Yosemite Grand Traverse
- July to September
- Difficulty: Advanced
Overview
Intro
Most people approach the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek in a way that’s less than ideal: crowded trails, basic tea houses, rushed itineraries, altitude sickness, and a generally rough experience. And after all that, many only manage a quick selfie at some random rock before heading back. Not exactly the adventure you dreamt of, right?
This is how EBC Rugged Luxury does it.
You begin your adventure in a five-star hotel in Kathmandu and staying in luxury mountain lodges throughout your journey. An experienced Everest summit guide will be leading your expedition. With a carefully planned, slow acclimatization schedule, you’ll stay safe, and healthy, and fully enjoy the experience, including nights spent camping under the alpine stars. And when you reach your destination, you'll have exclusive access to the real Everest Base Camp, where the true summiteers stay!
Two nights in luxurious, heated geodesic dome tents, with gourmet meals crafted by a chef right on the glacier. You’ll ice climb at the base of Everest, sip cappuccinos in the iconic Big House, and unwind with the world’s highest massage in a spa tent. And when it's time to return, you won't just retrace your steps. Instead, a helicopter will land on the glacier to whisk you away, soaring through stunning Himalayan giants and secret valleys, all the way back to Kathmandu.
This is how EBC Rugged Luxury does it.
You begin your adventure in a five-star hotel in Kathmandu and staying in luxury mountain lodges throughout your journey. An experienced Everest summit guide will be leading your expedition. With a carefully planned, slow acclimatization schedule, you’ll stay safe, and healthy, and fully enjoy the experience, including nights spent camping under the alpine stars. And when you reach your destination, you'll have exclusive access to the real Everest Base Camp, where the true summiteers stay!
Two nights in luxurious, heated geodesic dome tents, with gourmet meals crafted by a chef right on the glacier. You’ll ice climb at the base of Everest, sip cappuccinos in the iconic Big House, and unwind with the world’s highest massage in a spa tent. And when it's time to return, you won't just retrace your steps. Instead, a helicopter will land on the glacier to whisk you away, soaring through stunning Himalayan giants and secret valleys, all the way back to Kathmandu.
At a Glance
- Season: March & April
- Duration: 18 days
- Accommodation: Five-star hotels, teahouses, and luxury tents at EBC
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Gallery
What's Unique About This Adventure?
Highlights
For many adventurers, reaching Everest Base Camp is a dream. But with Rugged Luxury, this journey becomes an extraordinary experience.
Here’s what makes this adventure stand out:
1. Exclusive Access: Unlike the standard trek, Rugged Luxury offers exclusive access to the authentic Everest Base Camp, where the summiteers stay. You’ll immerse yourself in the true atmosphere of the base camp, not just pose for a photo at a random rock.
2. Luxurious Accommodations: Enjoy the adventure without compromising comfort. From five-star hotels in Kathmandu to luxury mountain lodges and heated geodesic dome tents on the glacier, your stay will be nothing short of exceptional.
3. Gourmet Dining: Even on the glacier, savor gourmet meals prepared by a dedicated chef. Every bite is a treat, making your experience that much more special.
4. Slow Acclimatization: Your safety and health are top priorities. A carefully paced acclimatization schedule minimizes the risk of altitude sickness, ensuring you stay comfortable and energized throughout the trek.
5. Unique Activities: Experience ice climbing at the base of the world’s tallest peak, indulge in a massage at the highest spa tent, or relax with a cappuccino in the famous "big house." These activities make your journey truly unforgettable.
6. Helicopter Return: Skip the traditional route back. A helicopter will whisk you from the glacier, offering stunning views of the Himalayan giants and hidden valleys, returning you to Kathmandu in style.
7. Unmatched Experience: This isn’t just a trek; it’s a life-changing journey. You’ll return home feeling inspired, humbled, and with stories that will last a lifetime. With Rugged Luxury, you’re not just a tourist—you’re a true traveler.
Here’s what makes this adventure stand out:
1. Exclusive Access: Unlike the standard trek, Rugged Luxury offers exclusive access to the authentic Everest Base Camp, where the summiteers stay. You’ll immerse yourself in the true atmosphere of the base camp, not just pose for a photo at a random rock.
2. Luxurious Accommodations: Enjoy the adventure without compromising comfort. From five-star hotels in Kathmandu to luxury mountain lodges and heated geodesic dome tents on the glacier, your stay will be nothing short of exceptional.
3. Gourmet Dining: Even on the glacier, savor gourmet meals prepared by a dedicated chef. Every bite is a treat, making your experience that much more special.
4. Slow Acclimatization: Your safety and health are top priorities. A carefully paced acclimatization schedule minimizes the risk of altitude sickness, ensuring you stay comfortable and energized throughout the trek.
5. Unique Activities: Experience ice climbing at the base of the world’s tallest peak, indulge in a massage at the highest spa tent, or relax with a cappuccino in the famous "big house." These activities make your journey truly unforgettable.
6. Helicopter Return: Skip the traditional route back. A helicopter will whisk you from the glacier, offering stunning views of the Himalayan giants and hidden valleys, returning you to Kathmandu in style.
7. Unmatched Experience: This isn’t just a trek; it’s a life-changing journey. You’ll return home feeling inspired, humbled, and with stories that will last a lifetime. With Rugged Luxury, you’re not just a tourist—you’re a true traveler.
What's Included
What's Included
- 16 day rugged luxury Everest Base Camp trek
- IFMGA Mountain Guide and Everest Summit Guide
- World-class porters and Sherpa staff
- Accommodation
- Five-star accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights) — single rooming, dual occupancy for couples
- Finest teahouse and mountain lodge accommodation in the Khumbu Valley (8 nights)
- Tented camps at Lobuche Base Camp (2 nights)
- Luxury Everest Executive Domes at Everest Base Camp Proper (2 nights)
- Airport transfers
- All group transportation while on the expedition
- Domestic flights to Lukla at the start of trek
- Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
- All meals while on the trek and at Everest Base Camp
- 1x one-hour massage at Everest Base Camp Spa
- Beginner-friendly ice climbing clinic and necessary gear
- Shared one-way helicopter from Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu
- IFMGA Mountain Guide and Everest Summit Guide
- World-class porters and Sherpa staff
- Accommodation
- Five-star accommodation in Kathmandu (3 nights) — single rooming, dual occupancy for couples
- Finest teahouse and mountain lodge accommodation in the Khumbu Valley (8 nights)
- Tented camps at Lobuche Base Camp (2 nights)
- Luxury Everest Executive Domes at Everest Base Camp Proper (2 nights)
- Airport transfers
- All group transportation while on the expedition
- Domestic flights to Lukla at the start of trek
- Welcome and farewell dinners in Kathmandu
- All meals while on the trek and at Everest Base Camp
- 1x one-hour massage at Everest Base Camp Spa
- Beginner-friendly ice climbing clinic and necessary gear
- Shared one-way helicopter from Everest Base Camp to Kathmandu
What's Not Included
What's Not Included
- International flights to and from Kathmandu
- Airport arrival or departure taxes, visas, associated travel expenses
- Any extensions prior or post the specified itinerary — however, your guides can help you plan these add-ons, please contact us in time
- Personal clothing and equipment, toiletries
- Sherpa tip pool ($400 for trekkers)
- Guide tips, customary but optional
- Any rescue expenses incurred or excess expenses above and beyond the normal trip costs including transport, hotels, evacuation, flight changes, and gear shipping
- Required trip insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
- Bar tabs, mini bars, hotel internet bills, laundry etc
- Lunch in Kathmandu, souvenirs and personal sundries
- Airport arrival or departure taxes, visas, associated travel expenses
- Any extensions prior or post the specified itinerary — however, your guides can help you plan these add-ons, please contact us in time
- Personal clothing and equipment, toiletries
- Sherpa tip pool ($400 for trekkers)
- Guide tips, customary but optional
- Any rescue expenses incurred or excess expenses above and beyond the normal trip costs including transport, hotels, evacuation, flight changes, and gear shipping
- Required trip insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
- Bar tabs, mini bars, hotel internet bills, laundry etc
- Lunch in Kathmandu, souvenirs and personal sundries
Location
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
When you arrive in Kathmandu, your guides will meet you at the airport and transfer you to a five-star hotel in the city. Take some time to rest and recover from your flight, tomorrow your adventure awaits.
Elevation: 4,344 ft / 1,324 m
Accommodation: Five-star hotel in Kathmandu
Day 2: Guide Briefing & Gear Checks
After breakfast at your hotel, your guides will go through a briefing and gear check. You will have free time in the afternoon, perfect for exploring the city. Later on, enjoy a welcome dinner with your guides and your team.
Elevation: 4,344 ft / 1,324 m
Accommodation: Five-star hotel in Kathmandu
Day 3: Fly to Lukla and Hike to Phakding Village
The trek begins by flying into Lukla. This is a 35-minute flight gives you scenic views from the air. Once you arrive, it’s all trekking going forward. The trail will take you through mountain villages, suspension bridges, and forests all the way to Phakding, where you’ll stay overnight.
Elevation: 8,562 ft / 2,610 m
Accommodation: Yeti Mountain Home Lodge
Hiking: 5.1 miles / 8.2 km
Day 4: The Town of Namche Bazaar
After breakfast, you’ll trek for 5-6 hours to the town of Namche Bazaar, the historic trading center of the Khumbu region. The trek will take us through green mountains and suspension bridges over rivers.
Elevation: 11,286 ft / 3,440 m
Accommodation: Yeti Mountain Home Lodge
Hiking: 6.8 miles / 11 km
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Namche Bazaar
This is a day of rest and acclimatization, a chance to let your body get used to higher altitudes. Use this time to explore Namche Bazaar, often called the “Gateway to Everest.” It has everything, from Tibetan artifacts to delicious food and trekking equipment. A visit to the Thamo Monastery will make this day of active recovery complete.
Elevation: 11,286 ft / 3,440 m
Accommodation: Yeti Mountain Home Lodge
Day 6: Trek to the Village of Debouche
Time to get going! Today’s 5-6 hour trek will take you to the village of Debouche.
Elevation: 12,532 ft / 3,820 m
Accommodation: Rivendell Mountain Lodge
Hiking: 6.75 miles / 11.1 km
Day 7: Acclimatization at Debouche
Another day of active recovery. You’ll visit the Tengboche Monastery and build up your strength, you’ll need it for later.
Elevation: 12,532 ft / 3,820 m
Accommodation: Rivendell Mountain Lodge
Day 8: Trek to Pheriche
Today you’ll hike for 5-6 hours above the vegetation level: higher and higher into the Himalayas, at 14,340 ft.
Elevation: 14,340 ft / 4,371 m
Accommodation: Edelweiss Mountain Lodge
Hiking: 6.9 miles / 12 km
Day 9: Acclimatization in Pheriche
You’ll go for a hike and then visit the HRA (Himalayan Rescue Association) to learn about high altitude and its effects on the body.
Elevation: 14,340 ft / 4,371 m
Accommodation: Edelweiss Mountain Lodge
Day 10: Lobuche Base Camp
After a good rest in Pheriche, we’ll continue to Lobuche, a small Himalayan village with only a few teahouses, and then to the tented Lobuche Base Camp for the night.
Elevation: 15,750 ft / 4,800 m
Accommodation: Tented camp — associate tents
Hiking: 4.5 miles / 7.25 km
Day 11: Lobuche High Camp
We’ll take an acclimatization hike to Lobuche High Camp for some of the best views of the Himalayas before returning to Lobuche Base Camp.
Elevation: 15,750 ft / 4,800 m
Accommodation: Tented camp — associate tents
Hiking: 2.4 miles / 3.9 km
Day 12: The Village of Gorak Shep
A 3-4 hour trek will take us to Gorak Shep, the last village in the Khumbu Valley.
Elevation: 16,942 ft / 5,164 m
Accommodation: Teahouse or tented camp
Hiking: 5.6 miles / 9 km
Day 13: Reach Everest Base Camp Proper
Today we’ll finally reach Everest Base Camp proper! We’ll have a delicious lunch prepared by a chef before exploring the Base Camp.
Elevation: 17,598 ft / 5,364 m
Accommodation: Everest Executive Domes
Hiking: 2.7 miles / 4.4 km
Day 14: Everest Base Camp & Ice Climbing Clinic
Go for a beginner-friendly ice climbing clinic on the Khumbu Glacier before retreating to the spa tent for the world’s highest massage!
Elevation: 17,598 ft / 5,364 m
Accommodation: Everest Executive Domes
Day 15: Heli Flight Back to Kathmandu
It’s time to leave Everest Base Camp. A scenic helicopter flight will take you from Everest Base Camp back to Kathmandu and a five-star hotel.
Elevation: 4,344 ft / 1,324 m
Accommodation: Five-star hotel in Kathmandu
Day 16: Kathmandu Tour
For your final day with your team and your guides, enjoy a full-day Kathmandu city tour. In the evening, you will have a farewell dinner.
Elevation: 4,344 ft / 1,324 m
Meet Your Guide
Company
This tour is provided by Climbing the Seven Summits.
CTSS is a world-leading mountain guiding, expedition, and trekking service. They are known as the Seven Summits Specialists for good reason, with their trademark expeditions being the tallest peak on each of the seven continents, including Everest. That said, they don’t stop at just those Seven! They run countless expeditions and treks all over the world with the highest standards and customer service.
CTSS is a world-leading mountain guiding, expedition, and trekking service. They are known as the Seven Summits Specialists for good reason, with their trademark expeditions being the tallest peak on each of the seven continents, including Everest. That said, they don’t stop at just those Seven! They run countless expeditions and treks all over the world with the highest standards and customer service.
Reviews
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Hiking | Nepal
Everest Base Camp Rugged Luxury
Season:
March & April
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Duration:
18 Days
From $19,995.00 USD
Kevin A.
An incredible experience from start to finish. I can’t say enough what a difference it makes to have a great guide who cares so much about the whole experience and a great time to make the journey so special. I hope this is the first of many climbs with CTSS for me.
Jen M.
The CTSS team went above and beyond every step of my journey, from when I booked my EBC trek to after I got home.
Big Tendi Sherpa was a wealth of knowledge and thought if every little detail to ensure we made it to camp healthy. We stayed in the best tea houses along the way, and the amenities and service at EBC were next level, from the espresso bar to the massage tent.