Since Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay first conquered the mighty Everest in 1953, it has stood as an emblem of human resilience and a testament to our innate drive to explore. This year, as we commemorate the 70th anniversary of their historic ascent, World Expeditions offers six diverse and exciting trekking options to celebrate this monumental feat.

1. Exploring Everest in Luxury

Everest region, Nepal

World Expeditions offers the “Everest in Comfort” trek, a scenic eight-day exploration of the Khumbu Valley. This trek is the perfect initiation to the vibrant Sherpa culture and villages. From indulging in the lively markets of Namche Bazaar to beholding the renowned Thyangboche Monastery and visiting the Khunde and Khumjung villages where Sir Edmund Hillary laid the foundations of the region’s first hospital and school via the Himalayan Trust, this trek is a rich cultural experience. All this comes at a price starting from AUD$3590.

2. A Time-Efficient Adventure to the Base Camp

Everest Base Camp High Flyer in Comfort is designed for time-constrained people. This two-week adventure shaves five days off the usual Everest Base Camp trip by incorporating a picturesque helicopter ride towards the end of the trek. The package, priced at AUD $6140 pp, includes exceptional views of Thamserku, Kantega, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, and Everest.

3. Witness Everest from a Unique Vantage Point

The “Gokyo and the Renjo La in Comfort” trek introduces travellers to a different perspective of Everest. The itinerary leads west towards the Gokyo Lakes, leisurely crossing Sherpa villages and yak pastures. The summit of Gokyo Ri (5483m) offers breathtaking panoramic views of Everest. This 17-day trek is available from AUD$4290.

4. The Self-Guided Trek: Be the Master of Your Journey

Khumjung Everest Himalayan Region Nepal

World Expeditions provides a self-guided trek option for those who prefer to control their pace and itinerary. With a minimum group of two, trekkers can choose their departure date and are assisted by porters to transport luggage to the next campsite. The package spans 17 days and is priced from AUD$2740.

5. Everest for the Entire Family

The “Everest Family Trek” is a trip designed for families, suitable for children as young as 13. This 15-day adventure, featuring 11 days of trekking, allows ample time for acclimatisation. The trek includes awe-inspiring views of Mount Everest, exposure to local Sherpa culture, a visit to the Thyangboche Monastery, and a thrilling flight from Kathmandu to Lukla. Prices start from AUD$3080 for children under 16 and AUD$3790 for adults.

6. The Ultimate Trek for Adventurous Seniors

The “Everest Base Camp Over 55s in Comfort” trek is an adventure tailored for the more mature explorers. This 21-day trek is optimally paced, offering ample acclimatisation time and the chance to discover overlooked villages like Khumjung and Pangboche. This package also presents the best opportunities to climb Kala Pattar for an unrivalled view of Mount Everest, starting from AUD$4790.

All the packages offered by World Expeditions include accommodation in a mix of hotels, eco-lodges, and eco-comfort campsites, all meals on the trek (excluding the self-guided trip, which only includes breakfast), expert wilderness first aid trained guides equipped with a medical kit and a Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC), internal flights, a complimentary World Expeditions kit bag, and more. For more details, visit the World Expeditions website.

This year, celebrate the 70th anniversary of the first Everest summit by following in the footsteps of Hillary and Norgay, embracing the spirit of adventure that Everest continues to inspire. With World Expeditions’ meticulously crafted trekking options, there’s an Everest adventure for every kind of explorer.

Written by: Matthew Thomas

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