Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return

We’ve led Everest treks for over 17 years and bring unmatched local knowledge to every Heli Shuttle departure. Our licensed Sherpa guides are born in the Khumbu region and know the trail, terrain, and altitude challenges inside out. From the moment you book, we take care of everything—permits, domestic flights, quality lodges, and your helicopter return—so the journey runs smoothly from start to finish.

We keep our groups small for better attention and flexibility, and our pricing is fully transparent. With over 2,300 verified five-star reviews, our reputation speaks for itself. If you’re looking for the right team to handle your EBC Heli Shuttle Trek with expertise and care, we’re proud to be that team.

Yes, you're very welcome to join the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek as a solo traveler. We run fixed departures throughout the season, and if no other trekkers join your selected date, your trip will still run as planned at the solo rate of US$3400.

The helicopter flight from Gorakshep to Lukla is already arranged for you, so there’s no need to coordinate with others or worry about seat sharing—it’s all handled in advance.

Yes, private trips are available every day for the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. You don’t need to follow our fixed departure dates. If you're traveling with friends or family, we can run the trek on your preferred dates at no extra cost for groups of two or more. It’s a flexible option that allows you to set your own pace and customize the experience.

Solo travelers can also book privately, though there is an added charge for one-person departures.

The key difference is that the 12-day Heli Shuttle Trek includes an overnight stop in Lukla after your helicopter flight from Gorakshep, followed by a regular flight to Kathmandu the next morning.

In contrast, the 11-day Everest Base Camp Heli Trek is a more relaxed option as it includes two nights in a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu and a direct helicopter transfer from Gorakshep to Kathmandu, eliminating the overnight stop in Lukla and saving travel time on the return.

Highly Recommended for You: Neither of these itineraries includes a reserve day before the trek or a buffer day after. We highly recommend adding one extra day in Kathmandu after the trek as a precaution.

Both treks follow the same route to Everest Base Camp and use the same lodges along the trail. The 16-day standard Everest trek includes two additional nights in Kathmandu and a full round-trip on foot—ideal for those who want to experience the entire trail at a more relaxed pace.

The 12-day Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek is better for trekkers short on time. Instead of walking back down from Gorakshep, you’ll board a helicopter to Lukla and fly to Kathmandu the next day, cutting out the return walk while still covering the whole route on the way up.

Yes, we’re happy to customize the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek based on your preferences. Whether you'd like to add rest days, include side hikes, upgrade accommodations, or adjust the return flight with a direct helicopter to Kathmandu, we can tailor the trip to match your travel style and schedule.

Yes, most nationalities can get a Tourist Visa on Arrival at Kathmandu airport or certain land borders. You can fill out the online form in advance or use airport kiosks.

Please have your passport (valid for at least 6 months), arrival card, and visa fee ready. Some countries are not eligible—please check in advance. Visas can be extended in Kathmandu.

Yes, airport transfers are included in the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek package. When you arrive in Kathmandu, our representative will be waiting outside the arrival terminal holding a sign with “Nepal Hiking Team.”

We’ll then take you directly to your hotel. Your departure transfer is also covered, and we’ll schedule it based on your outbound flight time. If you arrive early or stay extra nights, we’ll adjust the timing accordingly.

For the 12-day EBC heli Shuttle trek, our package includes accommodations at a comfortable 3-star hotel in Thamel—typically the Woodapple Hotel & Spa or a similar property, depending on availability.

If you'd like to upgrade to a higher-category hotel, we can arrange that for an additional cost. Let us know your preference in advance so we can plan accordingly.

If you're arriving early or leaving later than the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek itinerary, we’re happy to arrange extra nights for you. An additional night at the hotel included in our standard package costs USD 50 for a twin or double room and USD 45 for a single. The rate covers breakfast and all government taxes. We’ll adjust the booking based on your travel plans.

Yes, absolutely. You can leave your extra bags at the hotel while you're on the trek; they'll keep them safe until you return.

Before the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek begins, we hold a detailed pre-trek briefing at your hotel in Kathmandu. One of our team members will meet you along with your guide to review your itinerary, share the latest trail and weather updates, and explain helicopter arrangements.

You'll also receive your trekking gear, and we’ll collect copies of your passport and insurance details. This is the perfect time to ask any final questions or discuss anything you’d like clarified before the trek begins.

Booking is quick and straightforward. Select your travel dates on our website, fill out the booking form, and confirm your reservation with a 20% deposit using your card.

If you'd rather pay later or prefer a wire transfer, you can choose the “Book Now and Pay Later” option—we’ll email you a separate payment link. Once your deposit is received, we’ll confirm your trek and send the full itinerary.

The remaining balance can be paid in Kathmandu before the trek starts, either by card, cash, or bank transfer.

Yes, you can cancel your trek if you’re unable to travel. Please email us your cancellation request, and we’ll take care of it from there. While the 20% deposit is non-refundable, it will remain as a credit that you can use for any future trip with us.

We always recommend reviewing our booking and cancellation policy in advance so everything is clear before confirming.

Direct flights from Kathmandu to Lukla are available only during the low trekking season. In peak months—typically from late March to mid-May and late September to November—Lukla flights operate from Ramechhap Airport instead, due to air traffic restrictions at Kathmandu’s main airport.

Ramechhap is about 132 kilometers from Kathmandu, and we arrange early morning ground transportation to ensure you reach the airport on time.

Lukla flights are weather-dependent, and delays or cancellations can happen at any time of year. If your flight is canceled, the usual solution is to wait and fly the next day.

For those on a tighter schedule, we can help arrange a shared helicopter—typically an extra around USD 450 per person, plus the cost of the guide’s seat. Since the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek doesn’t include a buffer day, we strongly suggest adding one to your itinerary to stay flexible in case of disruptions.

Yes, you can upgrade to a helicopter flight between Kathmandu and Lukla to avoid the drive to Ramechhap. This is a shared flight and costs approximately USD 500 per person after adjusting for the value of the regular ticket.

The helicopter flies directly from Kathmandu to Lukla or vice versa. Advance booking is required, and the cost of the guide’s seat is shared among the group.

The total baggage allowance on the Lukla flight is 15 kilograms per person—10 kg for checked luggage and 5 kg for hand carry. This limit includes your personal belongings along with the trekking gear we provide, such as the duffel bag, sleeping bag, and down jacket.

After you hike up to Kalapatthar and return to Gorakshep, a helicopter will pick you up from the helipad and fly you to Lukla. You'll spend the night in Lukla and then catch a regular flight to Kathmandu the following morning.

All helicopter arrangements are pre-booked, and our team will coordinate the timing based on weather and air traffic conditions.

The 12-day Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. While the altitude and daily walking hours require good fitness, the helicopter return from Gorakshep makes the overall experience more manageable. The trek is suitable for first-time trekkers as well as those with previous hiking experience.

You'll walk approximately 65 kilometers (about 40 miles) in total, including scenic side hikes to the Everest View Hotel and Kalapatthar. Since there’s no need to walk back from Gorakshep, the descent is shortened significantly.

The best times to do the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek are spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November). These months offer the clearest skies, stable weather, blooming rhododendrons, and stunning mountain views.

We also run this trek in winter and monsoon for those who prefer quieter trails and a more off-season feel, but conditions can be colder or wetter depending on the time. For the best overall experience, we recommend trekking during the main spring or autumn season.

There’s no strict age limit for the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek. We’ve guided children as young as four and seniors well into their 70s on the classic EBC route. With the helicopter return, this version is more accessible and reduces the physical strain of walking back.

For young kids or older trekkers, we recommend adding a few extra days on the way up to allow for better acclimatization and a safer, more enjoyable pace. Alternatively, you can check our specially crafted package for seniors and kids.

Travel insurance isn’t mandatory to enter Nepal, but we do require it to join the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. This protects you in case of emergencies and ensures you're covered for medical expenses, helicopter evacuation, and high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters. Your policy should also include coverage for trip cancellations and travel delays.

You can check with providers like Genki Traveler, AXA, Allianz, or World Nomads, or explore options available in your home country.

To prepare for the Everest Base Camp Trek with Heli Return, focus on building stamina and endurance. Regular hiking, brisk walking, and uphill training will help condition your legs and lungs for the altitude.

Strengthen your core and legs through light cardio and low-impact exercises. Break in your hiking boots well in advance and make sure all your gear fits comfortably. Since this is a high-altitude trek, it also helps to mentally prepare and choose the right season for your journey.

The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to trek at a steady pace and give your body time to adjust. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days to help with the gradual ascent. Make sure to drink plenty of water, eat well, and avoid alcohol while gaining elevation.

Always listen to your guide’s instructions and let them know right away if you feel unwell—they’re trained to recognize symptoms early and take the right steps to keep you safe.

Vaccinations are not required to travel to Nepal, and we don’t require any for joining the Everest Base Camp Heli Shuttle Trek. However, you may consider a rabies vaccination, as the trail passes through villages where stray dogs can occasionally be seen.

For personal medical guidance, it’s best to consult with your doctor or travel clinic before your trip.

Yes, the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek itinerary includes two acclimatization days—one in Namche Bazaar at 3,440 meters and another in Dingboche at 4,410 meters.

On these rest days, you’ll take short hikes to higher elevations and return to your lodge to sleep lower. This gradual adjustment helps your body adapt to the altitude and significantly lowers the risk of altitude sickness.

For the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, you’ll need basic trekking gear including sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing layers, a down or insulated jacket, a waterproof shell, gloves, a hat, and UV-protective sunglasses. A comfortable daypack is essential for carrying your daily items like snacks, water, sunscreen, documents, and a camera.

We provide a -15°C sleeping bag, a warm down jacket, and a 70-liter duffel bag, which your porter will carry. Toiletries and other personal gear should go in the duffel.

For a full gear list, please refer to the Equipment Checklist on our website.

Yes, we provide a porter for the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. One porter carries the combined luggage of two trekkers, with a total weight limit of 25 kilograms, so you can pack around 12 to 13 kilograms in your duffel bag.

During the trek, you’ll carry your own daypack (a 20–22 liter pack is recommended) with essentials like water, snacks, a warm layer, your passport, and personal items needed during the day.

During the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, you’ll stay in twin-sharing lodges that are simple but clean and comfortable. Rooms along the EBC route include proper beds with mattresses, pillows, clean bed sheets, and basic furnishings.

In lower villages like Lukla, Phakding, and Namche, we use the best available lodges with attached bathrooms and hot showers. As you ascend higher, the lodges become more basic, with shared toilets and fewer amenities, but still offer warm dining areas and hearty meals.

If you’d like a private room for the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, the additional cost is USD 200 on top of the standard group rate. This covers single accommodation for the entire trip—including hotel stays in Kathmandu and teahouses along the trail.

Wi-Fi is available in most lodges along the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, especially in lower villages like Lukla and Namche. As you go higher, the signal becomes weaker, and internet access may be slower or unavailable. Lodges often use Everest Link cards for Wi-Fi, which you can purchase along the route. Access charges also tend to increase with elevation.

Mobile networks like Ncell and NTC offer decent coverage in the lower sections of the trail, but service drops significantly at higher altitudes. If you want mobile data during the trek, we recommend purchasing a local SIM card in Kathmandu. Even with that, expect limited service in the upper parts of the route.

Yes, it’s possible to stay overnight at Everest Base Camp on a private trek with at least two people. The added cost is approximately USD 450 per person based on a two-person booking.

We’ll arrange the required permits, tented accommodation, meals, and expedition logistics through a local support team. However, we generally don’t recommend it due to the high altitude of 5,364 meters and the greater risk of altitude sickness. The glacier terrain also makes emergency descents more difficult at night, so this option should be considered with caution.

During the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, you’ll find Western-style toilets in many teahouses in the lower villages like Lukla, Phakding, Namche, and Dingboche.

As you gain altitude, squat toilets become more common, and facilities are more basic. Most toilets are shared, and in higher or more remote areas, you may also come across simple composting toilets or basic outdoor setups.

Meals on the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek are ordered from teahouse menus and freshly prepared at each stop. You'll find a mix of local and international dishes—dal bhat, soups, noodles, fried rice, pasta, pancakes, eggs, and momos are commonly available along the trail.

The food is warm, simple, and filling, especially after a full day of hiking. As you get higher, the menu becomes more limited, but you’ll still have hearty meals at every stop.

Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are available throughout the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. Many teahouses can adapt meals to suit dietary preferences, especially in lower villages. Nepalese cuisine includes a variety of plant-based dishes, and your meals can be customized as long as we know your needs in advance.

Please let us know if you have allergies or dietary restrictions so we can inform your guide and arrange with the lodges accordingly.

To stay hydrated during the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek, drink water regularly throughout the day; aim for 3 to 4 liters total. Take small sips often instead of drinking a lot at once. Warm soups, tea, and safe fluids all help with hydration, especially in the cold. Try to avoid too much caffeine, as it can cause dehydration at high altitude.

We recommend bringing around NPR 20,000 to 25,000 in cash for personal expenses during the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. This amount should cover extras like hot showers, Wi‑Fi, device charging, snacks, drinks, and other small purchases at the lodges.

You can withdraw cash in Kathmandu before the trek. ATMs are also available in Lukla, Namche, and Dingboche, but they often run out of money or go offline, so it’s best to prepare ahead and carry enough Nepali rupees for the full trip.

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a well-accepted practice on the Everest Base Camp Heli Return Trek. Many trekkers choose to tip their guide, porter, and support staff as a way to show appreciation for their service and care throughout the journey.

There's no fixed amount- it depends on your experience and satisfaction. Tips can be given in Nepali rupees or US dollars, and even a modest amount is appreciated by the team.