15 Days | Walk among giants, test your limits and discover your strength

If you have dreamed about a trek to the base of the world's tallest mountain, whether you want to know when is the best time to go, how fit you need to be or look for a clear overview of trip inclusions, find answers to our most frequently asked questions from our studio owner and mountain guide Heather Kinang

Mount Everest. Two words that conjure up dreams as immense and powerful as the Himalayan Mountains themselves. This 15-day trekking trip is your chance to make these dreams come true, to challenge yourself and discover both the majesty of the mountains and your own potential. Walk among giants of nature and revel in the sense of freedom that comes from leaving Wi-Fi and Netflix behind for card games in tiny tea houses, learning about Sherpa life and watching the sunrise over Everest. Plus, our commitment to the rights and fair treatment of porters and trekking guides means you can rest assured knowing you’re doing the trek of a lifetime the ethical way.

How difficult is the trek? How many hours a day do you walk?

The Everest trek is very achievable for people prepared to put in the work before departure. The trek is precisely that: a walk. There are no technical elements to the journey, just one foot in front of the other; the key is not to rush and to take your time.

Heather’s tip: “If you keep a positive outlook and know you are going to trek for 14+ days, then you can achieve it. Often trekking difficulty is 70% mental/30% physical”

This trek is graded moderate (on a scale of 1-5, with 5 being the most difficult, this trek is rated 3.5), meaning that you generally won't exceed eight hours of activity in a day. Some days can vary from 5-6 hours a day to just 2-3 hours; however, there will be sections where you are challenged. If you do the training, you go into the trek with a good base level of walking fitness; that's more than half the battle.

Is it very steep?

For this trek, travellers should be comfortable with occasional rough terrain but expect long steep climbs. Some days could include ascents and descents of 500 metres or more. Remember: speed isn't important; stamina and continuity are.

Do you need good boots?

Yes! And don't forget quality socks. Happy feet equal a happy trekker, so seek out an outdoor gear store that will help you get well-fitted, suitable, durable and comfortable boots that'll last in the long run.

Do you have any training programs for the trek?

Yes, this trek includes a 12 week suggested training program + weekly walks at Mt Coot-tha for Brisbane-based trekkers. The training you should do to prepare for your trek depends on your current level of fitness and any medical conditions. We suggest that you exercise a minimum of five times per week, an hour each time, doing activities such as hill walking, cycling, running, yoga, strength work or swimming (great for lung capacity).

Do many people have issues acclimatising?

Carefully timed acclimatisation days are scheduled into this trek to help trekkers acclimatise.

Every trekker (including guides and porters) will be affected by the altitude. Altitude symptoms can vary from mild to uncomfortable for each individual.

All our senior guides have extensive first aid training, and we urge you to communicate with your group leader at all times should you believe you have any symptoms to monitor you effectively.

Some tips to consider include taking your time, trekking at a slow and steady pace, and staying hydrated are essential in reducing the effects of altitude sickness.

Heather’s tip: “Walk high, sleep low. This saying is one our leaders and guides follow when trekking at high altitudes. Our treks are structured so that you ascend slowly, allowing acclimatisation to occur.”

What is the accommodation like?

You'll want to make sure you have a good night's sleep when on a trek, and our accommodation provides the comfort, warmth and privacy for a tranquil experience paired with superb mountain views. Dining rooms are heated and in addition to your sleeping bag, extra pillows and blankets are available at all of our overnight stops to maximise your comfort.

15kg isn't much, how do I pack lightly?

Choose lightweight and quick drying clothing, stick with one good outer layer and warm jacket and balance that with enough base and inner layers. You'll be surprised to find how many days you can wear a quality base layer or a pair of hiking socks.

While you get 20kg all up (15kg check-in and 5kg hand carry), keep in mind that your provided kit bags – which include a sleeping bag, and the bag itself – come in at around 4kg and should be counted in the above allowance.

Heather’s tip: “Lay out your items, cull it back, then cull it back again – just because it fits, doesn't mean you should take it.”

Can I leave my excess gear in Kathmandu?

Yes. You can leave your extra gear and luggage bag at our hotel in Kathmandu, which will be safely stowed away until we return.

In short - why you'll love this trip!

In addition to immense rugged mountains, witness everything from alpine lakes and glacial plains to frothy rivers and valleys covered in terraced fields.
A trek like this is the bonding experience of a lifetime and the genuine comradery formed between members of your small group will stay with you forever.
Get your first glimpses of the mighty Himalayan range on the included flight from Kathmandu to Phaplu – the Edmund Hillary airport in the sky.
Hike with an experienced and passionate Brisbane-based leader as well as a team of guides and porters who will introduce you to rich Sherpa culture.
We partner with local mountaineering and porter welfare programs, so you can trek easier knowing that while our porters are taking care of you, there’s someone looking out for them.

Heather is hosting a fully guided ‘Everest Less Travelled’ trek in December 2024. If you would like to find out more please follow the button below to express your interest. We’d love to have you join us!

I'm interested in the trek!