Podcast: Stan Jacobson talks with Kit about his 'Annapurna Sanctuary Trek' in the Himalayas
5 Stars x 3“I rated this as 5 stars, "Excellent, the trip of a lifetime",…
Embarking on a magnificent Everest Base Camp adventure is one of those bucket-list dreams that pulls on your heartstrings and never lets go. On your guided trek, you'll hike through friendly Sherpa villages, past the world's highest marketplace at Namche Bazaar and spot Mount Everest for the first time at Kala Patthar. When you finally reach Everest Base Camp and raise your hands and hiking poles in celebration, a sense of achievement like you've never felt before will overwhelm you. With high altitudes, even higher health and safety standards and shorter options available, we'll be with you every step of the way.
Check out our incredible adventures exploring the highlights and hidden gems of the Himalayas!
Himalayas
Everest Base Camp Trek
4.90
Activity Level 5
The Upper Limit
I'm ready to put in the hard work to reap the rewards. I'm a seasoned adventurer, not afraid to get my boots wet.
Read more about the Active Range
Set off on a once-in-a-lifetime experience to reach Everest Base Camp. Join highly experienced Kiwi and Nepalese guides on an itinerary that will give you plenty of time to acclimatize and experience the customs and culture of Nepal.
Himalayas
Everest Lodge to Lodge Trek
4.81
Activity Level 4
Challenge Accepted
I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.
Read more about the Active Range
On this 14-day trek, you'll hike up Khumbu Valley towards Everest Base Camp with amazing views of Everest and Ama Dablam, while avoiding higher altitudes. Explore fertile valleys, behold stunning views, and meet the beautiful local people.
Activity Level 1
What's The Rush?
I'm active and in decent shape and not looking to experience a place just through a bus window. I'm happy to slow down on the trail, soak it in and breathe in the fresh air.
Walking: 2-3 hours per day on gentle-gradient trails.
Other activities: On these trips, you'll be taking part in a range of other activities that focus less on building up a sweat and more on enjoying the finer things in life.
Activity Level 2
On the Move
Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.
Walking: 2-4 hours per day on gentle to moderate gradient trails. No multi-day hikes.
Biking: 1-3 hours, cruisy rides achievable by anyone, even first-timers. Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. snorkeling): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Activity Level 3
Step It Up
I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.
Hiking: Typically, 3-6 hours per day on well-formed backcountry trails. Expect some significant gradient inclines and declines.
Altitude: Your trip may include some moderate altitude areas, though these don't form the focus of the trip and are generally manageable.
Biking: 1-3 hours on well-formed paths or roads where you can expect some hills with moderate climbs and descents.
Kayaking: 1-3 hours, entry-level sea kayaking with specialist guides and stable boats.
Other activities (i.e. caving): Always optional and very little exertion required. A highlight for many!
Activity Level 4
Challenge Accepted
I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.
Hiking / Trekking: Typically, 4–6-hour hikes with options for more, sometimes with limited or no vehicle support and nearly always with ascents and descents.
Altitude: Some trips at this level will reach a significant altitude. We are here to help you manage that and make your experience one to cherish for a lifetime.
Biking & Kayaking: If one, or both, of these activities are 'your thing,' there are trip options in this range, allowing you to be on two wheels or with a paddle in your hand for most of the day.
Activity Level 5
The Upper Limit
I'm ready to put in the hard work to reap the rewards. I'm a seasoned adventurer, not afraid to get my boots wet.
Trekking & Altitude: This is classic trekking, at altitude. Some might even call it 'expedition-style.' We've had folks from all walks of life achieve their dreams on our grade 5 trips, so if you're in for a challenge get in touch to find out if this is for you.
Everest Lodge to Lodge Trek - October 2023
"The Khumbu trek was everything I had hoped for in my Himalayan adventure, plus things I didn't even expect. Awe inspiring scenery, excellent food and a rich and welcoming cultural experience. Arjun and Joel were excellent guides and great human beings. I thoroughly enjoyed their company and that of my fellow travelers. Also, plenty of time and opportunity to explore on my own. Awesome, awesome trip, I can't wait to come back and visit Nepal again!
read more"The Khumbu trek was everything I had hoped for in my Himalayan adventure, plus things… read more
"The Khumbu trek was everything I had hoped for in my Himalayan adventure, plus things I didn't even expect. Awe inspiring scenery, excellent food and a rich and welcoming cultural experience. Arjun and Joel were excellent guides and great human beings. I thoroughly enjoyed their company and that of my fellow travelers. Also, plenty of time and opportunity to explore on my own. Awesome, awesome trip, I can't wait to come back and visit Nepal again! read less
5 Stars (36 reviews)
G Gwen | October 2023
Everest Lodge to Lodge Trek - October 2023
"The trip was well-designed, enjoyable, and challenging.
read more"The trip was well-designed, enjoyable, and challenging. read more
"The trip was well-designed, enjoyable, and challenging. read less
5 Stars (36 reviews)
G Glenn | October 2023
Everest Base Camp Trek - October 2023
"I was very happy with the Active Adventures Everest Base Camp trek. I really enjoyed the people who were in our group. All of us were in the age group of 59-74. Being 70 myself I really appreciated the encouragement I received from my fellow trekkers. Our guides and the porters were excellent. They were there to answer any of our questions and were very helpful. Their main goal was to see we finished the trek in a safe and healthy way. The accommodations in the guest houses were very good and the food was good. It was a tough climb especially going up the rocks but I have memories of something I achieved which will last me my lifetime. Everything was wonderful.
read more"I was very happy with the Active Adventures Everest Base Camp trek. I really enjoyed… read more
"I was very happy with the Active Adventures Everest Base Camp trek. I really enjoyed the people who were in our group. All of us were in the age group of 59-74. Being 70 myself I really appreciated the encouragement I received from my fellow trekkers. Our guides and the porters were excellent. They were there to answer any of our questions and were very helpful. Their main goal was to see we finished the trek in a safe and healthy way. The accommodations in the guest houses were very good and the food was good. It was a tough climb especially going up the rocks but I have memories of something I achieved which will last me my lifetime. Everything was wonderful. read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
C Carol | October 2023
Everest Base Camp Trek - October 2023
"Although the name of ther trek was "Everest Base Camp", and the sense of accomplishment in reaching the Base Camp was profound, the beauty of the entire trek is what is memorable for me.
read more"Although the name of ther trek was "Everest Base Camp", and the sense of accomplishment… read more
"Although the name of ther trek was "Everest Base Camp", and the sense of accomplishment in reaching the Base Camp was profound, the beauty of the entire trek is what is memorable for me. read less
4 Stars (149 reviews)
D David | October 2023
Everest Base Camp Trek - October 2023
"It was 30 years ago that I decided the hike to EBC mattered. On Oct 19 we made it! The trip was certainly tougher than expected. Gorak Shep will never be forgotten (as a most trying accomodation; grin). The trek was full of grandure. The people of Nepal are a marvel. Active managed to pull it all into a cohesive trip!
read more"It was 30 years ago that I decided the hike to EBC mattered. On… read more
"It was 30 years ago that I decided the hike to EBC mattered. On Oct 19 we made it! The trip was certainly tougher than expected. Gorak Shep will never be forgotten (as a most trying accomodation; grin). The trek was full of grandure. The people of Nepal are a marvel. Active managed to pull it all into a cohesive trip! read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
d david | October 2023
Everest Base Camp Trek - October 2023
"The Everest Base Camp trek was a spectacular life event, leaving me awash beauty, splendor and cultural appreciation. Active Adventures arranged, accommodated and guided wonderful trek.
read more"The Everest Base Camp trek was a spectacular life event, leaving me awash beauty, splendor… read more
"The Everest Base Camp trek was a spectacular life event, leaving me awash beauty, splendor and cultural appreciation. Active Adventures arranged, accommodated and guided wonderful trek. read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
B Brian | October 2023
Everest Base Camp Trek - September 2023
"My brother and I were thrilled to make it to EBC in the fall on 2023. We had incredible views of Everest and many, many more snow capped mountains along the way to base camp. Our guides (Kim and Arjun) were incredibly knowledgeable about the region we were trekking through and all the surrounding peaks we saw. Nepal is a beautiful country and we had an amazing experience from Kathmandu to EBC and back.
read more"My brother and I were thrilled to make it to EBC in the fall on… read more
"My brother and I were thrilled to make it to EBC in the fall on 2023. We had incredible views of Everest and many, many more snow capped mountains along the way to base camp. Our guides (Kim and Arjun) were incredibly knowledgeable about the region we were trekking through and all the surrounding peaks we saw. Nepal is a beautiful country and we had an amazing experience from Kathmandu to EBC and back. read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
D David | September 2023
Everest Base Camp Trek - March 2023
"Reading reviews or watching U-Tube videos about trekking to EBC provides at best an introduction. Only after you’re in your boots on the trail at high altitude can you truly understand this experience. Active Adventures and our guides, Koru and Gokul did a great job helping my wife and I prepare and stay safe and enjoy every part of this once in a lifetime experience. Each day of the trek was its own adventure, with its own challenges and rewards. Thus, getting to EBC was the icing on an already awesome cake. This trek is not for the faint of heart. In my 63 years on the planet I have never done anything more physically demanding and I have been athletic all my life. But it’s worth it! There aren’t enough adjectives to describe the splendor that awaits at the “Roof of the World.”
read more"Reading reviews or watching U-Tube videos about trekking to EBC provides at best an introduction.… read more
"Reading reviews or watching U-Tube videos about trekking to EBC provides at best an introduction. Only after you’re in your boots on the trail at high altitude can you truly understand this experience. Active Adventures and our guides, Koru and Gokul did a great job helping my wife and I prepare and stay safe and enjoy every part of this once in a lifetime experience. Each day of the trek was its own adventure, with its own challenges and rewards. Thus, getting to EBC was the icing on an already awesome cake. This trek is not for the faint of heart. In my 63 years on the planet I have never done anything more physically demanding and I have been athletic all my life. But it’s worth it! There aren’t enough adjectives to describe the splendor that awaits at the “Roof of the World.” read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
G Gerald | March 2023
Everest Lodge to Lodge Trek - March 2023
"Big Picture: Excellent, exceeded expectations.
To many options in detailed tabs, so here is everything I want to say:
- The Eco Thamel Resort in Karthmandu was more than adequate.
- A little disappointed that there the chief guide (once we split from the ECB half of the team) was not a native English speaker. Occasionally shree's English was hard to understand. But he did a fine job.
- And apparently he (Shree) did NOT have a SAT phone, which we were told would be the case. At a few places where we were a distance from the closest village if something bad had happened , then there would have been a delay getting help.
- And the assistant guide's (Bidek?) English was not good at all. If something had happened to Shree, life might have been complicated.
- Food: Adequate options and definitely enough. We were told that there would be no meat once we left Kathmandu and that was the case. Perhaps recommending to us to bring some jerky would have been helpful, as the all vege diet got a little tiresome.
- Before we left home AA also recommended to NOT eat meat in Kathmandu (we arrived 2 days before the trip…
"Big Picture: Excellent, exceeded expectations.
To many options in detailed tabs, so here is everything I… read more
"Big Picture: Excellent, exceeded expectations.
To many options in detailed tabs, so here is everything I want to say:
- The Eco Thamel Resort in Karthmandu was more than adequate.
- A little disappointed that there the chief guide (once we split from the ECB half of the team) was not a native English speaker. Occasionally shree's English was hard to understand. But he did a fine job.
- And apparently he (Shree) did NOT have a SAT phone, which we were told would be the case. At a few places where we were a distance from the closest village if something bad had happened , then there would have been a delay getting help.
- And the assistant guide's (Bidek?) English was not good at all. If something had happened to Shree, life might have been complicated.
- Food: Adequate options and definitely enough. We were told that there would be no meat once we left Kathmandu and that was the case. Perhaps recommending to us to bring some jerky would have been helpful, as the all vege diet got a little tiresome.
- Before we left home AA also recommended to NOT eat meat in Kathmandu (we arrived 2 days before the trip officially started). That was wrong. AA took us to some GREAT restaurants in Kathmandu and we hand some great meals;- Pizza with chicken and Australian lamb. read less
5 Stars (36 reviews)
F Fenton | March 2023
Everest Base Camp Trek - December 2022
"This is my second trek with active, I love your company, I refused to do Everest with anyone else, my 2 friends trusted my choice of guide company and soon said " they were fully understanding my love of active adventures" we were worry free the whole time. Elder was so fabulous in every way, such an asset to your company. You should be very proud to have him representing Active Adventures, he was very professional and calm under pressure and handled every issue with total control. We felt safe, secure, looked after.
read more"This is my second trek with active, I love your company, I refused to… read more
"This is my second trek with active, I love your company, I refused to do Everest with anyone else, my 2 friends trusted my choice of guide company and soon said " they were fully understanding my love of active adventures" we were worry free the whole time. Elder was so fabulous in every way, such an asset to your company. You should be very proud to have him representing Active Adventures, he was very professional and calm under pressure and handled every issue with total control. We felt safe, secure, looked after. read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
J Jo, Australia | December 2022
Everest Base Camp Trek - December 2022
"For those wishing to hike where many other don't, the trip to Mount Everest Base Camp will certainly take you off the normal trails. While smooth walking at times, most of the trip will challenge you with rocky sections, steep sections, and even dusty sections as pack animals come and go. The tea houses add to the adventure with rustic accommodations and not-so-many comforts. The views are incredible, the people are friendly, and seeing first hand how hard living conditions are for the local population is humbling. Even if you don't use your camera often, you will have many great images in your mind that will be unforgettable. Forget your phone and the internet and get lost in one of the great outdoor adventures!
read more"For those wishing to hike where many other don't, the trip to Mount Everest Base… read more
"For those wishing to hike where many other don't, the trip to Mount Everest Base Camp will certainly take you off the normal trails. While smooth walking at times, most of the trip will challenge you with rocky sections, steep sections, and even dusty sections as pack animals come and go. The tea houses add to the adventure with rustic accommodations and not-so-many comforts. The views are incredible, the people are friendly, and seeing first hand how hard living conditions are for the local population is humbling. Even if you don't use your camera often, you will have many great images in your mind that will be unforgettable. Forget your phone and the internet and get lost in one of the great outdoor adventures! read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
L Lenzie, United States | December 2022
Everest Base Camp Trek - November 2022
"What an incredible trip! Trekking to EBC is, for many, the trek of a lifetime. And, after doing the trip, I can say it is for good reason. The trip was amazing. The scenary was epic. It changed from lush to mountainous to glacial. Each view was better than the last. And, trekking through villages and towns, seeing how people lived in the Himalayas, was also a highlight.
In terms of the trip, Active did an incredible job. It was very well organized. Every detail was considered. I felt safe, well cared for, and that I was with the best organization leading trekkers. The guides were fun, energetic, engaging, and careful about everyone's health and happiness. I cannot say enough good things about them. And, working with the back-office team at Active was a pure delight. If you are going to do EBC, Active is the company to use. Full stop.
"What an incredible trip! Trekking to EBC is, for many, the trek of a lifetime.… read more
"What an incredible trip! Trekking to EBC is, for many, the trek of a lifetime. And, after doing the trip, I can say it is for good reason. The trip was amazing. The scenary was epic. It changed from lush to mountainous to glacial. Each view was better than the last. And, trekking through villages and towns, seeing how people lived in the Himalayas, was also a highlight.
In terms of the trip, Active did an incredible job. It was very well organized. Every detail was considered. I felt safe, well cared for, and that I was with the best organization leading trekkers. The guides were fun, energetic, engaging, and careful about everyone's health and happiness. I cannot say enough good things about them. And, working with the back-office team at Active was a pure delight. If you are going to do EBC, Active is the company to use. Full stop. read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
M Matthew, United States | November 2022
Everest Base Camp Trek - November 2022
"You get tired saying “Wow, look at that” or “Holy — “ after the first 5 days!
Our trek leadership was incredible and our melded team from across the globe, hiked as if we we all old friends.
"You get tired saying “Wow, look at that” or “Holy — “ after the first… read more
"You get tired saying “Wow, look at that” or “Holy — “ after the first 5 days!
Our trek leadership was incredible and our melded team from across the globe, hiked as if we we all old friends. read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
J Joe, United States | November 2022
Everest Base Camp Trek - November 2022
"I was extremely happy with the way the trip was organized and both Elder and Arjun were magnificent guides. My thirst for achievement however got in the way of my better judgment about the cold conditions and the sparseness of the tea houses and amenities. The trekking with Elder and Arjun was magnificent and the vistas are unforgettable. Our group was very close knit and supportive. And it didn’t rain. But if a friend were to attempt this would want to describe the long hours laying awake in the sleeping bag just to stay warm. Overall , I had known about the sparsity of the amenities I probably would not have taken the trip despite the great support from Elder and Arjun and the experience of the Himalayas.
read more"I was extremely happy with the way the trip was organized and both Elder and… read more
"I was extremely happy with the way the trip was organized and both Elder and Arjun were magnificent guides. My thirst for achievement however got in the way of my better judgment about the cold conditions and the sparseness of the tea houses and amenities. The trekking with Elder and Arjun was magnificent and the vistas are unforgettable. Our group was very close knit and supportive. And it didn’t rain. But if a friend were to attempt this would want to describe the long hours laying awake in the sleeping bag just to stay warm. Overall , I had known about the sparsity of the amenities I probably would not have taken the trip despite the great support from Elder and Arjun and the experience of the Himalayas. read less
5 Stars (149 reviews)
J Jack, United States | November 2022
Everest Base Camp Trek - April 2020
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read more" read more
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5 Stars (149 reviews)
R Robyn, United States | April 2020
The trail to Everest Base Camp is the ultimate bucket list hike. Along the way you’re exposed to staggering alpine vistas, a rich mountaineering lifestyle (both historic and present) and you’ll become immersed in the fascinating Sherpa culture. Arriving at Base Camp is an amazingly emotional experience - celebrating the success of your epic journey in the presence of the world’s highest peak, and paying homage to all who have successfully (and unsuccessfully) scaled it. When you join our Everest Base Camp tour you’ll share the experience with a group of like-minded adventurers, a kiwi trip leader and a team of local Nepalese guides and porters. So go ahead, check out our 'Everest Base Camp Trek' itinerary, or for those who want the Everest experience at a slightly lower elevation, check out our ‘Everest Lodge to Lodge 'Khumbu’ trip.
By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.
We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.
T&Cs Apply. Read more here.
Yes! People in Nepal have a strong belief that guests are equal to God, so all visitors can expect the warmest of welcomes. This also means that Nepal is very safe place to travel and the crime rate is very low. The only real concern to a traveller is petty theft, so we recommend taking the same common sense precautions you would in any other city. Don't bring valuable things with you unless necessary for your trip. Keep your money and other valuables in a money belt or pouch under your clothes. Lock your bags and luggage and leave valuable items you don’t need for the day (e.g. passports and credit cards) in the hotel safe.
Safety is a priority on all our trips, though understandably it's a question we field more frequently when it comes to the Himalaya region. Here are some of the key steps we've taken to ensure your safety whilst trekking in this incredible region:
The average cost of food in Nepal is 750-1000NPR (US$8-10) per day per person. A meal in a regular restaurant is roughly 250 NPR, a coffee will cost roughly 126 NPR (US$1) and a can of beer about 300-400 NPR (US$2.50-3.30)
The best time to visit Nepal is between September and December, festival season! The rains have eased off significantly, and autumn (mid-September to mid-November) is a time for celebration in the predominantly Hindu country of Nepal, as well as having the best day time temperatures. Spring (mid-March to mid-May) in Nepal is also a great time to travel there , and is characterised by the striking colours of blooming rhododendrons in the valleys, gardens, and hills.
Nepal is a safe country for all travellers, including women, however, women should still be cautious. Some Nepali men may have peculiar ideas about the morality of Western women, given Nepali men's exposure to Western films portraying 'immodest' clothing and holiday flings with locals. Avoid unwanted attention by dressing modestly; a good rule in Asian countries is cover your body from your elbows to below your knees. This means wearing clothes that cover the shoulders (no singlets) and thighs (no shorts) - take your cue from the local people if you need to gauge what's acceptable. You might find that a long skirt or sarong is very useful when visiting sacred sites.
It is your responsibility stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Please use the CIBT entry tracker on our website as a guideline or visit the relevant immigration webpage for more information regarding this.
Nepal does not officially require any vaccinations for entry into the country, but the further off the beaten track you go, the more necessary it is to take precautions. For the most up-to-date recommendations please check with your doctor or travel clinic, and always go with their recommendations, as these can often change. We strongly recommend you see a doctor, preferably one with experience in travel medicine, at least 8 weeks before your trip starts to discuss appropriate vaccinations.
As an Active Adventures traveller, It’s essential you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of personal injury, medical expenses, trip cancellation for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Insurance page for more in-depth information and insurance provider options. It’s also important to check your insurance covers all the activities you’ll be partaking in, in case you’re travelling to altitude or looking at extreme sports.
Our preferred Travel Partner Fuzion Travel can assist with you with flights and other travel arrangements. Let them know your preferred travel plans, including any stopovers or extra nights’ accommodation, and they’ll put everything in place for you. They offer a total travel solution and five star service that you’ll want to tell your friends about!
All accommodation on your trip is provided in Kathmandu and on your trek, so you don't need to worry about a thing. You'll stay in a local Guesthouse in Kathmandu run by our operating partners. When you're out trekking you'll stay in guest houses also known as 'tea houses', with shared bathroom facilities. They are fairly basic by western standards but the location, views and warm Nepalese hospitality make it all part of a wonderful adventure. There is always an area to socialise with your fellow travellers and eat, drink, relax, read and rest your feet after another amazing day in the Nepalese Himalayas.
All your meals are provided apart from on your free days when we find most people enjoy checking out the variety of things on offer in the bigger towns. On your trek you'll eat in the local hotels (known as tea houses) with the main dish on offer being 'dhal bhat' a sturdy meal of lentils and rice that will set you up well for your day of hiking. If this doesn't take your fancy there is plenty of choice on the menu from chapatis, curry, rice, potatoes and even pizzas in some places! We recommend avoiding meat in Nepal and sticking to vegetarian fare so as to avoid any stomach upsets that may impact your experience.
You're mostly using the trusty transport of your own two feet in Nepal. There aren't too many roads in the Himalayas! You'll be using local trade routes and come across many local people selling their wares along the way, delivering goods by foot to businesses further up the mountains and travelling to visit their families. To get to the trek starting point we travel by plane to Lukla for the 'EBC' Everest Base Camp and Everest Lodge to Lodge treks, by plane to Pokhara and bus to the 'AST' Annapurna Sanctuary trek.
You will be accompanied on your trek by an Active Adventures guide and a local team of guides and porters. They will work closely together to ensure your trip is special, fun, hassle free, safe and successful. From organising your lodgings each night to carrying your gear, this is a team you couldn't do without. They are used to working together, have a great team bond and are always looking for ways to make your trip special. They will keep you entertained, motivated and happy, even on the most challenging days. We are extremely proud of our guiding team in Nepal and the way they work together, and we look forward to you meeting them on your adventure.
We take up to 10 people on each Everest Base Camp Trek, and 12 on our other Himalayas trips. All our trips have an excellent guide leading the way along with a team of porters. We have found that our trips tend to attract people with fairly similar interests and many people have commented that the social scene was one of the highlights of their trip!
Our trip fares are based on a twin-share rate (two people per room), and in the tea houses we will endeavour to place you in rooms of two people. However on the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek ‘AST’ there are regulations which restrict the number of tea houses and rooms that are allowed to be built above the town on Chhomrong. For this reason, there is limited space and during peak season expect to be sharing with fellow Active Adventures group members where there will be four to six people sharing a room.
Some of the main lodges and hotels have a double bed option for couples, though the tea houses are usually twin share beds only, and some tea-houses may have bathrooms down the hall from your room or a few metres away from the main building.
We welcome many solo travelers on our trips – in fact, we get so many solo travelers and they always say it’s a great way to travel alone, but not actually by themselves. You’ll have an incredible adventure sharing your experiences with other like-minded travelers, and the best part is we don't charge extra for solo travelers, providing you don’t mind sharing a room. However, for bookings within 90 days of your chosen departure, a forced single supplement will apply if there is no other guest of the same gender already booked to share with.
If you prefer not to share a room at all, you can upgrade to a single room, if one is available. If your trip uses lodges and tea houses that are either twin share, or sometimes even more people sharing, then the upgrade cost will reflect this.
Once you've booked your trip, you'll have access to a gear list in your portal on exactly what to bring along. The gear list is carefully thought out to provide you with everything you need to be warm and happy, or cool and relaxed, whatever the weather! So it is best to bring everything we recommend along, if you don't bring everything you need, we can't guarantee your comfort.
You will need proper hiking boots - trail shoes are not good enough. We'll be taking you to some awesome places where you'll be hiking over a variety of terrain, therefore your boots should have full ankle support and a stiff sole with a high profile tread. It's also important that whichever footwear you decide to bring that it's well broken-in and waterproofed before you come down. If you have good ankles that will be able to cope pretty well with varied terrain, then good hiking shoes should be fine, but if not then hiking boots will give you better support.
The staple food of Nepalese people is "daal, bhaat, tarkari" (lentil soup or curried vegetables with rice) and this hearty meal is something that you’ll certainly enjoy whilst out on the trails. The food in Nepal is healthy and nutritious, with things like lentils, potatoes, rice and vegetables making up the most basic meals. The restaurants in Kathmandu are varied and plentiful - you’ll find various restaurants serving Italian, Chinese, Thai, Mexican, Indian and all sorts!
We can deal with all sorts of different diets during main meals, like…
We recommend everyone sticks to vegetarian fare (even if you’re not usually vegetarian!) for the duration of your trekking trip to avoid any stomach upsets. Your guides will let you know if there’s anywhere in particular to avoid meat.
Also if you have a sensitivity to dairy or gluten, and you have a favourite snack or brand of snack which suits you at home, we suggest you bring some along. There are meal options for you and a plenitude of food however gluten/ dairy free biscuits, chocolate and muesli bars are hard to come by. Some long-life probiotics might be handy to bring along too (ones that don’t require to be kept in the fridge only!) to take one each day you’re away – this may help your stomach and is good in places when you cannot have yoghurt.
Bring alcohol-based hand wash, and wash your hands constantly to avoid stomach upsets. Your guide will also provide soap to properly wash hands at each stop.
There are a few local customs to be aware of with regard to food and meals in Nepal:
Being in a tropical environment and not treated by the government, the water in Nepal contains different bacteria to what we’re used to at home. We highly recommend you to not drink it or use it for brushing teeth, even in Kathmandu. Use treated water at all times. This also applies if you’re travelling through a developing country on your way to Nepal.
Plastic bottles are causing a huge environmental impact in Nepal, with plastic bottles littering some of the highest and most stunning places in the Himalayas. We’re sure you’ll agree with us that this is heart-breaking to see, so please use treated water rather than buying plastic bottles, or reuse the same bottle. Our purification tabs work perfectly, we’ll provide these for you at your trip briefing, and treated drinking water is provided in the hotels where we stay.
Nepal’s currency is the Nepalese rupee - US$1 is worth about 97 Nepalese rupees (at the time of writing).
We recommend you bring a variety of payment options with you to Nepal. US dollars are most easily exchanged, and a Visa Debit ATM card and a credit card should be carried in case of emergency. Nepalese rupees are the standard currency and are hard to sell outside of Nepal.
Cash is the easiest option and most widely accepted form of payment in Nepal. Visa and MasterCard are accepted in some places, with additional transactions fees. Be sure to let your credit card company know you are travelling to these countries. If bringing US dollars to Nepal, bring brand new & good quality notes, the bigger the denomination the better.
Except in Solu Khumbu and on the Annapurna treks, changing foreign money is likely to be very difficult if not impossible, so bring enough money for the whole trek and don't count on being able to change Rs 1000 notes except in Namche Bazaar and Jomsom. Away from major centres, changing a Rs 1000 note can be very difficult, so it is always a good idea to keep a stash of small-denomination notes. Even in Kathmandu, many small businesses - especially rickshaw and taxi drivers - simply don't have enough spare money to allow them the luxury of carrying a wad of change.
We recommend bringing about US$15-30 (or equivalent) cash with you per person, per day. It should be plenty for extra food or drinks, bottled drinking water and to charge up your cameras in the tea houses as well as any souvenirs you would like to buy. Drinks and things tend to get more expensive the higher into the mountains you go, so be prepared for the different prices in different places.
Our Nepal treks will take you to higher altitudes, so it’s important to be aware of the causes and risks of altitude sickness, and how we manage them. You’ll be accompanied on your trip by a very experienced guide and we’ll be taking all the recommended (and more!) acclimatisation days to allow you time to get used to the higher elevations. Altitude sickness is something that can occur above 2,400m or 8,000ft and affects everybody differently regardless of fitness (after all no-body is the same). Unless you live somewhere with high elevation, it's difficult to predict how your body will react to the higher altitudes, though there are some things you can do along the way to help you acclimatise.
One of the most important of these is to walk slowly and drink plenty of water – it’s really important that your body stay well hydrated at all times and you never over-exert yourself. Also, eat light meals to make it easy for your body to digest food, avoid coffee and alcohol which dehydrate you and slow your breathing down, take plenty of rests and keep yourself warm at all times. If you are concerned or have any problems, then tell your guide straight away. If you are concerned, chat to your doctor about a prescription for Diamox which is proven to help with altitude. If you need any other information please get in touch – we know the place well and we can give you plenty more specific advice.
Learn more here about dealing with altitude
Nepal Time (NPT) is the time zone for Nepal. It is +5:45 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Nepal operates on a 220 volt / 50Hz syetem with round two- and three-pin plugs (C, D and M).
Electricity is becoming more available throughout the Himalayas, however it’s still unreliable in many places. Local residents here usually have solar chargers they offer to recharge your devices (iPods, cameras, etc.) for around US$5-7 per device, depending on power availability. Some people bring their own solar charger though this is not mandatory.
Most of the places we go are pretty remote so WiFi is not always available though it is available at the teahouses in Namche Bazaar, Deboche, Periche and Kumjung at a charge ~ around US$5-10 per day. WiFi is also commonly available throughout the Annapurna Valley.
As far as internet access goes, there are internet cafe’s at Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Dingboche and Khumjung so you should be able to check your email at least once or twice during your trip as well. Phone centre’s are also available at Namche Bazaar and Dingboche.
Nepal has numerous cultural practices that are unusual to foreign visitors, so being aware and following them, when you can, will add so much to the whole experience. In the busier tourist areas, like Kathmandu or Pokhara, there is a high degree of tolerance towards visitors, but when we head further afield and away from these places, you should be sensitive to local customs. For example, shaking hands is not a common form of greeting; instead make a great first impression by pressing the palms together in a prayer-like gesture and saying Namaste (nam-ast-ay).
A few social conventions we recommend to follow are:
Nepal has a huge variety of weather conditions throughout the year and as a result of having one of the largest mountain ranges in the world its weather can also change very quickly as well. As Nepal sit in the tropical belt and the mountains here are very steep, it means quite often on your trip you’ll experience hot and humid tropical climates right through to sub-zero alpine climates. We recommend you follow the gear list closely and pack for all situations. You may not have to use everything in your bag, but at least you have it just in case.
There are so many great stories to come out of the Himalayas, probably because the landscape and the people inspire such creativity and adventure. Here is a list, gathered from across the Active Adventures family, of recommended reads:
There are heaps of activities to enjoy and places to explore in and around Kathmandu, whether you want to experience some of Nepal’s rich culture and history, take some time to relax and reflect upon your time in this amazing country, or keep the adventures coming! If you’re keen to stick to the city, then you could head out and explore the vibrant streets and shops of Thamel, browse for souvenirs and relax with a cheesecake and cup of Nepali tea up on one of the rooftop cafes. Or you can choose to escape the hustle and bustle and soak up the serenity of the Garden of Dreams, just a 2 minute walk from hotels in Thamel and a million miles away from the city. There are also some awesome day trips just a short bus or taxi ride away. Patan is famed for its local arts and craft scene and museum, or you can wander the cobbled streets of Bhaktapur, the country’s best-preserved medieval town. Or head for the hills! Hire a guide and go for a day hike up Nagajun hill!
If you fancy getting a glimpse into the beautiful melting pot of religions in Nepal, visit the spectacular Pashupatinath (Hindu) or Bodhnath (Buddhist) temples, just on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Nepal is also famous for being one of the world’s best outdoor adventure destinations, which is one of the main reasons we love it here so much! So if you’re keen to hit that adrenaline high or try something a little different whilst you’re here you’ve got heaps of options to choose from – take to the water and learn to kayak, or go white water rafting on one of Nepal’s mighty rivers; mountain bike in the Kathmandu Valley, bungy jump 160m at the Last Resort, go canyoning and abseil into a waterfall, or hone your climbing skills at the climbing wall in Kathmandu and imagine yourself summiting one of the many famous peaks you’ll have seen along the way!
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You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace.
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We've got everything covered – top-notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.
With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you'll get to know your fellow travelers and have the flexibility to go at your own pace.
All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy an authentic local experience.
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