About the Annapurna Base Camp
What’s the best way to describe Annapurna Base Camp? We have the enviable job of cataloguing thousands of incredible images from our trips, and we can say with certainty that the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, ‘ABC’ regularly tops the popularity list in terms of jaw-dropping visuals. There’s something about Machapuchare (one of the three Annapurna Mountains, also known as ‘Fish Tail’) that will leave a lasting impression as it stands tall on its own on the horizon. And then, of course, you have the Annapurna Sanctuary itself, a mesmerizing amphitheater deafening in its silence. So go ahead, and have a look at our Annapurna Base Camp Trek.
Why choosing to trek to Annapurna Base Camp, over trekking to Everest Base Camp?
For trekkers, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is definitely the path less traveled, compared to the more popular Everest Base Camp Trek. At a glance, it’s obvious to see why – Mt Everest is the tallest mountain on Earth, so the bragging rights are irresistible. But if the EBC ‘brag’ isn’t your primary focus, then you can’t surpass the beauty of the Annapurna Sanctuary Trail leading up to the Annapurna Base Camp. The quieter trails lead you deeper into the Nepalese lifestyle, connecting with the local culture while experiencing a wider variety of Nepal’s most beautiful landscapes. The Annapurna region is decorated with ancient jungles, lush meadows, and jaw-dropping mountain vistas, while the EBC route is 100% alpine - from the moment trekkers arrive in Lukla.
Our Trips... from our Guests' Perspective
Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full
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.
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Annapurna FAQs
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 characterized by the striking colors of blooming rhododendrons in the valleys, gardens, and hills.
Yes! People in Nepal have a strong belief guests are equal to God, so all visitors can expect the warmest of welcomes. This also means Nepal is very safe place to travel and the crime rate is very low. The only real concern to a traveler 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:
- We select experienced Nepali guides who've already completed comprehensive training and have seasons under their belt.
- Our guides work as a team alongside Nepali porters, ensuring an excellent mix of maturity, leadership and local knowledge.
- We limit group sizes to 10-12 to ensure a high guide to guest ratio.
- In addition to Outdoors First Aid training, our guides are also skilled to identify symptoms of high altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). In addition to the medication you may be carrying with you, we also have access to oxygen and a Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC) at certain parts of the trail.
- We do our very best to match our travelers to the appropriate trips. Our aim is to inspire and challenge you, so finding that balance of effort vs reward is at the heart of what we do. On trips to the Himalaya, before you even arrive we will have asked you a series of questions to determine if this trip is appropriate, as well as providing comprehensive gear lists and training plans.
- Our guides carry satellite phones.
- We provide a high quality super-down jacket, 4 season sleeping bag and hiking poles free of charge, to ensure all trekkers have the appropriate essential equipment. These are selectable through our online booking journey.
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 you’ll want to tell your friends about!
It is your responsibility to stay up to date on the latest visa and entry requirements for your destination. Depending on your country of origin and the type of passport you hold, you may require a visa or other endorsement to enter Nepal.
You can find essential travel advice, including passport and visa information, security details and local regulations, on the government website of your home country.
Here are some helpful links:
- United States of America: US Department of State Travel Advice
- Canada: Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories
- United Kingdom: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice
- Australia: Government of Australia Smart Traveller
- Residents of other countries should refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate
Entry requirements can change at any time, so it’s important you monitor this right up until you depart for your trip.
Why Travel With Us
A love of adventure, born in New Zealand
Our passion for exploration is rooted in a strong connection to the natural beauty of our home, New Zealand, and the drive to venture beyond its shores to discover a world different to our own.
Life-changing, rewarding experiences in breathtaking places
We believe the best journeys don’t just take you places, they inspire you and ignite your spirit. Our unique and thoughtfully designed itineraries ensure you'll experience the very best of each destination.
Expert guides, deep local connections
Feel the heart and soul of each place you visit with our local people on the ground and knowledgeable guides, who take great care to ensure a truly authentic and immersive experience. This is the real deal.
Flexible, personalized experiences
We take the time to get to know you to ensure you have the very best experience on our trips. Our small group adventures are big on flexibility. No matter what your version of "active" is, we have options on each trip to suit every individual.
We welcome all adventurers
Traveling solo, as a pair, or as part of a group? No worries, you'll be comfortable on our trips. Every trip is personalized with care by our team so everyone feels supported and free to enjoy their unforgettable adventure.
All-inclusive
Imagine a vacation that's fully guided, and everything is taken care of and included in the trip price — all accommodations, activities, transport on-trip, most meals, and more! Effortless and value-packed.