Everest Base Camp & Kala Patar 18 days

What's Included

• The services of an expert English-speaking local tour leader throughout the tour, and local guides at some sites.

• Return local flights from Kathmandu to Lukla.

• 14-day trek with comfortable lodge accommodation, generally in twin-share rooms with beds with comfortable foam mattresses and pillows.

• Ascent of Kala Patar (5,643 metres).

• Porterage on trek.

• Trek Pack for use on trek valued at over US$500 – kitbag designed with porter comfort in mind, high quality sleeping bag designed for sub-zero temperatures, inner sheet and high-altitude jacket.

• Acclimatisation day in Namche Bazaar with guides on hand to escort walks.

• Sightseeing (and entrance fees where applicable) in Kathmandu including Bodhnath Stupa, Pashupatinath and the holy Bagmati River.

• Kathmandu airport arrival transfer and transfer on Day 17.

Highlight of Highlights - Pick of the trip

Everst from Kala Patar

For many trekkers, reaching Kala Patar is a very emotional experience. Sunrise atop this 5643 giant - widely recognised as the best vantage point to see Everest, surpasses the wildest imagination! From here, about three kilometres away and some 200 metres below, Everest Base Camp can be seen in a bowl at the bottom of the Khumbu Ice Fall.

Accommodation, Transport & Meals

Transport

• Plane
• Private vehicle

Accommodation

• 3 nights Comfortable hotel
• 14 nights Trek guesthouse

Meals

• 3 breakfasts

Equipment Included

• personal trek equipment (sleeping bag, duvet jacket, sleeping sheet, kit bag)
• portable altitude chamber

Not Included

International flights, airport departure taxes, airport departure transfer, visas, insurance, meals not listed, any optional tours and activities during free time, camera fees, excess baggage charges, showers on trek (if available), tips or gratuities and items of a personal nature.

Please allow US$720 for meals.

Optional Extras

• Kathmandu - Bhaktapur entrance
  US$15
• Kathmandu - Half Day tour to Bhaktapur & Patan
  US$40 approx
• Kathmandu - Mt Everest scenic flight - including transfers
  approx US$175
• Kathmandu - Patan entrance
  US$5
• Namche - Sherpa House Museum
  US$2 ( small donation also appreciated)

Fitness

Acclimatisation to high altitudes (generally for trips over 3500 metres)
We take this very seriously, which is why we have one of the best safety records in the Himalaya. We have over 30 years of experience in the region and our success rates on high altitude treks are very high. Our itineraries allow for a safe approach to high altitudes, following the guidelines set out by the Himalayan Rescue Association. We even carry Portable Altitude Chambers (PAC bags) for your safety and peace of mind on all treks proceeding above 4000 metres.

Our leaders are highly experienced mountain guides. Please follow their instructions very carefully as you ascend to high altitudes: walking slowly rather than hurrying, wearing sunglasses during the day, maintaining a high level of (non-alcoholic!) fluid consumption, not sleeping during the day, wearing adequate warm clothing are all factors of importance. Your leader will brief you fully on these considerations prior to the start of your trek.

In addition, if you are taking any medications with you which may have been suggested as an aid to acclimatisation - Diamox is quite commonly suggested - it is vital that you advise your leader in Kathmandu before you leave for the start of the trek. He will then discuss with you the advantages and disadvantages of taking this medication, and in particular when you should consider starting it and the duration for which it should be taken. Be aware that many trekkers have no need for such medication.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations may be required or recommended for this trip so you should consult with your travel doctor to obtain the latest up to date information. It is your responsibility to ensure that you obtain any vaccinations or preventative medicines for the countries you are visiting – or any which may be required by your home country upon your return.

For travellers from Australia and New Zealand, we recommend the Travel Doctor-TMVC clinics (see www.traveldoctor.com.au or phone 1300 658 844 for an appointment in Australia). Travellers from countries other than Australia and New Zealand should contact similar organisations or their travel doctor for advice. General health and vaccination information is available to all travellers at
www.traveldoctor.com.au/travelreport. Some vaccines require more than one dose, so arrange for your visit at least 4-6 weeks before you travel.