Makalu has two climates in one trip. The lower valleys are warm, humid and sometimes buggy, while the upper valley is cold, with freezing nights. Your pack should cover both without exceeding the weight limit of about 10 to 12 kg for the main bag. Your crew carries most of it, so choose carefully.
Clothing for the lower valleys
- Light, quick-drying shirts and trousers.
- A sun hat and sunglasses.
- Insect repellent and long sleeves for the evenings.
- Gaiters or leech socks in wet months.
Clothing for the upper valley
- Thermal base layers, two sets.
- Fleece or light insulated mid layers.
- A warm down jacket.
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers.
- Warm hat, buff and insulated gloves.
- Several pairs of wool socks.
Footwear
Waterproof, well broken-in trekking boots with good ankle support are essential, since the trail is muddy and rough. Bring camp shoes and spare laces. Trekking poles help with the steep ups and downs and with stream crossings.
Sleeping and carrying
A sleeping bag rated to about minus 10 to minus 15 degrees is wise for camps at the top. Bring a liner, a duffel bag for porters and a daypack of 25 to 35 litres with a rain cover. A sleeping mat is usually supplied for camping, but confirm.
Small essentials
- Headlamp and spare batteries.
- Water bottles and purification tablets.
- Personal first-aid kit, blister plasters, rehydration salts and any personal medicines.
- Power bank and a small solar charger.
- Sun cream and lip balm.
- Snacks and a small thermos.
What to leave behind
Leave jeans, cotton clothes and valuables in Kathmandu. Rent items such as down jackets or sleeping bags if you do not own them, and test them before you leave.
