Both are bucket-list treks with unforgettable mountain scenery. Here is how they differ, to help you choose.
At a glance
- Everest Base Camp: 14 days from Kathmandu, highest point 5,545 m (Kala Patthar), starts with a flight to Lukla.
- Annapurna Base Camp: 11 days from Kathmandu, highest point 4,130 m, starts with a drive from Pokhara.
Scenery
Everest takes you to the foot of the world’s highest mountain through Sherpa villages and monasteries, with Ama Dablam and Lhotse along the way. The Annapurna trek climbs through Gurung villages, bamboo and rhododendron forests into a dramatic amphitheatre of 7,000–8,000 m peaks.
Difficulty and altitude
EBC is higher and longer, with several nights above 4,000 m and two acclimatisation days. ABC is lower and shorter, but has many stone steps up and down. Both are suitable for fit trekkers without climbing experience.
Logistics and cost
The Lukla flights make EBC more expensive and occasionally delayed by weather. ABC needs no flights, which makes it cheaper and more flexible.
Our recommendation
Choose Everest Base Camp for the iconic summit views and Sherpa culture if you have two weeks. Choose Annapurna Base Camp if you have less time, prefer lower altitude, or want forests and villages as well as glaciers. Still undecided? Ask us.
