One of the ultimate adventure travel treks is the route to Base Camp Everest (EBC). From the thrilling airport arrival at Lukla (2840m/9318 ft) to joy of arriving at Base Camp (5364 m/17,600 ft), it is really the journey along the Khumbu Valley that makes this a trip of a lifetime.
Here are our top ten trekking tips for a wonderful experience.
Trek Tip #1 Beware of Counterfeits: There are multitudes of trekking outfitters in the Thamel (Kathmandu) and Namche but be cautious as many have counterfeit name branded clothing and gear. Our advice is to get your gear and clothing before arriving so you can test it out for fit and performance. Two exceptions for fantastic gear and clothing are Nepal brands, Kathmandu and Sonam.
Trek Tip #2 Go Veggie:For a safe and pleasant eating experience, adopt a vegetarian diet while on the trek. We recommend a regional favourite, dal bhat with some excellent garlic soup. Dal bhat is made with lentil soup (the dal), and boiled rice (the bhat), with varied side dishes which may include steamed or sauteed vegetables, vegetable curry, popadoms, pickle, and curd.
Trek Tip #3 Prepare for the Commute:With more trekkers and heavy aviation traffic, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal will continue the domestic flight diversion from Kathmandu to Manthali, so a long 4-hour drive should be expected. A 2:30 am start and regular weather delays can make the 20-minute flight to Tenzing-Hillary Airport a long first day, unless you would like to charter a helicopter of course. Bonus tip, battery power packs are not to be kept in checked luggage, and must go with you in your carry on.
Trek Tip #4 The Tea House: The rooms in the tea houses are very basic, no heating, and usually consist of two single beds with thin mattress and limited bedding so bring your own sleeping bag. If there are pillows, place them under my sleeping bag for some head elevation. Bathrooms are shared, with toilets or squat stalls, and cold non potable water from the sinks. It is a bring your own toiletry situation, your favourite roll and some wet ones. All paper waste goes into garbage cans and the toilets are manually flushed by adding a bucket of water to the bowl. A paid hot shower is available in most Namche hotels, so take advantage as it will a few days before you can scrub-a-dub.
Trek Tip #5 All important H20: Water needs to be boiled prior to drinking. A great trick is to fill your water bottle at night with the boiled water, use it as a hot water bottle in your sleeping bag, then have drinking water ready for the next day. Bottled water is available and gets more expensive the higher you climb – everything is carried up by human or animal. Drink a lot of water, double your normal intake at least. Dehydration, risky on its own, but it can mask or worsen the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Trek Tip #6 No Drone Zone: There is a checkpoint entering Sagarmatha National Park, the gateway to EBC, and your kit will be inspected for drones, which are not allowed expect with a permit. Also be smart about drugs and alcohol. Nether should be part of the trek, save the celebrations to your return.
Trek Tip #7 Crocs Rock: After a full day of hiking, set your boots aside and hang in some old Crocs – your feet will thank you. Some sort of tea house shoe is a comfortable break for your tired feet, certainly a luxury to consider.
Trek Tip #8 Mask Up: It is highly recommended to wear a bandana or balaclava to cover your neck and face while on the trails as there is dust from winds and the combination of exertion, sub-zero temperatures and low humidity at high altitude results in the faster breathing of cold, dry air that literally dries out the lung lining and bronchi. Also drink as much water as possible, ideally warm water as the steam helps moisten the bronchi.
Trek Tip #9 Layer Your Way: Layering becomes your thermostat and lets you lets you regulate comfort by slipping layers on and off as your activity level or the weather changes. Think of a base layer that can wick sweat off your skin. Followed by a middle layer that retains body heat and protects you from the cold weather. Then an outer layer that shields you from the wind and rain.
Trek Tip #10 Take it all in: There is so much to see along the way, from a Yeti Skull at the Samten Choling Monastery to our favourite mountain, Ama Dablam, every step brings new sights. As a rough guide, the tree line ends at 13,200 ft (4000m) and the snow line begins at 16,400 ft (5000m) so your environment will change as you ascend.
A well-trained and experienced guide team will ensure you have a safe and happy trip. Be kind and generous to your guides and tea house teams. It is customary to present cash tips and some of your equipment at the conclusion of your trek. Usually done at a ceremonial last dinner with the team.
This is high-altitude trekking so be alert the signs of altitude sickness, be kind to your body as every step can be like running a race with less oxygen intake. Being mentally prepared is as important as your physical conditioning. Take one step after the other, enjoy the journey and remain in the moment, even when it may seem hard. You are creating memories of a lifetime!