How Much Does Everest Base Camp Trek Really Cost?
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is an adventure of a lifetime, but it’s not a cheap one. From flights and gear to snacks and tipping, the expenses add up fast. In this detailed cost breakdown, I’ll walk you through every dollar I spent on my journey and where you can potentially save (or where you shouldn’t cut corners). Whether you’re planning to go full-on budget, mid-range, or treat yourself to some extra comfort, this guide is built to help you make informed decisions.
Even if you’ve read other cost guides, this one gives the real deal—not just what’s advertised online, but what it actually costs when your boots hit the trail. I tracked everything meticulously, from booking flights to the surprise expenses no one tells you about. Let’s get into the numbers.
Every dollar adds up on the trail to Everest.
💰 Total Cost Overview
Tracking every cent to get the full picture.
Total Spent: $5,613 USD
Flights: $1,800
Trekking Package: $1,683
Meals/snacks/power/wifi: $500
Tips: $420
Gear: $510
Hotels pre/post trek: $200
Gifts: $100
Unexpected expenses: $400
This total might surprise you. I didn’t go ultra-budget, but I didn’t splurge on luxury either. My style was comfortable, convenient, and calculated. You could definitely spend less—or far more—depending on your travel style.
I’m sharing this so you can build your own realistic expectation. I’ve also included where you can save money, and where it’s worth paying more.
✈️ Flight Costs
International round-trip from the U.S. to Nepal: ~$1,800
That number includes two layovers and travel before/after the trek. If you’re flying from Europe or Asia, it could be cheaper.
Flight Tips:
Book 2-3 months in advance.
Be exact with your name—include your middle name! Asia airlines are strict.
Choose an aisle seat—it matters when you’re in the air for 20+ hours.
Bring extra water. I had 3 bottles for long-haul flights.
Pack snacks like protein bars—airline food won’t cut it.
Bring wired headphones—your Bluetooth ones might die mid-movie.
Getting there is half the journey—literally.
🌄 Trekking Package
Total: $1,683
Route via less crowded trail: $1,119
Premium Guide (Bhupal!): $300
Porter: $264
Includes:
All meals (3x/day) and lodging in teahouses
All permits (TIMS + Sagarmatha National Park)
Why Alpine Ramble?
It’s the largest company in the region—more bookings mean better perks.
Bigger companies get preferred teahouse seats and better Lukla flight access.
You’re not stuck if something goes wrong—you’ll have backup guides around.
Smaller trekking outfits might save you a few bucks upfront, but it can cost you in comfort, safety, or delays. Ask for Bhupal by name—he’s a legend. Truly one of the most skilled and thoughtful guides I’ve ever had.
❌ What's Not Included
Meals/snacks/power/wifi – $500
Let’s be real—the cost of food and basic services adds up. Especially when everything’s hauled up a mountain by humans or yaks.
Water Bottles: $2–$5 as you gain altitude.
About purification tablets: They don’t work as well up here. That’s straight from my guide. The water is contaminated, and tablets don’t kill everything. Bottled water was safer, more reliable, and allowed me to stay hydrated. Yes, it’s less eco-friendly—but health comes first at 16,000+ feet.
Charging Devices + Wifi:
Charging: $3–$6 per stop
Wifi: Often spotty, slow, or down completely
Hot showers are usually extra. Some teahouses have them; others charge.
Souvenirs + Local Market Gear: Cheap gloves, jackets, or trekking poles if you forget something.
Tips: $420
60% went to my guide, 40% to my porter.
I tipped 25% of the trek cost, which is generous—but these guys earned it.
How Much To Tip?
⛺️ Gear & Prep
Total: $510
Even as an experienced hiker, I still needed to purchase some items:
Wool Shirts (2): $160
Underwear (2): $80
Long Underwear: $80
Long Sleeve Shirt: $80
Hat, scarf, water bottles: $110
Regret Alert: I spent a ton on wool gear—and honestly, I wouldn’t do it again. Dry-fit athletic clothing works just fine. Unless you hike in the cold often, save your cash.
Gifts: I also budgeted $100 for gifts—singing bowls, yak bells, and prayer flags for myself and loved ones.
➕ Optional Costs
Travel Insurance + Helicopter Rescue
First Aid Kit + Medications
Massage in Namche (yes, really—it helps!)
Extra meals, drinks, or splurges in Kathmandu post-trek
These extras make the trip smoother. After 10 days of hiking at high altitude, trust me—one massage and a celebratory meal go a long way.
🎥 Watch the Full Video on YouTube
Want the visual breakdown and behind-the-scenes stories? Watch the full YouTube video now for tips, visuals, and what it really costs to do this trek.