Everest Base Camp Trek

I'm 70. I had a yearning to see Everest since I was quite young. As I grew older, I hoped to do the trip with my sons but the length of the trip was not conducive. I wasn't particularly fit but trained for a few months beforehand, not knowing if I could manage the amount of walking , let alone the unknown element of altitude. Arriving in Kathmandu, the hotel was excellent and we had time to visit the old city of Thamel. The flight to Lukla was a great experience in a small plane, next the start of the trek. The 'Teahouses' along the way offered a warm convivial welcome, with varying numbers of other trekkers present. Suspension-bridge crossings, some several hundred metres long were great! We were lucky to have clear visibility and sunshine nearly every day as we progressed ever higher amid awe-inspiring scenery, expertly led by our leader Valerie Parkinson, and Nepalese guide Saroje. Our yakman Nawang took care of all our luggage except for our light daysacks. We gazed up at Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Macalu, Pumori, to name but a few peaks. From various vantage points including the aptly named Everest View Hotel, we had excellent views of Everest with the South Summit and South Col. We experienced at first hand the logistical marvel of how everything is transported up here; by yak, mule, dzo or porter. Bird-life included Vultures and Golden Eagles soaring overhead, plus Tibetan Snow birds that took a fancy to my lemon drizzle cake on Kala Patthar during our final acclimatisation trek. After taking in the Kumbhu Glacier, we reached Gorak Shep before the final push to Everest Base Camp itself. Unlike most other treks, we had ample time at Base Camp rock before the short walk to one of the expedition camps where we stayed overnight, amongst an array of camps looking like something out of a Bond movie. We witnessed a massive avalanche, and spent time on the ice shelf, truly surreal amongst the surrounding peaks. Overall, it was tough but an utterly amazing experience, in the competent hands of our leader Valerie, a lifetime goal achieved.

Absolutely amazing trip from start to finish. Met at the airport by a smiling Tenzi Sherpa, couldn't have had a more welcoming greeting. Thorough briefing before an early start off into the mountains. Kept fully informed all the way along the trek. Always kept upbeat by Tenzis ready smile and laugh. Stunning scenery and totally awe inspiring to walk among the highest mountains in the world.

Everest Base Camp is a trip to remember. Starting in the bustling city of Kathmandu where you get the first impressions of Nepal. Hot and busy. Followed by evening briefieng where you meet your group for the first time. Early morning start with the biggest adventure of getting on a small plane to Lukla :D Yes, the trails to Base camp can get busy. We were quite lucky that despite the busy season in April, we still had good amount of time walking alone as a group and passing others at the teahouses. The trek itself is not difficult. The pace is very slow to make sure you acclimatise well, but be prepared for long days of walking -albeit very slowly. We were so lucky to have clear skies coming up and the views were breathtaking. From the first time you get to see Mount Everest to being surrounded by the changing landscape of 6000+ metre giants. All of us made it to Base Camp together after 8 days of ups and downs. It really is an unforgettable trip and for me so much more about the journey itself, rather than stepping your foot in EBC. You get used to the life in the valley, locals, animals passing by, beautiful monasteries and everpresent prayer flags. Food is quite tasty and mostly carbs, which we all appreciated the colder it got. We were so well taken care of by our leader and guides and big thank you goes to them for making us safe and always well fed and happy :) If you love mountains, I can only recommend this trip.

I took part in the Exodus Everest Base Camp trip in March and had an incredible time! Everything was so well organised. The guides were so professional and great at their jobs. My group and I were in very safe and capable hands. The itinerary was fantastic. It was so beautiful hiking to Everest Base Camp. Every day was an adventure and there were fun things for us to do and see on a daily basis. I appreciated the inclusion of visiting schools, monasteries, museums etc. on the trip - it added a nice extra dimension to the hiking. We had a group of 6 travellers which was a nice number and it was nice being part of a team. We all made it to Base Camp which was fantastic news. This was my first trip with Exodus however after this I will definitely be going on more trips with them!

Regarding the Everest base camp trek, It was in one simple word Breath-taking. Over the 2 weeks we got to see the incredible Sagarmatha national park in all its glory, we lucked out as it was sunny throughout and seeing the picturesque landscape is something to behold. From the Alpine forests of the lower valley passing the milky river. To the highlands of the Khumbu Glacier en route to Base camp. Every step is something special.

My recent trip to Everest Base Camp was an amazing experience which completely exceeded my expectations. The scenery was breath-taking, the sights & sounds of Nepal were stunning and the company of the group & guidance of out leader all made for an unforgetable trek. Although I knew what to expect from research & reading - seeing 6000, 7000 & finally 8,000m snow capped mountains with my own eyes was something I will always remember.

My wife and I had long wanted to do this trek and when the 45th anniversary deal came up we booked last Feb. We then had months of worrying if we would make it, training, more training, buying gear, more gear etc etc! We needn't have worried. Our whole group made it thanks to Bikash and his team who were incredible throughout. Bikash ensured we ate enough (lots!), drank enough water (lots!), kept our hats on (haha) and made sure we did everything possible to avoid altitude sickness and make it. Whatever he did worked! We saw people in other groups dropping like flies and being helivac'd out. But we (11of us) were all fine! I have been on many Exodus trips but on this one the group dynamic was exceptional. The teamwork and camaraderie were second to none. I guess because the trek is very challenging. Don't underestimate this trek, it is very tough!

If you wish to challenge yourself and witness some of the most amazing views on the face of this planet then this is the trek for you. Yes, you need to train, Yes you need to have a positive mind set, Yes, you will get cold, Yes you will NOT be staying in 5star hotels along your trek. YES, you will find things out about yourself, YES you will do things that you never though possible. YES YES YES you will have the greatest time. Go ahead. Book it.

What a truly amazing trip! The trip of a lifetime in fact. Stunning views, amazing camaraderie, almost to too many fantastic memories to process. Everything from the spectacular flight into Lukla, to crossing the stunning bridges felt like such an adventure, straight out of an Indiana Jones movie. Special mention to our amazing tour leader Bikash Tamang and his amazing team (Kami Sherpa and Lakpa Cerpa) - these guys absolutely made the trip. So hard working, great sense of humour, super encouraging, super caring for the whole group, total professionals. When we return we want exactly the same team, we miss you guys!

In common with other reviewers' comments, it should be noted that the landscape between Lukla and Dingboche is like an alpine paradise, unexpectedly beautiful valleys and rivers, criss-crossed with suspension bridges and dotted with Buddha stupas. While mostly undulating, the trail is especially difficult on days where the ascent can be two hours straight up. But the leaders are cogniscent of this and allow many water stops in between scheduled breaks. Our leader, Bikash Tamang (TNT191102), was an especially experienced and supportive leader and provided confidence to those who needed it as well as providing cultural and geographical narrative from start to finish. The only reason I am giving 4 stars instead of 5 is because of the sanitary condition of many of the lodges high up in the Khumbu region and the abysmally cold bedrooms which are not insulated or well built. Do not underestimate how cold it gets at night.

We have just returned from EBC, and it really was quite the adventure. Great scenery (when the clouds lifted!), fabulous trekking, lovely company and lots of laughs. We had a wonderful team - Leader Ajay ('Ozzy'), Sherpa Kaji, Norbu and Newang, our Yak man. We made it to EBC in the snow! Be as prepared as you can, expect long days trekking with lots of both up and down, embrace the culture and you'll be rewarded with incredible views and a great sense of accomplishment.

having done a few mountains before, I was just hoping to get a view of Everest, but was amazed at just how unexpectedly-beautiful the route was. the initial lush green valleys were replaced with breath-taking views of majestic mountains. every turn produced another stunning vista. i found it really difficult to relay just how big those mountains are to anyone who hasn't been there.

This trip met and exceeded my expectations by miles! I have never seen scenery so beautiful in my life , it was truly wow! It was the hardest thing (trek wise ) I have ever done and breathing at times in the higher parts was tough but it was more than compensated by the experience. A big shout out to Bikash T ( TNT190427) who was a brilliant leader and encouraged us a long the way and ensured we paced ourselves the result of which we all made it to Base Camp! His team were all brilliant too!

Fabulous trip. Great Guide (Bikash T, TNT190427) great staff. Great adventure.

Overall an amazing experience. Beautiful views. A unique, friendly group of fun people! There was a real team spirit, and I was never in doubt that anyone wouldn’t make it to Base Camp. The guides were fabulous, and enhanced a really special experience! Would definitely recommend this trek!

As expected, an excellent trek. Fantastic scenery; lovely insight in to Nepali villages and epic mountains!

My 2nd trekking excursion to Nepal, the first was Annapurna Base Camp,(ABC) 10 days round trip, up to 4130 meters (13,550 ft) That was enough to energize my batteries to go higher, for I've been near or at 14,000 ft on 3 occasions without any AMS symptoms. I was anticipating Everest Base Camp (EBC) to be the trek that let me experience some AMS symptoms, however my pre-trip training (indoors at sea level) had my legs in shape and genetics most likely had a lot to the NO AMS, along with the gradual acclimatization in the trek was very well planned and organized. The research I have read says no one can predict who will get AMS, and genetics has a lot to do with it per some mountain guide I knew in Alaska. AS for the conditions in Nepal, well..... I am used to "ROUGHING" it in the bush of Alaska on fly out hunting trips for over 25 years,(tents, sleeping bags on cold ground, grizzly bears).... so the TEA HOUSES are luxurious compared to the bush of ALASKA, Hot tea at your door every morning. SO, if you are a pampered city slicker and not used to roughing it, YES, it will be a shock as Michelle M stated in the review before me. REMEMBER your training, and expect the worst, and hope (and Pray) for the Best. SUKMAN and the assistant guides were beyond fabulous, we all owe a debt of gratitude to them for getting us up that 5545 meters the last day for a SPECTACULAR view of the "TOP of the WORLD" CHEERS and BEERS from JW in ALASKA. THANKS SUKMAN.

My 2nd trekking excursion to Nepal, the first was Annapurna Base Camp,(ABC) 10 days round trip, up to 4130 meters (13,550 ft) That was enough to energize my batteries to go higher, for I've been near or at 14,000 ft on 3 occasions without any AMS symptoms. I was anticipating Everest Base Camp (EBC) to be the trek that let me experience some AMS symptoms, however my pre-trip training (indoors at sea level) had my legs in shape and genetics most likely had a lot to the NO AMS, along with the gradual acclimatization in the trek was very well planned and organized. The research I have read says no one can predict who will get AMS, and genetics has a lot to do with it per some mountain guide I knew in Alaska. AS for the conditions in Nepal, well..... I am used to "ROUGHING" it in the bush of Alaska for over 25 years, so the TEA HOUSES are luxurious compared to the bush of ALASKA. SO if you are a pampered city slicker and not used to roughing it, YES, it will be a shock as Michelle M stated in the review before me. REMEMBER your training, and expect the worst, and hope (and Pray) for the Best. SUKMAN and the assistant guides were beyond fabulous, we all owe a debt of gratitude to them for getting us up that 5545 meters the last day for a SPECTACULAR view of the "TOP of the WORLD" CHEERS and BEERS from JW in ALASKA. THANKS SUKMAN.

Although the walking was manageable if you were reasonably fit and prepared, the altitude, cold and tummy bugs made it a challenge.

This is a great trip but not what you might expect ! !.. the scenery is fantastic, with clear skies, mountain views, green valleys and rushing bubbling rivers. The people are friendly and we saw many happy smiling children wanting to say hello as we walked through their villages.... prayer wheels and flags are a regular recurring feature on all the trails...and watch out for the trains of yaks and donkeys carrying everything up and down the 'very dusty' trails. Long days and in winter frigid temperatures above 4,000 metres when the sun goes down, but the sun warms nicely during the day. A slow steady pace on the way up with constant descents and ascents but on well formed paths.

What an adventure! We had been planning this trip for a couple of years and it did not disappoint. It was a real test of character - the coldest winter in a long time and -27 at base camp. The views are simply stunning - we had clear skies so every step was a different view. There were times when sat in our icy teahouse room that we questionned what we were doing but it really is a once in a lifetime experience that we will never forget.

This was simply one of the best experiences of my life! We were very fortunate that all 12 members of our team got on really well and we had a brilliant leader with a 'dream team' supporting him. The trek itself is hard work, but I never felt that we wouldn't make it to Base Camp. Our leader and the guides did everything to encourage us to "reach our destiny" and did so with professionalism and a great sense of humour. However, at no time was our safety compromised and the pace of the walk was judged to perfection. Some days are very long, with early starts; but well worth it. The scenery is breathtaking. This is definitely a holiday that is worthy of being on any bucket list.

Great credit to our Exodus leader Jaite (Ajay) and Kaji and Cami and the rest of his great team. Lead by example and really looked after the group in our quest to conquer reaching EBC. The trek from start to finish was an amazing adventure with like minded friends In our group that made the trek even more enjoyable amongst a beautiful landscape. But also at times not to be taken in small measures because it can be forgiving when unexpected on the terrain and challenge in front of you but amazing experience.

Hard, but a wonderful experience. We became a great team - the group and our guides. The key to making it to Base Camp!

Our trip to Nepal was wonderful. We were hosted incredibly well by Pasang and his team right from the airport where we were met and transported to the Royal Singi Hotel. All movements, interactions and correspondence throughout the trip were excellent!

Just back from our trek to Everest Base Camp. Absolutely awesome trek with a terrific group of people you couldn't ask for better. Our guide leader Ngima deserves praise for his great organising and leadership throughout the trek supported by his two other guides Sagar and Lal who kept us safe and together. Thank you Exodus for making a virtual dream a reality for me. It wasn't an easy trek but to reach my final goal was absolutely out of this world. I'll certainly be using you again for future adventure treks. Keep up the good work.

Where to begin.... we enjoyed every second from start to finish- the people, the scenery, the trekking, the guides (even the extra accidental flight to lukla where we had to return halfway due to bad weather) We booked this as our honeymoon so it was a special trip but made even more special by our amazing team of guides- exodus is lucky to have such inspirational and genuine people working for them, and by the great bunch of people that we trekked with, we had so much fun.

Very good trek overall. Well organised and run by the guides. Some personal disappointment that I didn't make the base camp itself, but scenery was fantastic. Route was very much more crowded than I had expected.

Well organised, fantastic guides, wonderful experience amongst the highest peaks in the world. Never to be forgotten.

Very good guides,well organised.

Well what can I say about this trip?? It was amazing!! I have done a few Exodus trips before but this was the best yet. Not only were the views outstanding but the itinerary was great, the pace of walking was perfect to aid acclimatisation and the staff were amazing. The accommodation/tea houses on the whole were great, some were better than others but the trip notes explained this fully and what do you expect at 5000m. Highly recommended trip!

Amazing experience! Loved everything minute of it from Namche to basecamp and back. Our Guide Bikash was fantastic, creating a great group atmosphere and taking care of everyone with professionalism.

Hiking amidst the most awe-inspiring scenery, a not to be missed, truly outstanding trip! I have travelled with Exodus on many occasions, and this trip is so finely tuned it is impossible to find fault. Perfect pacing, acclimatisation, itinerary and physical challenge. Challenge is also present in some of the Tea Houses, but the trip notes give ample notice about how basic they can be, and I found this added to the whole experience. Some were terrific, and some were simply a place to rest and refuel before another day enjoying the magnificent mountains. Having said this, the food served in all the Tea Houses was always great; I enjoyed a whole range of local food, including Dhal Bhat and Sherpa soup, but also couldn’t resist the odd plate of egg and chips!

This was my first trip with Exodus and I was not disappointed. From my first enquiry, throughout the planning, during the trip and afterwards, Exodus were superb. I was kept informed of an changes to the itinary or flights and whenever I asked a question an advisor responded promptly. I hadn't met any of my group until we arrived at Heathrow or Kathmandu but very quickly got to know some great people who I hope to keep in touch with. There's even talk of some of us meeting up in the future for another trip. The guides were all first class. Ozzy, Sorros and Mingma along with Yak Man took great care of us and couldn't do enough for us. Acclimatisation and staying healthy is key to a successful trip to base camp. The guides took great care over getting this right. All in all, a great Exodus experience and I look forward to tackling Island Peak next year.

An amazing lifetime experience that was challenging which made it all so satisfying. The mountains, terrain and general scenery was breathtaking, never forget the colour of the sky.......deep deep blue!!! The living conditions were definitely NOT like home but that's part of the challenge and you come away so appreciative of what you have.

What an absolutely amazing experience, too beautiful to ever put into words! Everything from start to finish was simply perfect - the organisation, the people, the nature. Without a doubt one of the toughest, coldest and most incredible things I have ever done!

An excellent but demanding trek amongst the most beautiful scenery.

Ive wanted to do this trip for 20yrs and it didnt dissapoint. Each day i was in awe of how spectacular the route and views became. Nepal and the Himalayas are absolutely spectacular. I was so pleased i booked through Exodus. Its the only company i would use for any future adventure trips. They were excellent and super professional throughout.

What an experience! After a delayed start due to weather conditions we finally landed at Lukla for the beginning of an awe inspiring trek in the Himalayas. A team of 15 meandered across the Dudh Kosi river to reach Namche and then North eastwards steeply through forests to above the tree line reaching Thangboche. From there we headed to Dingboche, Loboche, Gorak Shep and our ultimate goal Everest Base Camp. The scenery was excellent from walking through fertile farming settlements, through forest, high altitude settlements and glacial moraine to reach EBC and it wasn't a disappointment - witnessing the khumbu icefall and ice seracs at base and seeing Everest flanked by Changste and Nuptse and other giants was amazing.

From the moment we landed in Lukla and started the long journey to Base Camp, we were in awe of the scenery and the atmosphere of the mighty Himalayas. It is very much like going back in time. The nepalese people life very basic lives and are so hardworking, this adds to the experience. it was a demanding trek, And we were affected by altitude sickness at times. Overall one of the most rewarding things we have ever done.

Gotta say, this was an absolutely brilliant trip! The group, 14 of us in all, was a very eclectic mix with Canadians, Icelandic, Dutch, Irish, a couple of very entertaining "Cor Blimey" guys, and the rest of us were Northerners, but fortunately none of the others seemed to hold that against us! Me and the 2 Cor Blimeys were mates who had embarked upon this jaunt in virtually complete ignorance of quite what was in store for us, so we thought our preparations of a couple of leisurely jaunts up Snowdon followed by a couple of pints of Guinness in the same PYG pub frequented by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay 65 years earlier would stand us in good stead. I confess that the complete ignorance I referred to above was mainly down to me not having read any of the reviews, but to be honest, I am glad I didn't read them because it would probably have put me off going and I would have missed a truly great experience. The other 11 people were all seasoned trekkers, who were rather surprised by our inexperience (and stupidity?) in embarking upon this full-on 18 consecutive days High Passes Trek which is widely regarded as one of the toughest available. However, despite me picking up a dose of food poisoning in the UK even before we flew to Delhi, we ALL made it across ALL of the High Passes, due in no small part to the expertise and skill of the Trek Leader, Pasang Lama, who I have to say was brilliant at coaxing, encouraging and looking after us - not surprising really, given his 21 years' experience in the role! The scenery of course is second to none, and on a few practical points, supplies like toilet paper, snacks, drinks, sun cream etc. are readily available throughout the trek, plus the food available in the Tea Houses was far better than I had anticipated, which is more than can be said for the general standard of ablutions, but hey, even they were manageable. I am 70, but reasonably fit I suppose, so my advice would simply be get fit, shed a few spare pounds, do a bit of aerobic exercise like jogging or riding a bike, make sure your boots are comfortable and go for it! The Altitude thing is a bit of a lottery so no point in worrying about it, although it may be prudent to have a try-out at altitude somewhere before you go to see if you may be susceptible to it? Some of us took Diamox, some didn't, but nobody had any significant symptoms of AMS apart from the odd headache, a bit of nausea, and a little bit of water retention. Loss of appetite is quite common at altitude, and the only thing which bothered me was the inability to sleep when we were above 5,000m - which we were for 10 days in a row - so actually quite debilitating!

An awesome and successfull trek to Everest Base Camp

Myself aged 61 and my husband aged 58 decided to tick this item off our bucket list. We trained reasonably hard for the trip giventhe lack of mountains in Dorset. We set off for Nepal with a degree of trepidation. After surviving the chaos of Kathmandu airport we were met by Nirmal our tour guide from that point we were so well looked after all our fears were allayed. We met our fellow travellers And the next morning set of for Lukla to begin our trek. After a 24 hour delay we arrived in Lukla where we met our guides. The trek was very hard in places but the excellent advice given to us my Nirmal "outside suicide" and the guides together with the pace that was set meant that we never felt out of our depth if frequently out of breath. The standard of accommodation food and plumbing exceeded expectations while at the same time being basic. It was an amazing adventure tough at times but so worth it for the spectacular scenery the wonderful Nepalese people and the sense of accomplishment when we reached base camp.

It was an amazing trip, incredible scenery, good itinerary to acclimatise. Good staff and lots of fun with the group.

A wonderful trip full of beautiful scenery with a great leader and team. An amazing experience!

Such an amazing trip with the most spectacular views! Never trekked to this extent and the guides are amazing and help you the whole way so don't be put off! Met some amazing people, was great to see everyone constantly helping each other out!

This was an amazing trip, and I cannot wait to revisit Nepal. The scenery was stunning, reaching Everest Base Camp was awe-inspiring, and Exodus took care of all of the organisation. The whole trip was well organised, and everything ran smoothly thanks to the work of Exodus and our leader and assistant staff. I had never done anything like this before, and so to anyone who is currently wondering if they would be able to do it - if you have a good level of fitness, enjoy walking and are determined - go for it, you will not regret it.

Very good trek. Amazing guides

This had been on my bucket list for a while and it didn't disappoint! Absolutely breathtaking scenery, exciting trekking and a wonderful culture. I'm so glad I booked with Exodus as the whole experience, from start to finish, was organised and managed to perfection. Don't find an excuse not to do this, just do it!

This trip proved to be an amazing, once in a lifetime adventure which I feel so lucky to have experienced.

The trip was exceptionally well organized. The group leader and guides were totally in control and were very knowledgeable on the subject of the trek. They were also always in the immediate vicinity to help anyone in the group who needed help.

Very good trek. Amazing guides

A wonderful trip full of beautiful scenery with a great leader and team. An amazing experience!

Absolutely loved this trip. The hardest thing I've done in my life, don't be fooled into thinking it'll be anything less than that! But absolutely worth every moment! Amazing views, amazing country. Met great people, some of whom will be friends for years to come I am sure. The guides were fantastic and the whole thing was organised brilliantly. Clear skies and views of Mount Everest made this trip!

Absolutely loved this trip. The hardest thing I've done in my life, don't be fooled into thinking it'll be anything less than that! But absolutely worth every moment! Amazing views, amazing country. Met great people, some of whom will be friends for years to come I am sure. The guides were fantastic and the whole thing was organised brilliantly. Clear skies and views of Mount Everest made this trip!

Incredible trip to Everest Base Camp and scale Kalapatthar for the sunrise. The scenery was breath-taking and mesmerising in equal measure, but everything was backed by a fantastic team of guides.

https://youtu.be/vN5yaD-5BLs

The trip was well organised, featuring stunning mountains views of the exceptional himilayan mountains! Even though we lost two days due to flight cancellations the Sherpa rearranged all of our accommodation and still made sure we made it to the base camp and back on time!

This was truly an incredible experience, with great attention to detail in the organisation, health and safety of the group. From the beauty of the mountain range to the knowledge shared by the expedition leader, the Everest Base Camp trek is definitely worth doing! The tea-houses were basic in nature (as you would expect), but don't let that deter you as they are very comfortable with an extensive food and drinks menu. The locals are also very helpful and generous! Our group was managed by a leader and 3 other guides, so everyone was looked after.

This trip has awesome in every respect. I am so pleased we choose to do this trek with Exodus. We saw lots of other groups on the trek and none of these seemed to be quite so well looked after as our group.