Now is definitely the time for trip planning. We all need something to look forward to, particularly something far-flung and adventurous. The Earth’s Edge trek to Everest Base Camp is one of our most exciting and popular expeditions. But how much does it cost to trek to Everest Base Camp? Is it expensive? And what are the hidden costs? We break it down for you here…
How much it costs to trek to Everest Base Camp
Let’s keep it simple. The Earth’s Edge expedition to Everest Base Camp costs €3,999*. That price includes…
- International flights from Dublin to Kathmandu return (Economy Class) (UK flights not included)
- Internal flights in Nepal
- Experienced Irish/UK expedition leader
- Experienced Irish/UK expedition doctor
- Training Weekend
- Local English-speaking guides, cooks and support team
- All accommodation based on twin sharing in hotels in Kathmandu and in guest houses elsewhere
- All meals and drinking water except in Kathmandu where accommodation is based on B&B
- A celebratory dinner
- All transport throughout the expedition
- All group gear consisting of first aid kits, mountaineering equipment, cooking equipment etc
In short? Pretty much everything!
We can only speak for ourselves, of course. Prices may vary between other companies, but it’s really important to know all of your costs up front. A bargain price isn’t a bargain if you end up shelling out more cash on the ground. And don’t forget – your safety is the most important thing. Safety, more than cost, should be your primary concern when trekking to Everest Base Camp. Remember, all of our trips are accompanied by a doctor from the UK or Ireland.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp from the UK
If you are joining the expedition to Everest Base Camp from the UK, you can book our trip without flights, for €3,299*. Then you can organise your own flights from the UK. You’ll also have to book your internal flights, but we’ll tell you which ones to book. We can also organise your airport transfers, if you like.
What isn’t included?
While our list of inclusions is pretty comprehensive, there are a few extra costs that you have to take care of. Personal travel insurance, vaccinations and visas aren’t included, as well as the personal gear you’ll need (like hiking boots, etc). At the moment, a tourist visa for Nepal is $40. You’ll want to bring a bit of spending money, too. We recommend $300 in cash for the whole trip. It’s handy to have some Rupees with you on the trek for small purchases, but you can change dollars locally.
How much do I need to tip on Everest Base Camp?
We have an excellent relationship with all of our porters around the globe. And trust us, you’ll want to thank them at the end of the expedition! We recommend a tip of $150 per person, which you can give to your expedition leader. They will then disperse it to the whole team. This isn’t in addition to the $300 above, though – it’s included in that suggested amount.
What about unexpected costs?
We visit Everest Base Camp when the conditions are at their best. But in very rare circumstances, bad weather means that flights to or from Lukla are cancelled. In this case, we take a helicopter. We don’t cover costs associated with changes outside our control (Force Majeure), so in this case you’d have to pay for the helicopter transfer. This is usually around $80 – $300 per person per flight.
Can I pay in instalments?
Of course! To secure your place on the expedition, you need to pay a deposit of €399. After that, you can pay as much as you like, whenever you like. The full amount is due three months before departure, but you can deposit money into your account whenever suits you.
So there you go! A full breakdown of how much it costs to trek to Everest Base Camp. If you want to read more about the expedition, click here.
*Prices are subject to change
