Gratuity Etiquette for Your Mount Everest Expedition Team
Tipping is not mandatory but highly expected in Nepal. Your guides and porters work incredibly hard to get you to Everest Base Camp. Here is the standard etiquette for rewarding their effort.
A general rule is 10-15% of the total trek cost. For a guide, $10-$15 per day is standard. For a porter, $8-$10 per day. If you are on a major Mount Everest expedition, summit bonuses are separate.
If trekking in a group, collect the tips from everyone and present it in an envelope on the last night (usually in Lukla). This ensures transparency and fairness for the whole support team.
Sherpas often appreciate gear donations. If you don't plan to use your down jacket or boots again, gifting them to your porter is a wonderful gesture after a successful Everest trekking journey.
Money is important, but a heartfelt thank you and treating them with respect throughout the trek matters just as much.
