FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Everest One is an Australian owned and operated business, having delivered small group adventure travel around the globe for over a decade. Allan Cohrs, who owns the business, is a mountaineering and trekking guide, having scaled some of the highest peaks in the world, including the summits of Mt Everest and Lhotse. Allan has hand-picked a team of highly talented, expert guides who specialise in trekking and climbing, from simple multi-day walks to 8000m+ mountains, along with dedicated support teams around the world. Everest One do not outsource, meaning you can be guaranteed you will always be in expert hands with one of our dedicated team members on whichever trip you choose to join.

Generally, yes. As Everest One choose to run a limited number of trips per year, and focus on overall quality, Allan joins most of the group adventures advertised for a specific date. Quite often, there is the occasion when guests have special requests or want to trek in a small group or alone, and in those cases, if he cannot be there, the Everest One team will organize the perfect guide and support team to take care of you.

All the costs are built into your trip and from that, we pay our staff. We also ensure that our international team members are compensated above the standard rate. This protects our staff and also ensures service quality is of the highest standard. There are no hidden fees or surprises. Obviously, the average wage differs from country to country, which is a general indication reflected in the price. For instance, it is not feasible to provide a 1:1 guide to client ratio in Australia or Argentina, but this is our standard practice in Nepal on high-altitude climbs whilst specific Government guidelines regarding local guides and porter protection are strictly adhered to in Africa.

If the trip you have chosen is extremely cheap, then the service may not be to a high standard which will often include the expertise of staff. This can become an issue in a high altitude environment when knowledge of acclimatisation and wilderness medical training is essential. Generally, cheap prices are a good indication that staff are not being paid or treated fairly. It is common in these situations that staff will pressure clients for extra tips. There may also be hidden extra costs, for instance, local flights, accommodation and meals.

Yes, you can contact Everest One to discuss private trips and dates, along with added incentives for the organiser which can also be shared out amongst the group. We can formulate an itinerary that suits your needs along allocating suitable expert staff and ground support to suit your needs.

Yes, you can contact Everest One to discuss your desired dates and trip and we take care of the rest. There are no additional costs involved in this service and a professional guide will take care of you on your selected adventure.

Yes, Everest One have been involved in many fund raising trips including Cancer Council Queensland, Georgie’s Gift, Operation Uganda and others. It is the responsibility of the organiser to formulate the conditions or requirements for members to join the group, and Everest One provide all the logistics and staff to help make your venture a success. We have seen, with the right promotion and social media campaigns,fd organisations raise considerable funds from a single trip, and continue to do so after the trek, by holding follow up events.

Depending on where the trip is being run, generally the maximum group size is capped at 12 guests unless otherwise stipulated. Everest One have guided larger groups, but these are usually private groups or fundraisers.

If you are interested in a trip or just a beginner, it is always best to contact Everest One so that we can discuss your experience, fitness level, where you would like to go, and put a plan in place. If we feel you need to do some training, we can provide you with a training plan to get you ready for your desired trip.

If you are motivated, easy-going, relaxed in the outdoors and enjoy meeting new people or hanging out with friends for many days, then the answer is yes. Having trust in your guide, being generally fit and not getting distressed is the key to maximising your overall experience.

There are many mountains that are suitable for someone who has no experience in this environment. Mt Kilimanjaro, although it is high at 5895m is a great introduction, and there are no technical requirements. There are also a number of fantastic introductory climbs in Nepal, which are classed as trekking peaks including Mera Peak, Lobuche East and Island Peak. These require a little more skill, as crampons and rope are used, however, the routes are not technical, and all training is provided during the trip.

As long as you are reasonably fit, have been following a training program with the assistance of Everest One, have your gear, or arranged through us to hire whatever you need, then almost any trek is suitable. Our most popular trek is Everest Base Camp, and we find that for most people, this is their first experience in an altitude environment. Our success rate is above 90%, due to the experience we have in this arena.

No, and this is always a topic that needs to be discussed before the trip commences. In Australia, tips are generally not expected, however, in countries like Nepal, Tanzania, Morocco and Argentina, they are expected. Everest One will suggest an amount, but at the end, it is always what you are willing to give. We find that most groups have a discussion, after taking in our advice, and usually agree on an amount each member is happy to pay. Getting this conversation out of the way early means you do not have to worry about it later. We have had private groups in the past requesting advice before the trip started, and factoring it into the cost for each team member who joins.

Everest One have hand-picked all of the locations and taken into consideration your personal safety. We adhere to DFAT travel advice and warnings, and speak with our local staff on the ground, ahead of each trip. In areas where additional care needs to be taken regarding your personal safety and possessions, we provide you with advice and warnings during our pre-trip briefings.

Your level of fitness depends on the particular adventure you choose to do. Activities involving climbing require a high level of fitness whilst trekking requires a regular exercise regime, to ensure you come into your trip with a reasonable level of fitness.

The style of training depends on the adventure you choose. Whether you are trekking or climbing, both should involve a dedicated program which involves a combination of strength, interval, high-intensity and cardio training. You should also include specific training consistent with the challenge you are taking on. Incorporating long walks with a weighted pack are an important part of the program. The intensity and overall level of fitness will be different for each undertaking, and Everest One will guide you regarding the minimal level of fitness you should be at. To be honest, once you have a goal locked in, it gives a lot of people extra motivation to improve their fitness, and the fitness program becomes an enjoyable part of the process.

Everest One practice a 'Leave no Trace' policy and the philosophy of 'take only memories, leave only footprints'. We deliberately keep our group sizes down in order to reduce our overall impact or footprint on the environment. We understand that many of our international locations are in developing countries and we provide local education on environmental sustainabiity and waste disposal. We stay in facilities in Nepal that do not burn wood, and only Yak dung. We strictly enforce a 'carry in - carry out' policy for waste and non-biodegradable items. We encourage our guests to pick up any small items of rubbish along the trail, and we will dispose of it later. In Australia, we follow the same principals, ensuring that we minimise any impact on fragile flora, do not feed wild animals and protect water sources from contamination.

All our support staff, including guides, porters and ground staff are supported by the local Environmental and staff protection organisations. Everest One strictly adhere to those requirements to ensure that all of our staff are not mistreated, remunerated above industry rates, provided with adequate accommodation and meals and treated with respect, dignity and kindness.

All of our international support staff are paid at a higher rate than industry standards.

Absolutely. Many guides, porters and support staff rely on tourism for their livelihood. Covid-19 has had a huge impact on many lives, with no income being produced. The locals in developing countries do not receive government support and must find other means to generate a source of income. Returning to these countries is a glimmer of hope for many who have been struggling immensely.

Once you contact Everest One, usually via email and indicate that you wish to join a particular trip, we will firstly contact you to discuss the trip. Once you are happy you have made the right choice, we will forward you an Information package which includes a detailed description, itinerary, tips and gear list along with a section to complete your personal details, a short medical questionnaire and agree to the terms and conditions. The Everest One account details are also contained in this information or you can pay via credit card if you prefer by contacting us. Once your $500 deposit is transferred, your position is held.

Once you have booked on one of our trips, we will be available at any time to discuss any questions you have from equipment, gear, training and all other relevant requirements.

No, you will need to source these yourself. We can provide recommendations regarding preferred routes, particularly for overseas travel.

No. The only location where Everest One pay for internal flights are in Nepal, on trips commencing at Lukla. All other international trips involve road transport in quality vehicles. For Australian based trips, you are required to arrange your transport to the city where the trip commences.

No, travel insurance is a requirement for all travel in Nepal, Africa, South America and Australia. Everest One have relationships with Travel Insurance providers and can recommend reputable providers.

No, you will need to contact your local consulate for the particular country you intend to travel to and arrange for a visa prior to departure. Visa’s can be purchased on arrival in Nepal and Africa, however, in light of the current climate, it is advisable to pre-arrange a Visa in your home country.

Everest One will provide you with a full detailed packing list, specific to the adventure you have chosen.

Weight limits vary depending on the type of trip. For trekking in Nepal and Africa, Everest One recommend an overall weight limit of 15kg, not including water. For a climbing expedition, this weight is significantly higher, and can reach 30-40kg, however most of this equipment is carried into Base Camp by animals and stored in Base Camp. For treks in Australia, you are required to carry your own equipment, which can be up to 20kg.

No, we advise you to contact your GP or Travel Doctor as they have the latest up-to-date information of vaccinations specific to the area you are traveling to.

Yes, we require all participants to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and show proof thereof. Generally, it is a pre-requisite to be fully vaccinated if you intend to travel domestically or internationally, and most international countries will not accept travelers who are not vaccinated unless they have an exemption. The same currently applies for states in Australia.

Yes, we require proof that you have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

Yes, we plan to carry Rapid Antigen Tests in our medical equipment in future trips.

Yes, particularly in high-altitude environments. We carry a pulse-oximeter and conduct oxygen saturation tests each day to determine oxygen saturation levels of the blood. This is only a guide and there are a number of other physical tests we can conduct if someone is feeling the affects of altitude. Just because someone is feeling unwell, does not mean that is the end of the trip. The reason we have so many guides on each of our trips, particularly in Nepal and Africa, is so that we can allow someone to rest if required, and once recovered join the group if safe to do so, or guide them down or evacuate by other means.

Yes, we recommend the use of Diamox as a preventative measure, particularly for people who have not been in a high-altitude environment previously. We have found this approach to be extremely effective in the past, by administering a half dose morning and night. We also provide guests with information regarding the use of Diamox, particularly in relation to it being a diuretic, meaning additional hydration, tingling sensations and susceptibility to sunburn. Everest One carry a sufficient supply of Diamox for each trip.

Yes, we carry an extensive medical kit on all overseas trips which includes bandages and medication to cover everything from bacterial infection to altitude sickness. We advice guests to pack a small kit containing basic medication like paracetamol, ibuprofen and bandaids. On Australian trips, we carry a small basic medical kit and also provide participants with a list of medication to carry for themselves. This is due to the weight each member needs to carry during these trips.

All guides are fully qualified and accredited, which includes proficiency in the administration of medication, diagnosis of illness or treatment of injury in a wilderness environment.

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Everest One will provide you with a list of inclusions, and each trip is slightly different. Generally all accommodation and meals whilst on the trek or climb are included. Climbing and trekking permits, transfers, hotel accommodation, breakfast and all guides, porters and support staff are included. Airport transfers are not included in Australia along with meals that are not part of the trek. Are there additional costs involved? Generally no, unless otherwise stipulated. Only lunch and dinners, alcoholic and aerated drinks, additional food and souvenirs are extra. In Nepal, you can be charged by the Teahouse for bottled water, charging batteries or electronic devices or a hot shower. In Argentina, climbers for Aconcagua are required to pay for their own climbing permit as per the Government system, which requires individual payment. Everest One have no control over this.

Everest One provide 3 to 4 star accommodation in all locations, and have been using the same hotels in Nepal, Africa, Argentina and Australia for a long period of time. These hotels have been selected based on comfort, hygiene, security, food and convenience to nearby facilities. Morocco accommodation is of a higher standard, generally in the 5 star range, as it is geared for the luxury traveller who would like to incorporate some adventure, but mostly indulgence.

For treks or climbs involving camping, Everest One provide high quality tents for your comfort. For extended climbing expeditions, particularly in a Base Camp environment in Nepal, you will be provided with a stand-up tent containing a full mattress, storage and rug, which feels like a small hotel room when you come down off the mountain. For the EBC trek, we stay in quality tea-houses along the way, which we have been using since 2011. These again have been chosen for comfort, hygiene, quality food and ambience. For Morocco, accommodation is generally included at a 5 star standard, as this is geared for luxury travel. If travelers choose to climb Mt Toubkal, the highest mountain in Morocco, there is a night spend at the refuge which is of a lower standard, but only a staging point for the final climb to the summit.

All of the locations in Nepal, Africa, Argentina and Australia have secure storage. In Africa, your valuables are signed for then placed in a large envelope and secured inside a safe. In the event of loss, the hotel is responsible. In Nepal, there are individual safes, and you are provided with a key. In Australia, your items are stored in a secure room within your hotel.

All luggage not required for the specific trip i.e. additional clothing is stored at our hotel.

Yes, all meals, including breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided on all international and domestic trips whilst you are involved in trekking or climbing. All breakfasts at hotels in Nepal, Africa and South America are included however you will be required to purchase lunch and dinner. Meals at hotels are not included in Australia.

Food is nutritious and varies greatly between Nepal, Africa and Argentina. Nepal includes a lot of soups, potato, vegetables, dhal bhat, eggs and rice. We recommend avoiding meat in the mountains. African meals are based around soups, pasta, potatoes, eggs, chicken, rice and Bolognese. Argentinian meals include soups, meat, eggs, empanadas, vegetables, sausage, potato, fruit and for the sweet tooth dulce de leche or thick caramel. During our Australian treks, you are provided with a menu consisting of breakfast items, rehydrated dinner meals and lunch suggestions, as you are required to prepare your own food. (All food included).

Yes, if you have any specific food allergy or dietary requirement, our cooks can plan meals to accommodate your needs.

Yes, if Allan is on the trip, there will definitely be fresh coffee except on Australian trips.

Yes, there are a number of additional days built into most trips to allow for bad weather, or any other event or incident causing delay that may arise.

Yes, but only in certain places. In Nepal, many of the teahouses provide hot showers, but this can sometimes depend on solar power. You will need to pay a small fee for these. Many of the rooms now have ensuites in which case showers are free. Many of the teahouses now have Western style toilets. During expeditions, there will be a simple shower set-up in Base Camp, where you are provided with a large bucket of hot water and you wash inside a shower tent. In Argentina, during the climb of Aconcagua, there are hot showers in base camp, but generally you will be given 2 free showers and then will be required to pay after that. Toilets are provided on the trek in and whilst in Base Camp. There are no showers in Tanzania during the climb of Kilimanjaro but you are provided with a bucket of hot water each morning and night for basic washing. There are clean toilets in each camp. Showers are also limited on treks in Australia however toilets are of a good standard on most treks.

Yes, we often use mules or Yak’s to transport equipment for climbing expeditions in Nepal. We use donkeys to transport equipment in Aconcagua. No animals are available for carrying equipment in Africa.

Yes, in Africa and Argentina, weight limits are strictly enforced. In Nepal, porters weights are not regulated, and care needs to be taken to monitor the loads of individual porters. All guests carry their own equipment in Australia.

We use quality vehicles including 4WD’s and small coaster style buses on all trips, which can include airport transfers or transport to the start of a trek or climb.