10 FAQs About the Everest Base Camp Trek
When you are drawn to take on an adventure challenge, it’s not unusual to seek out the biggest hitter. And if you really want to impress, it’s the Everest Base Camp trek that will most appeal. It’s something that literally everyone will have heard of. And because it’s the base camp of the highest mountain in the world, it carries a lot of kudos. But for sensible trekkers, it also carries a lot of questions. So, these are the FAQs we most often field about the trek to the Everest Base Camp.
Everest Base Camp Most Frequently Asked Questions
Is the trek hard?
Trek difficulty is always a subjective matter. But if you are an experienced hiker, you shouldn’t have any problem with the Everest Base Camp trek. The inclines aren’t massively steep. You won’t require any particular equipment. All you really need is the stamina to keep going, because you will be walking for up to 8 hours a day.
Is altitude a problem?
The main problem with altitude is that it affects different people in different ways. And different people at different times. So, you may be a seasoned climber who has never experienced altitude sickness, then find that you’re struggling on your next trip. At Choose a Challenge, we try to pace our excursions to allow our groups time to adjust. That doesn’t mean that you won’t experience problems with altitude – and those problems can range from tiredness and headaches to shortness of breath and palpitations. But it should hopefully lessen the likelihood of you doing so.
What happens if I become ill?
The difficulty with any remote trek is that there will always be very limited medical provision available. That’s why our teams are always fully first aid trained and carry a full medical kit. At certain times of year, there is a ‘pop up’ emergency room stationed at the Base Camp. And there is helicopter rescue available for really urgent cases.
Is the route steep?
The terrain is variable throughout the Everest Base Camp trek. You will face a number of ascents and descents. And the ground can be rough and tricky in places. But you will never need to use climbing equipment. And there will always be someone there to help you. So, it’s not all easy, but it’s probably easier than you think.
How should I prepare for the trek?
Trekking to the Everest Base Camp requires endurance. So, that should be your focus for any physical training. Do as much hiking as you can. Work on your cardio fitness. Eat well. Try to avoid smoking and reduce your alcohol intake. And make sure that you wear your hiking boots in fully before you leave.
What is the accommodation like on the trek?
Throughout most of the Everest base Camp trek, you will be staying in local teahouses. The facilities are fairly basic, and you will usually need to share a room. But they are clean, well cared for, and the people are genuinely friendly and accommodating.
What happens at meal times on the trek?
Unless stated otherwise, all of your meals will be provided. We have been operating in this area for years, and always ensure that our hikers have fresh, good quality food to eat for every meal.
Will I be able to charge my phone, and is there wi-fi available?
Most of the accommodation we use on our treks have either electricity or device charging stations available. And surprisingly, you should have access to wi-fi throughout most of your trip. Some people prefer to leave their phones behind, to enjoy a digital detox. But if you want to stay in touch with friends and family, you should be able to do so for most of the trek.
What is the best time to take on an Everest base Camp trek?
The Everest trekking season runs from September to May. This is when conditions are safest and most enjoyable. October is usually the most popular month. But we operate treks up to the end of April.
How long does the trek take?
The overall Everest Base Camp trip takes 16 days. However, this includes flights, transfers, and free days for exploration. Weather delays notwithstanding, you will usually spend 12 days trekking.
Trekking to the Everest Base Camp is a true challenge and adventure. The conditions can be difficult, and the experience isn’t always comfortable. But while the route is tough, it is achievable for most people. And the sense of achievement at the end of it is simply epic.
Sound good? Why not check out the full itinerary and book your Everest Base Camp adventure.
