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If you’re thinking about trekking to Everest Base Camp, then you’re probably wondering where on earth to start.
While there’s a lot you’ll want to learn about Everest Base Camp before you visit, once you’re there, you won’t have to do or know everything.
Because experienced guides are there for that precise reason – to guide.
They’ll be there the whole way, encouraging you, keeping you motivated, and generally having a laugh. They’re all highly qualified, experienced, and brilliant people too.
They’ll even monitor your health during rest periods, and if you need it, they can help you carry your daypack – they’re there to help.
But you might be wondering how it all works…
Etiquette when it comes to porters and guides on Everest
Remember that porters will do EVERYTHING they can to make you feel comfortable.
So, with that in mind, try not to complain about conditions en route to Everest Base Camp.
Because by doing so, it can be taken as an insult to the guide, who might feel that they’re not doing their job properly – remember, you’re on your way to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world.
It’s a multi-day trek into a remote region of the Himalayas, so don’t expect 5* luxury!
Being polite and courteous is an easy way to show your appreciation for the expertise and kindness of your porters – and believe me, they will be as kind and helpful as possible.
Being respectful to the Everest Porters
Another thing to remember is they are people too!
And not just people, but incredibly knowledgeable people who are working in the world’s most extreme environment. Use their expertise, speak to them, and they’ll deliver pearls of wisdom throughout.
Being a responsible trekker by looking after the gorgeous natural environment, cleaning up after yourself, and being respectful is an easy way to adhere to etiquette on your Everest trip.
Tourism in Nepal
Nepal is the poorest country in Asia, and tourism is their most significant economic income. Not just that, but trekking is the largest sector in Nepal’s tourism – it’s worth knowing this to frame your experience.
And by trekking in Nepal, you’re supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs, including guides and porters.
It’s not just their responsibility to provide a life-affirming experience – you have a crucial role to play in that too.
Always make way for porters
Guides are the lifeblood of Nepal and Everest treks in particular. They’ll often carry up to FOUR times their body weight up and down challenging terrain.
So, common courtesy is to let them pass. You can even call out ‘porter on the right’ if you happen to see a porter about to pass.
It’s your responsibility to make guides and porter’s jobs as easy as possible.
And on that note, you MUST be careful where you pass other trekkers on your journey. With an increase in tourism in recent years, things might be a bit busier, which might mean you’ll pass slower trekkers in front.
But you should only ever pass when it’s safe – and your guide will let you know about that.
However, it’s nowhere near as busy as you’d think!
How much should I tip my Everest Base Camp porter?
Conversations about money can be awkward, and we know that. So, we’ve made things a bit easier for you.
The general rule for tipping your guide is 1000-1500 NPR (£5-10) per guide per day of your trip.
While this isn’t a requirement, it’s good etiquette to discuss this as a group and agree on how much you want to collectively tip your guides and porters.
This will depend on how many there are, how many people are on the trip, and how many days you’re trekking for.
Guides and porters can make you feel more confident about trekking, so if you’re feeling ready to start your next adventure, take a look at our upcoming Everest Base Camp treks.
