Accommodation: Plane | Meals: Not included | Flight to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal.

Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in the city center. The afternoon is free. Depending on arrival time, options include resting, visiting the city center, or making final preparations. We meet our guide for the initial trip briefing, followed by a welcome dinner with the guide and the rest of the group. Note: The welcome dinner may be postponed to the final day of the trip if the entire group has not yet arrived.

Transport: Flight | Hiking time: 3-4

hours | Elevation gain: 150 m | Elevation loss: 350 m

| Accommodation: Lodge

Domestic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (45 min) or road transfer to Ramechhap (4–5 hrs) followed by a flight to Lukla (20 min). This flight, which follows the Himalayas and offers magnificent views of the peaks, operates only in good weather conditions. Consequently, depending on the weather or congestion at Kathmandu Airport (which shares a single runway for both international and domestic flights), the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) may decide to route all Lukla flights from either Kathmandu Airport or Ramechhap Airport (in the latter case, departure from Kathmandu is between 3:00 AM and 4:00 AM, with breakfast en route). Upon arrival at Lukla Airport, we begin the trek! We pass through the village and descend into the Dudh Khosi Valley, which we will then gradually ascend towards Phakding, our stop for the night. The first snow-capped peaks are already visible on either side of the valley, such as Kusum Kanguru (6,367 m) and Kongde Ri (6,187 m).

Hiking time: 5–6 hours.

Elevation decent: 1,040 m. Elevation accent : 350 m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

We continue our ascent of the Dudh Koshi Valley, crossing from one bank to the other via suspension bridges. At Monjo, we officially enter Sagarmatha National Park. To the right, the imposing peak of Thamserku (6,623 m) towers over the valley. The trail soon steepens as we reach the confluence of the Dudh Koshi and Imja Khola rivers. A long climb awaits us to reach Namche Bazaar, the region's major trading hub.

Hiking time: 4 hours.

Elevation decent : 690 m. Elevation accent : 350 m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Here, we leave the classic (and popular) Everest Base Camp trail to head due west into the Bhote Koshi Valley. A hillside trail along the left bank, facing Kongde Ri, allows us to ascend the valley amidst pine forests and traditional villages. We pass through the villages of Thamo and Samde before reaching the riverbank and Thame, a Sherpa village that has remained unspoiled by tourism. We find ourselves at the foot of Sundur Ri, at the confluence of the valleys leading to the Tashi Labsta La pass—the gateway from the Rolwaling Valley—and the Bhote Koshi Valley, which descends from the Nangpa La glacier (leading to Tibet).

Hiking time: 6–7

hours. Ascent: 980 m. Descent: 980 m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

An active acclimatization day. Today, we ascend the shoulder of Sumdur Ri—an ideal acclimatization hike for the days ahead. We climb at a steady pace, admiring splendid panoramic views of the Nangpa La and Tashi Labsta La valleys. A magnificent array of peaks unfolds before us: Thamserku (6,623 m), Kangtega (6,782 m), Kusum Kanguru (6,367 m), the ridges of Kongde Ri (6,187 m), and—to the north—an 8,000-meter giant, Cho Oyu (8,201 m)! Before returning to Thame, there is an opportunity to visit the village monastery.

Hiking time: 5–6 hours.

Ascent: 600 m. Descent: 70 m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

A short stage to reach the base camp for the first high pass, Renjo La. We head up the Bhote Koshi Valley along a trail on the right bank, passing shepherd huts and yaks roaming freely nearby. We arrive at Lumde, situated at the foot of the initial slopes of Renjo La.

Hiking time: 7–8 hours.

Ascent: 1,050 m. Descent: 650 m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

An early morning start to reach the pass summit before the wind picks up. After a steady climb, we reach two lovely lakes set within a spectacular mountain cirque. The slope then steepens, and we enter a landscape of pure rock and scree. The trail zigzags up the scree slopes, and after an hour and a half, we reach the summit of Renjo La. A breathtaking view awaits: a 180-degree panorama featuring three peaks over 8,000 meters and countless 7,000-meter peaks! From left to right: Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Gyachung Kang (7,952 m), Pumori (7,161 m), Everest (8,848 m), Lhotse (8,516 m), Nuptse (7,861 m), Makalu (8,485 m), Cholatse (6,440 m), and Taboche (6,542 m)... It would be hard to find a more beautiful sight. After fully enjoying this unforgettable view, we leave the peaks of Rolwaling behind us and descend toward Gokyo and its stunning glacial lake.

Hiking time: 3 hours.

Ascent: 80 m. Descent: 180 m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

Optionally, the most motivated hikers can rise at dawn to climb Gokyo Ri (allow about 5 hours round-trip and a 570 m ascent). Back at the lodge, there is time for a rest before starting a short day—perfect for recovering before tackling the second pass, Cho La, the following day. We cross the moraines of the massive glacier bordering Gokyo and enjoy the breathtaking view of Cho Oyu. Arrival in Dragnag, then rest. N.B. The ascent of Gokyo Ri is entirely optional. We recommend it if the weather was unfavorable the previous day (the panorama is somewhat similar to that of Renjo La). Otherwise, it may be better to save your energy for the days ahead or give your body more time to acclimatize gradually to the high altitude. If in doubt, your guide can advise you on the best choice.

| Hiking time: 7–8 hrs |

Ascent: 770 m | Descent: 610 m |

Accommodation: Lodge

| Ascent of the trek's second high pass: the Cho La. From Dragnag, the climb begins gradually toward an initial pass. A short descent leads to a small valley separating us from the final ascent: a fairly steep slope through scree that requires a slow, cautious pace. The pass offers a magnificent glacial atmosphere at the foot of the Lobuche peaks. The descent is initially somewhat technical, involving a glacier crossing of about 20 minutes (flat but slippery!) before stepping back onto scree. After a fairly steep 200-meter descent, we reach a plateau and then quickly arrive at the hamlet of Dzongla, facing the impressive North Face of Cholatse.

| Hiking time: 3 hrs |

Ascent: 250 m | Descent: 150 m

| Accommodation: Lodge |

A short day of walking to recover from the previous day's exertions. We descend the Cho La Khola valley to join the main Khumbu Valley. We then head due north up the valley, with the South Face of Pumori (7,161 m) in our sights. We walk gently through the last pastures, which gradually give way to the rocky, high-mountain landscape. Arrival in Lobuche and free time for the rest of the day. Opportunity to explore the surroundings, particularly the moraine ridge overlooking the village, which offers a lovely view of the valley and the ridges of Nuptse (7,861 m).

Hiking time: 8–9 hours.

Elevation accent: 430 m. Elevation decent: 200 m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

A memorable day for all mountain enthusiasts: the "pilgrimage" to Everest Base Camp! We ascend the valley moraines facing Pumori and soon pass Gorak Shep, where we will spend the night. We hike up to the foot of the "Icefall"—a famous cascade of seracs located on the route between Everest Base Camp and Camp 1. We descend from the ridge and step onto the glacial plateau where Base Camp is situated. Surrounded by peaks ranging from Pumori to Nuptse, we find ourselves in an impressive glacial amphitheater. After savoring the moment, we retrace our steps to the tourist hamlet of Gorak Shep. The round trip to Base Camp is optional.

| Hiking time: 5 hrs |

Ascent: 450 m | Descent: 600 m

| Accommodation: Lodge.

An early morning start for the ascent of Kala Pattar, the "Black Hill" overlooking Gorak Shep. The climb poses no technical difficulties, but the altitude requires a "steady" pace. We hike up the trail in the dark, ascending gradually to the summit—marked by a cairn and prayer flags—at 5,600 meters. From here, we enjoy the finest possible panorama of the Everest massif; the "Roof of the World" lies right before our eyes. We then descend to Gorak Shep and retrace our steps to Lobuche.

| Hiking time: 8–9 hrs

| Ascent: 730 m | Descent: 800 m |

Accommodation: Lodge.

A day dedicated to crossing the third high pass, Kongma La, which peaks at 5,535 m. After crossing the Khumbu Glacier moraine, we begin the ascent of the pass. The slope steepens significantly, and the trail soon winds through scree. We soon spot the prayer flags marking the summit of the pass. From Lhotse and Ama Dablam to the pyramid of Makalu, another unforgettable panorama awaits us! A long descent follows, set against a magnificent backdrop facing the splendid Ama Dablam. As we leave the valley, the trail branches off to the east to reach Chhukung. N.B. If you are feeling tired, it is possible to bypass the Kongma La Pass and take the route via Pheriche and Dingboche to reach Chhukung. This alternative may also be necessary in the event of heavy snow or bad weather.

Hiking time: 3 hours.

Elevation accent: 240 m. Elevation decent : 240 m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

A day dedicated to exploring the area. This morning, the guide suggests hiking up the valley to Island Peak Base Camp, which offers a magnificent view of the valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Return to the lodge in Chhukung; the rest of the day is at leisure.

| Hiking time: 5–6 hrs

| Ascent: 850 m | Descent: 850 m

| Accommodation: Lodge

| The most energetic hikers can rise early to climb Chhukung Ri, the peak overlooking the village. It presents no particular technical difficulties—aside from the altitude (the profile is similar to Kala Patthar)—and offers a lovely panorama of the Imja Khola Valley, facing the magnificent Ama Dablam. We then descend via the same route to return to the lodge. The rest of the day in Chhukung is at leisure.

| Hiking time: 5–6 hrs |

Ascent: 100 m | Descent: 1,000 m

| Accommodation: Lodge |

Today, we begin our descent toward Namche Bazaar. First, we pass through the village of Dingboche, which has managed to preserve its traditional agricultural practices. We then reach the confluence of the Imja Khola and Khumbu valleys. We follow the river until we reach Deboche. A final uphill stretch brings us to Tengboche, famous for its Buddhist monastery set in a spectacular location. The view of Ama Dablam from here is fantastic!

| Hiking time: 4–5 hrs |

Ascent: 610 m | Descent: 1,020 m

| Accommodation: Lodge

| We continue our descent with the silhouette of Ama Dablam behind us. We hike down the valley until we reach the Imja Khola again, 600 meters below. The path then climbs steeply up the opposite slope to join a contour trail that winds around the mountain, leading back to Namche Bazaar.

Hiking time: 6 hours.

Elevation accent: 350 m. Elevation decent: 950 m.

Accommodation: Lodge.

A day dedicated to the descent to Lukla. We descend the long slope from Namche Bazaar and follow the Dudh Koshi River back to Phakding. A final climb brings us back to Lukla.

Transport: Plane, private vehicle (4–5 hrs).

Accommodation: Hotel.

Flight to Ramechhap Airport, followed by the drive to Kathmandu. Arrival in the evening. Note: The Lukla–Ramechhap flight is weather-dependent; delays or cancellations are possible. To account for this, we have scheduled a "buffer day" (free time) in Kathmandu for the following day.

Kathmandu. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals:

Lunch and dinner on your own.

Free day in the Nepalese capital. From the hotel, you can explore the tourist district of Thamel, the Old Town, and Durbar Square—home to historic monuments listed as World Heritage Sites—on foot. Historic sites across the Kathmandu Valley are also accessible by taxi. Note: This day may serve as a buffer day if the Lukla–Ramechhap flight was cancelled the previous day (flights do not operate in poor weather). – "Kathmandu Valley Tour" option (payable upon registration): We offer a guided tour today of the Kathmandu Valley's main sites: Bhaktapur, Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath (see 'Options' section

Accommodation: In-flight. Meals: Lunch and dinner on your own. Final morning at leisure in Kathmandu. Opportunity for last-minute shopping, further independent sightseeing, or simply resting. For those with an overnight flight, an evening transfer to Kathmandu Airport is provided. Hotel stay for those departing the following morning. *Check-out time is 12:00 PM.