Trip grading

We have developed a trip grading system to help you match your level of fitness and aspirations with a trip that will complement both. If you’ve never trekked before, we recommend that you not be overly ambitious. Try a short trek and see if you enjoy it. That said, we acknowledge that trekking experience counts less than your motivation and physical condition. If you really want to get to Everest Base Camp, and are fit enough to do so, you’ll get there. Good health and spirit of adventure will carry you far. A complete dossier on your trek will be sent after we receive your initial deposit and booking confirmation. If you are uncertain which trek is best for you, we strongly recommend requesting complete trek dossiers before you book.

The descriptions below are meant to serve as a rough guide only. Trip grades are based on length, altitude, remoteness, walking conditions, weather and other factors. It is impossible to be precise about how hard a trek is: grading provides a way for you to compare different treks. Remember that all trekking makes some physical demands. Don’t expect that because a trek is graded easy you will never feel tired.

Trip grades

A - Easy.

We day hike, sightseeing and always stay in hotels.

B - Leisurely.

These trips can be enjoyed by anyone who leads a reasonably active life. The trekking itinerary is nine days or less, with elevations generally below 10,000 feet.

C - Moderate.

The trekking itinerary is greater than nine days. Some previous hiking experience is desirable. Elevations up to 15,000+ feet, with ups and downs.

D - Strenuous

You need to be familiar with mountain walking and possess a fair degree of stamina. These trips include difficult trekking conditions, covering long distance and high passes. (A doctor’s certificate may be required).

E - Technical

Climbing experience is required. You must be familiar with the use of mountaineering equipment. This grade is reserved for our most demanding treks, involving long days, often in isolated areas, at elevations above 18,000 feet.

Our price

Our trips offer the best value: not luxury, but not cut - price. Our price includes:

Food: All food is provided on trek. Depending on the area, provisions are based either on fresh local food or a combination of local and imported ingredients. Trek food is always nutritious and tasty.

Equipment: Tents, sleeping pads, cooking/dining equipment is provided. On any trip involving camping, you will need to bring a sleeping bag. You will also need to bring a pair of walking boots and a daypack. Specific recommendations are given in our pre-departure information.

Transport: We include all necessary domestic land transport during the trip; where a vehicle is used, it is normally for the exclusive use of the group. We avoid public buses where possible.

Sightseeing: Organized sightseeing is included whenever it is an integral part of the itinerary. We can usually arrange optional trip as well.

Permits: All necessary local permits, taxes, porter insurance, port dues, and entrance fees to National Parks or sites constituting an integral part of the trip.

What is not included: Visas, vaccinations, all domestic and international air fares, restricted area government fees, legend officer charge, airport taxes, insurance of any kind, emergency rescue flights, sleeping bags, personal equipment, tips, and other expenditure of a personal nature such as laundry or alcohol. Tips are also not included.In many areas, it is usual practice to tip the local staff at the end of the trek, either in cash or with unwanted items of clothing, etc. This is not normally a large expense,but in a few areas tipping has unfortunately become part of the local economy.

Travel insurance

We strongly recommend that you obtain travel insurance which is valid overseas. It must cover unforeseen events such as emergency evacuation and baggage loss.

Baggage and flights

You are restricted to 20 kg of baggage on most flights. We recommend you to take less than this to allow for your souvenirs. While on trek we must restrict you to 15 kg of personal gear: occasionally the limit may be less. Gear not needed on trek , can be left in the hotels.

Clothing

Apart from cold and wet weather protection on most trips, light comfortable casual clothes are all that is needed. A detailed recommended clothing list is given in the pre-departure information.

Medical and health

It is critical that persons with medical problems make them known to us before departure. The trip leader has the right to disqualify anyone at anytime during the trip if he or she feels the trip member is jeopardizing the safety of the group. Refunds are not given under such conditions. Have a medical and dental check before you go. Only a few countries now require specific immunizations, but we generally recommend some vaccinations.