EVEREST BASE CAMP

Everest (8848m) - there is no greater mountain. This lodge-based trek follows in the footsteps of the great climbing parties. Trekking through Sherpa country past cultivated fields and small villages, we follow the Dudh Kosi before the hard work begins as we climb up to Namche Bazaar. Above the tree-line the scenery is stark but spectacular. The incredible monastery at Thyangboche is a photographer's paradise, set against the backdrop of Ama Dablam, Everest and other huge, snowcapped peaks. With time for acclimatisation en route, our goal is Everest Base Camp on the Khumbu Glacier and the opportunity to climb Kala Pattar (5545m) for a breathtaking view of the highest mountain on earth.

Expedition Trek: 28th Apr -18th May 2010

This unique expedition departure is 2 days longer than the standard itinerary as the group will have the exclusive opportunity to spend two nights camping at Everest Base Camp itself. We will arrive at Base Camp early afternoon and then have the rest of the day and the following day to explore. Set at 5,400m at the foot of the Khumbu Ice Fall, the setting is spectacular. Huge ice seracs surround the camp and the peaks of Pumori, Lingtren and Khumbutse tower above us. We have chosen late April as there are many expeditions attempting Everest at this time and the Base Camp area will be bustling with activity as groups prepare to make their summit attempt. We will be staying close to an expedition team and will be able to soak up the atmosphere, excitement and trepidation of Base Camp life. We should even be able to watch teams climb up through the notorious Khumbu Ice Fall. Please note that we will not be allowed onto the Khumbu Ice Fall (only climbers with permits are allowed actually onto the Ice Fall).

The trek will be led by Valerie Parkinson, who as well as leading Himalayan treks for Exodus for 25 years also attempted Everest herself in spring 2009. She spent 6 weeks at Everest Base Camp and reached the South Summit on the 19th May 2009. Her experience and knowledge of both the area and being part of a climbing expedition is unparalleled. Whilst at Base Camp we will stay in 2-man expedition tents and mattresses will be provided. All food will also be included (Base Camp only) and will be prepared by an expedition cook. Trekkers usually sit in a different dining tent to climbers as the climbers will be preparing for their summit attempt. Anyone suffering from a cold or infection will be asked to stay at the lodge used at Gorak Shep to avoid infecting a climber at this crucial time.

As this route has good teahouses along its length and most campsites are now within settlements, this trip uses teahouses as accommodation. Please see our Teahouses versus Camping webpage for more information.

Episodes Newsletter - Anna Cietak, Exodus' Sales Consultant, writes about Everest Base Camp (August 2009).
'How did Everest Base Camp do in our Battle of the Treks? (July 2009).