It’s on most people’s bucket lists – a trip to Mount Everest. Nowadays, many people plan on a trip to Base Camp and then on to high-pass vistas. Here’s six of the best treks to mark the 70th anniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s original summit.
The ‘easy’ way
World Expeditions Everest in Comfort is a scenic eight-day trek into the Khumbu Valley, the perfect introduction to the villages and culture of the Sherpa people – explore the colourful markets of Namche Bazaar, marvel at the famous Thyangboche monastery and visit Khunde and Khumjung villages where Sir Edmund Hillary established the region’s first hospital and school through the Himalayan Trust. From AUD$3590 per person.
Base camp on a time budget
The Everest Base Camp High Flyer in Comfort is a two-week adventure that knocks five days off the usual Everest Base Camp trip by utilising a scenic helicopter flight at the end of the trek. Absorb outstanding views of Thamserku, Kantega, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse and Everest, enjoy the camaraderie of an experienced support team as you trek at a comfortable pace with ample acclimatisation days. From AUD $6140 per person.
Everest from a different perspective
Gokyo and the Renjo La in Comfort trek takes hikers in Nepal west towards the Gokyo Lakes. Trekking slowly through Sherpa villages and yak pastures, guests gain stunning panoramic views of Everest from Gokyo Ri (5483m) 17 days from AUD$4290 per person.
Go your own way
World Expeditions Self-Guided Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar gives trekkers the option of going at their own pace. With a minimum number of two, you won’t hike alone and you can choose your own departure date. Porters are on hand to carry your luggage to the next night’s camp. 17 days from AUD$2740 per person.
Family Everest
The Everest Family Trek is suitable for children as young as 13 so you can take your clan on the trip of a lifetime. This 15 day adventure features 11 days trekking with generous acclimatisation time, a leisurely pace, stunning Mount Everest views, local Sherpa culture, the Thyangboche Monastery and a spectacular flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. 15 days from AUD$3080 for children under 16 and AUD$3790 for adults.
The masters – Mount Everest for the Over 55s
The Everest Base Camp Over 55s in Comfort trek features all the highlights you would expect from the Everest region in a well-paced trek, with extra time to acclimatise whilst exploring often overlooked villages of Khumjung and Pangboche. Its longer duration, 21 days, also provides the best chances of climbing Kala Pattar for unrivalled views of Mount Everest. From AUD$4790 per person.
