Do you have some Questions?
Welcome to your new go-to trekking partenr! Find our most asked questions here.
Trekking Preparation
A good level of cardiovascular fitness is required, with the ability to hike 5-8 hours per day at a moderate pace, especially for higher elevation treks over 3,000m.
Build up to hiking 8-10 miles a few times per week over hills/stairs, including strength training for legs/core, and exercises to improve lung capacity like swimming/cycling.
We provide a recommended gear list, but essentials include proper hiking boots, warm synthetic/wool layers, rainproof outer shells, sun hat, sunscreen, a backpack, reusable water bottles, and trekking poles.
Prior experience above 3,000m is helpful but not required, as our itineraries include acclimatization days. We recommend staying hydrated and knowing signs of altitude sickness.
There are no required vaccines, but tetanus, hepatitis A/B, and typhoid are recommended. Consult a travel doctor as requirements can change.
Trail difficulty varies by region and elevation gain. Lower elevation treks are easier, while high-altitude ones like Everest are quite strenuous and technically demanding.
Symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue can occur over 3,000m. We build in acclimatization days, advise staying hydrated, moving slowly, and descending if severe cases.
Most itineraries involve 4-7 hours of trekking per day, with opportunities for rest breaks and shorter days built into the schedule as well.
Trekking poles help relieve stress on knees and provide stability. We recommend bringing a pair, though rental poles are available too.
No prior experience is required for easier, lower elevation routes. But good fitness is still essential, as is an adventurous spirit!
Shipping Information
There are no set age limits. We’ve had fit trekkers from ages 7 to 80+. Itineraries can be customized for different ages/abilities.
Accommodation & Meals
On the majority of our treks, we use a combination of family-run teahouses and basic camping facilities depending on route/remoteness.
Yes, we supply high-quality tents, insulated sleeping bags, foam mats, and all other necessary camping gear for any overnights under canvas.
Most teahouses up to around 3,500m offer basic heated rooms and shower facilities, but amenities are limited at higher altitudes.
While basic, teahouse meals include traditional Nepali staples like dal bhat (rice/lentils), vegetable curries, noodle dishes, soups and breads.
Absolutely, we’re happy to cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other dietary needs with advance notice from you.
Teahouses are basic mountain lodges that are family-run/operated. They offer dorm-style rooms, shared bathrooms and a common dining hall.
Depending on the region, many but not all teahouses have solar/electric charging available for phones/batteries for a small fee.
It’s very common to experience appetite suppression at higher elevations, so we recommend eating frequent, energy-dense snacks.
Bottled water and snacks are not included in the package, though we do provide boiled water during trekking days at no extra cost.
No need to bring your own utensils/dishes, as teahouses and our camp crews provide all dining equipment needed.
Alcoholic beverages are not included but can usually be purchased at lower elevation teahouses for personal/moderate consumption.
Yes, we can arrange cultural homestays with families in some villages to get an immersive experience of local life and hospitality.
Booking & Logistics
After availability is confirmed, a 30% deposit secures your booking. The remaining balance is due 45 days prior to departure.
Absolutely, we’re happy to tailor existing treks or create a brand new custom itinerary based on your specific interests and ability levels.
Travel insurance that covers trekking activities, emergency medical/evacuation is not required but highly recommended for all treks.
Your package includes all necessary trekking permits, national park fees, and tourist tax payments for the route.
We arrange your transportation from Kathmandu to the start point and back by private vehicle and/or domestic flights as needed.
Yes, we’re happy to arrange an airport transfer service for an additional cost to get you to/from your Kathmandu hotel.
We recommend booking at least 3-6 months in advance to ensure permit availability, especially during peak seasons.
Solo trekkers are welcome, with a mandatory supplemental fee, as we have to account for single accommodation costs.
We do offer discounted pricing for children under 12 years old as well as for larger groups over 6-8 people.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Safety & Guides
Our guides are licensed professionals with 5-20+ years of experience leading Himalayan trekking and mountaineering expeditions across Nepal.
Yes, helicopter evacuations can be arranged from higher elevations if required in an emergency for an additional cost covered by travel insurance.
Yes, our lead guides carry comprehensive first aid kits and supplemental oxygen cylinders on all treks above 3,500m.
For safety, we maintain a maximum 4:1 trekker-to-guide ratio. Porters are additionally hired to carry all group equipment and supplies.
We maintain a maximum 4:1 trekker-to-guide ratio to allow for personal assistance and ensure safety across the group.
All our guides are fluent in English. Many also speak other common languages like French, German, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese.
Guides have extensive mountaineering/wilderness training. They are certified in first aid, search/rescue, mountain navigation and more.
Yes, we have female guides on staff who can be requested to lead treks, particularly for groups of women travelers.
Guides carry satellite phones, radios and other emergency communication devices to ensure contact if out of range.
Our guides are trained to administer first aid, facilitate evacuations if needed, adjust itineraries based on health conditions.
We follow guidelines to ensure porters have appropriate equipment, reasonable loads, insurance coverage, fair wages and access to medical care.
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At Hairy Yak Adventures, we believe that travel should be transformative. Our treks allow you to connect deeply with the awe-inspiring landscapes and welcoming culture of Nepal.
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