Mount Everest might be the (literal) high point in any adventurer’s career. But while we might associate Mount Everest with high-octane expeditions and a lot of risk, Everest Base Camp is a different story. While reaching the summit of Mount Everest is a serious feat of physical accomplishment, beginners can trek to Everest Base Camp with (relative) ease. Of course, that doesn’t mean it’s an easy trek! If this is an expedition you’re considering, read on to find out more…
How can beginners trek to Everest Base Camp?
The same way beginners accomplish any expedition – training! Completing any multi-day expedition requires training and a good level of fitness. While Everest Base Camp may not require any technical mountaineering skills, you will need to have a good level of fitness before you head off.
What does that mean?
We give all of our expeditions a difficulty rating at Earth’s Edge. The trek to Everest Base Camp is a level 4. This means you can expect…
An average of 5 to 7 hours per day at altitudes not usually exceeding 5,500 metres. Some days may be up to 12 hours long but that is not typical. Typical elevation gain per day would be 400 – 800 metres, with some days as much as 1000 metres. As a rough guide, you should be comfortable hillwalking for 6 to 7 hours per day for two days in a row.
If you’re talking levels, that means that trekking to Everest Base Camp is “easier” than Kilimanjaro, Machu Picchu and Aconcagua.
How do I train for Everest Base Camp?
For many people, trekking to Everest Base Camp will be the toughest physical challenge of their lives. While it’s not technical, it can be very steep and you will be gaining height quickly. As well as hitting the gym and increasing your overall level of fitness, we recommend hiking at least twice a month in preparation. In the 3 months prior to departure, try to include two multi-day treks, carrying an 8kg rucksack. Don’t forget, our expedition to Everest Base Camp includes a training weekend in Ireland, too.
If this has given you a goo for the Himalayas, you can read all about our expedition to Everest Base Camp here.
