Everest Base Camp Trek

This is the classic Everest Base Camp trek, compressed into 9 days by using a helicopter to skip the return leg on foot. You fly into Lukla, trek up through the Khumbu valley to Base Camp, then helicopter back from Gorakshep to Lukla before flying on to Kathmandu.

Expect steep trails, long days at altitude, and villages that feel a world away from the capital. You pass through Sagarmatha National Park and Sherpa settlements like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche, with Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori and Ama Dablam visible for much of the route.

It's a serious trek rather than a stroll — you need reasonable fitness and a willingness to push through altitude and fatigue. The reward is standing at Base Camp itself, and a sunrise from Kala Patthar at 5,545m before the helicopter ride out.

What you'll do

• Trek through Sagarmatha National Park and Sherpa villages including Namche Bazaar and Tengboche
• Reach Everest Base Camp on foot
• Climb to Kala Patthar (5,545m) for panoramic Himalayan views
• Spot Lhotse, Nuptse, Pumori and Ama Dablam along the route
• Fly into Lukla and helicopter back from Gorakshep, cutting the return trek
• Pass through rhododendron forest and narrow gorges in the Khumbu region