19 Days Scheduled guided group and private guided departures

• Classic Everest views from Kala Patar
• Visit Everest Base Camp
• No camping and all trek meals included

For hill walkers the world over, the trek to Everest Base Camp is for most the 'holy grail', the once in a lifetime ultimate trekking 'mecca'. Unlike many other itineraries we maximise your chance of reaching this goal by allowing two full days at the highpoint of the trek as well as carefully incorporating acclimatisation days en route, to keep the pace moderate. So, not only will you get to experience the 'goings on' at Everest base camp, as well as see close-up the tumbling Khumbu Icefall that leads to the South Col, you will also be able to witness the classic view of Everest at dawn from the summit of Kala Patar (5545 metres). This is where the highest mountain in the world is revealed in all its glory as a formidable, snow capped, black pyramid. Following in the footsteps of Hillary and Tenzing, the route to Everest Base camp is of course now a well-trodden, moderate trail and well within the capabilities of regular, active hill walkers.

From the intoxicating Nepalese capital of Kathmandu an unforgettable short flight into the Himalaya brings you to the small airstrip at Lukla. From here you walk along Yak trails that link the villages of the Khumbu, where colourful prayer flags shimmer in the clear alpine air, to the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar. From above Namche you catch your first tantalising views of Everest as it peeks over the impressive Nupste Ridge, as well as the incredible iconic tower of Ama Dablam. Meeting the friendly Sherpa people, yak trains and fellow trekkers along the way is all part of the fun. Now following the Imja Khola, you then cross the river to ascend a ridge, reaching the stunning location of Thyangboche Monastery, one of the finest in the whole of Nepal. The route climbs steadily, ever upwards to Lobuche, the traditional starting point for the final day of trekking to Everest Base camp. After visiting Everest Base camp, the following day an early morning start from Gorak Shep leads you through the dawn mist to the celebrated summit of Kala Patar (5545 metres) to enjoy spine-tingling views of Everest. After retracing your route to Lukla (a lot faster in descent!) there is time to celebrate an amazing Himalaya trekking experience at one of Kathmandu's many fine restaurants.