Everest Base Camp & Kala Pattar - Self Guided Trek

Self Guided trips do not included a guide, and usually other people in your group. They give you the independence of travelling at your own pace, while we take care of the logistics. We provide you with detailed route notes, maps, and pre-booked accommodation. Your main luggage is transferred for you between lodges, so you only carry a light daypack with essentials. Although you trek independently, our local team is available 24/7 should you need assistance. This option is ideal if you enjoy the freedom of walking without a group, but still want the security of our support behind the scenes.

Your trek duffel (provided) should not exceed 15kg (33lb). On Lukla flights, you’re allowed 10kg checked and 5kg carry-on (total 15kg / 33lb). We provide this allowance specifically for trekking gear.

Yes - any extra items not needed on the trek can be safely stored at the group hotel in Kathmandu.

Yes - all accommodation is twin-share in lodges. If you'd prefer your own space, a single supplement is available at an additional cost (subject to availability).

At higher altitudes, especially at night and above 4,000m (13,100ft), temperatures can drop significantly. Expect anything from mild days to below freezing nights. Lodges provide basic bedding but we supply you with a warm sleeping bag, liner and down/fibre jacket for added comfort.

Lodge toilet styles can vary. Some provide Western-style sit-down toilets, while others may have more basic squat-style facilities.

Yes, you’ll see Everest from Kala Pattar and other viewpoints along the trail. You’ll also see other major Himalayan peaks including Lhotse and Ama Dablam.

You'll stay at the Radisson, a 4-star hotel, in Kathmandu. On trek, you’ll overnight in carefully selected lodges. These are basic but comfortable, and your accommodation is pre-booked by our team to ensure availability.

Yes, in most villages there are opportunities to charge your devices for a small fee. Carry fully charged spare batteries and a solar charging pack as backup.

Breakfast is included at your Kathmandu hotel, and breakfasts are included at lodges on trek. Other meals are at your own expense, allowing you flexibility to choose from lodge menus along the way.

Our trek is graded Moderate to Challenging (5–6). Days can involve up to 8 hours of trekking, with steep ascents/descents and altitudes up to 5,545m (18,192ft). You should be very fit, confident in your navigation skills, and prepared to walk long days at altitude without a guide’s support.

The trek reaches Kala Pattar at 5,545m (18,192ft), offering panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse.

Yes - return flights to and from Lukla are included. Each trekker is allowed a total luggage weight of 15kg (33lb) on these flights (an extra 5kg on top of the 10kg limit is allowed just for our trekkers

No - we provide one. A warm sleeping bag, liner and down/fibre fill jacket are included as part of your trek package.

You won’t need to invest in expensive gear you might only use once - we include essentials like a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and sleeping bag liner. Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide a detailed gear list outlining what you need to bring.

Because this trek is self guided, you are responsible for monitoring your own health. Our itinerary is paced with acclimatisation days, and we provide information on recognising and responding to altitude sickness. We do not use oxygen on our treks. If symptoms persist, the only effective treatment is descent. Our Kathmandu office provides 24/7 support should evacuation be required.

The season typically runs from late September (Autumn) to early May (Spring). This is when there is no monsoon and the weather is stable and clear enough for views of the 8000m giants. In some parts of the Himalaya, Spring brings with it a riot of colour thanks to the famous rhododendrons.

Yes – unlike our guided treks, this self-guided program requires you to be an experienced and confident trekker. You should be comfortable navigating independently using route notes and maps, and able to manage your pace without a guide.

You’ll only carry your daypack (approx. 6–8kg / 13–18lb) with daily items like water, camera, rain jacket, and snacks. Your main luggage is transferred between lodges for you.