» Trekking Grade, Altitude and Fitness

Trekking in Nepal is physically demanding and requires a good level of fitness. Some trekking experience is recommended. Acclimatisation days are used and the pace is steady, but you need to be aware of the effects of altitude sickness as your body needs time to adapt to the high altitudes encountered in Nepal. Each tour has a been given a grade; for example the Everest Base Camp trek is graded as "Hard - Trekking approximately 5-7 hours per day at altitude" please check the grade of your tour before booking.

» Altitude Sickness

Different people under similar conditions will respond quite differently to altitude. There are no specific factors such as age, sex, or physical condition that correlate with susceptibility to altitude sickness. Your response to altitude will depend on your rate of ascent, the magnitude of the ascent, and your individual susceptibility (genetics). The effects can be mild or severe, and are caused by a lack of oxygen to the muscles and brain. As altitude increases the concentration of oxygen stays the same, but the number of oxygen molecules per breath is reduced as the barometric pressure drops. At 5,500 m (18,000 ft), there is half as much oxygen available as at sea level. In some cases altitude sickness can turn extremely severe, even fatal. For reasons not entirely understood high altitude and lower air pressures can cause fluid to leak from the capillaries and build-up in the brain and lungs. Continuing an ascent without proper acclimation can lead to a life threatening illness.

For more detailed information about altitude sickness click here >

» Trekking Equipment

Kumuka provide all trekkers with a kit bag to keep their gear in whilst trekking, this is carried by porters. We also supply quality down sleeping bags and jackets which are essential for trekking at such high altitudes.