Trek to Everest Base Camp with adventure travel photographer Dr Andrew Peacock, and spend a night in the most famous base camp in the world
A rare opportunity to trek one of the most iconic trekking routes in the world and experience what its like to spend a night at the famous base camp of Mount Everest (8849m). Beginning our trek in Lukla, we ascend through picturesque Sherpa villages of the Khumbu Valley, passing underneath Himalayan giants such as Ama Dablam (6812m), Pumori (7161m), and Nuptse (7861m), to the base of Mount Everest (5364m). Here we spend a night and day with our partner Everest expedition, and depending on the team rotations, we may have the chance to meet some of the climbers and catch a glimpse of real expedition life. We also have the opportunity to trek to the Khumbu ice fall and view this stunning aspect of the world’s highest peak. Back in Base Camp we visit the ‘Everest ER’ tent and learn a little about high altitude medicine. Concluding our time at Base Camp we retrace our steps down valley to Lukla where we take a stunning mountain flight back to the cultural melting pot that is Kathmandu.
HIGHLIGHTS |
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DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | Kathmandu – Nepal | |||||||||||||
DEPARTURE DATES |
April / May 2023 (dates to be advised) |
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DURATION | 19 days/18 nights | |||||||||||||
PRICES per person | AU$5,490 twin share rate AU$5,990 single rate |
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GROUP SIZE | 4-12 Guests | |||||||||||||
INCLUDED |
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NOT INCLUDED |
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Additional information
Destination | Nepal |
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Day 1
Join Kathmandu
Namaste! Welcome to Nepal!
Upon arrival into Kathmandu airport you will be met by a representative of Adventure Associates and transferred to the Hotel Tibet International in Lazimpat. Today is a joining day and so you are free to relax this afternoon. The hotel is centrally located and close to the popular tourist quarter of Thamel. In the evening a trip briefing will be held with your escort and trek Leader, before heading out for a welcome dinner. D
Day 2
In Kathmandu, half day sightseeing
Kathmandu is a fascinating city and home to many UNESCO World Heritage sights such as Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Durbar Square. Following breakfast we will take a sightseeing tour of Pashupatinath, the major Hindu Temple, and Boudanath Stupa, the major Buddhist Stupa in Kathmandu. Afternoon is at your leisure, and we suggest heading into Thamel, the major tourist quarter of Kathmandu. Thamel is a hive of activity; there are many restaurants, cafes, book shops, gear stores and markets. This is the ideal time to pick up any items for your trek, which you may have forgotten to bring with you. Hotel B
Day 3
Fly Kathmandu to Lukla (2860m), trek to Monjo (2835m)
Today we leave behind the colourful chaos of Kathmandu and board our mountain flight to Lukla. The flight takes around 40 minutes and is one of the worlds most spectacular!
Once in Lukla, we have a short break to organise porters and gear before starting our day’s walk, descending and ascending to Monjo. We pass green villages and colourful mani walls as we follow the Dudh Kosi river upstream. This region is Buddhist so remember to walk clockwise or to the right of mani walls and prayer flag poles. Monjo is an apple farming village situated near the base of the hill that takes us up to Namche. In the afternoon feel free to take the time to drop into the Monjo school, the children love to have visitors! B,L,D
Day 4
Trek Monjo to Namche (3440m), walk 5 hrs
Before leaving Monjo, we’ll drop into the Khumbu National Park Information Centre where we can trace our trail from a 3D model of the region. The route today crosses several steel suspension bridges covered with katas, white well-wishing scarves, and prayer flags. From the last bridge, it’s a 2-3 hr hike up hill to Namche. On a clear day, we may have our first view of Everest from a lookout about mid-way up the hill. On arrival in Namche we settle into our lodge. At 3450 metres in altitude, we must take it easy and relax, allowing our bodies to acclimatise to the new altitude. Namche, commonly known these days as Namche Bazaar, is a traditional trading village. For centuries the people of Tibet would cross into Nepal over the Nangpa La, to trade salt and other commodities. It is now a major village with many lodges, cafe’s, bakeries and gear stores. It is an interesting place to walk around and observe the hustle and bustle of trekkers, local villagers and shop owners. B,L,D
Day 5
Acclimatisation day, Namche
We spend an extra day in Namche before trekking higher to allow our bodies to adjust to the lower levels of oxgyen in the air. In the morning, we will walk up to the Everest View Hotel to enjoy a panoramic view of Everest, Ama Dablam and Thamserku. It’s just a hint of the spectacular scenery to come! From here, you can explore the villages of Khunde and Khumjung where Sir Edmund Hillary opened a hospital and school, respectively. Or the afternoon is free for wandering around Namche, emailing friends/family or relaxing over coffee and cakes in the bakery. B,L,D
Day 6
Trek Namche (3440m) to Phortse (3810m), walk 5 hrs
The trail behind Namche is a gentle track that traverses high above the Imja river and overlooking views of Thamserku and Ama Dablam. We pass a chorten in memory of Tenzing Sherpa, Sir Edmund Hillary’s climbing partner, before reaching Kyangjuma to break for morning tea. We split from the regular traffic of trekkers heading to EBC by taking the higher road up to Mong for lunch en-route to Phortse. Many villagers still depend on potato and buckwheat farming here, but Phortse is also known for producing many top climbing Sherpas to supplement incomes. Since 2003, the Khumbu Climbing School which operates in Phortse has trained many keen young men and women. Every winter, renowned international climbers and local guides work together to run climbing courses. The partnership has not only increased climbing enthusiasm amongst locals, but has also improved general climbing safety. On arrival, we will visit the Khumbu Climbing School to check their activities, perhaps even getting in a rock climb at the nearby crag.
B,L,D
Day 7
Trek Phortse (3810m) to Pangboche (3930m), walk 2.5 hrs
Heading out of Phortse you will see Cho Oyu, the 6th highest mountain in the world up the Ngozumba glacier leading to Gokyo lakes. The trail to Pangboche is an easy day of traversing with views of Tengboche monastery just across the valley. Pangboche is the highest permanent settlement with the oldest monastery in the Khumbu. The horizon from here to Lobuche is dominated by Ama Dablam, (6856m) one of the most picturesque mountains in the Khumbu that is technically demanding to climb. B, L, D
Day 8
Trek Pangboche (3930m) to Dingboche (4410m), walk 4 hrs
As we hike up the track towards Dingboche, there’s a distinct change in the landscape as we cross the 4000m barrier. High altitude scrub replace trees and formidable mountains suddenly appear within reach. You feel instantly that Everest must be close! Dingboche is the first of a series of settlements leading to EBC established to accommodate trekkers. It is a seasonal village with a few fields and yaks. The afternoon is free to use internet or to do some much needed laundry. There are also a few small bakeries here. B, L, D
Day 9
Acclimatisation in Dingboche, walk 5 hrs
We take a rest day in Dingboche to acclimatise to our increased altitude gain. In the morning, we’ll walk up to a lookout to touch the 5000m mark. It’s a steep climb but the views of Makalu (8463m), Lhotse (8501m), Nuptse (7861m) and on clear days, Cho Oyu (8201m) and Shispangma (8013m) are worth any feelings of breathlessness. After lunch, if you’re feeling energetic, you can hike towards Chhukung village or down to Pheriche. Alternatively, curling up with a book and hot chocolate is also recommended! B,L,D
Day 10
Trek Dingboche (4410m) to Lobuche (4910m), walk 5 hrs
Just above Dingboche and along a plateau of yak herder shelters, we enter a serene santuary of panoramic mountains. Take a moment to absorb and re ect on feelings of excitment that Everest is just around the corner! Passing Dughla, it’s a 1 hr hike up to Thokla pass (4830m) where memorials have been built for fallen climbers. We then cross rocky terrain to Lobuche for the night. Lodge B,L,D
Day 11
Trek Lobuche (4910m) to Everest Base camp (5364m), walk 7 hrs
The journey to EBC from Lobuche is a relatively gentle ascent of rocky terrain that follows across and along the Khumbu glacier, and passes through Gorak Shep. This pile of rocks sitting at the foot of the infamous Khumbu ice fall in spring is home to some 30 teams (hundreds of climbers and support staff) aspiring to climb Everest. We will spend 2 nights at the Himalayan Ascent Everest Expedition base absorbing the climbing atmosphere and excitement, and appreciating what it takes to climb the highest mountain in the world. Accommodation is a shared tent in a full service camp site.
B,L,D
Day 12
Everest Base Camp & the Khumbu Ice Fall, walk 7 hrs
This is a day to fully explore EBC. We will visit the Himalayan Rescue Association clinic and learn about the volunteer work they do to provide medical assistance to climbers. We’ll tour the foot of the Khumbu ice fall and understand why this is one of the most dangerous sections on the South route of Everest. Also, we’ll visit other campsites and chat to climbers about their Everest climbing experience. Few trekking companies can offer such an EBC experience so enjoy this unique twist of the classic EBC trek. B,L,D
Day 13
Trek EBC (5364m) to Pheriche (4270m) via Kala Pattar (5550m), walk 7 hrs
From Gorak Shep and EBC, Pumo Ri (7165m), Lingtren (6749m) and Nuptse (7861m) are clearly visible. However, Everest and Lhotse are largely blocked by the face of Nuptse. To see these mountains, we must climb another vantage point behind Gorak Shep known as Kala Pattar or “Black Rock”. It will be an early start from EBC to reach Kala Pattar summit (4 hr). At 5550m, this is the highest point on our trek! The summit provides a close and unobstructed view of Everest and Lhotse, undoubtably a worthy reward for making the strenuous climb to the summit. We drop back to Gorak Shep for a snack before making the descent to Pheriche. B,L,D
Day 14
Trek Pheriche (4270m) to Tengboche (3860m), walk 4 hrs
As we descend to lower altitudes, every step you take from here to Lukla, you will feel rejuvenated with increasing oxygen in the air. We have lunch at Pangboche, cross the river and pass through Deboche to reach our destination of Tengboche for the night. Tengboche monastery is famous for hosting the major Buddhist festival, Mani Rimdu, in November. The monastery itself was rebuilt after a re in 1989. Visitors are allowed to observe prayer time with the monks at mid morning/mid afternoon. This is not to be missed! Of course you can also enjoy a cake at the bakery. B,L,D
Day 15
Trek Tengboche (3860m) to Monjo (2840m), walk 5 hrs
It’s a big descent from Tengboche to the Dudh koshi river crossing, followed by a 45 min hike up the other side heading back to Namche. The trail from here is an easy traverse with familiar sights of Thamserku and the Kongde range. We pause in Namche for lunch before making another big descent back to the valley floor. Crossing over the many suspension bridges in warmer temperatures again, we eventually break in Monjo for the night. B,L,D
Day 16
Trek Monjo (2840m) to Lukla (2840m), walk 3 hrs
Enjoy the sights of the mani walls around Ghat and other villages, as we make our way back to Lukla. This is our last opportunity to take in the Buddhist culture that has prevailed throughout the trek before returning to the melting pot of cultures found in Kathmandu. B,L,D
Day 17
Fly Lukla to Kathmandu
Early rise to check in for our mountain flight back to Kathmandu. If you didn’t make it to Bhaktapur or the other durbar squares in Patan/Kathmandu, make sure you don’t miss these world heritage sites. They provide another viewpoint of Nepal’s diverse culture and ancient architectural talents. This evening is at your leisure. B
Day 18
In Kathmandu
Today is a reserve day and our last day to catch some sight seeing, shop, relax and prepare for departure. Tonight will be your final group dinner. B
Day 19
Depart Kathmandu
After a leisurely breakfast transfer to the airport for your international flight. B
Dr Andrew Peacock
The tour will be escorted by Expedition Doctor and award-winning Australian adventure travel photographer, Dr Andrew Peacock. Andrew first began to explore the world around him through a camera lens while working as a doctor on voluntary assignments in the mountains of Nepal and India back in 1996 and has returned repeatedly since then to the Himalaya to climb, hike and photograph. He is the medical director of Expedition and Wilderness Medicine Australia and has led numerous treks to the Khumbu region of Nepal. With his mountain medical and outdoor adventure experience as well as photography skills Andrew is uniquely placed to lead this special journey to the base of the highest peaks in the world. Whilst this adventure is not strictly a photographic tour, Andrew is always ready to offer advice on all questions photographic. His images have appeared in Lonely Planet books, Outside Magazine, Australian Geographic and Virtuoso Traveler, to name a few. He is a certified photographic instructor with National Geographic, working for them in polar areas and has led photographic tours to Ladakh and Mongolia. For the past six years, Andrew has been a finalist in Australian Geographic’s Nature Photographer of the Year Exhibition and he is also a Ted’s Cameras Master Photographer. Andrew’s exciting photography portfolio can be found at http://www.footloosefotography.com/
How to Book
To ensure your place on this exciting adventure, please contact us to reserve a place 02 6355 2022 or , then complete the Adventure Associates Booking Form and return to us with your AUD 500 per person deposit.
Deposit required per person: | AU$500 per person |
Balance due: | 75 days prior to departure |
If booking within 74 days of departure: | Full payment must be made. |
Reservations are established when you receive written confirmation and acceptance of the deposit and Booking Form. Travel insurance is strongly recommended at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Cancellations must be advised in writing to Adventure Associates. Cancellation charges are subject to regulations of airlines, coach and tour operators, hotels and other principals involved. If it is necessary to cancel your arrangements, the following non-refundable charges will apply.
More than 100 days prior to departure | Full loss of deposit per person |
Between 74 and 31 days prior to departure | 75% of tour cost per person |
On or within 30 days prior to departure | No Refund |
If the cancellation charge is more than your advance payment you remain liable for the difference. For these and other reasons mentioned above you are strongly recommended to take out Travel Insurance. Once the Land Tour has departed there will be no refund for any unused portions of the trip.
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