Extend your Adventure Consultants trek by adding the breathtaking Gokyo Valley Extension to your existing Khumbu adventure.
Trek into the picturesque Gokyo Valley; famous for its spectacular lakes and scenery. This is an ideal complement to the Everest Base Camp or Khumbu Treks, or Island Peak, Lobuche, Ama Dablam or Three Peaks Expeditions.
| RATIOS | 4 DAYS |
|---|---|
| Per person | $990 USD $ |
This 4-day add-on offers the chance to extend your adventure beyond the Khumbu Valley. After completing your Khumbu adventure, we branch off at Gorak Shep, Lobuche Base Camp, Chhukung or Pangboche to begin the trek over the Cho La into the beautiful Gokyo Valley. Here we have the opportunity to explore the stunning azure lakes of the region or climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft) for panoramic views which include four 8,000m peaks: Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu. We trek out of the Gokyo Valley via the small village of Machermo to Namche Bazaar, completing our epic circuit.
The Gokyo Extension is designed as an extension to the following trips:
Everest Base Camp Trek
Khumbu Trek
Island Peak Expedition
Lobuche Expedition
Three Peaks Nepal Expedition
Ama Dablam
Because we want you to remember this trek for being so much more than just a hike, we at Adventure Consultants have taken enormous pleasure in planning a fusion of all the best components that we know make this a truly memorable experience.
We are renowned for our quality of service and the strategy applied to our treks. Our reputation is attributed to meticulous planning and experienced logistics coordination.
We have a philosophy of investing in every trip to offer our trekkers the best possible experience.
We employ strong and specialised trek leaders and Sherpa staff, who are some of the most pre-eminent in the industry. We pride ourselves on operating with small teams and the best back-up and support available. This includes nutritious and ample quantities of food, comfortable base camp facilities, reliable communications systems and the necessary medical back up. Our staff are the most affable western or Sherpa guides working in conjunction with our excellent cooking teams, to promise you an experience of a lifetime!
Many of our team members come to us because they have seen us in action on a previous trip and decide to opt for our level of service and proven experience. Others return because they know we do our very best to make our trips safe and successful.
The price of the 4-day Gokyo Extension is US$990.
Each Gokyo extension is run as an on-demand private departure, directly following one of the following trips:
Everest Base Camp Trek
Khumbu Trek
Island Peak Expedition
Lobuche Expedition
Three Peaks Nepal Expedition
Ama Dablam
Please contact our office for more information.
Inclusions
The price of your trip includes the following:
Exclusions
The price of your trip does not include:
Account Information
All payments should be made by bank transfer to the following bank and account:
Bank of New Zealand
Offshore Branch
42 Willis Street
Spark Central
Wellington
New Zealand
for the account of Adventure Consultants Limited
Account # 1000-594771-0000
Account Type: US Dollars
Swift Address: BKNZNZ22
Note: All bank transfer charges are for the remitter's account.
We can also accept your payment by credit card (Visa, Mastercard or Amex) plus a 3% credit card transaction fee.
We will send you receipts for all payments.
All prices are subject to change.
Trek Fee
The balance of US$990 is payable upon application and sign-up for this trip.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Once you have paid your trip fee your trip is confirmed, subject to payment of the balance of fees owing 90 days prior to your trip commencement date. A team member may then cancel their participation on the following basis:
Trip Cancellation Insurance
We strongly recommend you take out trip cancellation insurance via your travel agent if you wish to be covered against cancellation due to medical or personal reasons.
The Trip Notes provide detailed information and background for Adventure Consultants' Gokyo Extension Trek.
You can view the Gokyo Extension trip notes online by clicking the image or download a pdf by clicking the link below:
Team Membership
The Gokyo Extension option runs on demand and we can take a maximum of 12 trekkers and a minimum of 1.
Our Guides
We employ strong and specialised Expedition leaders and Sherpa staff, who are some of the most pre-eminent in the industry. We pride ourselves on operating with small teams, the best back-up and support available.
Head Office Support Team
Running successful journeys and expeditions is more about experience, knowledge and strategic management than any other factors. As an organisation, we place a substantial amount of time and resources into ensuring our trips are well planned and supported. You can be assured that the AC staff will provide you with friendly advice and knowledgeable support throughout the planning stages of your trip and we will be there to provide backup while the trip is running.
Kelly McLaren, Expedition Liaison
Having worked for Adventure Consultants since 2004, Kelly has gained a vast knowledge of AC expeditions and treks. In her role as Expedition Liaison, Kelly will assist with the planning and logistics for your trip, providing useful information, reminders and answering any questions to ensure you arrive well prepared.
Your Health
Trek team members will be provided with pre-trip medical advice and a medical questionnaire and asked to visit their family physician to receive a full medical examination. This information will be sighted only by the trek leader and our medical adviser and treated with full confidentiality.
Difficulty Rating
Each of our trips is individually rated according to its physical and technical difficulty, displayed in the icons towards the top of each trip page. You can click on the accompanying question mark for additional descriptions and the full run-down of our grading system is available on our Difficulty Ratings page.
Preparing for Your Trek
Although the Gokyo Extension is not technically difficult, you must train prior to departure to make your trip as enjoyable as possible. While the trek is achievable you need to be prepared to hike for several hours each day on hilly terrain, with the highest pass being a crossing of the Cho La (5,420m/17,780ft).
Training should include regular walking on hills, in combination with swimming, light running or biking and gym work to develop strength. For more information read our AC Blog article 'Fit to Trek', visit our Fitness Training Programs page, or check out our associated Training Peaks Uphill Athlete 12 Week Everest Base Camp Training Program.
What You Carry
You have the luxury of porter support during the trek. Each day you will carry your daypack containing; rain jacket, fleece, sun block, water, snacks, trekking poles, small personal first aid kit, warm hat and gloves, camera and a few extra personal items.
The Altitude
There is the issue of altitude you have to contend with and sufficient time for acclimatisation is incorporated into our trekking itinerary. We have included rest days at the appropriate elevations to allow our bodies to adjust to the thin air and we carry sufficient medication to deal with most altitude related problems. Experience has shown us that good hydration, rest days at significant elevations and good base fitness help avoid any significant problems during this trek.
Nonetheless, everyone will feel the effects of the high altitude. For those who have not been to altitude, this can be a concern pre-trip. Please do not worry as your guides are trained to assist you through your acclimatisation programme.
Symptoms you should expect to feel include mild headaches, similar to the sensation of wearing tight sunglasses for too long. These ‘pressure’ headaches, as they are known, are usually relieved by Panadol, Ibuprofen, Excedrin, Tylenol or similar. Sometimes they can be completely avoided or relieved by drinking more water, rest and pressure breathing (blowing out through pursed lips). Being ready to relax, read a book, or take a ‘cat nap’ after each days trek, or on rest days is vital to allow your body to adjust. People who can’t sit still, drink excessive alcohol, or rush around usually adjust slower than others.
The feeling when you get to a new altitude has been compared to having a mild hangover. It is important to remember to walk slowly and efficiently and don’t try to keep up with any locals!
Food
Food will be of the highest standard possible, given the remoteness of the situation. Please inform us if you have any special dietary requirements.
During this trek we will be dining in various lodges, with lunch either taken along the trail or later upon arrival at the day's destination.
Accommodation
Accommodation and dining during the trek will be in lodges, where we will be accommodated in dormitories or twin rooms. Mattresses are provided but you will need to bring your own sleeping bag. Each lodge has a large lounge and dining area where trek members can congregate to share meals, socialise or simply relax by the fireplace. Some even have showers, power (for charging batteries), internet and laundry services available for a small fee.
Clothing & Equipment
Trek members will be sent a list detailing all necessary clothing and equipment to be individually provided.
| Day | |
| 1 | Gorak Shep, Lobuche Base Camp or Chhukung to Dzongla (4,830m/15,846ft, 6–7hrs) |
| 2 | Cross the Cho La (5,420m/17,780ft) and overnight in Dragnag (4,700m/15,420ft, 10hrs) |
| 3 | Trek to Gokyo (4,790m/15,715ft, 4hrs) |
| 4 | Spare day for exploring the Gokyo Lakes or climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft) |
| 5 | Gokyo to Machermo (4,470m/14,665ft, 3–4hrs) |
| 6* | Machermo to Namche Bazaar (5–6hrs) |
| 7 | Namche Bazaar to Lukla (7hrs) |
| 8 | Spare day for weather delays |
| 9 | Lukla to Kathmandu flight |
| 10 | Trip ends, depart from Kathmandu |
| *This day will see you return to your initial trek schedule for the walk down the valley to Lukla. |
This adventure starts by waving goodbye to the rest of your teammates after departing Gorak Shep, Lobuche Base Camp, Pangboche or Chhukung (depending on your trek or expedition) and trekking to the small village of Dzongla where we stay overnight.
It is an early start the next day to travel over the 5,420m/17,780ft Cho La. By the late morning, we will be rewarded with views back to Ama Dablam and Cholatse before descending off the steeper side of the pass into boulder fields and remote trails. By the end of a superb day’s Himalayan trekking we reach the village of Dragnag, where we spend the night.
The next day, we cross the Ngozumpa Glacier and after a few hours, we reach our destination of Gokyo. We have a day to explore the Gokyo region with options to climb Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft) for breathtaking views of Everest (8,850m/29,035ft) or trek further up the valley to view some of the stunning blue Gokyo Lakes—of which there are five.
After enjoying our day in the Gokyo region, we then begin the trek out with an easy day’s trek to Machermo, before re-joining the main trail at Namche Bazaar. The trek from Namche Bazaar to Lukla is a long day before the early morning flight back out to Kathmandu on the last day. We schedule a spare day in Lukla for potential weather delays.
Departure flights from Kathmandu need to be scheduled for the following day.
NOTE: This extension can run following any of the Adventure Consultants Ama Dablam, Island Peak, Lobuche East or Three Peaks Expeditions, and Everest Base Camp or Khumbu Treks in either the pre or post monsoon seasons.
The following is to serve as a helpful guideline on our Himalayan Treks. Please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions. Our team is here to help!
info@adventure.co.nz
NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)
Please note you will be emailed a set of Reference Notes upon registration. This extensive booklet includes detailed information to assist in the planning of your trip, from travel and medical advice to equipment lists and photography tips.
How long has Adventure Consultants been in operation?
Adventure Consultants started in 1990 and we have been guiding internationally ever since. You can read more on the history of Adventure Consultants here.
A few outfitters claim to have the same level of experience and prestige as Adventure Consultants. In this league, what makes you the first choice for your trekkers?
We are renowned for the quality of service and strategy applied to our treks. Our reputation is attributed to the meticulous planning and logistics coordination done by our head office. Once on the ground in Nepal, you can expect to be well looked after by our guides so that you can relax and enjoy trekking through this amazing country.
What sort of hotels do we stay at in the city?
We stay at the Hotel Radisson in Kathmandu. Only 15 minutes walk from the tourist centre of Thamel, the Radisson is situated in a quiet location and boasts a fitness centre, sauna and steam room, three restaurants, a bar, café and a rooftop swimming pool! A perfect place to begin and end your trip.
What showers and laundry facilities will be available on the trek?
For our lodge-based treks, hot showers are available in selected lodges for a small fee. We advise people to bring wet-wipes for impromptu washes in between available showers. Some lodges also provide a laundry service for a small fee.
Please note that on the camping-based Dhaulagiri Trek there are no showers or laundry facilities available, although a bowl of hot water will be available for washing most days. Most days also start with a 'hot face towel' delivered to your tent or dining table.
What food will be available?
You’ll get breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, as well as ample hot and cold drinks. We can cater for vegetarian as well as many other special diets as long as we are informed prior to the trip. All of our treks provide excellent local and Western food! If you have any special treats that you like, we encourage you to bring some along.
What is the food like?
When staying in lodges, expect local food such as dal bhat as well as Western-style dishes such as pizza or yak steak. We usually bring a few treats from New Zealand such as Kiwi cheese and salami and serve fresh coffee with breakfast.
On the Dhaulagiri Trek, our cook team will prepare a range of tasty dishes in the camps. Please indicate any dietary requirements that you may have on your application form and we are happy to accommodate those with specific diets.
What are the lodges like? Can I have my own room?
We book tidy, clean, modern lodges - the best that are available in each village. They are well-known locations to us and we have a good relationship with the lodge owners. We can book private rooms for you, at an added cost. Our standard trips are based on shared rooms, usually twin-share and sometimes triple-share.
On the tent-based Dhaulagiri trek, you will be sleeping in a high-quality mountain tent, shared with one other trekker. You will be greeted each morning with a cup of bed tea, served by our smiling cook staff. Evening meals will be served in our comfortable dining tent. A single supplement is available – please contact our office to enquire.
What is the best way to get to Nepal?
Regular flights operate into Kathmandu via Bangkok, Doha, Hong Kong, Singapore and Delhi.
Do I need to arrive the day before the trip starts? And when should I book my flight to leave?
No, our trip programmes all have an arrival day and a departure day built into them. You are welcome, and encouraged, to arrive a bit earlier to explore Kathmandu if you have the time. Before your trek, you will receive a “final details” letter. This will let you know the time and place to meet your guide(s). An AC representative will meet you at the airport and the first of many team briefings will take place on the evening of Day One. Please do not book to depart before the scheduled final trip itinerary day.
My travel agent says I can just get an ‘e’ ticket (electronic ticket) and will not need to be actually issued a physical ticket.
'E' tickets are the standard practice these days and are now acceptable in Kathmandu. Do ensure you print your itinerary and have your booking number with you, as this allows our local agents to assist with changing your return flight plans, if need be, while you are in the mountains.
When should I book my ticket?
Generally, we ask you to wait until 90 days prior to your trip start date to ensure your trip has met the minimum numbers and will operate. If you see a good deal and want to book your flights, then please ensure that you can make changes to your tickets or you run the risk of losing them if we do have to cancel the trip. In such situations, we are usually able to help you book on to an alternate departure, either with us or another operator.
Can I get a cheap ticket online?
The problem with these tickets is that you usually end up having to pay quite a lot more if you have to make any changes to your ticket. Some of the places we go to aren't straightforward and we highly recommend using a travel agent for such travel, as there are many intricacies that they can help you with. In the long run, they save you money! We use professional travel agents for all our staff and guides' travel bookings.
Where do we meet? Will I be picked up?
You should fly into Kathmandu International Airport (KTM) and an Adventure Consultants guide or representative will be there to pick you up off your flight. If you are arriving before the scheduled trip start date, we can often make arrangements for a pickup although taking a taxi is generally the easiest form of transport before your trip starts.
What if I am arriving early or departing late?
Adventure Consultants can make reservations for you and can often make recommendations for attractions you can enjoy while waiting for your trip to begin. Please let our office know your specific plans as we love to pass on Kathmandu sightseeing tips.
Do you have a recommended list of clothing we should bring?
Once we have received your application we will email out your Team Reference Notes which include an assortment of information including detailed equipment lists. Any questions you have after reading through this will be directed to our Equipment Coordinator, who can assist you in preparing for the trip as well as recommending and sourcing a range of clothing and equipment suitable for the trek via our gear retail service.
Do I really need all the equipment on the equipment list?
Yes, these lists have been carefully prepared. Please bring everything on the list!
How warm do we need our sleeping bags to be? Will there be extra blankets available if required?
This will be clearly stated in your recommended gear list. It will depend on where you are going but in general you will need a sleeping bag warm enough for conditions as cold as -10°C. Blankets are generally not available so pay careful attention to the bag we recommend. We suggest buying a sleeping bag big enough to allow you to wear extra clothes in if it is especially cold. Sleeping in a warm hat can greatly improve a bag's warmth.
How much weight do we carry on the trek?
You will carry your day pack with warm clothes, water, snacks, sun block, camera and whatever else you need for the day. Generally, it will be light at 5 to 10kgs (10-20 pounds).
Will there be any oxygen carried on the trek? Is this included in our trek fee?
Most of our treks take oxygen as a medical backup. We also take PACs (Personal Altitude Chamber) with us. A trekker with mountain sickness is placed inside the PAC chamber and it is inflated around them. It increases the air pressure and any altitude related illness is usually immediately fixed. The trekker then feels better and can usually walk down to lower elevations to recover.
What altitude medication will be available on the expedition? Do we need to take tablets before/during the trek?
All our guides carry extensive medical kits including various medications for altitude illness. If you have a previous history of altitude illness, then discuss this with your physician and let us know. Otherwise, there is no need to take preventative medication before or during your trek.
You need to bring any medications you regularly use (don’t forget to tell us about them), plus extras. Also, please bring a small first aid kit including a blister kit and mild headache medication for the normal altitude headaches.
How many guides Sherpas will be assigned to our group?
A ratio of trekkers to Western guides is stated on each trip’s web page in the downloadable ‘Trip Notes’. Sherpa guides are assigned depending on the size of the group and type of trek or expedition.
Who goes on your trips?
Our climbers and trekkers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, interests, countries and skill levels, ranging from those seeking skill development to those seeking purely adventure. We provide courses, expeditions, treks and guided ascents for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.
I would like to arrange a private trip, is this possible?
We are happy to arrange a private group trip and we have run many successful private trips and expeditions including summits of 8,000m peaks such as Gasherbrum 2 and Kanchenjunga, all of the Seven Summits and remote destinations such as Antarctica. Some clients enjoy the added privacy and schedule flexibility that a private expedition allows, so you can hike and climb at your own pace and enjoy the mountains on your own terms. There is no specific group size, but obviously larger groups are more cost-effective. Please contact the office for more information or visit our Private Customised Expeditions page.
What kind of physical condition should I be in for a trek?
We cannot recommend enough being fit prior to the trek as this will make all the difference to your acclimatisation and, ultimately, your enjoyment. For most treks, you should be comfortable walking up to 6 hours with a light pack.
Please note that for the Mustang trek, the trekking is of only moderate difficulty as we can ride the horses on most of the trail apart from steep descents and the occasional exposed section. Participants must be of reasonable health and capable of walking/riding for about 4-6 hours a day.
Please also note that are some longer days on the Dhaulagiri Trek as we ascend Dhampus Peak.
Training should include regular walking on hills, in combination with swimming, light running or biking, and gym work to develop strength. Check out our Fitness Training Programmes page for more information.
How do I know this is the right trip for me?
We offer trips to suit all levels of ability and ambition, from your first mountain experience to extreme ascents and everything in between. To help you navigate the choices available, our trips are graded by both the level of physical exertion and the level of skill required, allowing you to find your perfect expedition match. These ratings are displayed in the icons at the top of each expedition page, with a further explanation available by clicking on the accompanying question mark. A full run-down of the categories can be found on our Difficulty Ratings page and our team is more than happy to discuss your experience to find the right trip for you.
Will there be any access to a satellite phone? If yes then what would be the charges for usage?
Yes, most of our expedition guides take satellite phones and you are welcome to use these at US$3 per minute. Most often, your guide will post daily dispatches on the AC website in which your friends and family can follow your progress.
I want to contact my friend or relative, who is on one of your trips, how can I reach them?
Many of our treks and climbs send daily internet dispatches, and we receive updates from our guides while they are in the field. The best place to reach a loved one is through our office.
Will there be any power source for charging batteries, etc. available throughout the trek?
For lodge-bassed treks, many of the lodges have power available with typical Asian plugs (two nail like horizontal prongs) and offer to recharge for a fee.
On the Mustang Trek, charging facilities may be more limited and you may wish to consider bringing your own personal solar charging system.
On the Dhaulagiri trek, mains voltage charging will not be available. Although we do carry a 12V power supply, this is primarily for recharging the satellite phone so we recommend you bring your own personal sized solar panel and battery pack if you have multiple devices. If your equipment has a cigarette lighter type car charger, bring that and you can plug it in to charge. We do NOT recommend bringing rechargeable digital cameras as they tend to run out when power is not available. Use cameras with replaceable batteries and we recommend lithium batteries.
We can cater for special power requirements at an extra cost or advise on the purchase of a suitable personal solar charging system - please enquire with our office.
What insurance do we need to get?
Each trek member must have travel insurance covering medical evacuation and repatriation, with no exclusions pertaining to trekking. This should provide adequate cover in the event that any mishap occurs and an expensive evacuation is initiated. We do also highly recommend that you purchase a standard comprehensive policy to include cover trip cancellation (in the event of an injury or mishap prior to your trip start date), delayed flights, lost luggage, etc..
Do I need evacuation insurance?
Yes, it is very important. Many of our expeditions are in remote places with no roads and developing medical services. In the unlikely event that you get sick, you want to get to good medical care ASAP.
Who do you recommend for insurance?
Coverage varies based on your nationality and the trip that you are taking with us. Our recommended providers are found on our Travel and Rescue Insurance page. When you have booked on a trip with us, we will also send you more comprehensive information on various insurance options.
What is trip cancellation insurance?
We recommend that all our trekkers buy trip cancellation insurance upon sign up for their trip or at the very least, at the same time as their flights and balance payment are settled. It is very important to buy trip cancellation insurance (in addition to your evacuation and comprehensive travel insurance) as it is not unknown for people to have unforeseen circumstances that force them to cancel their trip for reasons such as family illness, injury to one’s self, etc..
Can I pay by credit card?
We can accept both the trip deposit and balance payment on credit card. Please note that there is a 3% fee for all card transactions. Please contact our office or visit our online payment system.
What is included in the cost of my trip? Does it include airfare?
Please see the 'Payment Conditions' section above for the inclusions and exclusions for this particular trip. There is also a downloadable pdf document in the 'Trip Notes' section above. International airfares are not included in the trip price. We can however recommend excellent travel agents with whom we have worked should you require help with arranging your international airfare.
Why are you sometimes more expensive than other operators?
Many of our trips are very similar in price to our competitors. Some companies even wait for us to set our prices and use ours as a guideline!! Some of our main selling points, which sometimes do cost more, are internationally qualified Western guides, proven dependable local operators, small group sizes and safe client-to-guide ratios, quality equipment and high summit success rates, among other things. You do get what you pay for which is why we stand out from the rest. Many clients come to us after failing on one of our competitors ‘cheaper’ trips.
How do I sign up for a trip?
The best way to reserve your space on the trek is to contact our office or complete our online booking form (click 'Book Now' below). Your deposit can be submitted by bank transfer (please see 'Payment Details' in the 'Payment Conditions' section above) or via our secure online payment system.
info@adventure.co.nz
NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)
I love the photographs in your brochure and on your website, are they for sale?
Yes, our images are available for licensing or purchase. Please contact our office for more information.
What is the best equipment for photography in Alpine environments?
There is an extensive section in our reference notes, which are sent out on receipt of your trip registration form and deposit, explaining about photography in the mountains.
Remember photos are wonderful records of your expedition but keep camera gear simple and light to best enjoy the trip you are on. Disposable and digital cameras are the lightest weight, but all cameras have maintenance issues that need to be carefully considered before bringing them to high elevations.
What about the Maoists in Nepal?
The Maoist problem which partly crippled the economy of Nepal for the past decade garnered major international interest. The Maoists have now formed part of the Nepalese government and there is a comprehensive peace agreement in place so we hope the troubles of the past are put behind the Nepalese people. Our sources in Nepal keep us up to date with the political situation and if there are significant changes we will be sure to advise you.
I want to become a mountain guide, where do I start?
Those with limited experience generally start by taking an alpine climbing course and then go out and climb for a few years. You generally should have at least 5 years of climbing and/or teaching/guiding experience. You need avalanche and medical training and then you can apply to do an NZ Mountain Guides Course or the equivalent in your country, aligned with the IFMGA.
Please see Adventure Consultants Mountain Guide Scholarships on our Career Opportunities page and check the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association for more information.
