Everest Base Camp is a trek, not a climb, and thousands of people walk it safely every year. The risks are real, though, and most of them come from altitude, not from the trail itself.
The main risks
- Altitude sickness. You spend many nights above 4,000 m. It can affect anyone, and the most serious forms can be fatal if ignored. Read the simple rules.
- Cold. Nights at Gorak Shep are well below freezing for most of the year.
- Trail hazards. Steep drops, suspension bridges, loose rock on moraine, and yak and porter trains that need room to pass. Always step to the uphill side when animals pass.
- Weather and flights. Lukla flights are often delayed, which can pressure people to rush the itinerary. Don’t.
How to reduce them
- A sensible itinerary with rest days. Ours includes two, at Namche and Dingboche.
- A guide who checks on you every evening and turns back when needed.
- Never going higher with symptoms.
- Travel insurance that covers trekking to at least 6,000 m and helicopter evacuation.
Rescue
If someone becomes seriously ill, the first step is to descend. Helicopter evacuation is available in the Everest region when it’s medically needed. We take no commissions on rescues. See our promises.
