Trip Overview

Trek above the clouds with a wonderful group of women to reach Everest Base Camp in Nepal’s majestic Himalayan Mountains! Work together to reach 17,598’, where you will celebrate your amazing accomplishment with your new AdventureWomen family.

Join AdventureWomen in Nepal for an incredible high-altitude trek to the Base Camp of Mount Everest, ascending 8,215 vertical feet over eight days along challenging terrain! Inspiring you to press on are the gorgeous knife-edged peaks. Among them Cholatse, Lobuche, Pumore, and Nuptse, four of the highest in the world. Friendly villagers and mountaineers you meet along the way will nourish your spirit and body momentarily, while the friendships formed with your hiking companions will sustain you all the way.

Meet your fellow AdventureWomen travelers and guide in Kathmandu. During the next two days, get to know them over a welcome dinner, touring the city’s many shrines, and learning how deeply rooted the region is in spiritual faith, particularly Tibetan Buddhism. You have a chance to check gear and get briefed on the exciting trek ahead. As always, you are accompanied by an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Committed to helping make your experience a fun and personally rewarding adventure, she is cheering you on as you reach beyond your comfort zone and take on this amazing physical and mental challenge.

With cameras at hand, depart by helicopter for the Khumbu region. Flying over the breathtaking waves of colossal mountains, craggy peaks and blade-sharp ridges pierce the sky and clouds. Land in Lukla to organize supplies and meet the wonderful Sherpas who’ll be guiding you into the higher elevations. Overnight accommodations along the way will be in friendly tea houses which also serve hot, filling meals when you’ve arrived ravenous from a day on the trail. From Lukla, set out for Phakding along the Dudh Koshi, a river known for extreme rapids and milky glacial meltwater. Following a pace for controlled altitude acclimatization, cross mountain villages and suspension bridges on a six-hour trek to reach Namche at 11,286’. Take two days’ rest here with a few easy walks as you acclimatize, including a short hike for a very motivating look at Mount Everest! Follow the rocky, hard-packed trail lined with carved mani stones to the Tengboche monastery where the exquisite Ama Dablam mountain (22,349’) towers above all. From Dingboche, you and your trail sisters make the final push to camp.

At Base Camp, navigate the prayer flags and cairns to tap the survey monument marking your achievement at 17,598′, and gather for epic group photos! Let the majesty and power of Mount Everest soak in before you begin your descent, stopping for a restorative sleep at Gorakshep and an optional trek to Kala Patthar where, at 18,519’, you’ll get the very best view of Mount Everest and an exquisite panorama of the range that includes Nuptse. Relax on a four-day return route to Lukla – you’ve done the hardest part! Here, you’ll celebrate with the Sherpas that led you all the way, then head back to Kathmandu by helicopter for a final city tour and heartwarming farewell dinner. Over the delicious meal, new friendships will be sealed, photos shared, and perhaps a promise or two to hike Nepal together again one day!

Main Attractions

  • Explore the shrines and vibrant markets of Kathmandu
  • Experience panoramic views on your breathtaking helicopter flight to Lukla, the gateway to the world’s highest mountain
  • Traverse mountain passes on narrow suspension bridges, including the Hillary Bridge, in the foothills around Everest
  • Hike to the Tengboche Monastery to meet Tibetan Buddhist monks
  • Celebrate your trekking triumph when you arrive at Everest Base Camp

What You'll See and Do

  • Historical Sites
  • Natural History
  • Photography
  • Sightseeing
  • Trekking
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If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Kathmandu
Welcome to Nepal! Nepal’s towering mountains and verdant valleys, ancient cities and villages and the exotic Nepalese people fascinate all who are lucky enough to visit this culturally and geologically rich country.

During your adventure, you’ll get to know your Nepalese guide, who will help you trek safely to Everest Base Camp. You are also accompanied by an AdventureWomen Ambassador, committed to helping make your experience a fun and personally rewarding adventure, and cheering you on as you reach beyond your comfort zone to take on new challenges in your own unique way!

You will be met at the Kathmandu Airport and transferred to your hotel.

Enjoy a lively welcome dinner as you get to know your fellow travelers this evening. Share stories and learn about why each woman in your trip is excited to trek to Everest Base Camp!
Dinner

Overnight: Yak & Yeti Hotel

Day 2

Kathmandu
This morning, you’ll explore Kathmandu as a group. You’ll visit Swyambunath, a Buddhist shrine also called the monkey temple, Pashupathi Nath, a Hindu pilgrimage site, and Boudhanath, a Buddhist site. Soak in the hustle and bustle of this busy city.

Enjoy lunch on your own at one of the many local restaurants during your tour of Kathmandu.

Late this afternoon, meet your trekking guide for a briefing on the trip and a gear check. You’ll receive your duffel bag for the trek, and the guides will check that you have proper gear.

Dinner is on your own this evening.
Breakfast

Overnight: Yak & Yeti Hotel

Day 3

Kathmandu to Phakding
Wake up early this morning and head to the airport for your helicopter flight to Lukla. During this short flight you’ll see panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Helicopter is the most reliable way to get to and from Lukla.

When you arrive in Lukla, you’ll meet your Sherpas for the trek, as well as your yaks which will carry your bags.

Pick up any rental gear you need for the trek today. Rental gear can be paid for in US dollars or local currency.

Start your trek today. Head to Phakding located near the river Dudhkoshi, which means “white like milk.” (Trekking time 4-4.5 hours, approx 4.5 miles)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Sherpa Guide Lodge (8,695′)

Day 4

Phakding to Namche
Continue trekking today along the banks of the Dudh Koshi River. Pass by many small mountain villages and cross several suspension bridges, including the Hillary Bridge. You will trek slowly to help your body adjust to the altitude. Reach Namche this afternoon. (Trekking time 6-7 hours, approx 4.7 miles)

Once you arrive in Namche, take some time to kick your feet up at your lodge.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Khumbu Lodge (11,286′)

Day 5

Namche to Khumjung
Take a short hike today to help your body adapt to the elevation. Walk to Khumjung, passing the Syangboche airport. On the way, you’ll stop at Everest View Hotel for, you guessed it, a spectacular view of Mount Everest, Mount Amadablam, and more (weather permitting of course). (Trekking time 3 hours, approx. 1 mile)

Have an afternoon to relax. Check out the nearby monastery or explore the town.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Ama Dablam Lodge (12,434′)

Day 6

Khumjung to Tengboche
Head to Tengboche this morning. You’ll start by hiking downhill to the river and crossing to the other side. Once you cross the river, the trail climbs steeply through forests and mani stones. (Trekking time 5-6 hours, approx. 3.7 miles)

Arrive at the Tengboche Monastery, which boasts the most magnificent view of the Himalayan giants: Kwangde (20,299 feet), Twachee (21.463 feet), Amadablam (22,349 feet), Everest (29,029 feet), and Nuptse (25,850 feet).
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Himalayan Lodge (12,687′)

Day 7

Tengboche to Dingboche
Leave Tengboche and descend to Debuche through a forest of birches, conifers, and rhododendrons. Cross the Imja Kohla River on a steel bridge, and then the route begins to climb to Pangboche. This afternoon can be quite cold and windy. (Trekking time 6 hours, approx 5.6 miles)

From Dingboche, you will be treated to views of Island Peak, Makalu, and another face of Amadablam.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Everest Lodge (14,862′)

Day 8

Dingboche
Acclimatization Hike: Head out for a short hike near the Nangakarshang Hill to continue acclimatizing. Enjoy beautiful views of Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu, and admire Cholatse and Taboche peaks before returning to Dingboche. (Trekking time 2-3 hours, approx 1.9 miles)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Everest Lodge (14,862′)

Day 9

Dingboche to Lobuche
Trek to Lobuche: Leave Dingboche and trek through the high alpine regions. Cross the frozen glacial river at Thukla and climb as you enter Lobuche, admiring the magnificent views of Cholatse, Lobuche, Pumori, and Nuptse. You’ll pass the climbers’ memorial today. (Trekking time 4-5 hours, approx. 4 miles)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Himalayan Eco Resort (16,175′)

Day 10

Lobhuce to Gorak Shep via Everest Base Camp
Trek to Gorak Shep: Leave Lobuche and hike very slowly to Gorakshep. Along the way, you’ll see the Khumbu Glacier. Once you arrive in Gorak Shep, you’ll see Mount Pumore and Mount Nuptse standing above you.

Reach Everest Base Camp: After taking a short break in Gorak Shep, hike to Everest Base Camp (17,598 feet). Take some photos and head back down to Gorak Shep for the night. Celebrate your accomplishment with your group! (Total trekking time 7 hours, approx 4.7 miles)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Himalayan Lodge (17,270′)

Day 11

Gorak Shep to Pheriche
Leave before dawn for an optional climb Kala Patthar (18,514’) this morning to take some photographs of the panoramic view of Mount Everest and its range.

Start hiking down to Pheriche after breakfast. You will move faster going downhill and descending to lower elevations will feel great! Enjoy lunch along the way. (Trekking time 5-6 hours, approx. 10 miles)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Himalayan Hotel (14,042′)

Day 12

Pheriche to Tengboche
Continue Your Descent: Keep trekking down from Pheriche to Tengboche today. (Trekking time 4-5 hours, approx. 7.5 miles)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Himalayan Lodge (12,687′)

Day 13

Tengboche to Monjo
Today is another long descent day (with uphills included!) to Monjo. You’ll have a great time celebrating your accomplishment with your fellow AdventureWomen trekkers along the way! Don’t forget to enjoy the views as you hike. You’ll have a chance to do some shopping in Monjo. (Trekking time 6 hours, approx. 10 miles)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Mt. Kailash Lodge (9,350′)

Day 14

Monjo to Namche
Enjoy your final hike in the Himalayas as you descend to Lukla. Celebrate this evening with your Sherpa friends as they share their culture with you. (Trekking time 5 hours, approx. 7.5 miles)

After you finish your trek, take the chance to celebrate your accomplishment with your guides and porters. This is a good time to give the team gratuities and to thank them for helping you on this adventure.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Khumbu Resort (8,606′)

Day 15

Namche to Kathmandu
Leave Lukla today and fly back to Kathmandu by helicopter. You’ll be transferred to your hotel when you arrive.

Enjoy some time to explore Kathmandu today, or just kick your feet up at your hotel. Have dinner at one of the many delicious local restaurants or at the hotel.
Breakfast

Overnight: Yak & Yeti Hotel

Day 16

Kathmandu
Exploring Kathmandu is like finding yourself in a treasure trove of art and sculptures, which are made of wood, stone, metal, and terracotta, and found in temples, shrines, stupas, gompas, and palaces. Art can also be found on street corners, in lanes, in private courtyards, and just out in the open.

Today is free to explore. Check out the markets and do some shopping, wander the streets, or just relax with a coffee and watch the hustle and bustle of daily life in this busy city.

Have a farewell dinner with your new AdventureWomen friends. Reminisce over all of the memories you have made and celebrate the end of an amazing journey through this truly spectacular country.
Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight: Yak & Yeti Hotel

Day 17

Depart Kathmandu
Enjoy one last morning in Kathmandu. Say goodbye to your new AdventureWomen friends as you transfer to the airport for your flights home.
Breakfast

Please note: AdventureWomen will attempt to adhere to the itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, and cultural) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. AdventureWomen reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. We will attempt to notify participants of changes as far in advance as possible. Costs incurred by such changes will be the responsibility of the participants. 

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
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Traveling to Nepal



Arrival and Departure Information

Arrive: Arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) on April 12, 2022 before 2:00pm.

Depart: Depart Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM) on April 28, 2022 at any time.

 

We are happy to help you make your flight and travel arrangements. If you’d like to do anything prior to or following the AdventureWomen trip, we’d be delighted to help you arrange any trip extensions you’re interested in.

Note: The recent trend in travel is for travelers to finalize their plans much closer to departure time than was customary in the past. While we try to be as flexible as possible booking last-minute registrants, we must release hotel rooms two to three months prior to departure! Please keep this in mind when making your travel plans.

Passports and Visas

Citizens of the United States must have a passport valid for six months beyond your travel dates with at least two blank facing pages. If you do not have a passport, please apply now!

US Passport holders will need a visa to visit Nepal. We will provide detailed information before your departure on how to obtain your visa.

Activity Level

We rate this trip as Challenging. Our Challenging adventures get your heart rate pumping, these are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition, and be able to hike up to 10 miles, in steeper, more rugged terrain.

You should come with a flexible, adventurous, and enthusiastic spirit, and a wonderful sense of humor that adventure travel requires.

General Preparation Guidelines

Training for your Everest Base Camp trek requires both physical and mental preparation. You do not need technical climbing skills, but do not underestimate the demands of the climb. You WILL need to be fit. Endurance, good cardiovascular health, and a healthy desire to reach the top are important.

We suggest that you begin focused training at 60-90 days before your departure, more rigorous training at 15-60 days, and then taper off in the final two weeks. You should consult your physician if you are significantly altering your physical routine for training.

We have a partnership with FitForTrips, a company that will design an individualized fitness plan for you to ensure that you are prepared for the trip. Learn more on the FitForTrips website.

We will send you a full training guide with suggestions for physical activities when you register for your trek. Please let us know if you have questions!

Altitude Symptoms

At high altitude, it is typical for trekkers to feel some physical effects such as loss of appetite, fatigue, or headache. Symptoms become more severe if you experience acute altitude sickness. Symptoms of acute altitude sickness can include troubled breathing while resting, severe coughing, confusion, impairment of motor skills, and irrational behavior.

Notify your guide immediately if you believe you are experiencing any of these symptoms. As a highly-trained professional, your guide makes your safety his top priority. If he determines that you are suffering from an acute form of altitude sickness, you will need to descend immediately to a lower altitude with a guide. This could mean being evacuated by helicopter. Medical evacuation insurance is required for this trek.

Health Considerations

Make an appointment with a travel clinic. There are no immunization requirements for travel to Nepal, however your local travel clinic may have recommendations for you based on your age, health, and past vaccination history.

For more health information, go to www.cdc.gov/travel and navigate to the page about Nepal.

How to Register

Call the AdventureWomen office at (800) 804-8686 to determine space availability and register for this trip. We can complete your registration, including taking your credit card deposit over the phone.

If you prefer, you can register online by clicking “Sign Up for this Trip” on the trip page.

Please be sure to read the AdventureWomen policies before registering!

Preparation and Packing

Once you register for your adventure, we will send you a comprehensive preparation guide including weather information, gratuity suggestions, and a packing list.

As a reference, AdventureWomen typically suggests $200-250 for gratuities on most trips. Detailed information will be provided to you prior to departure.

Forms and Final Payment

The deposit for this trip is $800, and is nonrefundable and nontransferable. Once you book, you will need to fill out and return to AdventureWomen:

  • Information Form
  • Booking Conditions Form
  • Supplemental Trekking Release Form
  • Copy of Flight Information
  • Copy of Issuing Page of Passport (Photo Page)
  • Supplemental Release for COVID

Final payment is due to AdventureWomen in a cash form (check, money order, or wire transfer). A maximum of $1,500 per person can be put on a credit card, which includes your deposit.

2022 Departure Final Payment Due Date: January 12, 2022

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
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What's Included

Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • All ground transportation
  • Airport transfers
  • Domestic helicopter flights (priced separately from the main trip)
  • Fully-guided sightseeing as indicated in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees
  • Services of professional trekking guides and porters
  • Duffel bag
  • Boiled drinking water
  • Gratuities for hotel staff, wait staff, and luggage porters

Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities for guides and porters

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
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Accommodations

Yak & Yeti Hotel

The restored 19th-century palace houses two restaurants, several grand banquet halls, and the Casino Royale. In the lobby, granite floors, carved wood pillars, and gleaming brass and copper provide a suitably exotic feel, and through a wall of glass you can see the hotel’s extensive gardens. All of the guest rooms are comfortable and nicely equipped to give a feeling of being home while away from home. It is THE place to stay in Kathmandu!

Amenities: Soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer; electricity; Wifi available for a fee

Trekking Lodges

The lodges you will stay in on this trek are small, simple tea houses. At some lodges, you will have en suite bathrooms and showers, at others, you will have shared bathrooms and no showers, and at the highest lodge, you’ll have shared squat toilets. Toilet paper is provided for you! All the lodges provide comfortable, clean, and basic accommodations, plentiful food, and boiled water. As you go up in elevation, the amenities at the lodges go down.

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary