idea of the difficulty level.
You will also find a breakdown of how much distance we will cover each day and an indication of what you can expect the terrain to be like.
Can you go to Everest Base Camp only?
Whichever variation of our trek you choose, you’ll start hiking from Lukla airport and at some point in the trip, you’ll reach the Everest Base Camp and have a chance to explore it. Your group won’t be trekking up Mount Everest itself, but you’ll cover lots of ground in the surrounding region and get unforgettable views of the world’s highest mountain.
Our Mount Everest Base Camp trips include climbing neighbouring mountains, such as Kala Patthar, Gokyo Ri and Lobuje. Each is a challenge in its own right. To see specifics about trekking routes, view the itinerary on the page.
How many hours of walking is Everest Base Camp?
Many of our travellers ask us how long it takes to trek Everest Base Camp. Well, our base camp hikes take somewhere in the range of 12-15 days. You’ll spend around 5-9 hours walking each day, though it’s possible that your trip may include the occasional day that’s longer.
It’s important not to rush the trek, so we’ve factored in time to acclimatise to altitudes that become gradually higher the further your group progresses. One of the core principles of acclimatisation is to “climb high and sleep lower” so our routes account for this.
How many miles a day is an Everest Base Camp trek?
Each day, your trek will be anywhere from 3-12 miles long. View a breakdown of each day on the page to see specific details on the distances you’ll travel.
Which month is best for Everest Base Camp?
In any season, mountainous climates can be unpredictable, so it’s important you’re prepared for all temperatures and weathers.
With us, you can book an Everest Base Camp trekking holiday between April and November (dependent on the exact trek you select).
The pre-monsoon season takes place from March to May. You can expect temperatures to be mainly warm day and night in the lower altitudes. At Base Camp level, there is still a chance of snow during this time. There will be flowers along the route, making for lovely scenery.
From June to early September, it’s monsoon time! When you land in Lukla, you can expect to experience a lot of rain. At higher altitudes, the rainfall may be slightly lighter. It’s a quieter time for Everest Base Camp walkers because the monsoon season is less popular, but if you don’t mind the extra challenge, it can still be a rewarding trek.
The main trekking season is mid-September to November, because this is post-monsoon season and usually offers clear skies and mild temperatures. You must still be prepared for cold nights if you’re travelling in this season though. They can reach -10C at some of the higher altitudes we’ll be in.
How cold does it get at Everest Base Camp?
This depends on which season you visit. In April and May, night-time temperatures of -1°C are normal. During the monsoon season, a 4°C night-time temperature is normal. If you trek with us during October to November, then expect lows of -8°C at night.
What is the hardest part of Everest Base Camp trek?
This depends on which Everest Base Camp trek you select. If Kala Patthar is on your route, you should be aware that many hikers find this quite difficult. Its elevation is 5,540 metres. From this peak, you’ll get stunning views of Everest itself, but of course, you’ll need to be physically fit enough to take on the challenge.
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