High-altitude trekking is statistically very safe when paced properly and managed by an experienced guide. Here is exactly what we do, what we carry, and what we expect from you.
01Acute mountain sickness (AMS)
AMS is the body's response to reduced oxygen above 2,500 m. About one in three trekkers above 4,000 m experience mild symptoms — headache, light nausea, disturbed sleep. Severe forms (HACE, HAPE) are life-threatening but rare on properly paced treks. The single most effective treatment is descent.
Our protocol
Pulse oximeter check every morning above 3,500 m.
If saturation drops below 80% or symptoms worsen overnight, we descend at least 500 m before continuing.
Emergency oxygen carried above 4,500 m.
Diamox (acetazolamide) recommended preventively from 3,500 m. Bring a prescription from your doctor.
"Climb high, sleep low" built into every itinerary — Namche, Dingboche, Kyanjin all include an active acclimatisation day.
02Insurance — mandatory
Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation cover up to 6,000 m is required for every Lumora trek. Most standard travel policies stop at 4,500 m and will not cover the Everest Base Camp route. Providers we know work: World Nomads Explorer Plan, Global Rescue, IMG Patriot Adventure, True Traveller (UK).
Send us your policy reference and emergency phone number at least seven days before the trek. We will not depart without proof of cover.
03Communication & evacuation
Lead guide carries a Garmin inReach satellite communicator on every trek — works without cell coverage.
Helicopter evacuation can be requested from Kathmandu within 30 minutes. Flight time 1–2 hours weather-permitting.
Evacuation cost runs $4,000–$6,000; your insurance pays directly under the standard guarantee-of-payment process.
Group medical kit includes oximeter, BP cuff, broad-spectrum antibiotic, anti-emetic, dexamethasone, nifedipine.
04What we expect from you
Honesty about prior medical history during enquiry — particularly cardiovascular conditions.
Eight to twelve weeks of cardio training before arrival.
Drink three litres of water per day above 3,500 m. We provide filtered water at every stop.
Speak up. If something feels wrong, tell the guide immediately — not at dinner.
Trust the descent call. We have never had a trekker permanently injured because we descended early; we cannot promise the inverse.
