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Reaching Everest Base Camp isn't technically difficult; most of your journey will be along mountain paths and lateral moraine.
Preparing thoroughly is key for the success of any trek, including training both your body and mind. Acclimatization should also be considered, which means hiking to higher altitudes during the daytime while sleeping at lower elevations at night.
Preparation for trekking to Everest Base Camp includes both cardiovascular and strength training. Your goal should be to build endurance while wearing shoes you will use during your trek so you get a feel for walking uphill with a pack on. Cardio workouts should begin six months prior to departure as this gives your strength and endurance time to develop for this rigorous adventure.
Prep for your trek by taking short hikes through the mountains. Gradually increase the length of your hikes until they prepare you for the five to six hour treks that await. Also consider practicing walking in the boots that you plan on using during this trek as this will help break them in before hitting the trail!
Training for any trek requires you to consume healthy and drink plenty of water. Foods rich in proteins will help build muscles and endurance while eating plenty of vegetables will provide your body with essential vitamins and minerals needed for good health. Avoid too much sugar consumption as this could have an adverse impact on energy levels.
Along with physically training your body, it is also essential that you hone your mental strength before embarking on this trek. Building mental resilience will enable you to withstand high altitude conditions and the rigors of trekking more comfortably. Furthermore, try learning more about Nepal's culture and history so you can gain a fuller appreciation of this beautiful country you will soon be visiting.
When trekking to Everest Base Camp, autumn or spring seasons are ideal; they don't fall within Nepal's monsoon season which typically brings heavy rainfall that limits visibility and can make the trek more difficult. Summer months tend to bring their share of wetter conditions that limit views while making trekking even harder.
As you prepare to trek to Everest Base Camp, it is vitally important that you know which equipment will help ensure its success. Walking over long distances in rough terrain and carrying a heavy backpack of food and camping supplies requires high physical fitness; so, to be successful it is recommended to begin training at least three to six months prior to beginning your climb.
Your trek requires several pieces of clothing and gear, such as warm thermal clothing and waterproof rain protection. Furthermore, hiking boots and trekking poles will be necessary. In order to enjoy early morning walks at Kalapatthar Peak, bringing along a headlamp may also prove beneficial.
As conditions on a trek tend to be extremely cold and snowy, you should pack layers of clothing. A lightweight base layer, made of Capilene or Merino wool for example, should be your starting point as this will help maintain an even temperature and wick away moisture - two key aspects when trekking at high altitudes.
Mid-layers, such as fleece or down jackets, should be an integral component of the trek experience, providing additional insulation and warmth as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. You should also be equipped with gloves and beanie hats; not only will these provide sun protection and warmth to both ears, but they may also keep off moisture that could accumulate while walking through harsh terrain.
Carry a water purification system when trekking Everest; this will enable you to avoid purchasing expensive bottled water - something of which there can be plenty. A Lifestraw or Sawyer filter or Steripen can ensure that your drinking water remains clean and safe for consumption.
Keep in mind that porters need something lightweight like a duffel bag to transport your belongings while on a trek - do not bring a suitcase or rucksack as these would be too cumbersome for them to transport up and down mountainsides.
An effective backpack is essential when trekking. It must fit your sleeping bag, snacks and other essentials comfortably while being suitable for long walks. A day pack can also come in handy to carry water, chargers and gadgets; in case your main pack becomes lost or damaged on the trek.
As your feet will carry you to EBC, having comfortable footwear is key. Hiking boots should be used, as they provide adequate protection from altitude sickness and terrain changes. Break your hiking boots in before leaving on your journey in order to prevent blisters and discomfort.
Everest Base Camp trek is an unforgettable adventure, promising stunning experiences and views of unparalleled beauty. However, due to being at such high altitudes it can be challenging for some trekkers to acclimatise quickly enough - to avoid this happening it is wise to be adequately prepared, fit and organized prior to beginning the trek.
Sleeping bags rated to -15 degrees Celsius will do nicely for this trek, along with warm down jackets and gloves to stay toasty warm during your journey.
Toilet paper can be an issue on the trail, so it is wise to bring multiple rolls. In addition, be sure to pack sanitary products if required and pack a first aid kit with medication for altitude sickness, diarrhea, headaches and other common trekking ailments.
Due to no cell service at higher elevations, it's advisable to bring both a map and guidebook for the trek. A map will help navigate trails while the latter provides insight into local culture and history. A compass may also come in handy, especially since few signs can be found along trails. Travel insurance should also be purchased before embarking on this adventure.
Everest Base Camp trek begins in Lukla at an altitude of just under 2,860 meters (9,383 feet) and gradually ascends up to 5,380 m (17,600 ft), providing experienced hikers a vast change in altitude. Because this elevation jump is significant even for experienced trekkers, selecting an Everest trip that allows time for acclimatization rather than one which tries to move too quickly can prevent altitude sickness - the number one cause for people failing to summit Everest due to altitude sickness resulting from rushing too fast up the trail.
If altitude problems arise on the trail, a knowledgeable guide will know exactly how to support and care for you. They'll ensure you are acclimatizing properly while monitoring symptoms. They may recommend medication such as Diamox that may help relieve altitude sickness symptoms if necessary, and in worst-case scenarios have plans in place such as helicopter transport back down lower altitudes or transport directly back to hospital if required.
Carry an assortment of medications to address any potential medical problems on the trek. These could range from travellers diarrhoea or headache relief medication, so having some on hand is vital. Furthermore, carry enough water as you will likely sweat heavily and lose fluid through breath as well as becoming dehydrated quickly if not drinking enough fluids.
When embarking on a trek, guided tour companies provide the safest approach possible. Their guides take great care to acclimatise participants for altitude by including rest days and acclimatisation periods in your itinerary, and ensure you have enough strength and conditioning to complete it without risk of injury or illness. Furthermore, they can advise what gear and supplies to pack while out trekking compared to trying it alone.
