12 Days
14 People Max
Level: Moderate-Difficult
Trip End: Kathmandu
Trip Overview
- Level – Moderate-Difficult
- Duration – 12 days
- Region – Himalayas, Nepal
- Arrive – Kathmandu
- Depart – Kathmandu
- Price – US$5,299
- Spring – Season March, April, May
- Fall Season – October, November
Trip Introduction
Embark on an epic journey that retraces the footsteps of the world’s greatest mountaineers to the base of the highest mountain on earth. Our Everest Base Camp Trek takes you on a 12-day adventure through the heart of the Himalayas, where every step unfolds a new chapter in the tapestry of experiences.
Hike through deep river gorges, verdant forests, and ascend high ridges to wide-open valleys, discovering remote Buddhist monasteries nestled in unexpected places along the way. At the pinnacle of this legendary adventure, stand in awe at the foot of Mount Everest, the pinnacle of human endeavor and natural beauty.
Experience the thrill of returning to Kathmandu by helicopter, offering arguably the most spectacular scenic flight on earth. Each moment, each destination, and every step resonates with the spirit of adventure and the unparalleled beauty of the Khumbu region. Join us in discovering the extraordinary.
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Prepare for an unparalleled adventure as we guide you through the iconic Everest Base Camp trek. Our 12-day itinerary is a carefully crafted blend of breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, and the thrill of conquering Himalayan trails.
From the vibrant chaos of Kathmandu to the serene vistas of Namche Bazaar, every step is a dance between tradition and nature. Traverse suspension bridges, bask in the shadow of legendary peaks, and create memories that will resonate for a lifetime.
This is not just a trek; it’s an odyssey into the heart of the Himalayas.
Arrive Kathmandu
Our trip starts in Kathmandu, Nepal’s bustling capital city. Your trip leader will meet you at our hotel with a cup of hot sweet tea, and run through a full briefing of the trip ahead. After lunch, we’ll head out to explore the city’s back street courtyards, markets, and temples to get our first taste of this country’s rich culture and friendly people. The sights and sounds of this place are intoxicating!
Later we’ll head out and dine at a local Restaurant.
Hotel Thamel Eco Resort, Kathmandu
Dinner
Explore Kathmandu
Today we’ll walk a short distance out of town, on an ancient stone pilgrim stairway to the Swayambhunath Temple. Swayambhunath is a fascinating combination of Buddhist and Hindu iconography with ancient carvings taking up the entire space of its walls. Set high above Kathmandu city on a hilltop, we’ll encounter an array of sights, sounds, and aromas, as well as monkeys who have made their home here – they’re everywhere! According to local legend, Kathmandu was once a lake, and the hilltop which is home to this temple is said to have risen suddenly from the lake, and given the name Swayambhunath, which means “self-arisen”. Many locals come here every day to circumnavigate the centerpiece Stupa ( a dome-shaped Buddhist shrine) and spin prayer wheels, adding to this place's incredible ambiance.
As we are heading into the Everest region tomorrow, we’ll head back to town and make our preparations.
Hotel Thamel Eco Resort, Kathmandu
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly to Lukla. Hike to Phakding
This morning we’ll take one of the most incredible scenic flights on earth to Lukla – the gateway to the Everest region. Set high in the mountains, Lukla has always been an important starting point for mountain climbing expeditions to Mt Everest and many of the other big peaks on the lists of the world’s most ambitious mountain climbers. Following a final check with our guides we’ll hit the trail, hiking down into Phakding village on the banks of the Dudh Kosi River.
It’s hard to imagine that the scenery on our trek would become so dramatic right from the very start, but the view down the green fertile valley as we hike into Phakding village is just that!
There’s time to relax on the deck of our accommodation this afternoon – a local teahouse lodge with amazing views down to the river and out to the mountains.
Phakding Teahouse, Phakding
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 7km/4.3 miles – 4 hours Eleveation Loss: 250 metres/820 feet
Hike Phakding to Namche Bazaar
This morning we’ll hike up the dramatic Dudh Kosi valley passing small villages and fertile food crops. The roar of the Dudh Kosi River becomes quieter the higher we hike. After passing numerous giant prayer wheels and local villagers, we’ll arrive at the entrance to Sagarmatha National Park where the views of many of the world’s highest peaks come into spectacular view.
After lunch, we’ll begin the ascent to the village of Namche Bazaar – home of the world's highest marketplace. Located in an incredible natural amphitheater of mountains, Namche Bazaar is set in one of the most dramatic settings in the world, and a great place to rest for an extra day.
Tonight we’ll rest at a comfortable guesthouse, and enjoy a traditional local meal.
Namche Bazaar Guesthouse, Namche Bazaar
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
12 kilometres/7.5 miles – 6 hours
Elevation Gain: 760 metres/2500 feet
Elevation: 3445 metres /11,302 feet
Acclimatisation Day - Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is the unofficial capital of the Khumbu region and is a historic trading hub, famous for its homemade yak cheese and butter.
Situated on the slope of an arch-shaped mountain, with amazing views of giant Himalayan peaks from anywhere in the valley, Namche Bazaar is the ideal place for an acclimatization day and a place to relax. Stroll its narrow cobbled streets between traditional stone houses, stop for a drink in a local teahouse and listen to monks chanting mantras, or explore an alleyway market. If you’re keen to take an extra acclimatization hike, there’s an option to hike to a Mt Everest viewpoint above the town where the views of Everest, Lhotse, and many more of the world's highest peaks come into grand view.
Namche Bazaar Guesthouse, Namche Bazaar
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Elevation: 3445 metres /11,302 feet
Hike Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche
This morning we’ll set off early, making our way back down to the Dudh Khosi river before making an ascent towards Thanygboche. Be prepared to be blown away walking around every corner as massive peaks get closer and closer – the scenery here is simply off the charts. We’ll stop at local Sherpa tea houses along the way, take in the views as we drink tea, and continue onwards on this magnificent mountain trail.
The highlights don’t stop here though. As we draw closer to Tengboche, we’ll be rewarded with even closer views of Ama Dablam (6856m) and Nuptse (7861m) until finally, as we arrive in Tyangboche – Mt Everest and Lhotse in all their glory. Looking south, we’ll have a view of numerous other peaks such as Kantega, Thamserku, and the jagged ridge line of Kongde Ri. We’ll visit a local monastery before settling into our lodge at the end of the day.
Himalaya Guesthouse, Tyangboche
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 10 kilometres/6.2 miles – 7 hours
Elevation Gain: 450 metres/1476 feet
Elevation: 3860 metres /12,664 feet
Hike Tyangboche to Dingboche
Today we’ll experience the dramatic change in landscape as we drop into the forest for the last time, passing conifer and rhododendron trees before we arrive at the Imja Khola River – the source of the Dudh Kosi River.
We’ll cross a high suspension bridge which marks the beginning of our ascent to Dingboche and into a higher alpine landscape with arid boulder fields and wide expansive views of Ama Dablam and the surrounding peaks. We’ll follow the Imja Khola River up the valley until we reach our home for the night – Dingboche.
Good Luck Guesthouse, Dingboche
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 11 kilometres/6.8 miles – 5 hours
Elevation Gain: 490 metres/1607 feet
Elevation: 4410 metres /14,468 feet
Acclimatisation day in Dingboche, Hike to Nangkartshang Peak
Today we’ll take time in Dingboche to acclimatise more to the higher elevations by resting and taking advantage of a hike to the peak of Nangkartshang. It’s a steep hike up to the ridge high above Dingboche but we’ll be taking it slowly and the views are simply off the charts. Staring us in the face are the peaks of Makalu, Lhotse and Cho Oyo – 3 of the 6 highest mountains the world.
We’ll descend to Dingboche later for a well deserved meal and rest. If you prefer to sit this one out (it’s your vacation after all), you can rest up, get to know your fellow Conquerors, read and take in the mountain views all the way up the Khumbu Khola valley.
Good Luck Guesthouse, Dingboche
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 5 kilometres/3.1 miles – 5 hours
Elevation Gain: 700 metres/2300 feet
Elevation: 4410 metres /14,468 feet
Hike Dingboche to Lobuche
We’ll set off in the morning light through the middle of the valley which soon opens out wide to a huge valley, passing yak herders shacks along the way. The views of the twin peaks of Taboche and Colatse are outstanding, as they rise steeply above the open alpine valley. The perfect pyramid peak of Ama Dablam appears closer yet again as we hike further, before we descend to the village of Dughla located alongside a glacial stream.
We have a final ascent over the Thokla Pass before we arrive at Lobuje where we’ll rest up here for the afternoon in preparation for our trek to Gorak Shep and Everest Base Camp tomorrow.
Oxygen Lodge, Lobuche
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 9 kilometres/5.6 miles – 5 hours
Elevation Gain: 530 metres/1738 feet
Elevation: 4940 metres /16,207 feet
Hike to Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp awaits us today. We’ll begin our last hike to this world-famous camp, passing through the mighty Khumbu Valley’s glacial moraine walls and boulder fields. Our first stop is Gorak Shep, where we’ll stop for lunch and a rest before setting off again for the final push. We’ll take things super easy on our approach as the altitude of the camp is just over 5300 metres! After arriving at Everest Base Camp, we’ll have time to soak it all in.
Arguably the most famous camp in the world, Everest Base Camp sits at the bottom of the Khumbu Icefall and is the base for most of the summit attempts by mountaineering expeditions to the top of Everest. It is the site of some of the greatest climbing feats in history, as well as great tragedy – there’s no other place like it in the world. After spending some time here, we’ll return to Gorak Shep for the night and celebrate our achievement.
Yeti Resort, Gorak Shep
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 11 kilometres/6.8 miles – 9 hours
Elevation Gain: 450 metres/1476 feet
Elevation: 5380 metres /17,650 feet (EBC) & 5164 metres/16942 (Gorak Shep)
Hike Kala Patthar. Helicopter Flight to Kathmandu
We’ll make an early start this morning, put on headlamps and make our way up to the highest point on our trek – the top of Kala Patthar ridge. The panoramic views of Mt Everest and the accompanying peaks are simply out of this world and well worth the hike to this highest point of 5644 metres!
After soaking in the views we’ll make our way back to Gorak Shep for breakfast. We’ll then take one of the most spectacular helicopter flights in the world for the journey back to Kathmandu. We’ll have the afternoon in Kathmandu to recharge our batteries before dinner in the evening.
Thamel Eco Resort, Kathmandu
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart
Today is the final day of your 12 day trekking trip to the foot of the highest mountain in the world – a journey you will remember and talk about for the rest of your life. Our aim is to create incredible moments that count, with like minded people, and build lifelong friendships through physical activity and shared experiences in some of the worlds most beautiful places. We’ll drop you at the airport in time for your flight home.
Breakfast
The Details
What's Included
- All meals as per itinerary
- All transport and shuttles
- Guiding and hosting
- All park entrance fees, including Sagarmatha entrance fee
- All accommodation
- Luggage transfers
- Luggage portage on the trail
What's Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Travel Insurance
- Personal hiking gear
- Luggage
- Personal snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
Accommodation
We understand the importance of a good night's rest – especially on a trek like this. We have carefully chosen locally owned lodgings in Kathmandu and guesthouses on the Everest trek that understand the importance of a place to unwind. While you won’t be glamming it up at the Ritz (that’s not our style), you’ll enjoy comfortable accommodation with amazing local hosts.
Flights
Arriving in Kathmandu is relatively simple. Airlines offering flights to Kathmandu include Qatar Airways, Etihad, Singapore Airlines, Jet Airways, and Air India. All of these carriers have code share with Star Alliance and One World. Many flights from the US will have a stopover in either Hong Kong or Singapore, depending on the airline.
Frequently Asked Questions
DO I NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO NEPAL?
Visas are currently required for Australian, New Zealand, US, Canadian or UK/EU passport holders wishing to visit Nepal. If you are outside these regions, please check with your embassy. You can also check the Visa HQ website for up todate information.
To obtain a Nepal visa, you can simply purchase this on arrival in Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu at a cost of US$50 (It’s essentially an arrival tax). Or you can get this in advance by contacting the nearest Nepal Embassy near you. most people simply aquire the visa upon arrival.
WHAT ABOUT DRINKING WATER?
Water from the tap is not safe to drink in Nepal. Our hotel in Kathmandu provides a couple of bottles of water each day, and bottled water is available to purchase at an inexpensive price.
On the Everest Base Camp trek, safe drinking water is provided.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER/TEMPERATURE BE LIKE?
There are two distinct seasons for trekking in Nepal – Spring (March, April, May) and Autumn (September, October, very early November). These seasons have very little to zero rainfall, with generally clear weather – perfect for trekking!
When it comes to temperatures, it varies depending how high up you are on the trek. For example, in Namche Bazaar (half way point along the trek to EBC), daily temperatures in March, April, May, and October range from 1°C to 12°C . Higher up at Everest Basecamp, things get very cold, with high temperatures averaging -6°C. Don’t worry – we’ll provide you with a comprehensive gearlist to make sure you bring the correct warm gear!
IS LAUNDRY AVAILABLE?
Yes. Laundry is available in Kathmandu and in Namche Bazaar on the EBC trek.
WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE?
Our maximum group size for this trip is 14 people.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE?
Kathmandu is is situated at 1400 metres above sea level. The highest point on the trek is Everest Base Camp at 5,634 metres. That’s very high! As we are progressively making our way into this high altitude environment, we are very careful to ensure that we take it easy and make acclimatisation stops (and hikes) on rest days. It’s important that you prepare for this trek with regular exercise and practice hikes.
HOW STRENUOUS IS THIS TRIP?
This is a difficult hiking trip which is suitable for those who have some experience with hiking and a good general physical condition. This trip does require physical preparation!
IMPORTANT! There are some long inclines so if you are at all unsteady on your feet we highly recommend you also bring a retractable walking pole(s). Comfortable hiking shoes are essential, along with a small day-pack and water bottle.
IS WIFI AVAILABLE?
Wifi is available in our Kathmandu hotel. While on the Everest trek, wifi is available with the purchase of of the “Everest Link” card, which provides 1GB of data. This costs US$5. There are other options that provide more data at a higher price. just be aware that in some parts of the Everest Base Camp trek, the internet won;t be super speedy!
WILL I HAVE TO CARRY ALL MY BELONGINGS ON THE TREK?
No. We have a team of porters who will carry the things you need for the duration of the Everest Base Camp trek. When you arrive into a lodge along the way, you’ll find your belongings in one of our duffel bags in your room! All your other belongings are kept safe and secure in our hotel in Kathmandu.
WHAT IS THE ROOMING SITUATION?
The rooming on the trip is based on twin and double share. Because of limited space in lodges along the way, there are no options for single supplements.
IS THERE A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FEE IF I'M COMING ON MY OWN?
No! Many other travel companies put this on single travelers, but we think this is unfair.
WHERE DO I FLY TO?
When you book your flights, you should fly into Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. If you need assitance with flights, let us know!
The EBC trek with Conqueror Adventures was truly epic. We moved seamlessly through the trip, our guide and porters took care of everything. I never had to think or worry or plan – it was all handled. I was able to trek and enjoy my surroundings and journey, while knowing everything was covered. We relaxed at quieter tea houses for lunch away from the other large groups, which made for a better and more unique experience. This is one trip I will do again, not only for the location but for the group spirit that we all embraced! That made the trip even more special.
AnneMarie Castringo
USA.
Everest Base Camp
October 2023
Honestly, this trip was the most amazing thing I have ever done! After doing this I feel like I can do anything! The scenery was surreal and my brain still has hard time understanding that this really happened. The Conqueror Adventures team and guides made the trip safe and memorable.
Tiina Lehtineva
Oslo, Finland.
Everest Base Camp
April 2023
This trek was on my radar, on my bucket list for almost 35 years. It exceeded all my expectations! The Nepalese people we met, the good food, and the accommodations, amazing guides and overall organisation were all great!
Phil Hartvig
USA.
Everest Base Camp
October 2023
Meet Our Guides
At The Conqueror Adventures, our journey is led by the passionate and experienced individuals who have an unwavering love for the great outdoors. These are the adventurers who guide you through rugged landscapes, lead you to hidden gems, and share their profound knowledge of the destinations we explore.
In this section, we invite you to meet our guides, the heartbeat of our hiking tours. These individuals are more than just experts; they are passionate storytellers, nature enthusiasts, and cultural interpreters. They bring the landscapes to life, adding a layer of depth to your adventure that can’t be found in guidebooks.
Their stories, insights, and profound love for the destinations they explore are integral to the exceptional experiences we provide. Get to know the adventurers who will be your companions on the trail, leading you through extraordinary journeys filled with discovery, camaraderie, and the joy of exploration.
Phil Boorman
Founder, Guide & CEO
Phil Boorman
Founder and boss, Phil is at his best when he’s leading a group. He has spent his entire working life, leading and designing adventures in almost every continent in the world. It’s just in his blood and he’ll never give it up. You’ll still find Phil leading trips in Italy, Nepal, and New Zealand which is his home. Phil loves whitewater kayaking, backcountry skiing and mountain biking in his free time.
“I’ve done a tonne of guided trips in my time, and traveling with Phil was by far, THE best and most fulfilling experience I’ve had – he was genuine, attentive and clearly loves what he does.”
Ed Stone, USA – June 2016
Arjun Adhikari
Nepal
Arjun Adhikari
Fluent in English, Hindi, Malay, and Nepali, Arjun has been working with Phil and his team since 2011. He’s lost count of how many times he’s led groups in the Everest region, but it’s a place that he loves the most in the world! When Arjun isn’t guiding, he’s farming on his land in the Himalayan foothills.
“Arjun was the best!!! I would go with him anywhere. He took such good care of us and he is also very funny and nice. Keep him!”
Tiina Lehtineva, Finland – April 2023
Why Travel With The Conqueror Adventures
When it comes to embarking on extraordinary journeys, you have a choice. So why choose The Conqueror Adventures? Our unwavering commitment to redefining adventure travel sets us apart. We don’t just offer hiking tours; we offer experiences that challenge limits, ignite curiosity, and foster meaningful connections.
Our meticulously crafted adventures are designed to leave a profound and lasting impact, pushing you to step boldly into the uncharted. Discover why adventurers around the world choose to explore with us, and join our global community of explorers, wanderers, and adventure enthusiasts. Your extraordinary journey starts here.
Logistics
Transport, permits, transfers, awesome places to stay, and everything in between. We’ve covered all the details, so you can simply enjoy.
ALL-INCLUSIVE
Meals, experienced guides, cool locally owned accommodation, transport… Once you arrive, there’s no need to dip into your pocket.
Hosts with the Most
Our guiding teams are THE best around. Every Conqueror trip is lead by an experienced guide and leader combo.
The Conqueror Spirit
Step boldly, share your goals and make every mile and moment count. Our trips and destinations are awesome, but it’s our like-minded community who make it unforgettable.
Rest Easy
Locally owned, stylish and comfortable. We’ve carefully chosen accommodations that ensure you get a comfortable nights sleep, great meals and creature comforts.
Pre Trip Care
Getting on the plane isn’t the beginning of your journey with us. From the moment you book, we’ll make sure you’re well prepared for your trip of a lifetime and ready to step boldly.