Everest Mini Trek

Accessing this Everest Mini Trek

There are several ways to start the Everest Mini Trek, either by flying to Lukla or trekking from Salleri. The choice of starting point depends on road conditions leading to the Solukhumbu region’s headquarters, a scenic hub. If you prefer, you can add four extra days to the itinerary by opting for the trek from Salleri, providing a gradual introduction to the adventure ahead. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Lukla for a quicker start to the trek.

Best time to go to Everest Mini Trek

While the Everest Mini Trek can be done year-round, the most popular seasons are March to May and September to November, thanks to the warmer climate and favorable weather conditions. However, each season offers its own distinct experience. Winter treks, for example, allow you to enjoy snow-covered landscapes with fewer crowds, allowing for a more serene and peaceful journey along the trail. Despite the colder conditions, winter has proven to be a rewarding time for those seeking a quieter and more picturesque adventure.

Altitude Acclimatization

Climbing above 2,500 meters increases the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Proper acclimatization is essential to minimize this risk. A gradual ascent is key to allowing your body to adjust to the altitude. Staying hydrated and consuming fluids like garlic soup can aid in the acclimatization process. Medications such as acetazolamide (commonly known as Diamox) can also help your body retain more oxygen at high altitudes. Fortunately, our trip itineraries are thoughtfully designed to include adequate time for your body to acclimatize, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

Trip Safety

Your safety is our top priority, and we meticulously plan every detail of the trip with this in mind. We take all necessary precautions, ensuring our team is equipped with cell phones, emergency satellite phones, comprehensive medical kits, and other essential gear. You will always be connected to our Kathmandu office for any support. Additionally, our team is dedicated to your well-being throughout the journey. Pre-trip measures, such as mandatory medical questionnaires and ensuring you have proper travel insurance, are all part of our commitment to your safety.

Fitness Level

The Everest Mini Trek requires a moderate level of fitness, as participants should be accustomed to regular exercise. While porters and animals will carry your gear and sleeping bags, you’ll only need to carry a light daypack. The main challenge is the altitude, but with daily trekking, your body will adjust, and you’ll feel stronger as the days progress. We encourage participants to prepare by exercising and training in advance of the trek. However, we design our treks to accommodate all genders and ages. Trekking with us is not a race but a shared experience, where everyone participates equally, supporting one another along the way.

Travel Insurance

Before embarking on the Peregrine Treks, we require participants to have adequate travel insurance to cover any potential misfortunes during the trip. You are free to arrange your own insurance and must provide proof of coverage at least 15 days before the start of the trek.

Purchasing and Local Producers

We prioritize using local products whenever possible to minimize the need for global transportation. This approach helps us protect the ecosystem while also supporting the local economy, creating a positive impact on both environmental sustainability and community development.

Note:

It is advisable to plan for extra days in your schedule. Arriving in Kathmandu a day before the trek’s departure allows you time to purchase any necessary gear and rest before starting the journey. Having extra days after the trek is also a good precaution, as flights from Lukla to Kathmandu may be delayed or canceled due to weather. These buffer days ensure you won’t miss your international flight.

Throughout our trip, unforeseen factors such as political situations or weather conditions could potentially alter our itineraries. While these changes are usually minor, the trip leader will always prioritize the group’s best interests and make any necessary adjustments. If changes are required, we will ensure they cause minimal disruption. However, we cannot be held responsible for delays caused by circumstances beyond our control.

Flight Delays in Kathmandu and Lukla

Lukla Airport, located in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains, is known for its challenging takeoffs and landings due to the unpredictable weather, which can change rapidly, often leading to flight delays or cancellations.

Twin Otter and Dornier planes are typically used for transport to and from Lukla. These planes are reliable, but in the event of weather-related delays or cancellations, we can arrange helicopter services, which can accommodate 4-6 people. The cost for this service ranges from USD 500 to USD 3000 per person, depending on the number of passengers. Payment for the helicopter service is required upfront, but it may be reimbursed later through your travel insurance. We accept US dollars, cash, and credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, and American Express) for helicopter payments, with a 4% bank fee applied to all transactions.

Helicopters operate when visibility is 1500 meters or better, while Twin Otter and Dornier planes require visibility of 5000 meters or more, as per Nepal Civil Aviation regulations. If the weather is too poor for safe helicopter operation, we will reschedule your flight for the next available date. In cases where the weather does not improve, we can provide alternative trekking options.