HomeGuides and Porters

Policy on Trekking Arrangements:

• • Standard Arrangement: We typically arrange treks with both a guide and a porter. We do not provide arrangements with just one guide or porter, or a combined guide/porter role.
  • Exceptions: If you have extensive experience in overseas mountain climbing and can carry your own luggage at altitudes over 4000m without issue, we can arrange a trek without a porter. You must provide detailed information about your past climbing experience for this exception to be considered. Note that guides do not act as porters except in emergencies.

• Safety Considerations:

• • • Past experiences have shown that having only one guide and one porter can jeopardize safety. In emergencies, the guide and porter must share responsibilities for rescue and evacuation. If there is only one person in the party, the guide might have to manage both carrying the client and their luggage while arranging for rescue, which can be dangerous and impractical.
    • Finding additional porters on-site during the trekking season is challenging, and there may be no available porters, especially off the main routes. We have faced situations where additional porters were not available, exacerbating emergency situations.

• Misunderstandings and Risks:

• • • Porters are not responsible for guiding and may not meet expectations for guiding duties. We aim to avoid misunderstandings and risks associated with unclear responsibilities.

• If You Need a Guide/Porter or Porter/Guide:

• • We recommend seeking other companies if you require a guide/porter or a porter/guide role.

Safety and clarity in roles are our priorities, and we believe this approach ensures better outcomes for our clients.

Need for a guide

Do I Need a Guide for Trekking in Nepal?

The question of whether a guide is necessary for trekking in Nepal is often debated. While experienced trekkers may feel comfortable navigating the trails on their own, several important factors should be considered:

• • Navigational Ease: Most trekking routes in Nepal are well-trodden and marked, so getting lost is unlikely on popular trails. However, the presence of a guide can provide added security and assurance.
  • Safety Concerns: Trekking in remote areas carries inherent risks. These include:
    • Getting lost due to unforeseen circumstances or personal error.
    • Encounters with wildlife or other dangers.
    • Potential safety threats, including rare but serious incidents such as theft or assault. Historical cases have demonstrated that these dangers are not just hypothetical.
  • Local Practices: Even local residents who know the mountains well often avoid trekking alone in dense or remote areas, especially women. This caution underscores the importance of safety in less populated regions.

• Recommendations:

• • Hire a Guide: For a safer experience, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area or trekking alone, hiring a reliable guide or porter is recommended. Guides can provide valuable support and help navigate any unexpected situations.
  • Traveling with a Companion: If hiring a guide or porter is not feasible due to budget constraints, traveling with at least one other person is advisable. This provides a safety net and can help manage any challenges that arise during the trek.

In summary, while it’s possible to trek without a guide, doing so involves risks. For peace of mind and safety, especially in remote areas, a guide or at least a trekking companion is highly recommended.

Is It Dangerous for a Solo Female Trekker to Hire a Guide?

This is a valid concern and one that requires careful consideration. Here are key points to keep in mind:

• • Safety Concerns: It’s true that there have been isolated incidents of harassment or misconduct involving guides, including self-proclaimed or unofficial ones. This is a serious issue and should not be dismissed lightly.

• Choosing a Reliable Guide:

• • • Use Reputable Agencies: Hiring a licensed guide from a reputable agency significantly reduces the risk of encountering such problems. Reputable agencies ensure their guides are vetted and trained, and they have a stake in maintaining their reputation.
    • Avoid Touts: Be cautious of guides who approach you at the airport or in tourist areas like Thamel. It’s better to book through established agencies or trusted recommendations.

• Personal Safety:

• • • Research and Verification: Ensure that your guide is affiliated with a reputable company. Check reviews, ask for credentials, and verify their background.
    • Communicate Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations and concerns with your guide or agency. It’s also wise to inform someone you trust about your plans and expected itinerary.

• Our Approach:

• • Guide Profiles: We provide detailed profiles of guides, including their experience and personal background. For female trekkers, we often assign guides who are married, aiming to provide additional comfort and safety.
  • Feedback and Monitoring: We actively seek feedback from clients about their experiences and monitor the conduct of our guides to ensure high standards.

In summary, while there are risks involved, they can be minimized by carefully selecting a guide from a reputable agency and staying vigilant. Taking these precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.