How to Achieve Your Everest Base Camp Summit in Just 11 Steps
Choosing the Best Everest Base Camp Operator for Your Climb
Although there are numerous companies authorised to organise climbing expeditions in Nepal, the truth is that only a few dozen operators consistently offer trekking services. These are the primary options that most potential climbers are likely to consider. To simplify matters, we can categorise these companies into four distinct types:
There are 4 types of trek operator
- Local companies typically consist of owners who may not personally engage in climbing activities but recognise that organising climbs can be a reliable and ethical means of livelihood. These owners often leverage their network of extended family members, such as hardworking younger brothers, nephews, and cousins, to assist in running the operations. This category likely represents the majority of registered companies.
- Entrepreneurs within the climbing industry are characterised by owners who are essentially adventurous individuals. They typically embarked on their own climbing journey by engaging the services of an existing climb operator. During their ascent, they developed a friendship with a local guide and eventually proposed the idea of jointly establishing their own operation. In such cases, the foreign co-owner, having enjoyed their personal climb experience, eagerly anticipates the opportunity to assist fellow enthusiasts in planning and accomplishing their own successful climbs.
- Agents/Marketers usually consist of individuals who, in most cases, contracted another operator for their own expedition, even if they never actually visited the mountain themselves. They may have engaged a local operator or another agent for their expedition. After returning home, they establish a website and approach the local operator with a proposition. They offer to promote the local operator's services using their marketing expertise and bring in a significant number of clients, requesting preferential agent rates in return. In this arrangement, they earn a commission for each sale made through their marketing efforts.
- Mountaineer companies are characterised by owners who are passionate mountaineers and dedicated enthusiasts when it comes to climbing mountains and organising expeditions. These types of companies are quite rare, with recent closures suggesting that there are now fewer than five operating in Nepal. Typically, Mountaineer companies operate within the highest budget range, resulting in a limited number of expeditions available throughout the year. One drawback of this arrangement is that since they cannot support their mountain staff on a year-round basis, they hire them sporadically. As a result, the staff members are compelled to work for other companies during their off periods. This situation may lead to potential confusion regarding operational ethos and values, as well as the risk of picking up unsafe or inadequate practices from some local companies while awaiting better-paid expeditions with the Mountaineer-type company.
How to choose a Everest Base Camp operator
Young individuals, volunteers, and students who undertake the climb with little at stake and view it primarily as a recreational activity, without a strong focus on reaching the summit, often prefer to reach out to local companies and negotiate for the most affordable rates.
Typically, when opting for a budget company, the determination to reach the summit is not predetermined, and the approach is more flexible, allowing for a spontaneous decision based on the circumstances.
Individuals in their more senior years, accustomed to the traditional approach of booking holidays through travel agents prior to the Internet era, often prefer to have their flights arranged on their behalf. As a result, they generally choose to book with agents whose offices are located in their own country of residence.
When booking through agents, these individuals are typically unconcerned about the fact that the agent simply subcontracts a local company and lacks direct control over on-the-ground arrangements. They may also accept that all communications must be filtered and relayed to the local operator. They understand that customisation of the trek and accommodating diverse abilities within the group to ensure everyone has the best chance of reaching the summit is not realistically feasible when booking through an agent.
Individuals who possess a sincere determination to reach the summit and have the ability to envision the potential challenges that may arise in high-altitude and wilderness settings typically prioritise booking with a company led by seasoned mountaineers. They understand the importance of being entrusted to a highly competent and professionally trained team, as these operations systematically and methodically develop their standard operating procedures based on extensive experience in demanding environments where numerous risks exist.
These aspiring Everest Base Camp climbers also find reassurance in the fact that mountaineering-oriented companies employ unique and carefully devised strategies, which may be lacking in operations with a lesser focus on the field. These strategies are designed to optimise comfort, safety, and success at high altitudes.
Deciding whether to book an Everest Base Camp climb in advance
Although it is still feasible to locate a local operator who would be pleased to quickly arrange your climb with minimal notice, this approach is seldom employed due to the fact that the disadvantages typically far exceed the perceived benefits in the eyes of most climbers. Let us outline the advantages and disadvantages of this strategy as follows:
The cheapest way to trek Everest Base Camp
There are a couple of perceived advantages in finding an operator locally:
Prior to making payment for your climb, you have the option to request a pre-meeting with your guide. This provision is particularly comforting for individuals who have already chosen a budget Everest Base Camp operator and are concerned about the availability of highly skilled guides who may be unwilling to work for lower wages. It may appeal to students with ample time at their disposal, as they can enjoy the hospitality of operators in their offices for a few days while waiting for suitable guides to become available for a meeting. However, a significant drawback is that while many locals may come across as courteous and charming during initial meetings with potential clients, having a positive impression or a "good feeling" about someone does not necessarily guarantee their competence or ability to handle challenging situations in high-altitude conditions, should they arise.
It is often possible to engage in negotiation and secure a significantly reduced price for your climb. For individuals who primarily seek to experience the mountain and are not particularly worried about their guide accompanying them to the summit, the fact that this is the most economical approach for trekking Everest Base Camp makes it an appealing choice.
Advantages of Planning Your Climb in Advance
With the rise in popularity of the Internet, nearly everyone, except for travelling students and volunteers, now tends to make advance bookings for their climbs. While it may still be feasible to arrange a last-minute climb, we typically advise climbers to aim for booking their ascent approximately three months ahead, whenever feasible. The key advantages of booking in advance are as follows:
Climbers have the opportunity to receive valuable guidance from their operator regarding training and preparation. While there are fortunate individuals who manage to reach the summit without training, having proper training is undoubtedly an advantage, and we value the chance to provide advice on specific training methods.
Furthermore, significant cost savings can be achieved by renting certain equipment that may not be essential to own. It is beneficial to have a discussion with your operator regarding what items to acquire, what items to rent, and how to test and prepare your equipment to ensure optimal performance during your climb.
Making paying for your climb as straightforward as possible.
Securing the finest guide for your climb is crucial. If you arrive and book an operator on short notice, the likelihood of being assigned an exceptional guide is minimal. This is primarily because, unless the company has recently received a cancellation or you are climbing during April or November, a competent guide is most likely already committed to another climb.
The most reputable companies tend to attract and recruit the best guides, and climbers typically engage these services well in advance.
Determining Your Support Level
Team Mount Everest acknowledges the varying preferences of climbers. Some exceptionally fit young climbers prefer minimal support, while others are willing to pay extra for luxurious tents with ample space, attached facilities, and even small bathtubs. We are open to accommodating these individual needs and are enthusiastic about tailoring our expeditions accordingly.
Contrary to rigidly adhering to established norms or adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, we actively embrace the opportunity to customise our offerings. We understand that adventurers have diverse expectations, and in response, we have already developed the most extensive array of support options. Additionally, we offer custom climbs designed specifically for groups with unique requirements that necessitate a larger support structure.
See Team Mount Everest different support levels π
Choosing a Route on Everest Base Camp
Approaching the mountain from the perspective of mountaineers, rather than tourism agents, Team Mount Everest has an understandably unique way of looking at the mountain.
Route selection is a very important part of your successful trek in Nepal. It goes hand in hand with a thorough and safe acclimatisation procedure.
Read an overview of Team Mount Everest 7 official routes π
Choosing When to Climb Everest Base Camp
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is possible throughout the year! However, while some believe in the saying "if it ain't raining, it ain't training," many people would rather not be soaked in heavy rain while trying to enjoy the breathtaking views our planet has to offer.
For those who prefer to stay relatively dry, we suggest avoiding the monsoon season, which typically occurs from June to July.
However, it's important to consider various weather-related factors and other aspects like choosing the right route π§ and dealing with crowd congestion, as they also influence our recommendation.
Best time to climb Everest Base Camp π
Choosing Accommodation Before Your Climb
If you do not have a specific preference for a particular hotel or accommodation level, we will make a reservation for you at one of the three hotels within our standard range. However, if you are on your honeymoon or desire a more lavish upgrade, we recommend using our 'hotels' link to explore premium options. Whether you opt for a standard-grade hotel or choose an alternative, we kindly request that you contact us as early as possible once you have confirmed your travel dates. This will enable us to secure availability and make necessary arrangements.
Advice on choosing a hotel for your Everest Base Camp trek π
Book Your Climb
Contact us by WhatsApp, phone, email, or complete our enquiry form!
Planning Other Activities in Nepal
The majority of visitors who make the effort to travel to Nepal, unless they are already residing here, usually desire to explore more of the country, given that they can secure a sufficient duration of leave from their regular responsibilities. In most cases, climbers opt to extend their stay for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. We are capable of assisting you with any such plans you may have in Nepal.
Thinking about adding other activities in Nepal? π
Booking Your Flights to Nepal
We suggest booking your flights promptly once you have determined the duration of your stay in Nepal, even before finalising the specifics of your climb or holiday itineraries, should you choose to incorporate them.
Information on how best to get to Nepal π
Purchasing Equipment
We highly recommend engaging in a discussion with your designated coordinator regarding equipment purchases for your climb. This will help ensure that you make informed decisions and avoid acquiring items that are either unnecessary or excessively costly. In the meantime, please take a look at our recommended packing list.
Get our detailed Everest Base Camp packing list π
Committing to a Training Plan
We advise undergoing training for Everest Base Camp for two purposes: firstly, to enhance the probability of reaching the summit, and secondly, to maximise your climbing experience by minimising any potential hardships, even if you are already confident in your ability to reach the summit without training. For more comprehensive training guidance, please refer to the training link below.
Get advice on starting your Everest Base Camp training plan π
Obtaining Your Nepalese Visa
It is generally advisable to acquire this in advance. To guarantee access to the most up-to-date and accurate information concerning the specific requirements based on your nationality, we recommend utilising the Passport Index website.
How to get your Nepalese visa π
Thatβs it!
Chitwan, located in the southern part of Nepal, is a region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nepal and is famous for its national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, which offer visitors the opportunity to experience the country's diverse flora and fauna up close.
Gosainkunda Lake, often referred to as the "Frozen Lake," is a spectacular high-altitude alpine lake located in the Langtang National Park of Nepal. Situated at an elevation of approximately 4,380 metres (14,370 feet) above sea level, this sacred and pristine glacial lake is a jewel of the Himalayas.
Kalinchowk is a picturesque hill station located in the Dolakha district of Nepal. Situated at an elevation of approximately 3,842 metres (12,605 feet) above sea level, Kalinchowk offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountain ranges, including Langtang, Ganesh Himal, Gauri Shankar, and even glimpses of Mount Everest on clear days.
Laurebina, located in Nepal, is a serene and picturesque destination nestled in the breathtaking Langtang region of the Himalayas. This remote area offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal. Laurebina is renowned for its pristine alpine landscapes, lush forests, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas.
Sing Gompa, also known as Sing Gomba or Singdun Gompa, is a charming Buddhist monastery situated at an altitude of approximately 3,330 metres (10,925 feet). It is a significant religious site for both the local Tamang people and trekkers on the Langtang Valley Trek. The monastery offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, making it a perfect place for spiritual reflection and taking in the natural beauty of the Langtang region.
On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, once you've passed through Immigration and retrieved your luggage, please look out for your Team Mount Everest driver carrying a placard with your name who will transfer you to Hotel Buddy in Kathmandu for overnight on bed and breakfast basis.
On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, once you've passed through Immigration and retrieved your luggage, please look out for your Team Mount Everest driver carrying a placard with your name who will transfer you to Hotel Buddy in Kathmandu for overnight on bed and breakfast basis.
On arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, once you've passed through Immigration and retrieved your luggage, please look out for your Team Mount Everest driver carrying a placard with your name who will transfer you to Kathmandu Marriott Hotel for overnight on bed and breakfast basis.
Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of the Khumbu region in Nepal, Lukla is a town that holds the keys to some of the world's most epic adventures. Perched at an elevation of 2,860 metres (9,383 feet), this bustling mountain town serves as the primary gateway to the towering peaks of the Everest region, including the legendary Mount Everest itself.
Nestled in the heart of Nepal's Khumbu region, Pheriche is a picturesque mountain town that embodies the essence of high-altitude adventure and Himalayan beauty. Situated at an elevation of 4,371 metres (14,340 feet), this remote settlement serves as a vital stopover for trekkers and mountaineers embarking on their journey to Everest and other iconic peaks.
Situated at a height of 5,164 metres (16,942 feet), Gorakshep stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the allure of the world's highest peaks. Nestled in the shadows of Everest, this remote Himalayan settlement serves as a crucial outpost for trekkers and mountaineers on their journey to the iconic Everest Base Camp.