For Mike, reaching Everest Base Camp wasn’t just a physical milestone – it was the realisation that every day on the trail had shaped the journey just as much as the destination.

“Reaching Base Camp was an important checkpoint,” Mike says. “It was the primary target we’d been aiming for, but it actually wasn’t quite the end. I really enjoyed the optional hike up Kala Patthar the next morning. And honestly, every day beforehand had been its own adventure – seeing the landscape and villages change as we climbed. Base Camp was just one part of a much bigger experience.”

A Sunrise He’ll Never Forget

Of all the moments along the trail, one stands out vividly.

“Hiking up Kala Patthar before sunrise was perfect. The sky was super clear after it snowed a bit the night before. We started under a blanket of stars with our head torches on, and then watched the famous Everest view slowly brighten as the sun came up over the full range of mountains.”

Making it over the final rocks to the ridge and taking photos with their guide, Basu – and even a borrowed Nepal flag – made the moment even more memorable.

The Gradual Challenge

When asked about the most difficult moment, Mike says it wasn’t one single obstacle – it was the gradual accumulation of effort.

“There wasn’t a particular point that stood out for me, but it definitely felt harder as we went along. Everyone in the group became more tired and we ran into more difficulties. You just had to keep going.”

Life Lessons From the Mountains

The trek didn’t just challenge Mike physically – it shifted his perspective.

“Everyone would always say ‘slowly slowly’ going up. It helps minimise shocks and lets you adapt to the new environment so you can move on to the next stage. And it’s true for life as well – it may be hard at times, but if you keep going slowly, you’ll make it.”

Advice for Someone Facing Their Own “Everest”

Mike’s advice is simple but powerful:

“Go slowly, be patient, and don’t worry if something doesn’t go perfectly to plan. You’ll adapt, and you’ll get there.”

What’s Next?

Everest has only fuelled Mike’s appetite for adventure.

“Yes, I’ll definitely be on the lookout for new challenges – more multi-day adventures, and maybe taking others along too. I’m not sure exactly what the next one will be yet, but I’m excited to find out.”

One thing is certain: Mike’s Everest experience won’t be his last big journey. It’s only the beginning of many more summits, stories, and challenges ahead.