The Wanderlust guide to reaching Everest Base Camp

Very few of us will ever get to stand on top of Mount Everest – expeditions to the top of the planet’s highest peak (8,850m) take around 70 days, costs in excess of £30,000 and require a special blend of fitness, skill and insanity.

However, the trek to Everest Base Camp (5,340m) is a much more achievable goal for those hiking in the Nepalese Himalaya – and almost as rewarding.

There are two parts to any Everest Base Camp experience: getting there and being there. Piers Pickard found the trek to Everest Base Camp was full of surprises. It wasn’t just about the mountains, he says. The Khumbu region offers a real insight into the Sherpa culture, ancient village communities and all-pervading Buddhism. Don’t just focus on getting to Base Camp.

Base Camp itself is surprising too, says Phoebe Smith. Look beyond the sea of brightly-coloured tents and take the time to chat to the Sherpas. Oh, and soak up the incredible views!

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Hiking to Everest Base Camp – Piers Pickard

Everest: Base Camp and beyond – Phoebe Smith

As befitting a destination nestled on the slopes of the world’s highest mountain, Everest Base Camp has its own particular demands and requirements. Steve Wroe from Peregrine Adventures gives his five tips for reaching Base Camp.

Piers Pickard offers his advice too, on such questions as ‘Camping or teahouses?’ Make sure you check out our readers’ tips for Base Camp, particularly the one advising trekkers not to eat the yak!

Finally, Phoebe Smith has put together an essential Base Camp kit list.

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5 tips for tackling Everest Base Camp – Steve Wroe

Everest Base Camp practical tips – Piers Pickard

Crowd-sourced Everest Base Camp – Jill Frazier

Everest Base Camp kit list – Phoebe Smith