Everest Base Camp
At 17,500 feet in elevation, Climbing the Seven Summits’ (CTSS) Everest Base Camp offers the highest glamping digs in the world. But this is so much more than just a once-in-a-lifetime glampout. The Everest Base Camp trek promises equal parts comfort, connection, adventure, and cultural immersion.
The CTSS Everest Base Camp resides just below the iconic Khumbu Icefall. This icefall--an enormous frozen waterfall made up of house-sized blocks of ice--is one of the most technical and dangerous sections that all summiteers heading to Mount Everest must contend with. However, for those trekking to Everest Base Camp, the Khumbu Icefall is where the journey culminates.
The Trek to Camp
Your Base Camp trek adventure first begins with a flight to Lukla, nestled in the Khumbu Valley of Nepal. This valley winds roughly 40 miles through lush green pastures, blossoming rhododendron forests, and the most spectacular mountain terrain in the world. Dotted throughout the Khumbu Valley are charming teahouses, mountain lodges, and established climbing camps. However, this remote region of Nepal remains only reachable by trekkers on foot or by helicopter.
As you weave your way up the Khumbu Valley from Phakding, you’ll trek past Namche Bazaar—the Sherpa Capital. Then travel to Tengboche, where you will visit the world-famous monastery for a Buddhist blessing. Beyond Tengboche, you’ll climb above the tree and vegetation line to Pheriche. Here you will receive your first view of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lobuche.
Then it’s time to divert to Lobuche Base Camp for your first tented night under the alpine stars. Finally walk straight past Trekkers’ Rock (that giant spray-painted rock where most Everest Base Camp treks culminate). This serves as the entrance to the official CTSS Everest Base Camp, where you and aspiring summiteers will reside.
The trek to camp is widely heralded as the best trek in the world. Not only does the leisurely pace help prevent altitude sickness while in the Everest region; it is arguably the only trek that will get you unparalleled and exclusive access to the real deal—an actual Everest Base Camp.
Everest Base Camp
When you arrive at Everest Base Camp, the attentive staff will welcome you with a champagne arrival. While here, you will have two full days to explore the area around camp from your private luxury geodesic dome. These domes come heated, powered, and decked out with queen size beds.
A dash of refinement at 17,500 feet means you will stay warm and comfortable each night. Plus, you will enjoy access to the camp's many other amenities.
The Big House
The Big House is the heart of camp and one of the highlights for all trekkers and climbers. Indeed, this central hub invites guests to play the world’s highest game of ping-pong, watch a movie, gaze up at the Khumbu Icefall, and sip on barista-made cappuccinos.
And did we mention the food? The chef and culinary team prepare every meal from scratch. In particular, they focus on serving a wide variety of delicious, healthy, and hearty fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins. To be sure, guests will not find any freeze-dried dinners here.
Between the slow acclimatization pace, amazing food, and restful sleep found here, guests will no doubt have plenty of energy to take on new adventures around camp.
Ice Climbing Clinic on Khumbu Glacier
One of the hallmarks of this trek and stay is a beginner-friendly ice climbing clinic on the Khumbu Glacier. During this clinic, you will enjoy a taste of what it’s like to climb Mount Everest. However, you will do it with the support of CTSS’s knowledgeable and experienced guide staff.
You’ll practice fixed-line climbing, rappelling, cramponing, and ropes skills on the Khumbu Glacier. Plus, all your technical gear is already on hand at base camp.
The Epic Journey Home
After two nights at camp, the time has come to return to Kathmandu. But why rough it when you can take a scenic helicopter ride straight from Everest Base Camp directly to Kathmandu. A specialized high-altitude helicopter will pick you up from camp and provide a bird’s-eye view of the Khumbu region as you backtrack your entire trekking route.
By afternoon, you will have checked in to your 5-star hotel in Kathmandu. Finally, prepare for a final cultural tour and farewell dinner—a perfect way to end your Everest Base Camp trek.
Book This Everest Base Camp Trek and Stay with Ker & Downey
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Not only will you explore the sights and sounds of Kathmandu, the Khumbu Valley, and Everest Base Camp. You will also experience the rich culture of Nepal as you trek from village to village and experience the vibrant city of Kathmandu. Contact a Ker & Downey Travel Professional to personalize your journey. And read more about the seasonality and pricing in Southern Asia. For even more travel inspiration, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
