From the Glacier to the Valley: Teams at Base Camp and on the Trek

Our Rugged Luxury private team reached Everest Base Camp (17,600 ft / 5,364 m) yesterday, welcomed to the glacier with a champagne arrival and barista-made cappuccinos before settling into their insulated geodesic domes for two nights. Tomorrow they clip into crampons for a beginner-friendly ice climbing clinic on the Khumbu Glacier, coached by an Everest summit guide on the same ice the world's greatest climbers train on.

Further down the valley, Team 4 has been steadily moving up the mountain. CTSS Senior Guide Tom Ceppi shared images with our team that will take us all along the journey from the gates of Sagarmatha National Park to Deboche (12,533 ft / 3,820 m), where the rhododendron forest slowly gives way to the alpine environment.

The team kicked off their trek in Lukla and quickly crossed suspension bridges strung high above glacial turquoise water as they reveled in the ancient mani stones and prayer flags lining the trail. They trekked through pine forests, stopped at teahouses, and moved through riverside villages as the valley opened up around them. At the end of each night, the team feasted on warm dinners made with locally sourced fare before settling into some of the best teahouses in the Khumbu.

After that, the team pushed up Namche Hill before arriving in the Sherpa Capital of the world, Namche Bazaar (11,286 ft / 3,440 m). There, the town sprawls out in a natural amphitheater with colorful rooftops stacked into the hillside. The team took in their first full view of Mount Everest and Lhotse with prayer flags and blue skies framing their view.

Photos of the trek to Namche courtesy of Tomi Ceppi

From Namche, the trail continued toward Tengbochue and Deboche (12,533 ft / 3,820 m) where one of the world's most famous monasteries harkens trekkers from around the world to receive a blessing. As the team drew closer to Debochue, the famous Ama Dablam came into view. The evening was warm and relaxed for the team, with more delicious and hearty food to ensure our trekkers are ready for what's ahead.

Photos of the trek to Deboche courtesy of Tomi Ceppi