Nepal is generally considered a welcoming country for visitors, and the Everest trail is one of the most heavily travelled routes in the Himalayas. Many women trek here alone or with friends and have an excellent time. As with any travel, sensible preparation helps.
The safety of the trail
You are rarely alone. The path is busy with trekkers, guides and porters, and lodges are small family businesses with a stake in their reputation. Travelling with a licensed guide, as the rules require on this route, adds another layer of support. A good guide keeps track of where each trekker is and the pace of the group.
Rooms and lodging
Rooms are normally shared between two trekkers. On our group treks, solo women travellers are given their own room or are paired with another woman. If this matters to you, ask any operator what their policy is and have the answer in writing.
What to ask an operator
- Is the guide trained in first aid and altitude recognition?
- How are groups kept small and well supervised?
- What are the rooming arrangements for solo women?
- How do I contact the office in an emergency?
Practical tips
- Share your itinerary and your guide's phone number with family.
- Carry women's hygiene items from home, because supplies are limited and expensive higher up.
- Dress modestly in villages, which is also respectful of local customs.
- Trust your instincts and speak to your guide at once if something feels wrong.
Small groups help
Joining a small group departure is a good way to meet people while keeping the freedom to walk at your own pace.
Tell us about your plans and we will suggest a suitable departure.
Making your own decisions
Safety comes from preparation and confidence. Before you go, find out who your guide is, how many people will be in the group and where you will stay. Ask the operator about previous solo female clients, and if possible, speak to one. Choose a pace that you are comfortable with, and know that you can say no to anything that makes you uneasy, whether it is an invitation, a route change or a late departure.
Meeting other trekkers
The trail and the lodges are social places, and it is easy to meet other travellers, including many women. Eating in the dining room, joining card games and sharing the day's stories help you feel part of a community. Many women who trek solo report that they never felt alone, and they often form friendships that last long after the trip. If you prefer privacy, it is fine to retire early or read quietly.
Health and hygiene
Plan ahead for periods, and carry enough supplies and a small bag for waste, because disposal facilities are limited on the trail. Discuss any medical needs with your doctor before departure. Wearing a sports bra, quick-dry underwear and clothes that fit well makes long days more comfortable. Carry wet wipes and hand sanitiser for places where water is scarce or very cold.
If something goes wrong
- Tell your guide immediately and, if needed, ask to change rooms or stay near the group.
- Contact the operator's office, and if you feel unsafe, use the police post in the nearest town.
- Keep your phone charged and your insurance details handy.
- Remember that most problems on the trail are about blisters and weather, not people.
What our guests say
Excerpts from guest reviews of Himalayan Wonders, our parent company, on Tripadvisor.
“I had an incredible experience with Himalayan Wonders on my Everest Base Camp trek.”
