At Everest Sherpa Expeditions Pvt Ltd, we aim to provide transparency and clarity regarding the financial aspects of your trekking and expedition experience. Understanding the customs around summit bonuses, tipping, and potential hidden costs ensures that you are well-prepared and can enjoy your adventure without any unexpected surprises. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate these aspects of your journey.
Summit Bonus
What is a Summit Bonus?
A summit bonus is a customary payment given to your climbing Sherpas or guides upon successfully reaching the summit of a peak. This bonus is a token of appreciation for their hard work, expertise, and support throughout the expedition.
How Much Should You Give?
The amount of the summit bonus can vary, but here are some general guidelines:
For 6000-meter peaks: A typical summit bonus ranges from $200 to $500 per climbing Sherpa.
For 7000-meter peaks: The bonus usually ranges from $300 to $600 per climbing Sherpa.
For 8000-meter peaks: The bonus can range from $500 to $1000 or more per climbing Sherpa.
When and How to Give the Bonus:
The summit bonus is usually given at the end of the expedition, once you have safely returned to base camp. It’s customary to hand the bonus directly to the Sherpas in a group setting, expressing your gratitude for their assistance.
Tips
Why Tipping is Important:
Tipping is an essential part of the trekking culture in Nepal. It is a way to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the guides, porters, cooks, and other support staff who make your journey possible.
Suggested Tipping Guidelines:
Trekking Guide: $10 to $15 per day
Assistant Guide: $8 to $10 per day
Porter: $5 to $8 per day
Cook (on camping treks): $8 to $10 per day
How to Distribute Tips:
Tips are generally collected at the end of the trek and distributed in an organized manner. It’s a good practice to place the tips in envelopes and hand them to each individual or to the team leader to distribute accordingly.
Group Tipping:
If you are part of a group, you can pool your tips and distribute them collectively. This approach ensures that everyone receives fair recognition for their efforts.
Hidden Costs
Understanding Hidden Costs:
While we strive to provide all-inclusive packages, there are some expenses that are not typically covered in your trekking or expedition cost. Being aware of these potential hidden costs will help you budget more accurately for your trip.
Common Hidden Costs:
Visa Fees: The cost of obtaining a visa for Nepal, which can vary depending on the length of your stay.
Meals in Kathmandu: While meals are usually included during the trek, meals in Kathmandu before and after the trek are often not included.
Personal Equipment: Any personal gear or equipment you need to purchase or rent.
Extra Snacks and Drinks: Additional snacks, drinks, or alcoholic beverages not included in the meal plan.
Hot Showers and Wi-Fi: In some tea houses, hot showers and Wi-Fi are available at an extra cost.
Battery Charging: Charging your electronic devices may incur additional fees at tea houses.
Extra Days: Costs associated with extra days due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather or illness.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory requirement and needs to be arranged independently.
Tips and Bonuses: As mentioned above, tips and summit bonuses are customary but not included in the trek cost.
How to Manage Hidden Costs:
Plan Ahead: Research and budget for these additional expenses before your trip.
Carry Cash: ATMs may not be available in remote areas, so carry enough cash in Nepalese Rupees for these extra costs.
Communicate with Your Guide: Your guide can provide insights and advice on managing these expenses during your trek.
Final Thoughts
By understanding the expectations around summit bonuses, tipping, and potential hidden costs, you can better prepare for your trekking or expedition adventure in Nepal. This preparation ensures that you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and the unique experiences that Nepal has to offer.
For more information and assistance with your trekking plans, please contact us at:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +977-1-XXXXXXX
Address:
We look forward to welcoming you to Nepal and providing you with an exceptional trekking experience with Everest Sherpa Expeditions Pvt Ltd.