Frequently Asked Questions

How fit do I need to be?

This trip is challenging and it is expected that everyone who participates will start on a fitness training program. If you are over 55 you need to speak to your GP about your fitness goals and  have a fitness training plan developed. You must be willing to seriously train so that this challenging trek will be enjoyable and safe.

When do payments need to be made?

The trip cost is made up of various payments which need to be made to secure your place and meet your obligations. Individual deposits need to be paid to Asian Trekking Ltd. and  ITS Travel and Cruise Centre at specific points prior to departure, insurance and an administration fee needs to be paid to The Rotary Club of Calgary West to organize your trip. A fundraising deposit is payable to The Sir Edmund Hillary Foundation 12 weeks prior to departure. The balance of your travel cost is payable 60 days prior to departure and the balance of the fundraising component is payable 4 weeks after your return.

What is the minimum age for participants? What is the general age range?

On the majority of our trips the minimum age is 14+ years old and accompanied by an adult, please check with us. We expect to have participants of all ages to 70 years, all focused on completing the trek and contributing to the well being of Nepalese children.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes, some of our participants are attending the Rotary International Convention in Bangkok. The timing of the trip permits this. (Additional travel arrangements are at your own cost and an administration fee may apply)

Will I get a chance to meet the other trekkers before I go?

Yes, we will organize a get-together evening for everyone (geography permitting). There will be regular email and phone communications leading up to the trip. We will also set up an online community for this adventure so you can meet other participants.

Can I pay the whole fundraising amount myself?

Yes, you can, or you can pay for part of it and fundraise the remainder. Do whatever works for you, as long as you reach the $2500 target by the deadline.

Can I raise money to pay for the cost of my trek?

Absolutely not!  Each trekker is expected to cover the costs of their own airfare and climb.

What sort of things do people do? Why would people want to sponsor me?

When you take on a challenge of this nature, you are embarking on a physical challenge that requires varying levels of training and fitness. By supporting you, people are supporting the cause and you for your efforts. In order to make it on the trip you need to raise the funds and your determination and inspiration will encourage those you approach to support you.

How will people know that I am authorized to fundraise?

Upon registration, you will be sent a fundraising information package which will indicate how your donations or the donations of your supporters will go directly to the Sir Edmund Hillary School Building Fund. As you will not be handling funds there should be no confusion.

Will I reach my target?

Yes you will, providing you have a good plan of action and at least 3 months to implement it. Fundraising is made easier with each trekker having their own donation page directly linked to the Sir Edmund Hillary Foundation.  This way anyone can easily donate on behalf of the trekker.

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes, all of the money will go directly to the Sir Edmund Hillary Foundation, a registered charity in Canada. Your donation is tax-deductible and Sir Edmund Hillary Foundation will issue a receipt. Donations are an unencumbered gift, being money given to the charity for nothing in return. The money that goes towards the registration fee, Asian Trekking for the trek fees and ITS Travel for your flights is not tax-deductible.

How much of the money I raise will go to the charity?

A minimum of 98% for the money you raise will go directly to Sir Edmund Hillary Foundation for the Zeke O’Connor Community High School build and school equipment.

What are the costs to me?

There will be five costs that need to be paid. These include: an Administration Fee of $100 once your application has been approved by Asian, a trek fee of $1200 for the 13 Day Everest View Trek or $2000 for the 23 Day Everest Base Camp Trek, the travel costs of approximately $2500, $100 for medical and evacuation insurance and a $2500 donation.  The donations can be provided from multiple sources. Please note the items specified in the “What’s not included” section.

Who do I call if I have questions?

If you have questions you can call Karl at (403) 863-6774 or email: info@rotaryeveresttrek.com

or mail to:  Rotary Everest Trek 2012, 123 Riverbend Dr. SE      Calgary, Alberta     T2C 3V6

How do I apply?

To apply for acceptance complete the Asian Trekking Client Profile and Booking Form in this package and fax it to Fax: 00 977-1-411878. Or go to www.asian-trekking.com and complete the Asian Trekking “Book This Trek” On Line Booking Form. Indicate you are interested in the Rotary Everest View 13 Day Trek or the Rotary Everest Base Camp 23 Day Trek.  Submit the form and Asian Trekking Ltd. will assess your suitability based on fitness level and experience and acceptance on space available on the trip.

Upon approval by Asian Trekking a $100 administration fee paid by credit card, cheque or money order will be due. Cheques and money orders are payable to ‘The Rotary Club of Calgary West”’. Or fax the booking form to us at: (403) 236-8489