6 Things to Do Before Hiking to Everest Base Camp in Nepal

A trek to the Everest base camp is a true test of one’s physical fitness and mental fortitude; the experience is the reward. You can proudly count yourself among the lucky few with the drive and desire to complete this trek.

This said, you need to prepare and do so the right way to give yourself the best chance of enjoying the trek, taking in the views, making friends, and chalking up an unforgettable experience.

Here are six things that you must do before the EBC trek in Nepal.

1. Acclimatize – It’s common knowledge that you must acclimatize for high-altitude treks. The Everest base camp trek in Nepal will take you 17,000 ft above sea level. If your body is used to functioning at oxygen levels present at sea level, you need to have a gradual and effective acclimatization plan. Choose a trek organizer that factors in the necessary acclimatization to ensure safe climbing in a low-oxygen environment. Acclimatization stimulates red blood corpuscle production, allowing more oxygen to reach your organs and preventing high altitude sickness.
2. Endurance – Plan on building your endurance systematically. Given your existing endurance levels, you may need anything between one to three months to reach the desired fitness levels. You will be trekking daily for up to eight hours with eight kgs or more in your backpack. Your body needs to get used to climbing and descending slopes with such weight. Practice jogging and walking uphill with a loaded backpack. Alternatively, you can climb stairs. Your ankles, calves, quads, glutes, and hamstrings need to develop to a level where you do not get fatigued with the exertion you’re planning.
3. Equipment and Clothing – The trekking agency you choose to go with will provide you with a list of items you need to bring. Choose the best quality ones, not necessarily the most expensive items. These include sleeping bags rated for 0 degrees Fahrenheit, trekking boots, thermal socks, gloves, layered clothing including jackets and thermal wear, and more. Read reviews to know the best quality gear for your needs.
4. Vaccination – If the trekking company you select requires that you be vaccinated, then get vaccinated. You can also choose to be vaccinated. Check with your doctor and consider such medical advice. Don’t delay vaccinations because some may require a booster shot that must be taken after a fixed gap. The trekking company you sign up with will also provide a list of medications you must carry.
5. Hydration – Get used to drinking 4-5 liters of water daily before starting the trek. Staying hydrated is important at high altitudes where oxygen levels are low. There are a few other things to remember; these should be a part of your preparation. These include staying out of the hot sun, carrying sunscreen, and consuming the recommended volume of water early enough so that your night’s sleep is not disturbed by toilet breaks.
6. Due Diligence on the Trekking Business – Read reviews about the Mount Everest hike organizer. What is the size of the group? Smaller groups are safer as the guides can interact with all and give personalized advice based on an individual’s performance. Learn about safety measures, evacuation procedures, the team’s experience, and other things that may occur to you.