Everest Base Camp

The two main trekking seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (late September–November).

• Spring offers mild weather, rhododendrons in bloom, and generally clearer mornings.

• Autumn is known for crisp air, stable conditions, and incredible visibility after the monsoon clears.

Winter (December–February) is possible for experienced trekkers but expect cold nights and snow. Summer (June–August) is monsoon season, so trails can be wet and cloudy.

The trek is usually most busy in April and May, as this is also when people attempt to summit Everest. 

It's probably good to do a bit of training before you go. If you're of relatively good fitness you can most likely do the trek without training, but we always recommend going for long walks before. If nothing else to walk in your walking boots! Maybe 10-15km with an ascent, just to get your body a little more prepared for the trek.

For such a once in a lifetime adventure, it's actually quite reasonably priced. The trek is usually around 15 days and start around £800 and upwards, depending on when you go and accommodation etc. You can check out some of the different options here. 

That pays for guides, porters and accommodation etc, and often also the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla is included. You stay in guest houses along the way where you can buy your meals.

A good packing list includes:

• Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, fleece or down jacket, waterproof shell, trekking trousers, gloves, hat, and thermal socks

• Footwear: well-worn trekking boots with good ankle support, plus lightweight shoes for evenings

• Gear: sleeping bag (rated to -10°C), trekking poles, water bottles, head torch, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Essentials: first-aid kit, blister plasters, hand sanitiser, lip balm, and water purification tablets

Your main duffel bag is carried by porters, while you only carry your daypack with daily essentials.

For a complete guide, check out our Everest Base Camp Packing List

It will look very big but it will still be a few days of trekking away so not super close. You're as close as can be basically without going on an Everest summit!

Most trekking days range from 5 to 7 hours of walking with breaks along the way. The longest day of the trek is 15-18km. It may not sound like a lot but at that altitude, it will take up to double the time it would normally take you.

Some days are shorter to allow for acclimatisation, while others, such as the climb to Namche Bazaar or the hike to Kala Patthar, can feel more demanding due to altitude.

Your guide will pace the group sensibly to keep everyone comfortable and safe.

You don’t need to be an athlete, but a good base level of fitness and endurance is essential. The trek involves continuous uphill and downhill walking on uneven terrain at high altitude.
We recommend:

• Regular hiking or hill walking before your trip

• Cardiovascular exercise (running, cycling, swimming) several times a week

• Practice hikes carrying a daypack

With proper preparation, most people in good health can complete the trek.

For more advice on fitness, check out our guide: How fit do I need to be for Everest Base Camp?

Altitude sickness (AMS) can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness.
Common early symptoms include:

• Headache

• Nausea or loss of appetite

• Fatigue

• Dizziness or disturbed sleep

Most treks include acclimatisation days at Namche Bazaar (3,440m) and Dingboche (4,410m).
If symptoms worsen, guides will ensure you descend and receive proper care. Staying hydrated, ascending slowly, and avoiding alcohol help prevent AMS.

Good question. If you want fewer people then around the winter months, if you want nice weather then the summer months. Of course trekking in hot weather has its pros and cons as does trekking cold weather! Prices don't really move around so much pending when you go.

You'll need money for your meals and tipping money for porters and transfers.

We recommend between £20 and £40 per day while on the trek itself, though it really depends how much you eat and drink and where you eat. 

In Kathmandu you can get cash from cash machines. If in doubt take US dollars as they're widely accepted.

Your main luggage is kept safe in Kathmandu at the operators base. You will carry a 5kg to 10kg pack per day and any extra luggage by the porters. It is a good idea to check the details of the trip.

You'll eat at tea houses along the way. The guides are of course very experienced and know the good places to go. All tea houses will offer different flavours of tea, not to be missed. Breakfasts are usually toast and eggs with some potatoes (yes) as well of course as porridge. 'Sherpa Stew' is common, a veggie stew mostly and each tea house has its own version. There are also noodles, pasta, rice, lentils soup and more. Maybe not a 5 star experience but not bad considering where you are!

Yes, in fact we'd suggest avoiding meat anyway as it's often carried for a few days and while that's fine for locals, anyone from the UK may suffer a little so you're much better sticking to the delicious vegetarian food.

Meals are simple but filling, with a mix of Nepali and Western dishes. Typical options include:

• Dal Bhat: rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry (the Nepali staple)

• Noodles, pasta, fried rice, or potatoes

• Pancakes, eggs, and porridge for breakfast

Hot drinks – tea, coffee, lemon ginger honey – are available everywhere.

Well you actually stay in a lodge or tea-house so will have a private toilet of good standard. If you're worried about going in a hole in the ground don't be because you won't be doing that!

That depends upon which adventure you've booked so check the details. Most adventures on our website are actually lodge-based rather than tents and camping.

The average number of people in a group is 10 to 12 - small enough for personal attention yet sociable for shared experiences. Groups are often a mix of male and female and typically more than half are solo travellers. If you'd like to find out the mix of a group please contact us and we can tell you.

Private and tailor-made departures are also available for couples, families, or friends who prefer to trek at their own pace.

Your international flights are not included in the prices but your internal flights from and to Kathmandu are included, but please check each trip for details.

Yes, though don’t expect it everywhere.

Many tea houses offer Wi-Fi for a small fee, powered by solar or satellite connections. It can be slow and unreliable, especially at higher altitudes. Mobile data (NCELL or NTC) may work intermittently up to Tengboche or Dingboche.

Most trekkers use the opportunity to unplug and enjoy the mountains.

You don't really. You'll take enough to be OK. Washing is cold but possible.

Not on the route really so make sure you take enough from Kathmandu.

The Himalayas are unpredictable. Weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations.
Rain, snow, or wind can occasionally delay flights to Lukla or alter trekking plans, but your local guides are experienced in adjusting itineraries safely. Flexibility is key – and sometimes, cloudy days can make the mountains look even more dramatic.

Tea houses are simple, family-run lodges found along the route. They provide:

• Basic but comfortable rooms with twin beds and shared bathrooms

• Common dining areas with wood stoves for warmth

• Plenty of hot tea, hearty meals, and friendly hospitality

In lower villages, you’ll find cosy lodges with electricity and Wi-Fi. Higher up, facilities become more basic – but that’s part of the charm.

Two main permits are required:

1. Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

2. Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Permit

These are usually arranged by your local operator or guide before or during the trek.

Yes – it’s essential.

Your insurance must cover high-altitude trekking (up to 5,500m) and emergency evacuation by helicopter. Always carry a printed copy of your policy and emergency contact details.

Yes, most tea houses have charging points (for a small fee). Bring a universal adaptor and power bank – electricity can be limited, especially higher up.