Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp Trek – The Ultimate Himalayan Adventure
There are hikes, there are treks—and then there’s the Everest Base Camp Trek. Towering at the top of nearly every adventure seeker’s bucket list, this 14-day journey takes you deep into the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas, delivering sweeping mountain vistas, ancient Sherpa culture, and the surreal experience of standing at the foot of the world’s highest mountain: Mount Everest (8,848m).
Starting in Kathmandu’s chaotic charm and ending at a wind-whipped stone monument at 5,364 metres, the Everest Base Camp Trek isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about experiencing one of Earth’s last true wildernesses on foot. It’s the kind of adventure that leaves you breathless in more ways than one.
With Summit Mountaineering, you’ll be part of a small group (max 8 trekkers), guided by seasoned professionals who’ve spent more time at altitude than at sea level. You’ll be supported from your first training hike to your final steps into Base Camp—and we’ll be cheering just as loudly as you are when you finally get there.
Accommodation & Meals on the Everest Base Camp Trek
Let’s clear up a few things about “tea houses.” No, you won’t be sipping Earl Grey with scones on porcelain china. But you will find simple, warm, welcoming lodges run by local families—and that’s part of what makes this trek so special.
Sleeping at Altitude – What to Expect
Each night you’ll stay in a tea house—a modest mountain lodge offering a bed, a shared dining area, and (usually) spectacular views. Rooms are typically twin-share, with a foam mattress, pillow, and blanket provided. Bring a good quality sleeping bag and your cosiest socks—it gets properly cold above 4,000m.
Electricity is available in most places (for a small fee), and in the larger villages like Namche and Dingboche, you might even find Wi-Fi, charging points, and the holy grail: apple pie.
Toilets vary between western-style and squat. Hot showers? Occasionally, and usually at a cost—so best embrace the baby wipe life after Namche.
Meals – Fuel for the Ascent
You’ll be burning calories like a snow leopard on espresso during the Everest Base Camp Trek, and the local food does an admirable job keeping you fuelled. All your meals are included on the trek and are cooked fresh at the tea houses.
The staple dish is dal bhat—rice, lentil soup, and veg—eaten by locals twice daily and affectionately known as the “power 24-hour.” You’ll also find options like fried rice, pasta, noodles, omelettes, chapati, and the beloved Sherpa stew(a thick, warming noodle soup). For breakfast: porridge, eggs, Tibetan bread, and—if you’re lucky—pancakes with jam.
Drinks-wise, stick to boiled water (provided daily), or bring purification tablets. There’s also tea, instant coffee, and the occasional fizzy drink if you’re desperate for a sugar hit.
Vegetarian food is standard on the trail and recommended for hygiene reasons. Trust us—you don’t want a dodgy tummy at 5,000m.
About Everest Base Camp
So what’s actually at Everest Base Camp? Great question—because while it may not be a snow-covered village with fluttering red tents year-round, it’s still one of the most iconic destinations in adventure travel.
The Base of Legends
Sitting at 5,364 metres on the Khumbu Glacier, Everest Base Camp is the staging ground for summit expeditions. In spring (April–May), the area comes alive with tents, climbers, Sherpas, and yaks preparing for the big push. Outside of summit season, Base Camp is quieter—but the sense of achievement is no less real.
You’ll arrive to find a pile of stones draped in prayer flags, a marker sign, and jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks. Everest itself is actually hidden from Base Camp (she’s behind the ridgeline), but don’t worry—Kala Patthar, the next morning’s objective, gives you the view.
The Khumbu Icefall
From Base Camp, you’ll see the start of the infamous Khumbu Icefall—a chaotic glacier of towering seracs and crevasses that mountaineers must navigate en route to Camp 1. It’s humbling to stand there and watch the terrain that has tested (and bested) even the world’s strongest climbers.
Everest Base Camp may not be the summit, but it offers something equally powerful: a tangible connection to the world’s highest mountain and the people who dare to climb it.
Why Trek to Everest Base Camp?
The Everest Base Camp Trek isn’t just a physical challenge—it’s a journey into the heart of Himalayan culture, high-altitude landscapes, and your own resilience. It’s one of those rare adventures that genuinely lives up to the hype—and here’s why.
You’ll Walk Through Jaw-Dropping Scenery, Every Single Day
From lush river valleys to icy alpine deserts, the trail delivers daily wow moments. Think endless snow-capped peaks, sunrises that light the sky on fire, and star-filled nights that’ll have you questioning everything you thought you knew about constellations. And yes—Everest does make an appearance (many, actually), particularly from Kala Patthar, which offers one of the best vantage points of the mountain anywhere on earth.
It’s a Cultural Immersion, Not Just a Hike
You’re not just hiking a trail—you’re walking through the homeland of the Sherpa people, whose spiritual connection to the mountains is woven into every prayer flag, mani stone, and monastery. Sharing stories with tea house owners, attending a monastery puja, and learning about the life of local porters and climbers all add richness to the experience that no photograph can capture.
It’s Tough—but That’s the Point
Yes, it’s hard. You’ll breathe heavily. Your legs will ache. But that’s what makes reaching Everest Base Camp such a powerful, personal achievement. You’ll have earned every single metre. And when you finally stand at the base of the highest mountain on the planet, looking out at the Khumbu Icefall, you’ll know why thousands of trekkers call this a life-changing journey.
No Mountaineering Experience? No Problem
The beauty of the Everest Base Camp Trek is that it brings the high-altitude drama of the Himalayas to non-climbers. No ropes, no crampons, no hanging off cliff faces. Just sturdy boots, determination, and a good support team (ahem, we know just the one).
Why Choose Summit Mountaineering?
Let’s be honest—you’ve got options when it comes to trekking companies. But here’s what sets Summit Mountaineering apart.
Small Groups, Big Adventures
We cap our groups at just 8 trekkers. That means no being herded around like a school trip, no waiting for 25 people to tie their boots. It also means more personal attention from your guide, stronger camaraderie, and flexibility if we need to adjust the pace.
Run by Actual Mountaineers
This isn’t just a side hustle—we’re climbers, guides, and altitude nerds who’ve spent years in the world’s wildest mountains. Our experience goes way beyond trekking routes. We know what works at altitude, what gear actually helps, and how to keep our clients healthy and thriving, even at 5,000 metres.
Full Support Before You Even Land
We don’t just wave you off at the airport with a “good luck!” Our support starts long before you pack your bag. Need help with gear selection? Training advice? Altitude tips? You’ll have direct access to our team from the moment you book.
Safety Is Our Religion
The mountains are beautiful—but they can also be brutal. We prioritise safety above all else. Our guides are trained in high-altitude first aid, carry oximeters, and monitor acclimatisation daily. And if anything goes sideways, we’ve got evacuation protocols ready to go. Adventure is great—but only when it’s done right.
We Keep It Real
There’s no sugar-coating here. We’ll be straight with you about the terrain, the toilets, the tea house menus, and what altitude actually feels like. Why? Because we believe informed trekkers are confident trekkers—and confident trekkers make it to Base Camp.
Ready to Take the Leap?
The Everest Base Camp Trek isn’t just a hiking holiday—it’s a journey into one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes, a challenge that will stretch you, and an experience that will stay with you long after your boots are off and your legs have stopped aching.
At Summit Mountaineering, we don’t do cookie-cutter treks. We believe in small teams, personalised support, and the kind of preparation that makes a real difference when you’re standing at 5,000 metres wondering why your crisps just exploded from altitude pressure.
When you book with us, you’re not just getting a seat on a trek—you’re joining a community of mountain lovers, led by experts who live and breathe high places. Whether this is your first big expedition or another notch in your adventure belt, we’ll walk every step with you—from your first gear query to your final sunrise over Everest.
Let’s Get You to Base Camp
✅ Small group sizes (max 8 people)
✅ 14-day guided Everest Base Camp Trek
✅ All accommodation, meals on the trek, permits & internal flights included
✅ Led by experienced, altitude-savvy guides
✅ Pre-trek support, gear guidance, and 24/7 backup
Spaces are limited—especially in peak season.
Join us for the adventure of a lifetime.
👉 Book your Everest Base Camp Trek now or get in touch with the Summit Mountaineering team to ask a question—we’re always happy to chat mountains.
INCLUDED
- Return fights from Kathmandu to Lukla
- 2 nights accommodation in Kathmandu. We make use of 3 star hotel in the Thamel District called the Avatar Hotel. So…. 1 night before the trek and 1 night on return from the trek. Savvy? Any additional nights accommodation are for your own account sunshine.
- All airport transfers. We take care of the airport pick up when we arrive. The transfer back the next day for the flight to Lukla. The transfer after the trek from Lukla to the hotel. The transfer from the hotel back to the airport for your departure flight back to South Africa. Make sense? I’m glad. If you are not happy with this you can dial 5 now.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner on the trek into Everest Base Camp
- Guide
- Porters
- 12 nights accommodation in tea houses ( mountain lodges) on the trek.
- All trekking permits
- All local taxes
- Includes us putting up with all your crying, blisters and longing for your mommy.
- Medical Kit and Emergency oxygen
- A day tour to the Temples of Kathmandu
NOT INCLUDED
- A bespoke turnkey solution that incorporates a bilateral and systematical deviation to your corporate jargon that us mountaineers refuse to use.
- International Flights
- Dinners and lunches when in Kathmandu
- Extra nights accommodation if we finish the trek early or if you need to come down earlier than scheduled due to unforeseen circumstances.
- My wife
- Hiking equipment ( backpacks, sleeping bags and so fifth)
- Travel Insurance. We highly recommend you take out TIC travel insurance that must include helicopter evacuation. Trust us on this one. If you need to get evacuated due to an altitude related illness and you are not covered best you have a spare R50k in your skyrocket.
- Tea/coldrinks/bottled water in the tea houses.
- My left nut
- Entry fees into any tourist attractions like the Monkey Temple and the Eiffel Tower.
17-Day Everest Base Camp Trek Itinerary
Start & End: United Kingdom
Duration: 17 Days (incl. international travel)
Trekking: 12 days total
Accommodation: Hotels (Kathmandu) & tea houses (trek)
Group Size: Maximum 8 participants
Day 1: Depart the United Kingdom
Today marks the beginning of your Himalayan journey. You’ll board an international flight from the UK to Kathmandu, Nepal. Most flights include a layover in cities like Doha, Istanbul, or Delhi. Make sure you’ve packed your essentials in your carry-on (including your hiking boots), and prepare for an overnight flight to the gateway of the Himalayas.
Day 2: Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m)
You’ll be met at Tribhuvan International Airport by a Summit Mountaineering representative and transferred to your hotel in the lively Thamel district. After check-in and some time to freshen up, you’ll meet your guide and fellow trekkers for a full briefing. We’ll run through the trek plan, check your gear, and answer any last-minute questions. If time allows, explore nearby temples, visit the Garden of Dreams, or enjoy your first plate of momo dumplings.
Day 3: Fly to Lukla (2,840m), Trek to Phakding (2,610m)
After an early breakfast, you’ll take one of the world’s most iconic short flights—into Lukla, perched on a narrow mountain ridge. Once boots are on, the trek begins. The trail winds through pine forests and past tiny farming hamlets. Expect fluttering prayer flags, stone chortens, and your first views of snow-capped peaks. We’ll descend slightly to the riverside village of Phakding for the night.
Highlights:
- Flight into Lukla (unforgettable!)
- Scenic riverside trekking
- Views of Kusum Kanguru
Trekking time: 3–4 hours
Day 4: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3,440m)
Today’s walk follows the Dudh Kosi River, crossing a series of high suspension bridges. We’ll enter Sagarmatha National Park and begin a challenging ascent to Namche Bazaar, the bustling Sherpa capital. This is a proper mountain town with bakeries, trekking shops, cafes, and jaw-dropping views of Everest and Lhotse on a clear day.
Highlights:
- Hillary Suspension Bridge
- First glimpse of Everest
- Sherpa Museum and Namche’s amphitheatre setting
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 5: Acclimatisation Day in Namche
To help your body adjust to the altitude, we’ll take an acclimatisation hike to the Everest View Hotel—offering panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Thamserku. On the way, we’ll visit Khumjung Village and its monastery, which houses the famed “Yeti scalp.” Afternoon at leisure to explore Namche’s shops or relax with a yak milk latte.
Highlights:
- Hike to Everest View Hotel
- Visit to Khumjung Monastery
- Rest, acclimatisation, and mountain views
Day 6: Trek to Tengboche (3,860m)
Today’s trail is one of the most scenic sections of the trek. You’ll descend to the river before a long, steady climb through rhododendron forests to Tengboche, home to the largest monastery in the region. With Everest rising behind it, the setting is simply magical. We’ll aim to arrive in time for the afternoon prayer ceremony inside the monastery.
Highlights:
- Rhododendron forests and wildlife (look out for Himalayan monals)
- Visit to Tengboche Monastery
- Epic views of Ama Dablam and Everest
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 7: Trek to Dingboche (4,410m)
We’ll descend to the Imja Khola and cross another high bridge before climbing into alpine meadows and yak pastures. You’ll pass the village of Pangboche, the oldest Sherpa settlement in the Khumbu. The landscape begins to change—more rugged and wind-swept. Dingboche, nestled beneath Ama Dablam, offers a spectacular place to spend the night.
Highlights:
- Ancient Pangboche Monastery
- Wide, open glacial valley
- High-altitude Sherpa culture
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 8: Acclimatisation Hike in Dingboche
Another vital acclimatisation day. You’ll hike up to Nangkartshang Peak (5,083m) for panoramic views over the Imja valley and the towering south face of Lhotse. It’s a challenging morning hike, but you’ll return to Dingboche by lunch and enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Highlights:
- Stunning views of Makalu and Island Peak
- Opportunity to test yourself at 5,000m
- Recovery and rest time in the afternoon
Day 9: Trek to Lobuche (4,910m)
The trail continues up a remote, starkly beautiful valley. After a rest stop at Dughla, we’ll pass the Everest Memorial, a series of emotional cairns honouring climbers who have died on Everest. From there, it’s a final push to the glacial outpost of Lobuche.
Highlights:
- Thukla Pass memorials
- Glacial moraine landscapes
- Sunset over Nuptse
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
Day 10: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,364m), Overnight at Gorak Shep (5,164m)
The day you’ve been waiting for. We’ll trek along the edge of the Khumbu Glacier to reach Gorak Shep, drop our packs, and make the final approach to Everest Base Camp. You’ll pass creaking ice flows, cross rocky ridges, and finally reach the marker cairn covered in prayer flags. Photos, celebration, and then a return to Gorak Shep before nightfall.
Highlights:
- Walk along the Khumbu Glacier
- Everest Base Camp celebration
- Views of the Icefall and towering peaks
Trekking time: 7–8 hours
Day 11: Climb Kala Patthar (5,545m), Descend to Pheriche (4,371m)
A very early start to climb Kala Patthar, a small peak with the best panoramic view of Everest. As the sun rises over the Himalayas, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable vista. After photos and a warm drink back in Gorak Shep, we begin the descent to Pheriche, a tranquil high-altitude village.
Highlights:
- Sunrise over Everest from Kala Patthar
- Emotional high point of the trek
- Descent into thicker air
Trekking time: 7–8 hours
Day 12: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Retrace your steps back through Tengboche and down to Namche. The views feel completely different on the return, and the air feels wonderfully thick. Back in Namche, enjoy a hot drink, fresh bread, and maybe even a slice of apple pie.
Highlights:
- Return to familiar landscapes
- Tengboche Monastery revisited
- Relaxation and luxury (relatively speaking!)
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 13: Trek to Lukla
The final trekking day. We’ll descend through lush forests and Sherpa hamlets, cross the same swinging bridges, and reflect on everything you’ve achieved. Arrive back in Lukla in time to celebrate with your guide and team.
Highlights:
- Final river crossings and prayer wheels
- End-of-trek celebration
- Overnight in Lukla
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Day 14: Fly to Kathmandu
Weather permitting, you’ll take a morning flight back to Kathmandu. Return to your hotel for a hot shower, clean clothes, and a proper bed. The rest of the day is yours to explore, rest, or shop for souvenirs.
Highlights:
- Scenic flight back to civilisation
- Rest and recovery
- Evening free in Kathmandu
Day 15: Free Day in Kathmandu
A buffer day in case of flight delays from Lukla. If not needed, this becomes a sightseeing day. We can arrange optional tours to Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, or the ancient city of Bhaktapur. Alternatively, enjoy downtime, spa treatments, or coffee in one of Kathmandu’s rooftop cafes.
Day 16: Fly from Kathmandu to the UK
Transfer to the airport and begin your journey home. You’ll be leaving with tired legs, a full camera roll, and memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Day 17: Arrive Back in the United Kingdom
Land back in the UK and begin re-entry into “normal life” (whatever that means now). Optional: immediately start planning your next trek.
Everest Base Camp FAQs
Everest Base Camp Trek – Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve guided enough treks to know the questions don’t stop at “Where’s Everest?” (Answer: behind that big ridge.) Here’s everything you’ve probably wondered—and a few things you haven’t—about the Everest Base Camp Trek.
Do I need to be super fit to do this trek?
Not “run-a-marathon” fit, but “walk-uphill-for-hours” fit? Definitely. The Everest Base Camp Trek isn’t technical, but it is demanding—especially at altitude. Expect to walk 5–8 hours a day, often uphill, with a backpack. The better your fitness going in, the more you’ll enjoy it.
We recommend regular hiking, cardio, and some strength training in the months before departure. And don’t worry—we’ll give you a full training guide once you sign up.
Will I get altitude sickness?
It’s possible. AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) can affect anyone—regardless of age, fitness, or experience. That’s why our itinerary includes acclimatisation days, slow elevation gain, and constant monitoring.
We use oximeters to track oxygen saturation, and our guides are trained in altitude awareness and emergency procedures. If you follow our pacing and hydration guidance, you’re giving yourself the best shot at staying healthy.
What’s the best time of year to trek to Everest Base Camp?
Two windows offer the best conditions:
- Pre-monsoon (March to May): Clear skies, warming temps, and Everest expedition season—Base Camp will be buzzing with climbers.
- Post-monsoon (late September to November): Crisp air, stable weather, stunning views. Peak season for a reason.
Winter is possible but bitterly cold. Monsoon (June–August)? Best avoided unless you really like wet socks and clouds.
Can I charge my phone/camera on the trail?
Yes—usually. Most tea houses offer paid charging (via solar or generator). Bring a power bank or two and don’t expect fast charging speeds. Bonus tip: keep your batteries warm at night or they’ll drain faster than you can say “Namaste.”
Is there Wi-Fi on the trek?
Sort of. Some villages have patchy Wi-Fi (especially Namche, Dingboche, and Lukla), available for purchase. You can also buy a local Everest Link Wi-Fi card. But be warned: speeds are slow, and outages are common. We recommend enjoying the digital detox—you’ll survive. Promise.
Can I shower?
Yes… but you’ll probably stop wanting to after day 4. Tea houses offer hot bucket or gas-heated showers for a small fee. The higher you go, the colder the air and the more precious the water. Baby wipes will become your best friend.
What kind of gear do I need?
We’ll provide a full gear checklist after booking. Essentials include:
- A quality down sleeping bag (rated to -10°C or lower)
- Waterproof trekking boots (broken in!)
- Layers: moisture-wicking base, warm mid-layers, down jacket, rain shell
- Thermal leggings, gloves, buff, sun hat
- Daypack with hydration bladder
- Trekking poles (game changer on descents)
We’ll guide you through what’s worth buying vs renting—and we’re happy to recommend gear shops too. You can also view a brief checklist here.
Can I trek to Everest Base Camp solo?
Since April 2023, solo trekking is no longer permitted in Nepal’s national parks without a licensed guide. Besides, having a guide adds safety, cultural insight, route-finding, and someone to help when you forget how to pronounce “Tengboche.”
Do I need travel insurance?
Absolutely. You must have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking (up to 6,000m) and emergency evacuation by helicopter. This is non-negotiable—we’ll ask for proof before the trek. We recommend True Traveller.
How cold does it get?
At night, it can drop to -10°C or colder at higher elevations (Lobuche, Gorak Shep). Daytime temps are more pleasant when the sun’s out, but it can change rapidly. Layering is key, and a good sleeping bag is worth its weight in gold.
Is tipping expected?
Yes, tipping is customary and appreciated. Guidelines vary, but we’ll give you a suggested amount to pool as a group for your guide and porters. It’s a fantastic way to show appreciation for the people who make your trek possible.
