Everest Base Camp Trek & Stay Pre-Trip Booklet
Welcome to your Rugged Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek!
We’re so excited to share one of our favorite places, the Khumbu Valley and Everest Base Camp, with you - and to enjoy the experience in a unique way. Your Everest Base Camp (EBC) experience will be very different from other trekkers you might encounter along the trail. Not only will you be staying in the nicest mountain lodges and teahouses available, you will be guided by an Everest summit guide! Further, by traveling with a registered Everest summit expedition, you’ll have rare access to Everest Base Camp Proper at the culmination of your adventure. While most standard trekkers never even reach Everest Base Camp, merely ‘tagging’ an arbitrary, spray-painted rock - Trekker’s Rock - on the lower outskirts of camp (about a 45-minute walk to the tents) before returning down the Khumbu Valley, you will be given a front-row ticket and welcomed into Everest Base Camp Proper for two nights. With exclusive, unparalleled access, you will have the opportunity to make the most of your time and truly experience life on Everest and what goes into a successful summit climb. Many people may feel slightly intimidated by the idea of hiking to the base of the highest peak in the world, believing they won’t have the level of fitness and strength needed to move at such high altitude, from one village to the next and ultimately all the way into EBC. We deliberately go slowly and allocate more rest days than ‘standard’ operators because we want our trekkers to lay the long-term foundations of their acclimatization. This slow pace and strategy, coupled with world class guidance takes the pressure off everyone and sets you up to enjoy your trek, not just complete it. While we work with the best partners and pull from our deep history guiding in the Khumbu Valley to facilitate your experience, an EBC trek remains a self-propelled adventure and a true expedition. Beyond your commitment to being a positive member of the team, your goal will benefit from advanced planning and continued flexibility. You will need to meet the training, travel, and trekking requirements, be flexible enough to accommodate potential weather delays and roll with the punches of true adventure travel and be diligent in completing the paperwork required prior to departure. Rugged Luxury is here with you every step of the way to ensure you are prepared and ready to go on this once-in-a-lifetime experience. To facilitate your best experience, we’ve put together this informational guide to help you arrive well-prepared, confident, and ready for a great expedition.
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Your Pre-Trip Booklet Contains: 1. Quick References: Where to look for more information 2.Expedition Overview: What to expect from your trip 3. What’s Included/Excluded: What will be provided for you, and what you need to come prepared to manage on your own 4.Add-Ons and Options: Customize your experience to get the most out of your trip 5. Itinerary example: How the trip will flow - keeping in mind weather and conditions will change your experienced itinerary from time to time. 6. Packing list: Detailed list of what to bring, from boots to your toothbrush 7.Packing Tips and Tricks: Tried and true adventure travel tidbits from our guides! 8.Training For Trekking: How to prepare physically to get the most out of your trip 9. Travel details: How to have a smooth experience in Nepal from door to door 10.Gear Rentals: Making sure you have all specialty gear needed for a true adventure 11.Travel Insurance: Protect your health and your investment 12.Climbing with CTSS & Expedition Philosophy: 13.Document Checklist: What “i”s to dot and “t”s to cross 14. To-Do Checklist: Stay on top of your trip even when life gets busy 15.Map of the trip 16.EBC Trek FAQs
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1. Quick Reference Information
To help you prepare we recommend spending a few hours perusing through the resources CTSS has put together to support our climbers in the Everest region. As an EBC Trekker, you will be part of our community of climbers embarking on the adventure of a lifetime and even though many of these resources are specific to climbers you may enjoy knowing more about the expedition that you will be a valued member of.
Questions? We’re here to help, feel free to email any and all questions to: info@climbingthesevensummits.com
CTSS Website: Everest Base Camp Rugged Luxury: https://www.ruggedluxuryexpeditions.com/everest-base-camp
CTSS Video: Visit ourYoutube page for informational videos, or you can use the links below: Everest FAQs EBC Trek
CTSS Video Gear Guides: Visit our YouTube page for a whole series of mountaineering gear guide videos, or you can use the link here.
CTSS Video Guide Tips: For tips on staying healthy and productive in the mountains, visit our YouTube Page “Guide Tips Playlist”, or visit using the link here.
Trip Insurance: https://climbingthesevensummits.com/insurance/
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2. Expedition Overview
In a nutshell, Rugged Luxury is all about maximizing the experience without sacrificing any of the adventure. Using the most experienced leadership on the mountain, the best logistics, and the highest level of available accommodations, we aim to optimize your journey, safety, and opportunity for success. The trek to Everest Base Camp travels through the stunning Khumbu Valley and is surrounded by Himalayan giants. You will not be disappointed by the mountain views! With no road access, this area is very remote and only accessible by helicopter or foot. Dotted throughout the Khumbu Valley are charming teahouses, mountain lodges, and established climbing camps. As you work your way from Lukla to Namche, Deboche, and up through Pheriche all the way to EBC, weather, acclimatization needs, and trail conditions may all impact your schedule. Our itineraries include contingency day(s) to buffer for any travel delays but it is helpful to expect the unexpected and to go with the flow to allow anything that crops up to be part of the overall experience and add color to your expedition rather than detract from it.
Getting to Kathmandu The first day of your itinerary is an arrival day, which means you can book your flights to arrive at any time on that first day. We strongly recommend arriving in the morning or early afternoon of Day 1, to give yourself a few hours of breathing room. You are also welcome to arrive a day or two earlier if you prefer additional time to shake off jetlag. If you arrive early, note that hotel, sightseeing, and food expenses outside the normal itinerary are your responsibility. Flying into Kathmandu (KTM) is usually fairly straightforward. KTM is served by several major airlines and is a common destination for adventure travelers. As you book tickets, please pay special attention to your flight durations and layovers. Note that if your layover at a connecting airport is more than 12 hours, you may be required to pick up/recheck your baggage and find a hotel. We highly recommend using a travel consultant who can help you find the best routing and plan for any potential layovers. Once you arrive, it is best to expect a slower pace. Things seldom move quickly or efficiently in Nepal - arriving in KTM, purchasing your visa on arrival, clearing customs, and collecting your baggage may take an hour or more. After picking up your baggage at the airport, a member of our team will be there at arrivals to meet you and transport you to our hotel. Once you arrive at the hotel and check-in, please go ahead and get settled in. Day 1 is a free day to relax and shake off the jetlag. There are no formal activities on that day.
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Your guides will already be in Kathmandu and may swing by to introduce themselves and answer questions, but they likely won’t want to disturb you. It might be helpful to leave a message at reception to let them know that you have arrived. (Our hotel in Kathmandu provides very comfortable accommodations. Feel free to explore the hotel and surrounding area, but don’t wander too far until you’ve made contact with one of your guides.) You will formally meet the team at breakfast at 8am on the morning of Day 2, our logistics day, for gear checks and guide briefings. Typically, we don’t give out team members’ personal information prior to the trip for privacy reasons. Some people don’t like to have their information out there, and we respect their wishes. Please know there is plenty of time to get to know one another in Kathmandu and on the trek and share contact details.
In Kathmandu We’ve built in a day after everyone arrives in Kathmandu for our team briefing to run through gear checks, finalize any requisite permits, and repack for the expedition to come. On our logistics day, Day 2, you will formally meet your team and have a full day in Kathmandu. Your guides will host a compulsory team briefing to go over all the specifics of your expedition, including your trek and climbing schedules, weight limits for the flight to Lukla, updated logistics, an orientation to the area around the hotel, and how to pack for your upcoming adventure. During the team briefing, your guides will also hand out any provided gear, such as the provided sleeping bag rental, and help you find any items missing from your gear check.
Flying to Lukla With packing, last-minute shopping, and final preparations completed in Kathmandu, the team will meet early in the morning for a short ride to the airport, for our flight to Lukla. From Kathmandu, it’s about a 45-minute flight time to Lukla, a mountain village that marks the start of our trek. Given the mountainous environment, there is always a chance that the pilots will delay our flight in order to maintain our safety. If this does happen, our hotel is wonderfully close to the airport, and we can adjust our schedule easily without spending a ton of time driving back and forth.
Everest Base Camp Trek Once you have flown into Lukla, the trek has officially begun! Our schedule involves both moving days, trekking from village to village, as well as rest and acclimatization days in between. The slow ascent up the Khumbu Valley is important to allow your body time to acclimate and gives you a chance to explore each village we stay in. On some rest days, we’ll take a small day hike up to points of interest to give our bodies new high points which aids in our acclimatization. While each village has its own charm, the visit to Tengboche Monastery is often hailed as one of the highlights of the trek. An important cultural landmark for the Sherpa community, the Tengboche Monastery is a unique and fantastic place to see for yourself.
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Each trekking morning, after waking up and having breakfast at the teahouse or mountain lodge, it’s time to load your daypack and hit the trail. Porters and yaks will bring the majority of your gear to your next night’s stay, allowing you to trek light, carrying only what you need for the day. What goes into your pack each day will change based on the weather, but each trekker should plan on carrying at a minimum: Personal items such as passport, wallet and cash Small first aid kit and any personal/altitude medications Hand Sanitizer Toilet paper Snacks for the trail 2 liters of water Water purification (chemical or UV) Sunscreen and lip balm Headlamp Clothing layers for the day including rain gear, warm jackets, insulated pants, hats etc. Camera or phone Guide tip: Mock pack your trekking backpack with all the items above when you are training. Everything should fit in your pack easily and carry well, with some room left over. If you have to strap items on the outside of your backpack or have to play ‘Packing Tetris’ just to make everything fit, bring a larger pack. Using a pack that you have to cram and fight your gear in and out of every time you want something will become very tiresome. Is there room for your big parka fit as well? You’ll want it with you as the trek moves into higher, colder altitudes.
Most days, we will walk between 4 and 6 hours on the trail at a moderate pace including rest breaks. There may be the occasional day or two containing longer stretches. Over the years we’ve refined our trekking schedule to make the best of our “move, rest, move” itinerary. After each significant elevation gain, our teams will rest in that village for a day, with a day hike to get the blood flowing and see the surrounding countryside. For many experienced hikers, the mileage and elevation change each day would be considered moderate, but taking frequent rest days is absolutely essential for acclimatization. Plus - you can’t beat the scenery throughout the trek. Relaxing with a hot drink in front of your teahouse while you watch the sunset lighting up the tallest peaks in the world is, in one word, unforgettable. While weather and group dynamics may change our route or itinerary slightly, our general trekking plan will closely follow the itinerary below. *Elevations are for each village, and the elevation change reported is the difference between villages, not the elevation change you may actually walk. Depending on your route, you may ascend and descend significantly more as the trail rolls over ridges and through valleys. Similarly, horizontal distance can change if you take side trails or detours.*
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EBC Trek Trail Information *Days 1 & 2 are spent in Kathmandu*
EBC Trek Daily Route Information ITINERARY DAY
START
END
ELEVATION CHANGE
DISTANCE
ACTIVITY
ACCOMODATION
DAY 3
Lukla 9,337ft (2,845m)
Phakding 8,563ft (2,610m)
-774 ft -236m
5.1 miles 8.2 km
Fly in/Trek
Lodge / Teahouse
DAY 4
Phakding 8,563ft (2,610m)
Namche 11,286ft (3,440m)
+2,723 ft +8 30 m
6.8 miles 11 km
Trekking
Lodge / Teahouse
DAY 5
Namche 11,286ft (3,440m)
Namche 11,286ft (3,440m)
0 ft 0 meters
0 miles 0 km
Rest & Optional day hike
Lodge / Teahouse
DAY 6
Namche 11,286ft (3,440m)
Deboche 12,664ft (3,860m)
+1,378 ft +420m
6 miles 9.7 km
Trekking
Lodge / Teahouse
DAY 7
Deboche 12,664ft (3,860m)
Deboche 12,664ft (3,860m)
0 ft 0 meters
0 miles 0 km
Rest & Optional day hike
Lodge / Teahouse
DAY 8
Deboche 12,664ft (3,860m)
Pheriche 14,340ft (4,371m)
+1,676 ft +510m
7.4 miles 12 km
Trekking
Lodge / Teahouse
DAY 9
Pheriche 14,340ft (4,371m)
Pheriche 14,340ft (4,371m)
0 ft 0 meters
0 miles 0 km
Rest & Optional day hike
Lodge / Teahouse
DAY 10
Pheriche 14,340ft (4,371m)
Lobuche BC 15,700ft (4,785m)
+1,660 ft +414m
4.5 miles 7.25 km
Trekking
Tented Camp, Lobuche Base Camp
DAY 11
Lobuche BC 15,700ft (4,785m)
Lobuche High camp 17,750 ft (5,410 m) +return to LBC
Ascent +1,750 ft +535m Descent -1,750 ft -535m
Round Trip 2.4 miles 3.9 km
Acclimatization Hike
Tented Camp, Lobuche Base Camp
DAY 12
Lobuche BC 15,700ft (4,785m)
Awi Peak 17,149ft (5,527m) + return to Lobuche BC
Ascent +1,449 ft +441m Descent -1,750 ft -441m
Round Trip 5 miles, 8 km
Rest & Optional day hike
Tented Camp, Lobuche Base Camp
DAY 13
Lobuche BC 15,700ft (4,785m)
Everest Basecamp 17,500 ft (5,334m)
+1,410 +430m
8.3 miles 13.4 km
Trekking
Tented Camp, CTSS Everest Base Camp
Trekking up to Lobuche High Camp on Day 11 of your climb is a fantastic opportunity not available to most EBC trekkers. While the trail to high camp isn’t very technical, it rises high above the valley and affords spectacular views towards Ama Dablam, Everest, Pokalde, and down the whole Khumbu Valley. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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Tented Camps As the team moves higher into the Khumbu Valley, there are fewer and fewer excellent teahouses to choose from. Instead of just making do, we have developed a set of tented camps. These aren’t your typical sleep-on-the-ground-eat-out-of-a-tin style camps. Each location has dedicated sleeping tents, dining tents, separate restroom facilities, and a fully staffed kitchen, ensuring you eat well and rest comfortably as you move ever closer to Everest Base Camp.
Everest Base Camp When your team arrives at Everest Base Camp, you’ll be welcomed by our fantastic staff and incredibly spacious, insulated geodesic domes, ready for you to move into. Our itinerary includes two nights and one full day in EBC proper, a treat most trekkers will never experience. Exploring Everest Base Camp, enjoying an espresso in the Big House dome, and staring up at the Khumbu Icefall are experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Return To Kathmandu Once your time enjoying EBC has come to a close, there is one final treat waiting for you. The helicopter ride from EBC to Kathmandu backtracks your trekking route, giving you a chance to relive the hike while viewing the incredible peaks, valleys, waterfalls, and villages from above.
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3. What’s Included/Excluded CTSS works hard to organize every expedition to meet our high standards and ensure your highest chance of success. We focus on the details to make sure every group is fully supported. Our Everest region treks and climbs are fully inclusive except for items/services of a personal nature. Rugged Luxury Trekkers are able to bring one 23 kg / 50 lbs duffel with them during the trek, plus their trekking backpack for a total of two bags. Please review what is included in your expedition as part of CTSS’s service and what items need to be handled individually. If you have any questions feel free to email info@climbingthesevensummits.com for further clarification.
Included: Full expedition logistics Return Airport transfers In country transport associated with the program itinerary Single rooming accommodation in Kathmandu (Dual occupancy for couples) Domestic flights to and from Lukla Single Rooming in Mountain Lodges and teahouses in the Khumbu Valley (Dual occupancy for couples) National Park fees Trekking permits Expedition trek leader Porters to carry trekking duffels in the Khumbu Valley (max. weight 23kg (50lbs) Sleeping bag rental Tented Camp accommodations at Lobuche Base Camp/Gorakshep 2x nights at Everest Base Camp Proper in Everest Executive Domes Welcome & Farewell dinners Breakfast Daily in Kathmandu All meals while on the trek and at Everest Base Camp Beginner friendly ice climbing clinic & technical equipment Shared helicopter flight Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu Kathmandu City Tour with Guides
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Excluded: Wire transfer fees or credit card surcharges International flights to Kathmandu, Nepal Airport arrival or departure taxes Associated travel expenses including: Visa, Passport, Reciprocity Fees, Vaccination Charges, Excess Baggage Optional excursions not included in the itinerary or additional days before or after the scheduled program Personal trekking/climbing equipment, clothing, toiletries, etc Personal sundries including personal snacks, alcoholic beverages, mini bar, laundry services, third party internet, medical expenses, gratuities Non-team lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu Sherpa tip pool (amount varies) Guide tips (customary but optional) Costs incurred as a result of events/delays beyond the control of CTSS above and beyond the normal expedition costs Early departure costs (evac fees, transport, extra hotel nights, flight changes etc) Required travel insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation etc.) Unused Contingency Days at the end of your program: (CTSS covers one night in the hotel in Kathmandu on your return. If you decide to stay longer in Kathmandu beyond this night, those costs are your responsibility. We highly recommend that while you should plan to be away from home for the entire duration of the expedition including contingency days, you book a flexible return airfare so you can move your flight forward if you don’t use all of the contingency days or push it back as you need.) ** If you have purchased add-ons, upgrades, or custom options please refer to your purchased services guidelines for accurate inclusions and exclusions
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4. Add-Ons and Options Expeditions to the Everest region are a major undertaking, often a once in a lifetime opportunity, so climbing and trekking in the Everest region should not be a “one size fits all” experience. CTSS is able to work with you to customize your experience. We have a number of common add-ons available as well if you would like to upgrade your experience. Our Add-Ons and Options frequently change and expand, so make sure to check out our website for all our most up to date offerings and pricing.
Add-Ons Available For all Climbers and Trekkers Additional Nights at Everest Base Camp If trekkers want to stay at Everest Base Camp longer than the itinerary, we can add additional nights for you. If you would like to stay longer than a week, you will need a Nuptse climbing permit, which allows you to stay at Everest Base Camp throughout the entire Everest expedition season. Please contact us directly to arrange this and for up-to-date pricing.
Gokyo Extension Once you’ve achieved your goal of Everest Base Camp, why not make your return a little different rather than retracing your footprints back down the Khumbu Valley? Instead, spend a few days seeking some new scenery by visiting the Gokyo region. Gokyo itself is a small hamlet of stone houses and one of the highest settlements in the world, surrounded by truly breathtaking vistas, mountains, and glaciers. You’ll see and experience more of these amazing mighty Himalayan Mountains, climb the famous Cho La Pass (5,420 m), escape the madding crowds, and view the stunning Gokyo Lakes before rejoining the main trail at Namche Bazaar for the final day’s trek back to Lukla.
Lobuche Climb Lobuche Peak is a jewel of the Himalayas and offers perhaps the best summit view in the world! Lobuche is surrounded by the tallest peaks on earth and the view from the summit peers out on the Everest/Lhotse/Nuptse massif, Makalu, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Cho Oyu, Thamserku, and many others. This is a great first Himalayan climb and a great training peak for taller mountains such as Aconcagua, Ama Dablam, and Cho Oyu. To consider an ascent of Lobuche East peak participants must be familiar with crampon and ice axe technique and have used a harness before. We will run a training refresher at Lobuche Base Camp before the ascent so if you are a little rusty, don’t worry, we will get you up to speed. If you’re not sure if you have the experience for this climb, please ask us.
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If not, we can recommend other training to get prepared for a Lobuche ascent. This extension is best suited to experienced and fit trekkers who are keen to get off the beaten path and further challenge themselves. Please note that this extension will had two days to your itinerary and is guided by one of our world-class Sherpas. More options can be found on our website
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5. Detailed Itinerary Success in the mountains depends on being flexible enough to take advantage of weather windows, group fitness, and mountain conditions throughout the climb. Our guides will be making decisions in real time in order to maximize your chance of success and take advantage of the best conditions and weather. We provide these itineraries as an aid to your planning, but please know that these itineraries can and will change. Come prepared to embrace the fluidity and joy of tuning into this very unique mountain environment. As you reference this itinerary keep in mind that each wave of CTSS climbers and trekkers will be following this schedule, but staggered a few days between each wave. Your trip’s official start date is “Day 1”, the rest of your itinerary will flow from that date.
EBC Trek Itinerary DAY 1
Arrival Day: Transport to hotel and settle in
DAY 2
Logistics Day: Team meeting, gear check, pack and preparation, free time to explore Kathmandu
DAY 3
Your EBC Trek Begins Early morning flight to Lukla, weather permitting, this flight offers spectacular views of Everest and the Himalayas. Trek to Phakding located on the Dudh Kosi River. Elevation: 8,563 ft (2,610 m) Hiking time: 3-4 hours
DAY 4
Trek to Namche Bazaar Snaking along the river, we will ascend 700 m/2,300 ft through cedar and pine forests to the Sherpa Capital of Namche, a historic trading post and heart of the Khumbu. Elevation: 11,300 ft (3,444 m) Hiking time: 5-6 hours
DAY 5
Acclimatization & Rest Day Today we’ll take a short acclimatization hike to take in the amazing views. Free afternoon to explore Namche, get a massage or check out the markets.
DAY 6
Trek to Diboche Continuing our climb, today we head through the village of Tengboche, the religious center of the Khumbu Valley, to Diboche, about 20 minutes past the Tenboche Monastery. You will enjoy spectacular views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam today. Have your camera ready! Elevation: 12,250 ft (3,730 m) Hiking time: 4-6 hours
DAY 7
Acclimatization & Rest Day Option to visit Tengboche Monastery, one of the most well-known in the world. Additional day hike options surround Diboche to access some of the most expansive viewpoints in the Khumbu Valley.
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EBC Trek Itinerary (continued)
DAY 8
Trek to Pheriche Today we cross the tree line, departing the forests in favor of the high alpine grasslands to the outpost of Pheriche. Pheriche is famous for its high-altitude medical clinic which attracts world-renowned physicians who spend the season researching the effects of high altitude on human physiology and treating trekkers and Sherpas alike. Elevation: 14,340 ft (4,370 m) Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
DAY 9
DAY 10
Acclimatization & Rest Day Today, we will take an acclimatization hike high above Pheriche to overlook some of the best vistas in the Himalayas. Trek to Lobuche Base Camp Continuing up toward Lobuche, today we reach the terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. Along the trail, we will also pass a memorial field for the fallen sherpa and famous climbers of the region, with prayer flags festooned with chortons to honor their lives. Arriving at Lobuche Base Camp, you will be welcomed to our well-appointed camp, which is already setup and waiting for you. Our first night under the alpine stars! Elevation: 16,210 ft (4,940 m) Hiking time: 4-5 hours
DAY 11
Lobuche High Camp Today, we will do a short 2-3 hour acclimatization climb up to Lobuche High Camp 17,750 ft (5,410 m). You will be rewarded with spectacular views from all sides. We return to Lobuche Base Camp for our second night in our tented camp. Elevation: 16,210 ft (4,940 m) Hiking time: 4-6 hours
DAY 12
Acclimatization hike to Awi Peak From Lobuche Base Camp, we ascend Awi Peak (5,245m / 17,208 ft), a rewarding acclimatization climb with stunning views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and Pumori before returning to camp. Elevation: 16,924 ft (5158 m) Hiking time: 4-5 hours.
DAY 13
Trek to Everest Base Camp Congratulations! Today, you arrive at Everest Base Camp! Picking our way over the glacial moraine, we leave behind the last of the Sherpa villages and teahouses and trek to Everest Base Camp. As you enter, you can stop for a quick photo at “Trekkers Rock”, but our team gets to pass straight through and into the heart of the Everest scene. The CTSS camp can be easily identified by the huge, white geodesic dome - the Big House. Your new home away from home! Elevation: 17,598 ft (5,364 m) Hiking time: 6-8 hours
DAY 14
Everest Base Camp Day Marvel at the Khumbu Glacier and Icefall right outside your door, unwind and relax in the Big House, enjoy the world’s highest game of ping pong or a barista-made cappuccino overlooking the icefall! Explore camp and take part in our beginner-friendly ice climbing clinic in the lower part of the Khumbu Icefall.
DAY 15
Helicopter from EBC to Kathmandu Most helicopter flights happen in the morning when the weather is most stable. Once your helicopter arrives it’s a spectacular 20-minute flight back to Lukla, then another 45 minutes flight time to Kathmandu. You are likely to swap aircraft (the helicopters are specialized high-altitude aircraft) and pilot at Lukla.
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EBC Trek Itinerary (continued) DAY 16
Kathmandu City Tour & Farewell Dinner Wrap up your trip by digging into the incredible sights and history of Kathmandu. With the trek successfully behind you, it’s pleasant to relax and enjoy Kathmandu before returning home.
DAY 17
Contingency Day or Free Day We’ve built in a day to absorb any delays throughout the trip due to weather or conditions. If your trek went smoothly and with no delays, this contingency can be used as a free day to relax, shop, and enjoy Kathmandu on your own.
DAY 18
Fly home! Leaving Nepal can be bittersweet. It’s an incredible place full of beautiful people, places, and experiences. Boarding your plane home, you’ll return with a whole new set of memories that are sure to stay with you for years to come.
A further note on Rugged Luxury itineraries: A hallmark of an excellent guide team is not just having a well-developed itinerary and logistics but also having the freedom and resources to adjust along the way. One sure way to have a bad experience while adventuring in the mountains is to stick to a pre-arranged schedule no matter what happens while on the trail. Most likely, your trip will have a few days here and there that diverge from the itinerary detailed above. We invite you to embrace this flexibility and know that we’re changing plans with your best experience in mind. Adding in a rest day or pushing slightly further than originally planned can set you and the team up to take advantage of the best weather and options throughout the trek.
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6. Packing List Rugged Luxury trekkers are able to bring ONE 23kg (50lb) duffel with them plus their trekking backpack for a total of TWO bags. Your second duffel/suitcase will be stored in Kathmandu. Our gear lists are comprehensive and represent the collective experience of hundreds of expeditions. Read your gear list thoroughly and, at a minimum, bring ALL items not labeled optional. Carefully consider any extras you want to bring and leave all but the most important at home. As you pack, remember that while your pack will be small and light, all your gear will be packed on porters or yaks from Lukla all the way to Everest Base Camp. We absolutely want you to be comfortable, but keep in mind where we are and how your gear gets transported while you pack. Please keep extras or heavy items to a minimum. Guide Tip: Most “extra” items that get thrown in at home are rarely used while on the trek. Packing simply usually elevates, rather than diminishes, your enjoyment of the trip. By spending less time sorting, finding, and organizing a ton of extra gear, you gain the opportunity to relax and enjoy your downtime more completely. CTSS will also provide an annotated gear list via email with additional descriptions and examples of acceptable gear for all major items.
Kilimanjaro Gear Checklist Travel Items ITEM
PURCHASED / HAVE
PACKED IN DUFFELS
Travel wallet /crossbody bag (optional) Passport, passport photos, and travel documents Including printouts of team emails or downloaded on your phone for easy reference.
Cash / Cards
For visas, tips, etc.
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Travel (continued) Travel Items Items (Continued) ITEM
PURCHASED / HAVE
PACKED IN DUFFELS
PURCHASED / HAVE
PACKED IN DUFFELS
Casual travel / in-town clothes Suitable for wearing to a nicer restaurant
Swimsuit (optional) For the pool at the hotel.
In-town toiletries Travel adapters, charging cables, battery packs, etc. 2 x large duffel bags with locks
One waterproof duffel with your trekking gear for your porter and one duffel/suitcase you will leave securely at the hotel.
Lower Body ITEM
Lightweight Sneakers Shower Sandals 5 x pairs of hiking socks Both midweight and heavyweight; need to extend above the top of your boot.
Hiking boots Heavy duty boots that are insulated and warm enough to wear in snow and cold temperatures with good ankle support.
5 x pairs of synthetic underwear/sports bras 2 x pairs of base layer thermal bottoms 2 x pairs of soft-shell hiking pants 1 light-weight, 1 mid-weight.
Shell pants These should have full side zips, which allow you to put them on quickly without taking your boots off.
Insulated pants These should have full side zips, which allow you to put them on quickly without taking your boots off.
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Upper Body ITEM
PURCHASED / HAVE
PACKED IN DUFFELS
Lightweight sun hoody Base layer thermal top Mid-weight
2 x Midweight layers 1 fleece, 1 synthetic or down medium-weight puffy jacket.
Shell jacket
Any waterproof / breathable jacket with a hood can work without additional insulation.
Down parka
This needs to be heavyweight and very warm yet light and packable with a hood. Don’t underestimate the cold at Everest Base Camp.
3 x neck gaiters Winter hat Baseball or sun hat Lightweight gloves Heavyweight gloves Ski gloves work great.
Chemical hand and foot warmers (optional) Highly recommended if you get cold easily.
Glacier glasses
These must be the darkest lenses you can buy (Cat 4) and have full coverage around the eyes to block all light for climbing on the snow.
Sunglasses Prescription eyewear If needed.
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Trekking Gear ITEM
PURCHASED / HAVE
PACKED IN DUFFELS
PURCHASED / HAVE
PACKED IN DUFFELS
Day pack 30-40L with a hipbelt, can be used as your carry-on during travel. Pack cover Trekking poles Lightweight and collapsable Down sleeping bag Rated to -20F or -30C. Rentals are available if needed Sleeping bag liner (optional) For use in your rental sleeping bag Headlamp Battery powered. Powerful enough to see clearly at night. Spare batteries Water bottles 2x 1 liter bottles, hard-sided and wide-mouthed preferred. Water purification system UV steripen preferred .5L Thermos (optional) Umbrella and Rain Poncho (optional)
Personal Items ITEM
Sunscreen and zinc Minimum 30 SPF Book, Kindle, or tablet Camera (optional)
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Personal Items (continued) ITEM
PURCHASED / HAVE
PACKED IN DUFFELS
Toothbrush and toothpaste Trek towel Earplugs (optional) 2x lip balm with SPF Hand sanitizer Several bottles Small soap and shampoo Pillowcase (optional) Nail trimmers Baby wipes (optional) 2x rolls of toilet paper + ziploc bag for storage Pee funnel (women only) Pee Bottle 3x Heavy-duty trash bags Basic medical kit Including high-altitude medications Snack food 4lbs/2kg assorted snack food that will be palatable when you don’t have an appetite. Personal Toiletries
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Money to bring In general, we recommend bringing $2,000 more in cash than you anticipate needing, plus at least one, preferably two credit and debit cards. The cash that you need to bring includes: Money for visas ($50 for single entry 30 days for trekkers) Sherpa tip pool (varies by year) $200 for potential consultation and treatment by the doctors at Everest Base Camp $500 to cover expenses for a potential early departure (not often, but sometimes this occurs)
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7. Tips and Tricks From the Field Our guides have put their heads together to give you some of their hard-learned lessons.
Before Your Trip Start training as far in advance as you are able. The trek is fantastic when you’re “just fit enough” but gets even more enjoyable if you’ve trained to the point of ending each day with plenty of energy to spare. You don’t need to be an uber-athlete, but being comfortable walking on a rough trail for several hours a day is important. Get used to using water bottles rather than a hydration bladder and sleeve. Hydration bladders can work well lower down on the trek, but above Pheriche, it’s common to have cold enough temperatures to freeze the hose. As you train, try to get in the habit of drinking water only at breaks about every 45 minutes to an hour. Look for gear early! If you’re reading these tips, you also have access to your trek’s gear list. Some items, like the down parka, can be hard to find at certain times of the year. Buying your gear early also means you can wait for sales to come around and take advantage of the savings. Research Nepal and the Khumbu Valley at home. You’ll be visiting an incredibly unique area; the more you know about its history, the more engaging the trip will be. Ask questions! Our office is here to help answer any questions or clear up potential confusion before you hop on a plane. If you’re new to trekking, please feel encouraged to ask as many questions as you need to. Check your passport expiration date, work schedule, and chat with close family members about your schedule. Daily life has a way of creeping into any expedition. Make sure you don’t have any time conflicts or paperwork problems early on in the preparation process so you can enjoy your trip to the full.
Travel Keep all necessary trip information on hand with you for reference on the trip, including this Pre-Trip Booklet bookmarked on your phone, especially contact information for CTSS if flights change en route to Nepal or there is a hiccup or delay. Stay well rested in the week leading up to the trip. Long flights and travel stress can impact your immune system and energy. Bank some extra pre-trip sleep hours if possible. Walk at least once an hour or two, even just a quick up and down the aircraft aisle. Hydrate! Airlines rarely serve water often enough, and the dry climate-controlled air pulls moisture out of our bodies quickly. Even if you can’t take a full water bottle onto the plane (some airports don’t allow liquids on the plane even if purchased/filled after security), bring an empty, wide-mouthed water bottle. Most flight attendants will happily fill it completely with purified water if you ask them to. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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Pick up an Ncell SIM card while at the airport. SIM cards with data are very cheap in Nepal but can be hard to find outside Kathmandu. The airport’s Ncell kiosk is a convenient option and isn’t overinflated pricing. Bring a mask! Though masking is less prevalent post-covid, having the option tucked away is useful. If you’re seated next to someone who is coughing, your solution is already in your pack. Kathmandu can be a dusty place if it hasn’t rained recently. Masking against the dust is common, especially for those with sensitive lungs or asthma.
Health Stomach bugs, coughs, and colds are issues that often impact trekkers’ experience. Much of our mountain lodge and teahouse selection is focused on safe and clean kitchens and saves our trekkers many of the problems experienced by other teams. However, we encourage you to be constantly proactive in order to reduce the possibility of illness as much as possible. Hand sanitize frequently while traveling, while in Kathmandu and while on trail. Stick hand sanitizer in multiple places so you always have a bottle close at hand. Drink only treated or bottled water. This applies in Kathmandu and at any restaurant as well. Plastic bottle trash is a big issue in the Khumbu. Making sure your reusable water bottles are full of treated water each morning and evening goes a long way to reducing this issue. Our guides highly recommend UV treatment for water over iodine or chlorine tablets. They’re so convenient to use that there is no excuse for ever drinking suspect water. Make the decision to treat, easy! Use a buff or mask on the trail. The combination of cold, dry air and dust encountered on the trail are both primary contributors to developing the classic “Khumbu Cough.” Try using a buff over your nose and mouth during your hikes at home to get used to it. This humidifies the cold, dry air before it irritates your lungs. Take advantage of rest opportunities. You may be tempted to pack rest days full of exploration and late nights. Keeping rest a priority will help you enjoy the entire trip. Reduce alcohol consumption. We’re not against having a beer at the end of the day, but your body may not like it so much while at altitude. Your body is already working hard to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and recover from the day’s effort. If you do choose to enjoy a beer or glass of wine, great! Just be mindful that the alcohol will have a greater than normal effect on your hydration levels and immune system compared to when you’re at home. Proactive self-care is important. Keep hydrated on the trail and eat snacks regularly, even if you’re not hungry. Go to bed early if you’re feeling more tired than usual. Bring even minor health issues to the attention of your guide so they can keep track of how you’re feeling with you or potentially offer a tip/trick that may help. Don’t pet the animals! The Himalayan dogs are very cute, and the yaks are cool, but they’re a good source of illness as well. Keep your water bottle on the ground at the teahouses and mountain lodges. You’ll set your bottle down while on the trail. Dried yak dung and other unpleasant items are part of the dust, mud, etc., and will get on the base of your bottle. This is not something you want on your eating table. At dinner or while hanging out, keep your water bottle beside you, instead of up on the table. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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Altitude Expect altitude to cause discomfort at some point! Almost everyone has an off day or two during a trek to Everest Base Camp. Mild headaches are normal. Acknowledging this and letting it roll off your back rather than worrying a ton about not feeling 100% keeps your energy focused positively on the trip. That said, keep your guide in the loop about how you are feeling and if symptoms don’t resolve. Be ready to move slowly and use patience. Your body can’t be rushed into acclimatizing! It’s okay to move slower than normal or take slightly longer to complete a normal task like packing your pack. Just build in a little extra time so you don’t have to worry about holding the team up. Control what you can: hydration, eating, and (to some extent) rest. There aren’t many other pieces of acclimatization that are within your control, so focus on doing what you can. Keep your body fueled and rested so it can acclimatize as efficiently as possible. One very successful tip is to hydrate very well each morning, starting as soon as you wake up. If you step onto the trail well hydrated, it is much easier to stay ahead of the dehydration throughout the day. Consider Diamox (Acetazolamide). There seems to be a bit of machismo or pride about not using Diamox, with no good reason behind it. Talk with your doctor and your guide about using Diamox during the trek. Properly used Diamox can help you rest better, reduce mild altitude symptoms, and set you up for better health throughout the trip. Even if you’re sure you won’t use it, bring the proper supply from home just in case. Communicate with your guide! Check-in if you’re ever concerned, and pass along how you’re feeling anytime you’re not feeling as good as you had hoped - not just when it gets really bad. They’re on your team and may have additional tips to address your concerns or discomfort.
Packing Your guide will go over packing for the climb in detail at the team meeting in Kathmandu before beginning the climb. In general, you will be packing in 3 bags. 1 x durable duffel for all your trekking gear, goes with you on the trek. Contains your spare clothes, toiletries etc. 1 x day pack for all on-trail gear, with you every day of the trek. Contains everything you need for the day, warm layers, water bottle etc. 1 x durable duffel for any extra/in-town gear, left securely in Kathmandu. Contains your in town clothes, your travel clothes etc. Rugged Luxury trekkers are able to bring 1 x 23kg (50lb) duffel and 1 x day pack with them for a total of 2 bags into the Khumbu Valley. Keep your gear light without leaving things you need at home. If you’re not sure about an item of gear, bring it to Kathmandu and have your guides review it with you. You can leave a bag at the hotel with street clothes and other items you don’t need on the trek. If you’re purchasing a duffel for this trip, buy larger than you think you’ll need. Sorting through gear and finding that one little important item is much easier when your duffel isn’t packed like a Tetris game. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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Make sure your rain pants are full-zip! It makes a huge difference on the trail. Some optional items/extras that many find to increase their enjoyment include: Down booties. Yes, they’re optional on the packing list, but they are really pleasant to slip into instead of your trekking boots while around the lodges. Comfortable warm pants. Something to change into at the lodge that isn’t a sweaty and dusty pair of trekking pants. Insulated carhartts, sweatpants, or comfortable track pants are popular options. This is a definite “extra,” so don’t go overboard and try to keep it light. One comfy long-sleeve shirt for around the lodge. A light long-sleeve will help you feel more human after a solid day on the trail. Small hand cream. Optional on the list but keeps your hands from cracking in the cold. Individually packaged lens wipes. Having 8-10 of these is nice for getting dust and sunscreen off your sunglasses and glacier glasses. They even make anti-fog options! Small “lipstick” style charging battery. These are tiny and fit nicely in your trekking daypack. Phones and cameras can run out of battery more quickly in the cold. A very small charger can make sure you don’t miss the perfect photo. If you bring the optional .5 L thermos, choose one that has a click-top rather than having to pour into a small cup for each drink. Small notebook. Good for games in the mountain lodges and teahouses, sharing contact info, doodling, etc. Doesn’t need to be big or fancy. Deck of cards. » Noise canceling earbuds. They make finding a moment of peace even while in the common areas at mountain lodges and teahouses. Pack 1 x tab of Immodium somewhere in your trekking daypack, even if the rest of your toiletries are in the duffel. If something hits you while on the trail, you can complete the day without any unintentional… whoopsies! Include Glacier Gels or 2nd Skin blister kits in your medical kit, as well as a few individually wrapped alcohol pads. Keep this in your daypack. These can make quickly and effectively dealing with blisters/hotspots much easier than traditional tape and moleskin alone. Bring the tape and moleskin, too, though! Hard-sided and wide-mouth water bottles are the way to go! When receiving the boiled water (for purification), a hard-sided water bottle is much easier to handle than a soft- sided bladder and a wide mouth lets you fill easily without spilling.
Passports and Valuables You will keep your money and passports with you throughout the expedition. Be sure to keep them safe and know where they are at all times. We haven’t had issues with theft at the hotel or at teahouses in the past but it is important to protect your valuables, remain vigilant, and don’t allow opportunities for things to be stolen. Items like laptops and tablets are better left at home or in Kathmandu. You will want to keep any breakable electronics in your pack through the trek as porters and yaks are hard on duffel bags, and fragile items can and will break. The rooms at our hotels are generally safe, but again, keep valuables with you or out of sight so as not to tempt people. Have a copy of your passport printed and a few spare passport photos in your travel documents. Create a habit of where you store your valuables. Put them back in the same place every time - that way, you don’t have a panicked moment trying to find them later. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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Divide your cash into 3-4 locations. That way, you’re still okay if you lose the *One* thing you never think you’ll lose - your wallet.
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7. Training for Trekking Becoming familiar with your gear and training is very important before the trip. You want to be in great shape coming into your expedition. Make sure your training is appropriate for the expedition and ease off substantially one week before your departure to give your body time to rest and recover. Be careful, especially as the departure date nears, not to hurt yourself. You have invested a lot in this expedition, so don’t compromise that by twisting an ankle. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about training for the climb. Your climb begins long before you reach the mountain. We encourage you to incorporate training into your daily routine at least six months in advance of the departure date. As your climb rolls around, you want to be in top physical and mental condition. Being fit at home is different from being strong at high altitudes and in extreme conditions. By the time you depart, you should be comfortably able to do multi-day hikes with strong elevation gain, carrying 20 pounds (9kg) in your pack. We advise a training plan that slowly increases your training (time, distance, elevation gain, etc.) each week and includes: Hiking uphill along outdoor trails with a heavy pack for an hour or more at least three times a week. Aim for 1,000 vertical feet per hour and gradually increase the weight up to 20-25 lbs as you progress with your training. Longer weekend back-to-back hiking days or climbing expeditions. Cross-training sessions (e.g., stair training, running, cycling, swimming, etc.) that activate the muscles you will use on the climb. Strength-specific training that focuses on the lower body and core. Interval training that boosts cardiovascular fitness and conditions your body to anaerobic conditions. Do this gradually to reduce the risk of injury and build yourself up over time. Please be aware that body-building type workouts are not as effective as endurance and climbing conditioning training. Yes, you need to be strong and put weight on before your climb as you will inevitably lose body fat and muscle, but merely bulking in the gym shouldn’t be a substitute for hiking-specific cardiovascular training and strength. Knees are often flagged as a concern. If you need to strengthen your knees, consider hiking with water weight in your pack, empty the water for your descents, and slowly build your knee strength. Soon you will be able to descend with the same amount of weight as you climb up with as your knees strengthen. This is really the bare minimum. Most trekkers do a form of cardio fitness nearly every day, which is fairly specific to hiking uphill and works similar muscles on the descent without the impact. I typically aim for 2,000 to 4,000 vertical feet per day at least once a week and twice a week in the few months leading up to the trek. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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Again, it is important to put time in before the trip in order to make the climb easier and more enjoyable. You don’t want to merely struggle into EBC - instead, enjoy the experience by being in good enough shape to arrive comfortably. Try to increase your workout intensity and duration gradually so you peak about a week before the start of your climb. There is no better excuse to get in shape than training for a goal such as these treks. Good luck!
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9. Travel Details IMPORTANT: You must arrive on or prior to the arrival date of the expedition or trek outlined in the expedition itinerary (please check your specific program itinerary for start dates, or if traveling as friends or family of climbers, you need to book for their program dates). It is important that you book your flights and transit hotels well in advance so there are no issues last minute. Flights and hotels fill up, especially with all of the traffic in and out of Nepal during the busy trekking/climbing season. For the trek, please pack into a waterproof duffel bag (we recommend North Face duffels) and not hard cases, suitcases, or wheely bags with hard frames. You are welcome to travel internationally with hard cases, but you will need to leave them with your city clothes in Kathmandu.
Before You Leave Make sure that everything at home is in order before you depart. Get all business, bills, family, and job issues squared away so that you are not distracted by them when you leave, and you can focus 100% on your goal. We will have Wi-Fi at some teahouses and at Everest Base Camp (third party party provided), but we’ve only had this luxury for the last few years, which means it can be expensive and slow. We love watching our team fully disconnecting from all but family and closest friends to simply enjoy the trek maybe give this a try. Having everything squared away at home and the enjoyment that brings, should not be underestimated.
Flights - To Kathmandu It is recommended, if you can afford the extra day away from work and homelife, that you arrive one day early to help get over jet lag and in case of lost luggage. Lost luggage can sometimes take a day or more to recover, so arriving early is an easy safeguard. It is also nice to have a bit more time to relax before departing for the expedition and to begin focusing on the trip. Most flights to Kathmandu involve multiple layovers and long travel times. As you book, pay close attention to your layover times and date changes if you cross the international date line, and make sure you’re arriving on the proper day. If routing through Bangkok or Seoul, it is easy to leave the airport without needing to pick up your bags that are checked all the way through and get a nice hotel near the airport. There are also day rooms available in the airports, and Seoul has free showers and internet in the airport. Keep in mind that if your layover is more RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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than 12 hours, you may not be able to check your bags all the way through, and if paying for excess luggage, they will make you pay twice. Make sure to leave enough time to clear customs again in the morning to make it to your flight (3 hours) if exiting the airport in transit.
Flights - Home from Kathmandu Consider booking a flexible return date ticket in case you need to return earlier than expected or weather delays flights out of Lukla for a day or two. Flexible return dates also let you decide to stay longer in Kathmandu if you decide to spend a bit more time enjoying the city at the end of your trek.
Nepalese Visas Nepal’s visa policy varies significantly from country to country. It is your responsibility to research current visa requirements for your home country. Most foreign nationals can pay for a visa on arrival, however, there are a few countries which require a visa in advance. Citizens of India do not need a visa of any kind to travel to Nepal. Bring at least 2-3 passport photos with you for entry into Nepal. You may need one for your entry visa and one for your climbing/trekking permit, and it’s always good to have an extra as Nepal has been known to change entry requirements with little notice.
Smart Traveler Trips Use TSA-approved locks if traveling from the United States so that they can check your bags without having to cut off the locks. Zip ties also function well as a bag lock that customs officials can cut off to check your bags and then replace them. Arrive 3 hours before your flight to make sure there are no issues checking in and getting your bags on the flight. Check airline weight limits and fees prior to getting to the airport so you’re not surprised by excess baggage fees and can factor them into your costs. Fill out entry forms prior to landing at your destination (they typically hand these out on the plane before arrival to KTM). Bring a pen for this. Carry your cash and passport in a discreet travel wallet so your important items are safe. Have a copy of your passport printed and a few spare passport photos in your travel documents Be sure to clearly label all of your bags with your name and address in case they are lost. Check your bags all the way through to Kathmandu. Use your trekking day pack as your carry-on to save weight. Keep all crucial and expensive items with you in your carry-on, such as your medications, camera, travel documents, etc., so that if your bags are lost, you have what you need. If you are a climber, consider keeping your mountaineering boots with you as these are tough to replace. Jet lag can sometimes take a week or more to fully recover from. It’s recommended that you force yourself to stay up on your arrival day so that you’re tired enough to begin resetting your clock that first night. Sometimes, sleep aids such as melatonin can help with the process. Also, make sure to drink plenty of water. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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Arriving in Kathmandu Often, just getting to Nepal can be the hardest part. Once you’re on the ground, it’s time to relax. Upon exiting the plane, walk to the left of the customs area and have your passport, photo, money, and visa form handy. You must pay for your visa first at the desk straight ahead and to the left before getting in the “Visa Upon Entry” line (on the far left of the large room). Purchase the 30-day visa for your trek. This process can take some time as nothing happens fast in Nepal. Once you’re through the customs line, gather your bags downstairs and exit the airport. If you are missing a bag, you will need to file a claim at the lost luggage counter just before the x-ray machines as you start to exit the arrivals hall. Make sure you tell them to deliver your bag(s) to the hotel and take down their direct line so we can call to check on the status of your bags. One of our logistics team members will be on hand once you clear customs and pick up your baggage. They will take you to our hotel and make sure you’re settled in. If you arrive during the day, look around for one of your guides. They may be out working on another project but will swing by your room as soon as they get the chance. If you arrive in the middle of the night, or need to rest to shake off the jetlag, breakfast on day 2 at the hotel is a perfect time to find your guide and join the team.
Kathmandu Kathmandu (4593 ft/1400 m) is synonymous with Himalayan climbing and offers an amazing cultural experience. It’s chaotic and certainly not the cleanest city, but it has a lot of character and is the place to organize a trekking/climbing expedition. Kathmandu’s proximity to Everest, a surplus of climbing and trekking outfitters, and ease of securing climbing permits and visas make it the obvious transit point. Thamel is the tourist center of Kathmandu and the antithesis of a peaceful, relaxing trek through the mountains. You can find just about anything you need in Thamel, including restaurants, hotels, groceries, climbing gear, photo supplies, and nightclubs. There are some excellent hotels in more demure parts of the city, not far from the hustle and bustle of Thamel. Gear shops dot the streets of Thamel with real, fake, and secondhand gear. Generally, fake gear is obvious, but if you’re in doubt, just ask the proprietor, and they’ll usually be upfront about the authenticity of the product. Counterfeit climbing equipment could be very dangerous to use, so buyer beware.
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Most of these cheaper shops also carry some new brand names and plenty of secondhand gear. There are, however, several new shops in Kathmandu that do sell new, real namebrand gear, such as Mountain Hardware from the United States and Millet from Europe. This gear is the same quality that you’d find overseas. Kathmandu is a great place to go exploring, but use your common sense. Petty crime is rare, but you still need to be careful and don’t tempt anyone by making your valuables obvious. It can be considered offensive at temples to wear shorts or skirts above the knees or exposed shoulders, so please dress modestly. It is easy and cheap to get around Kathmandu using taxis. Most taxi drivers speak enough English to understand where you want to go and what you want to do. Make sure to agree upon a price before getting in the cab. Watch the cars and motorcycles if you’re walking around town. Driving is different in Nepal than in most other places, and it would be a quick end to the trip to get injured by a passing vehicle. Grab a card from the hotel before departing so that you can direct the taxi driver back to your hotel.
Early Departures In the unlikely event that you need to leave the trip early for sickness or issues at home, you will need to have enough cash to pay for any separation fees above and beyond the normal trip costs (i.e., a helicopter ride, etc.). All expenses above and beyond the normal trip fees are your own responsibility. You will likely be able to claim these extra fees for reimbursement through your travel insurance, so make sure to secure proper documentation. Payment for extra services like helicopter flights, should they occur, need to be paid for BEFORE the flight.
Preparing to Return Home If you have to leave the expedition early for whatever reason, your gear and bags are your responsibility. While every effort will be made, returning gear unaccompanied is expensive, time-consuming, difficult with Nepali couriers, and can be unreliable. We, therefore, cannot take responsibility for returning gear you leave behind. It is up to you to cover these costs before departing and claim them on your trip insurance, if applicable. At the end of your expedition, CTSS will provide one night of lodging at our hotel in Kathmandu. If you would like to stay longer, we can assist in your arrangements, but the costs over and above your first night, including unused contingency days, are your responsibility.
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Vaccinations Rules and regulations surrounding vaccinations may change rapidly. It is your responsibility to check Nepalese governmental websites to ensure your compliance with any requirements surrounding vaccinations. Make sure your immunizations are up to date before flying to Nepal. Consult your doctor, local travel clinic, or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for updated information on immunizations for Nepal. Recommended immunizations include COVID-19, diphtheria-tetanus (DPT), polio, mumps-measles-rubella (MMR), meningitis, hepatitis A and B, cholera and typhoid, and rabies. Malaria shouldn’t be a problem in Kathmandu or on the climb. If you plan to travel to lower-elevation areas in Nepal before or after the climb, you should consider malaria chemoprophylaxis. Rabies is rare but present in the dog population of Nepal. Avoid petting dogs you do not know, and stay alert for aggressive animals. If you are particularly concerned about rabies, you may want to consider receiving the prophylactic vaccine.
Gear Storage You will have space to securely store one duffel in Kathmandu. This is a great place to leave your in-town or fancier clothes, and any items that are deemed unnecessary during your gear check
Electrical Nepal’s electrical grid runs at 230 volts and 50 hertz. Some common US appliances may not be compatible as they are designed for 110V, 60Hz power. Check your device specification (especially their Hertz specifications) and plan on bringing an adapter to ensure compatibility. Common plugs types in Nepal include: Type C, Type D, and Type M
You can charge your electronic devices at teahouses en route to base camp using a North American plug without an adapter at your own expense. Once at EBC we will also have power and power cords that fit North American plugs. Charging at base camp is dependent on the sun or the generators so it won’t be available all the time, but we will try to make it available enough to meet your needs.
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Language English is common in business and government areas around Kathmandu. In the Khumbu region it is possible to find English speakers - especially around high tourism areas - but much of the local population do not speak English or other non- indigenous languages.
Potable Water, Food Suggestions It is recommended to opt for bottled water or treat your own tap water while traveling in Nepal. Water served on the trail is boiled and at Everest Base Camp will be safe to drink, but it is still worth treating it with UV steri pen just in case. Most of the food at decent restaurants in Kathmandu is fine, and you shouldn’t have an issue with it, but it is best to play it safe. Stay away from fresh salads unless you are in a very reputable hotel or restaurant, and watch for undercooked food. With the change of food and environment, a slightly upset stomach can be quite normal as your body readjusts to the local cuisine.
Nepal Emergency Contacts Ambulance: 228094 Fire: Depends on locality Police: 100 While on the expedition CTSS is your family’s primary point of contact for any news or emergencies at home. Please provide our information to your key contacts. Please let them know there will be lag time, and days of no contact during your expedition. Coach your friends and family to expect infrequent communication and understand that no news is good news. If your family needs to get a hold of us it is often most reliable to email our office so we can relay the message to your guide via our satellite communications - please reserve this for very important messages or emergencies. Your guides will always have a way to send emergency communications - but these are reserved for true emergencies only. While in EBC communications systems are more robust, including the ability to access third party internet and there will be options to contact home as needed. There is a limit to what information we can divulge to anyone not listed as your emergency contacts. Before the climb begins CTSS will provide you with a list of important contacts including our office contacts, in-country support staff, and your individual guides. Keep these contacts with you and accessible at all times. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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US Embassy in Kathmandu
You should keep a copy of your country’s embassy and consulate information with you while traveling through Nepal. For US citizens, the Embassy’s information is: Phone Number: +977 1 423-4000 or +977 1 400-7272 Address: Maharajgunj Rd, Kathmandu 44606, Nepal
Cell Coverage Nepal Country Code: +977 There is cell service withNcell in Kathmandu & most of the way up the trek to base camp (which has cheaper data than the 3rd party Wi-Fi that the tea houses resell to you), but not at Everest Base Camp. You can use your personal cell phone to tie into the local networks, pay roaming charges if you like, or buy a local Ncell sim and recharge numbers. The Ncell store is near our hotel, and we are happy to show you where it is. You can also tie into Everest Base Camp’s 3rd party Wi-Fi network at your own expense and call on Facetime, WhatsApp, FB, or Skype. Turn off the data on any apps you aren’t using that will eat your data allowance.
Internet There is 3rd party Wi-Fi in teahouses and cafes along the route to Everest Base Camp, and if you have a smartphone or tablet, you may be able to connect. If you bring Wi-Fi devices, keep them safe and waterproofed in your trekkingpacks so they don’t break in your duffels. At Everest Base Camp, Wi-Fi is available through a 3rd party for individual purchases, meaning you only pay for what you use. It is sold in small allotments, and data can run out quickly, so use it wisely, turn off any background refresh app, and download any movies, TV shows, or podcasts you might like to watch on the trip beforehand.
Tipping Tipping is customary in many situations in Nepal. At restaurants, a 10% tip is acceptable, and if someone goes above and beyond to help you, a small tip goes a long way. We will collect and pool our Sherpa and porter tips as an expedition. This covers many of those working behind the scenes to make your trip happen but does not cover the guides themselves. Guide tips should either be handed directly to each guide, or to the lead guide for later distribution - ask your lead guide how they prefer to distribute tips. If you feel inclined to additionally tip out a staff member who has been particularly helpful that is okay. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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10. Gear Rentals
Kathmandu has a number of gear stores, second hand stores and gear rental services. However given the expensive and committing nature of all our climbs and treks in the Everest Region we strongly recommend against relying on these services for your gear. CTSS cannot guarantee access to an open rental facility, nor the availability of items in Kathmandu. Plan to address your gear needs completely prior to departure. We are happy to answer any gear questions you have as you prepare.
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11. Travel Insurance
Let’s face it, mountaineering and high altitude travel carry an inherent risk and the nature of adventure means things don’t always go to plan, which is why we require all of our clients to carry adequate and appropriate insurance. Too many times we have had clients who need to cancel their trip either before or during an expedition for unforeseen reasons such as injury, family issues, work obligations and so on. Considering the investment, length of expeditions and how much is at stake, it’s better to be prepared for contingencies. CTSS frequently reviews travel insurance options for the best options. If you would like our most up to date recommendations for mountaineering specific travel insurance please email our office, we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction on who we select to insure our own Guides etc. If shopping the open market we recommend finding a policy that contains; Cancel for any reason option Full coverage for the cost of your trip and airfare Interruption coverage Minimum $150,000 in medical coverage Coverage for search, rescue & repatriation including helicopter expenses No restrictions for altitude or mountaineering activities Check reviews, some insurers make it very difficult to file a claim For more information on trip insurance please visit the “Trip Insurance” page on the website. http://climbingthesevensummits.com/trip-insurance/ or contact us if you need help. A further note on insurance: It is important to acknowledge the upfront nature of mountaineering expeditions. Your program fees are invested well in advance of the expedition start date and become hard, sunk costs. For instance; hiring Guides and staff and the enormous logistics that are set up in advance of your arrival in the country. There are no savings to be made/no financial upside or benefit for CTSS in the instance of any early departures/late cancellations etc and we are unable to recoup or refund any monies, under any circumstances, once we are within the 120-day payment schedule. This is why having the appropriate insurance is so important. You can refer to our Payment, Refunds and Cancellation policy for more detail.
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It is important to keep your insurance details (including their emergency line and your policy number) on you at all times (for instance on a small card in your pack) so that you (or your guide/base camp team) can immediately notify your insurance in an emergency. If your insurance company is difficult to reach, too slow to coordinate a required evacuation or response, CTSS will not wait for them in a life threatening or emergency situation and will initiate the appropriate actions. You will be expected to cover the associated costs directly and claim on your insurance later; CTSS will not front these expenses. We will do our best to alert your insurer but cannot guarantee we will be able to reach them, or that they will cover you. If your insurance uses this as a loophole to deny a claim, CTSS will not be held responsible, or liable for any expenses. In the event of an emergency on the trip - please request and keep your own records and documents (helicopter receipts, hospital bills, etc.) that you may need to lodge a claim. CTSS will help in any way we can, but we cannot, and will not, act as an intermediary between you and your insurance company. We are unable to lodge claims for you, act as your agent or supply supporting documentation.
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10. Climbing With CTSS and Expedition Philosophy CTSS strives to offer the absolute best experience for all our climbers on every trip. We focus on the details of every part of our trips to create a seamless and positive experience as we explore the mountain environment. As a member of our team, we expect everyone to operate in a positive manner throughout the trip, especially in times of adversity. Adventure travel and climbing are opportunities to experience the world in a unique manner, which requires respect for others and the environment in which we operate.
Team Philosophy and Expedition Behavior The purpose of climbing with a guide service is hiring their expertise and relying on them to make the right calls in your best interest. CTSS has two primary goals, your safety and your success, strictly in that order. We always work hard to achieve both, but on rare occasions, your guide or expedition leader might have to make difficult decisions in the name of safety, such as turning you around on a summit bid, abandoning a route/climb because of objective dangers, or even bringing a close to an expedition to safeguard you, your teammates, your guides, and/or support staff. We want you to summit as much as you do, and we are as committed to the goal as you are, but when it comes to safety, we operate within strict margins and are uncompromising about them. In terms of our climbing style, we are an independent climbing team and plan to climb as such. Everyone needs to show up prepared to climb, in shape, ready to perform the skills necessary to summit, and work as a team player. This will improve your chances of success, and if the whole team follows these guidelines, then everyone will do well. Be positive and encouraging of your teammates and maintain clear lines of communication with your guides. Help each other and help your guides and team leaders. We ask that everyone help out on the expedition where they can and that you climb responsibly and with respect for your teammates. If we all play by these rules, we will be successful as a team and enjoy our expedition together. Be the class of the mountain. Make everyone else wish they were climbing with our team, and take pride in your mountaineering. Dot your “i’s” and cross your “t’s,” and everything will fall into place. Most importantly, treat your fellow climbers, guides, and support staff with respect. Don’t make derogatory, racist, or sexist comments, and be aware of how others feel and are RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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affected by your opinions. It’s always fun to joke around with others, but please be aware of your comments and be sensitive to others’ feelings and how they might be construed. On a long expedition, small irritations and negativity can become big distractions, so let’s please avoid this and be positive. Be accepting of everyone on the team and try to lift others up. Drugs and/or excessive alcohol abuse will not be tolerated. If you wish to leave the expedition, you may do so at any time by discussing it with your guide and signing a “Discharge of Duty” form acknowledging that you are voluntarily leaving and accepting all responsibility for your decisions. By doing so, you release CTSS from any future claims or fiduciary obligations. A final note on expedition attitude - the mountains are beautiful, but you need to know they are inherently dangerous. Adventure travel is exciting, but things don’t always go to plan. It’s better to expect the unexpected, be ready for surprises, and take responsibility for your participation in and actions on an expedition.
Communication and Updates during the Expedition We will be posting regular updates to the Climbing the Seven Summits blog, and we will try to update as often as possible. Make sure your family knows that no news is good news. If a few days pass between updates, it doesn’t mean that anything is wrong, simply that we might be busy climbing. CTSS is your family’s first point of contact via info@climbingthesevensummits.com. Please ask them to keep email traffic to a minimum and mainly reserve this correspondence for emergencies, as our team will be focused on the task at hand, helping you climb, and we don’t want to be distracted from that any more than we need to be.
Blogging and Social Media Blogging and social media have become a big issue over the last few years. It seems that everyone has a platform and acts as a reporter on the mountain. Information from the mountain gets dispersed very quickly with today’s connectivity. However, if you are documenting the expedition on social media, we ask that you not report about other people on your team or on the mountain, especially if an accident should occur. In case of an accident, we ask that you allow the proper channels of communication to take place and that climbers’ families are informed first before reporting (or, better yet, don’t report on others at all). Imagine if you had an injury on the mountain and your family found out via someone else’s social media before you had a chance to tell them. You wouldn’t want this, and neither do others. Be positive in your accounts, and don’t mud-sling. If there are any issues that you feel need to be discussed, please take them up with the expedition leaders. Be respectful of others, and they will do the same for you.
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CTSS Code Of Conduct CTSS is committed to providing a harassment-free environment for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, physical appearance, or other individual identity. In furtherance of its dedication to a harassmentfree environment, we have a Code of Conduct that we ask you to abide by and respect while on expedition with us. This includes: Obeying all legal requirements of the country you are in. • Treating everyone, including fellow climbers, guides, local staff, and local people, with respect, honesty, and integrity. Refraining from harassment or intimidation based on race, religion, language, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, appearance, or other group status. Prohibited behaviors include but are not limited to offensive verbal comments, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing, or uninvited photography/recording. Refraining from any and all kinds of sexual harassment or intimidation, including but not limited to unwelcome sexual attention, stalking (physical or virtual), or unsolicited or unwelcome physical contact. Refraining from yelling at or threatening (physically or verbally) any other person present on a CTSS expedition. Refraining from excessive drinking, possession, distribution, and/or use of illegal substances. Not being in unlawful possession, using, or threatening use of a weapon of any kind on a CTSS expedition. Being timely, reliable, and contactable by your guides at all times while on the expedition. Following instructions and not striking out on your own, you ensure your own personal safety and the safety of your fellow climbers, staff, and the general public at all times. Protecting the natural environment you are in by adopting a minimal impact approach and Leave No Trace principles. Refraining from being an unofficial reporter on the mountain and/or reporting on other people on your team. Always seek permission from your teammates to post photos that include them. Feel free to share your own positive experiences but please raise any issues you may have with CTSS directly to give us the opportunity to resolve and address these concerns. Being respectful of group gear. Care for it, respect it like it is your own, and always report any damaged gear to your lead guide.
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13.Document Checklist (CTSS Documents Only)
Make sure you’re on track for a smooth sign-up process! CTSS will provide you with forms to complete via email. If you are missing any forms please email info@climbingthesevensummits.com Please complete and return the following: Application Packet Waiver/Release Form Medical Treatment Release Physician’s Assessment Flight itinerary from the airlines Travel Insurance Declarations Page Passport Passport Headshot Any additional paperwork requested by CTSS
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14. To Do Checklist
Use this checklist for guidance as you prepare for your expedition. If you have any questions, please email CTSS.
From Signup to 120 Days Prior to the expedition Application completed and submitted to CTSS Program Terms and Conditions completed and submitted to CTSS 25% deposit paid to CTSS Travel Insurance Purchased (within 15 days of signup for most ‘cancel for any reason’ plans) Check with CTSS and purchase plane flights as early as possible Build training plan and start training - ideally more than 6 months prior for Summit climbs Check Gear list and start buying/collecting gear Stay healthy! Check visa requirements and start visa process Research visa requirements from your country Start visa process Check passport expiry 2x passport/visa copies for travel (digital copies as well in case of lost luggage) 2x Passport photos Any additional documentation
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120 Days Prior to Your Expedition Full payment due Return all required CTSS paperwork CTSS Program Terms and Conditions Form Medical Treatment Release Form CTSS Code of Conduct Form Physician’s Assessment Form Travel insurance declarations page Flight itinerary information Passport photo page Purchase flights as early as possible
119 Days - 30 Days Prior to Your Expedition Continue training, working up to heavy packs and long-distance hikes Gear purchases completed
30 Days Prior - Start of Your Expedition Finalize gear purchases Book hotels or coordinate with CTSS if arriving early Email your last questions to CTSS Re-read emails from CTSS for updated information Wrap up training, giving yourself at least three (3) days prior to the trip to rest Pack your bags! Double-check that you have CTSS and your guide’s contact information
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From 30 Days Prior to the Start of the Expedition Finalize any final gear purchases Reserve rentals if renting Book hotels if arriving early or staying late Email last questions to CTSS Re-read emails from CTSS for updated information Wrap up training, give yourself at least 3 days prior to the trip to rest Pack your bags! Double check you have CTSS or guides contact information and head out
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15. Maps Everest base camp Trek If you would like a more detailed map to study prior to your trip or to bring with you National Geographic makes an excellent Everest Base Camp Trek Map - Map #3001.
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16. Everest FAQs What about altitude sickness during the trek? Altitude sickness, or AMS, is a common concern, but you don’t need to worry or have any prior experience at altitude to be successful. We purposely keep a very slow acclimatization schedule to allow you plenty of time to acclimatize naturally. Slow and steady wins the race as such. We still encourage you to speak to your doctor about your options as there are medications like Diamox that help with acclimatization with few side effects that many people find helpful, but this is a personal choice. All of our staff are trained to look for and spot signs of altitude sickness and will manage them immediately, however they are not mind readers, so it is important to keep open lines of communication with them. Remember, when you are on the trek, there’s no need to push stoically through in silence, tough it out, or worry about holding others back. Please speak up about how you are feeling so we can adjust your pace, schedule, etc., to ensure your success. There is plenty of room in the itinerary to do that. After all, some of the best climbers/trekkers in the world acclimatize slowly, so don’t feel ashamed if you need to take your time. A few early signs to look out for and communicate to your guides are headaches, lack of appetite, difficulty sleeping and shortness of breath.
How do I charge my devices during the trek? Given the local expense of electricity, teahouses charge you to repower and recharge your electronic devices en route to Everest Base Camp. This is a good earner for the local economy but it does tend to get more expensive up the Khumbu Valley, and a portable battery pack is a good idea. You will need to bring an adapter. This cost is your own expense.
Will I need to purchase insurance? Yes, trip insurance is required for this program, and it needs to cover the entire cost of the trip, including trip cancellation, trip interruption, medical expenses, repatriation, and evacuation for the entire length of the expedition. Unforeseen hiccups both before and during the expedition can be very expensive. For instance, you may accidentally have a fall the week before you are due to leave, a family emergency might crop up halfway through your trip, or unsafe climbing conditions beyond anyone’s control may put a hard, premature end to the season in the name of your safety. In such circumstances, we want you and your investment to be protected. It’s important to know that we pay for your expedition expenses well in advance, so these costs are already sunk and irrecoverable whether things get shut down on day 1 or day 60. Of course, every effort is taken to account for every eventuality in advance, wherever possible. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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Please forward a copy of your insurance for our records so that we can help you in the event of an emergency or hiccup during the expedition, as most insurers require us to contact them immediately.
It’s a long time away from home – can my family and friends join me? Yes, your family and friends are more than welcome to join us on the trek. Please let us know immediately if you have people who want to join us so that we can make arrangements for them. Space in hotels in Kathmandu and in the teahouses is limited during the climbing season, so we need to know the final numbers ASAP! If your loved ones can’t join you, you can stay in touch with local cell service and as we get higher in the valley, third party party Wi-Fi.
How much gear can I bring? We pay for yak + porter transport for 1x 50 lb duffel per trekker. This should be more than enough weight. If you want to bring more than this with you, you will be expected to pay for the excess weight. This amount will include an excess on the flight to Lukla and then be roughly $300/duffel each way to Everest Base Camp beyond the duffel allotment. Transport is getting more expensive every year, so please leave the kitchen sink at home! (we already have those at Everest Base Camp) Just bring what you need to be comfortable, but not more than that.
What immunizations do I need? Make sure your immunizations are up to date. Consult your doctor, local travel clinic, or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for updated information on immunizations for Nepal and China. Recommended immunizations include diphtheria-tetanus (DPT), polio, mumps-measles-rubella (MMR), meningitis, hepatitis A and B, cholera and typhoid, and rabies. Malaria shouldn’t be a problem in Kathmandu or on the climb. If you plan to travel to lower-elevation areas in Nepal before or after the climb, you should consider malaria chemoprophylaxis. CTSS strongly encourages all travelers and climbers to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. As of September 2021, the vaccine is not required for entry. Nepal may mandate the COVID19 vaccine at any time, and it is your responsibility to check entry requirements and be fully compliant.
How should I pack? Your trekking duffel will contain everything you will need for the trip to Everest Base Camp, including your trekking gear, rain gear, street clothes, and a sleeping bag (for Rugged Luxury guests) we will provide you in Kathmandu. Trekkers will have everything with them in one duffel. Please keep everything you will need during the day with you, such as medications and medical supplies in your daypack. What will go in your trekking duffels will be covered in more detail in Kathmandu at the gear checks. Pack an additional small, lightweight duffel/suitcase to leave street, travel clothes, and things you won’t need on the expedition at the hotel in Kathmandu.
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I have dietary requirements. Can you cater to those? Yes,Teahouse kitchens and our chefs at EBC are well-versed in catering to a wide variety of dietary requirements and allergies. Please feel free to chat with us about your needs. While we do our best to cater to everyone’s tastes, we do ask that you keep any requests to actual requirements vs. just preferences.
How safe is the food and water? As in Kathmandu, once on the trail into Everest Base Camp, it is highly recommended that you stick to treated rather than tap water. Properly boiled water is available in all the teahouses, and bottled water is readily available in stores en route, but to reduce the amount of trash and pollution in the Khumbu Valley, we encourage you to buy boiled or UV-treated water from teahouses. You can also bring your own water treatment solution. We will provide some teas and coffees at meal times, but if you want speciality beverages like sodas, bottled waters or drinks outside of meal times we ask that you purchase them yourself. Nepal isn’t known for its cuisine. The food on the trek to Everest Base Camp can become a bit monotonous, but it’s energy-dense, locally sourced and fulfilling. Asianinspired, there is a lot of fried rice, rice-based meals, noodles, soups, omelets, etc. Stick to meals where the food is obviously local and sourced from the Khumbu Valley (avoid things like seafood). We stay in reputable teahouses that have a good understanding of food hygiene so our climbers and trekkers rarely get sick. It’s ok and somewhat expected to get a slightly upset tummy as you’ll be eating food that is different from what you are used to. At Everest Base Camp, we have our own chefs who are incredible and take every precaution in a full catering kitchen. They also cook Western foods, have fresh food, including fruit, vegetables, and meat resupplied regularly, and serve a good variety. CTSS is known to have the best food on the mountain and given where in the world we are, that’s a remarkable feat.
Why do I need to bring my own snacks? Even people who aren’t usually picky aboutfood can get really particular about what they can digest at altitude, and getting lots of calories is important. Gu packs, Shot Blocks, nuts, Snickers, cheese, jerky etc… whatever it is that you know you can eat when you don’t want to eat anything is best. Getting speciality and familiar food can be difficult in Nepal so it’s best you bring what you love from home. Also, bring a good supply of cough drops or hard candy, as you might like them in the dry air.
What about phones & Wi-Fi? We understand it’s important to stay in touch with friends and family and on top of your inbox. There are a number of ways to do this. We suggest picking up a local Ncell sim card in Kathmandu with a data package. The signal is reliable in Kathmandu & for most of the trek up the Khumbu Valley, it is strong enough to support both calls and data. Once you get to Everest Base Camp, cell service becomes unreliable, although it can sometimes pick up a low signal (not enough to support data). You can buy a local Ncell sim card in Kathmandu, and there is an Ncell store close to our hotel that we are happy to show you. Your phone will need to be unlocked, and you will need your passport to get a sim card. You can get recharge cards almost anywhere. This is by far the most affordable way of staying connected and getting data in the Khumbu Valley up until Everest Base Camp. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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If you’d like to use your own SIM card, talk to your provider about activating your international roaming, and you should be able to tie into the local networks. At Everest Base Camp, when the cell service runs out, you can connect to the wi-fi network and make calls on Facetime, WhatsApp, FB, or Skype. It is available for individual purchase, which means you only pay for what you use. Please note this is operated by a third party, and we have no control over whether it works or the expense. There are also internet cafes in the bigger towns along the route to EBC to get online, and third-party Wi-Fi is available for purchase in most of the teahouses. Please keep devices like laptops, smartphones, and iPads waterproofed in your trekking packs so they don’t break into your duffles. You will be responsible for your own valuables. There will be a satellite phone with the team, but we don’t expect to use it until above Everest Base Camp. It can be made available to team members at $3/minute. If you plan on bringing your own satellite phone/device like an inReach with you, you are required to register it with Nepal, which costs thousands of dollars. Should you choose not to register it and use it anyway, you do so at your own risk. Please note, if you transit through India it will be seized from your luggage/person even if you are not staying in India.
How heavy will my pack be? Trekking packs are relatively light. You will likely be carrying 5 lbs - 10 lbs (2 kg - 5 kg) most of the time on the trek into Everest Base Camp. If you are bringing a large camera, computer, or other fragile items, plan on keeping them in your trekking pack and add their weight to your estimate.
Can I have my own room in the hotel & teahouses? As a Rugged Luxury guest you will be allocated a single room in Kathmandu and in the teahouses and tented camps. Couples will be accommodated together in the same room.
In the Khumbu, what’s not included? We cover almost everything in the cost of the trip once we fly into the Khumbu Valley, so there shouldn’t be too many other expenses that you need to worry about. The biggest expense is tips. The Sherpa tip pool is $300 for trekkers, and it is collected at the beginning of the climb to disperse amongst the entire team at the end of the climb, including cook staff and dining staff. People customarily tip their individual guides. The other personal expenses people accrue are wi-fi (through third-party operators), additional personal snacks and beverages,, charging of devices, toilet paper. These are a great way to support the local economy but we also suggest you bring a portable charger and pack a few additional rolls of toilet paper for the trek in.
What if we can’t get into/out of Lukla in time because of the weather? It’s good to remember that we are in the Himalayas, and the mountain weather can be variable, so it’s important to be patient. Generally, it’s no more than a day or two late. If it looks like we’ll be unable to get in on the plane, then we’ll look at hiring helicopters to get into a safe spot in the Khumbu Valley to stay on schedule. If you have any further questions, please feel free to chat to the CTSS Office who will be more than happy to help you. RUGGED LUXURY by CLIMBING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
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Any other questions? Feel free to email us: info@climbingthesevensummits.com
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Thank You for Choosing to Climb with Rugged Luxury brought to you by CTSS We can’t wait to see you in the Mountains!