Slow Everest Base Camp Trek-16 days EBC Trekking

Everest Base Camp Trek is a high altitude trek offers breath-taking Himalayan panoramas, the Sherpa culture and their lifestyles.The 16 days Nepal EBC- Everest Base Camp Trek is suitable for those who want a real adventures in Everest without prior trekking experience.This is an epic journeys to Everest Base Camp with comfortable pace with enough acclimatization on the trail.

Everest Base Camp Trek is possibly the most dramatic and picturesque trekking in the world.This is a small group trek package to Everest Base Camp avoids a high risk of altitude sickness.Everest Base Camp and Kalapatthar is the highest point of EBC Trek as you will hike through different Sherpa villages.This is not a technical trek and all interested general trekkers can trek to Everest base camp Nepal in 16 days. The previous hiking experience is helpful. A combination of cardiovascular endurance, strength training and regular jogging is helpful to prepare for trekking Everest Base Camp. Running, rowing, cycling, swimming, and walking uphill is a great way to build up your endurance.

This is physically and mentally exhausting trek not for everyone.You will walk 10 km to 15 km everyday for 5 to 6 hours on a steep and rocky trail of ice and snow on Winter season.You will walk on uphills and downhills trail frequently. The EBC trek is the best option if you want to see up close view of Mount Everest as there is no roads to Everest base camp.

Two acclimatization days at Namche and Dingboche which is very important for trekkers to complete Everest base camp trek in 16 days without risk of AMS. This helps you to acclimatize as you trek ascend to higher altitudes. Also be aware of the symptoms and treatments of mountain sickness. There is no correlation between fitness, age, gender and altitude sickness. Everyone is at risk of high altitude sickness on Everest base camp trek.

Everest Base Camp Trek Difficulty
Everest Base Camp is a challenging grade trek to EBC and Kala Pattar. Some previous trekking experience is helpful.If you do not take part in regular exercise or hill walking then you should do some physical preparation beforehand. The maximum altitude of EBC trek is 5,545 m and an average is approximately 3,900 m. Ample time is given for acclimatization, but altitude is a factor. Walking hours stated in the itinerary are given as approximates only. Timings stated exclude lunch stops and will vary depending on the pace of your group.

Everest Base Camp Trek Accommodation
You will get tea house accommodation along the trail.The lodges are very simple with basic facilities. You will get twin-sharing bedrooms throughout this trek. Beds with foam mattresses, bed sheets and a pillow are provided. Bedrooms are unheated and cold at night so you will need to bring a sleeping bag. Most lodges have only one or two basic toilets and sometimes these are located outside the main lodge building. 

Toilets-Toilets are usually Asian ’squat’ style; although many lodges have now installed ‘western style’ seated ones. Toilet paper is not provided so you should bring your own or buy it locally (please dispose of it in the bin provided – do not put it in the bowl). If there is not a flush handle, there should be a container of water to pour down – if it is empty (or frozen) please either refill it or ask the lodge too.

Hot Shower-Mostly lodges have hot 'showers' charged at approx. Rs 250-Rs 500 per shower. Sometimes a hot shower is simply a bucket of hot water and not a shower head. As a general rule, the higher you go to, the lodges are more basic and the more expensive food and services become. However, we discourage our groups from using water heated by wood as a lack of firewood in villages is a big environmental concern in Nepal. Access to electricity points for charging devices will cost extra. Wi-Fi is available at some locations, but connections may be poor.

Everest Base Camp Trek Meals
The three times meals-Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included in the package cost.There are a choices of eating options.Your guide will be able to suggest food items during your trip. The menus in the tea houses are varied, ranging from traditional Nepalese Dhal Bhat to pizza and apple pie. Vegetarians are well catered in Nepal. 

Breakfast-Breakfasts will usually be asian style consisting of noodles or rice porridge or bread and eggs. Vegetarians will be able to find a range of different foods, although in some areas the choice maybe limited. Although meat is available in the tea houses, we advise you not to eat meat on the trek. The meat has often been carried in heat from lower altitudes for several days before reaching the lodges. So, meat can cause stomach upsets or illness. Germs can also be spread by handling dirty money - we recommend using hand sanitizer. 

Lunch and Dinner-During a tea house trek you will usually have breakfast and dinner same tea house where you spend night, lunch will be eaten at one of trail side restaurants. Every tea house serves traditional Nepali meal Dal Bhat (rice and lentils), as well as a variety of different food items such as rice, vegetables, noodles, potatoes and soup. Some have Nepali versions of western food such as pizza, pasta and french fries. Soft drinks, snacks and beer are available in most of the tea houses and trail side restaurants. And, of course, Nepali milk tea is served everywhere. All tea houses have boiled water for trekkers. We discourage the purchase of bottled water while on the trail. The plastic bottles are difficult to dispose off and have become an environmental problem.

WiFi and Internet Access
Hotels in Kathmandu generally have excellent WiFi connections. Most hotels offer free WiFi in public areas. While trekking WiFi may be available in tea houses and lodges for a small cost.The higher you go the use of WiFi and internet will be extra cost and likely the slower the speed. Your tour leader will be able to offer some advice on communications in remote areas of the country. Please note that most tea houses do not have electrical outlets in rooms to charge devices but are shared in the main dining area with an additional cost. Past travelers have found portable solar chargers to be very useful.

Electricity on the EBC Trek
Almost all lodges have electricity but it is not wholly reliable and lighting may not be bright enough to read by – a torch is essential. Electrical charging facilities are generally available only in the dining room (charged at approx. Rs 150-RS 350 per hour per device). Many of the lodges use solar power so sometimes there is not enough electricity for charging. Many lodges have Wi-Fi these days – in some areas it works well but in others, it is slow and temperamental.

EBC Trek Seasons and Weathers
The main trekking season in Nepal is from September to mid-June when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10ºC at 3,600 m and progressively lower the higher we go. Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.

Post Monsoon/Autumn Season
From mid-September to November is the main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are approximately above 20ºC. Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping as low as to minus 10ºC at the highest altitudes

Winter Season 
From December to end February is an ideal time to trek in Nepal although it is colder. Skies are usually very clear especially in December and the mountain views are at their best. Nights will be very cold with temperatures down to minus 15ºC to minus 20ºC at the highest altitudes but days are pleasant and sunny. The trails are also much less busy at this time of year. In Kathmandu maximum daytime temperatures are 19ºC.

Pre-monsoon/Spring Season 
From March to May holds both day and night temperatures will be warmer in general but often a haze will build up in the afternoons. It is very hot in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35ºC in Kathmandu. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in spring. Snow can be expected on any departure, usually at the higher altitudes. Please remember that in any mountain area, the weather is never wholly predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above

Drinking Water
Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 3-4 liters per person per day. We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal.The tea houses sell boiled water for approx. Rs 150-300 per litre (the price increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle. Alternatively, all tea houses will provide cold water free of charge, if requested. Although this should not be drunk untreated, we recommend that you bring a reusable bottle with you and use an effective form of water treatment.Handheld UV filters such as a ‘Ste Ripen’ are very effective, can treat 1 liter of water in a couple of minutes and the water is ready immediately – look for lightweight lithium battery models and remember that you will need to bring a wide-mouthed bottle (e.g. Nalgene) for use with these devices.

Day 01: Arrive to Kathmandu
Arrive in Kathmandu at any time. We will welcome you and explain the program further. There are no planned activities for the day, so check into the hotel. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 02: Prepare for trek and Kathmandu sightseeing tour
Kathmandu world heritage sites tour that includes Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa and Pasupatinath Temple. Overnight at hotel.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding (2652m,3 hours)
Early morning transfer to the airport for Lukla flight. The flight to Lukla is a lifetime experience in itself. The airfield is at high evaluation and the difference between the two ends of the runway is about an exceptional 60 meters only. Trek to Phakding with an interesting, green landscape with the view of Kusum Kangraru. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 04: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m, 6 hours)
Trek follow the Dudh Koshi river, ascending through Himalayan pine and cedar forests, to the celebrated village of Namche Bazaar remains the central trading post in the Khumbu that attracts Himalayan and lowland merchants.Spend two days at Namche for acclimatization, visit local markets and spend time with your team. On the hike we capture our first glimpses of Everest and neighboring peaks. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 05: Namche Bazar and Everest View Hotel
This day is especially sectioned for acclimatization. We will hike to Syangboche Airport (3700m), supposed to be the highest airport in the world, then continue climbing to Everest View Hotel for great panoramic views of the Everest, Lhotse, Amadablam, Tawache etc. On the way back, we visit Sherpa Culture Museum and Everest Photo Gallery. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 06: Trek to Tengboche (3860m, 5 hours)
The uniform and easy trail leads us towards the view of Mount Everest, descending deep into the Dudh Koshi Valley at Pungki Thanka and from this point, it ascends the right flank of the Dudh Koshi valley to Tengboche Monastery (3860m). It is the spiritual center of the Khumbu. The climb is lengthy, but is more than adequately compensated by gorgeous views of Mount Amadablam and on a clear day, views of Mt. Everest and its surrounding peaks. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 07: Trek to Dingboche (4410m,5 hours)
Descend through a beautiful forest, cross the Imja Khola and trek through the village of Pangboche (3900m); perhaps today is the most interesting trekking because you will not lose altitude like on other days and you will enjoy views of Mt. Amadablam, Mt. Lhotse & other peaks; the route continues through pastures to Dingboche, known as the 'summer valley'. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 08: Hike to Nagarjuna (5100m) and return Dingboche(6 hours)
This would be the second acclimatization day that requires about 6 hours of trekking to an altitude of 5100m. After breakfast, ascend Nagerjun (5100m), a hill located on the flanks of the Chhukung valley directly above Dingboche. The main aim is to climb high and sleep low. The foot path becomes steep at times, resulting in a physically strenuous day. Ascending the hill could take up to 5 hours at altitude. It offers good views of Lobuche East (6119m), Lobuche West (6145m), Taboche Peak (6367m), Thamserku (6608m), Kangtega (6685m) and Ama Dablam (6856m). It can be seen Makalu, the world's fifth highest mountain, including great views of the Pheriche Valley on clear day. Have a short rest and descent back to Dingboche takes about 2 hours.
Day 09: Trek to Lobuche (4910m,5 hours)
Trek along a broad valley floor to Dughla, passing the Trekkers Aid Post at Pheriche (4240 m). This trek is staffed by western volunteer doctors and supported by the Himalayan Rescue Association, which offers treatment and consultation to trekkers. Continue up the valley, gaining altitude. We come out of the valley to descend to the yak pastures of Lobuche. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 10: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5364m) & back to Gorekshep (5181m,8 hours)
After a short climb through meadows, look down at the Khumbu glacier. Straight ahead is Kalapattar - the best vantage point to view the entire south face of Mt. Everest and the surrounding peaks. After a couple of hours get to Gorekshep, and continue this journey to the Everest base camp. There is not much elevation gain, but there are a lot of ups and downs and, combined with altitude, this can be an exhausting trek - but the journey is worth it. After approximately 3 hrs of hiking, arrive at the base camp and enjoy a magnificent view of the Khumbu glacier and icefall, where the Everest expeditions begin. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 11: Hiking to Kalapattar (5545m) - Gorekshep - Pheriche (4210m,7 hours)
The day starts with a hike up to Kalapattar (5545m), the best viewpoint to witness Mount Everest, in all its glory and the spectacular Himalayan range. Then trek back to Gorekshep, for breakfast and then descend to Pheriche (4210m). Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 12: Trek to Namche (3440m,7 hours)
Easy walk along the Imja Khola, short climb to Tengboche, descend Pungki Thanka and complete steep to Kyangjuma, and easier trail to Namche. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 13: Trek to Lukla (2800m,7 hours)
The trek continues along the Dudh Kosi River to the small mountain airstrip at Lukla, where the return flight to Kathmandu get. Overnight at guesthouse, breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 14: Fly back to Kathmandu
30-minutes amazing scenic fly back to Kathmandu. Overnight at hotel, breakfast included.
Day 15: Leisure day in Kathmandu.
Spend the day in Kathmandu, to rest or to explore, as per the inclination. Overnight at hotel, breakfast included.
Day 16: Final transfer to Kathmandu airport.
Approximately 3 hours before the scheduled flight, we take you to Kathmandu airport. If you have more time, extend your trip to Chitwan, rafing, sightseeing, paragliding, everest flight and bungee jumping.

Cost Included:

• Airport Transfer - Hotel/Airport/ Hotel.
• Kathmandu/Lukla/Kathmandu Flight of guide and cliets
• Twin sharing neat and clean tea houses accommodation during the trek..
• 3 times meals – breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek.
• Trekking Permit – National Park fee and TIMS card
• English speaking guide and all his flight, insurance, meals, salary and accommodation.
• All government Taxes and Company service charges

Cost Not Included:

• Airport pick and departure transfer
• Hotel Accommodation and Meals- lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
• Expenses of personal natures like internet, telephone, WiFi, Laundry, hot shower, battery charging fee for mobile and camera.
• Any kind of drinks and desert like coke, Mineral water, hot water, tea, coffee, beer, whisky.
• Travel insurance in case of emergency for rescue helicopter and other medication.
• Upgrade accommodation like room with private toilet.
• Porter to carry luggage - on clents request- we organize porter on additional cost. 
• Tips for guide and porter
• All the cost not mention on above cost includes

Packing List for Everest Base Camp Trek
We provide one porter for every two travelers. Your trekking gear will be carried by the porter. The maximum the porters carry is 10 Kg per passenger. The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla only allows for a weight limit of 10 Kg for luggage, and 5 Kg for hand luggage. Some of your luggage can be left in Kathmandu but you will need to take all your trekking gear with you. Available for Rent: Sleeping Bag (NPR 200 - 300 NPR per day)
Cold Weather:
Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
Scarf
Warm gloves
Warm hat
Warm layers
Conservative Dress:
Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)
Documents:
Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
Passport (required) (With photocopies)
Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
Essentials:
Binoculars (optional)
Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
Cash, credit and debit cards
Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
Ear plugs
First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, band aids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, 
antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra 
prescription drugs you may be taking)
Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
Fleece top/sweater
Footwear
Hat
Locks for bags
Long pants/jeans
Money belt
Outlet adapter
Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
Reusable water bottle
Shirts/t-shirts
Sleepwear
Small travel towel
Sunglasses
Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
Watch and alarm clock
Waterproof backpack cover
Windproof rain jacket
Health and Safety:
Face masks (required)
Hand sanitizer (required)
Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Rubber gloves
High Altitude Trekking:
Down jacket (Recommended for winter season)
Hiking boots (Worn frequently prior to departure)
Pack liners to waterproof bags
Reusable water bottler - minimum 1 litre (Aluminium or Nalgene polypropylene are best)
Sandals (For wearing around camp in the evenings)
Sleeping bag and liner, 4 season
Spare boot laces
Thermal base layer
Waterproof gloves
Whistle
Windproof rain gear
Wool socks
Laundry- Laundry facilities are offered by some of tea house and hotel for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Passports-As a general rule, your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Your passport details are required to complete your booking. Please ensure the passport details you provide are accurate. Any errors provided may result in extra fees for making corrections in bookings. We recommend taking copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you as well as leave copies at home with family or friends.
Nepal Visas-All foreign nationals require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are obtainable from embassies abroad or on arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan airport. If getting the visa at the airport be prepared for long queues. You will also need to provide one passport photo and the following fees in US dollars cash only: Multi entry visa valid for 15 days - US $30: Multi Entry Visa for 30 days - US $50 and multiple entry visa valid for 90 days - US $125. All travellers are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 to get visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport.
Money Matters-Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.As currency exchange rates in Nepal fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com. As of June 2022 the exchange rate for NEPAL was 1 USD = 122 NPR (Nepalese Rupees). There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and MasterCard but these are limited to Kathmandu, Pokhara and Namche Bazaar. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 4%-6% transaction fee.
Departure Tax-All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
Tipping-Tipping is expected - though not compulsory - and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $1-$2 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service, for porters during the trekking portion of your trip, the recommended amount is 300-500 Rs (4-7 USD) per day; ask guide for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your guide and porter did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-30 USD per person, per week can be used.
Safety and Security-We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. Swimming, including is always at your own risk.
Drugs and Smoke-Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is not acceptable for our travellers, also illegal in Nepal. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. We have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance-Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Local Dress-In Nepal the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites. While visiting monasteries, please make sure you wear long trousers and open your shoes and stay quiet before entering the monasteries.
Minimum Age-You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a our tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
International Flights-Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Personal Health-You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons your guide are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. 
Important notes
2. You will be trekking on hilly terrain, generally on well-defined paths, walking anywhere between 2 to 7 hours per day, on average about 5 hours a day. Altitude may exceed 5545 meters.
3. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. For this it needs extra cost.
4. In case of weather conditions leading to cancellations or delays in flights, this trip will operate on an alternate itinerary. 
5. You must bring an emergency fund of USD 500 in cash with you on this trip, which you may need to use in case of delayed or cancelled flights.
6. We advise allowing a few extra days in Kathmandu at the end of your trip should your return flights from Lukla be delayed due to weather conditions.
7. The minimum age for this trip is 15 at time of travel.
9. You may be asked to provide 2 passport size photographs for your trekking permit.
Altitude Sickness-Travelers to altitudes higher than 2,50 m are at risk of altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). This can be life-threatening and affect anyone, even people who are very physically fit. There is a higher risk for those who have had altitude sickness before, who exercise or drink alcohol before adjusting to the altitude, or who have health problems that affect breathing. If your tour travels to high altitude, see your doctor for advice specific to you and your situation before you depart. It is important to be aware of the normal altitude symptoms that you may encounter BUT NOT worry about:
1.Periods of sleeplessness
2.Occasional loss of appetite
3.Vivid, wild dreams at around 2500-3800m in altitude
4.Unexpected momentary shortness of breath, day and night
5.Periodic breathing that wakes you occasionally
6.Blocked nose
7.Dry cough
8.Mild headache
If you are feeling nauseous, dizzy, or experience other symptoms, please be sure to let your guide know immediately so that we can monitor your condition. Please be aware that should your guide deem it unsafe for you to continue trekking at any time, they will arrange for you to descend to a lower altitude.
Medical Facilities and Treatment-Medical facilities in Nepal are very limited, particularly outside Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, treatment at international-standard clinics is expensive and up-front payment for services is generally required. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment, including evacuation by helicopter.
Alcohol and Caffeine-Alcohol and trekking don't mix. We highly recommend that you limit your alcohol consumption in Kathmandu prior to your trip. Celebrate your achievements after your trek. Both alcohol and caffeine increase dehydration. Limit your intake of both when hiking at high altitudes.
Monsoon-The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared that the itinerary may need to change at short notice.
Lukla Flights-Weather conditions in the Himalayas can change rapidly and we may be forced to change the trip itinerary accordingly. Travelers need to be prepared for all weather conditions.In the Himalayas weather can cancel or delay the scheduled flight(s) to/from Lukla airport. To be sure that you make your trek, or return from it, it may be necessary to make this flight by a chartered helicopter. Helicopters can operate in some weather that aircraft cannot. Should a helicopter be needed, it will be at the expense of the travellers, and not something covered by Mission Eco Trek. Please keep approximately USD 500 (one way) accessible in case this situation presents itself. Hopefully weather delays will not occur, or if they do it will be for a limited time. Should the delays stretch into days and neither helicopter nor flight are a viable option, a collective decision will be made by the group on how to proceed. This is especially true if the delays are prior to the trek, as the original trek may no longer be feasible. We are here to help with this process.
Emergency Fund-Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $700 (or equivalent) cash as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This includes the USD $500 cash emergency helicopter funds.
Drones in Nepal-Please note that drones and the flying of drones are prohibited in Nepal. If you violate these regulations the police may take you into custody.
Solo Travelers-Single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.