Everest Helicopter Tour: Shared vs. Private Charter Guide

The Everest region is one of the best places to be in Nepal, especially if you are a mountain lover. Renowned for stunning snow-capped mountains, tranquil valleys, and colourful fluttering prayer flags. A close-up view of Mount Everest is what most people would prefer, but not everyone is able or has enough time and energy to take on an extensive EBC trek. This is where an Everest helicopter tour is needed – a short and awe-inspiring way to get a glimpse at the world’s highest mountain.

And, on every tourist’s mind: Should I book a group helicopter tour or hire a private charter?

But don’t worry – this brief guide will give you a rundown of the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each option. That way, you’ll be able to select one that will be perfect for your very own Everest experience.

Check our: 1 Day Mount Everest Helicopter Tour Package

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1 Day Mount Everest Helicopter Tour: EBC Heli Ride

1 Days

Easy

US$1395

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The Everest Helicopter Experience at a Glance

Before we compare shared and private helicopter tours, let’s first understand what both tours offer to you.

Imagine this: You step in the chopper and take off from Kathmandu International Airport to Lukla( the world’s most dangerous airport in the world). You will leave the crowd, and in a very short minute, you will be above the clouds with a magnificent view of green hills, and then, the tall, snowy peaks of the Himalayas appear. After you land, you land at the Lukla airport for fuel and a short break, you will fly directly over the Everest base camp and icy Khumbu Glacier. You will land near the Kala Patthar helipad and enjoy the breathtaking view of sunrise over Mt. Everest. Isn’t this Amazing?

These helicopter tours are perfect for people who:

• Don’t have much time, but still want to see Mount Everest up close
• Physically unable to do long treks, and those who have time constraints
• Want a fun, exciting trip with beautiful views and a touch of luxury
• No matter whether you choose the shared helicopter or use a Private Chopper for the Everest helicopter tour, you will definitely enjoy it. You will have the best time of your life.

What is a Shared Helicopter Tour?

A shared tour means you’ll be flying with other travellers who also want to see Mount Everest. This helps split the cost, making it more affordable for everyone.

In Nepal, most helicopters have 4 to 5 seats for passengers. The tour company puts together people who book alone, as a couple, or in small groups so they can all fly together. It’s a great option if you’re okay with sharing the ride and want to save money.

Pros of Shared Heli Tours

• Cost Savings: This is the biggest benefit. Since you’re splitting the cost with others, you pay much less than booking the whole helicopter by yourself.
• Social Experience: You’ll meet other travellers who are just as excited as you are. It’s a fun way to make new friends and share the adventure.
• Eco-Friendly: Fewer flights are needed when more people ride together. That means less harm to the environment, which is a nice bonus for nature lovers.
• Easy to Book: Shared tours are very popular during the best trekking seasons (spring and fall). Tour companies often have daily flights, and they can usually find a seat for solo travellers or couples, even at the last minute.

Cons of Shared Heli Tours

• Less Flexibility: Everyone in the group must agree on the flight time and how long to stop at each place. If you want to stay longer at a viewpoint, but others don’t, you may have to move on sooner than you’d like.
• Fixed Itinerary: Shared tours usually follow a set schedule. There’s little room to change the route or timing based on your personal preferences.
• Potential for Mixed Interests: Not everyone in the group will have the same goals. Some might want lots of photo time, while others may want to keep moving. You’ll need to compromise sometimes.
• Possible Delays: The helicopter won’t take off until all seats are full. So, if there aren’t enough people right away, you might have to wait.

Who Should Choose a Shared Tour?

• Budget Travelers – If you’re looking to enjoy the Everest experience without spending too much, this is a great option.
• Solo Travelers or Couples – Perfect if you’re open to meeting new people and sharing the adventure.
• Flexible Adventurers – Ideal for those who are okay with set schedules and don’t mind a little compromise.

Everest Shared Helicopter Tour Cost (can change by season)

A shared Everest helicopter tour usually costs between $900 to $1,200 per person.

• This price often includes:
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Required permits
• Breakfast at the famous Everest View Hotel
• Sometimes includes landing fees at scenic spots
• It’s a great way to get a high-end experience at a lower price.

What is a Private Charter?

A private charter means the helicopter is reserved exclusively for you and your chosen companions. Whether you’re travelling as a family, with friends, on a VIP trip, or simply want solitude, you get the entire helicopter (and flexibility) to yourselves.

Pros of Private Heli Tours

• Fully Customizable: You control the schedule, route, and pace. Want to spend longer at the viewpoint, add a stop, or change your pickup? It’s your call.
• Privacy: Enjoy the mountains with only your party and the crew. This is ideal for special occasions, proposals, celebrations, or those wanting total privacy.
• Enhanced Comfort: There’s no need to share the window seat or fit your gear in tight spaces; arrangements are more relaxed.
• VIP Service: Private charters usually include extra amenities, such as luxury transfers, custom meals, and a highly personalized experience.

Cons of Private Heli Tours

• Cost: The premium price tag is the main drawback. Regardless of group size (up to aircraft limits), you pay for the whole chopper.
• Advance Planning Required: Most of the tour operator request you to pay advance payment for this tour which is around 20-50%.

Who Should Choose a Private Charter?

• Small groups wanting a custom-tailored adventure
• Families or special events (birthday, honeymoons, anniversaries)
• Photographers or filmmakers need more time for shots
• Travelers seeking privacy, comfort, or luxury

Private Helicopoter Charter Cost For Everest

A private Everest helicopter charter generally ranges from $4,000 to $5,500 for the entire aircraft (up to 4 or 5 people, sometimes 6, depending on total load and altitude regulations). This includes personalized service, route planning, and exclusive landing times.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Helicopter

Budget

• Shared: Most cost-effective for small groups or singles.
  Private: Total cost is higher, but the price per person may be attractive for a full group splitting the charter.

Group Size

• For 1-2 people, sharing is most practical and affordable.
  For 3-5, a private charter could be similar in price per person while adding flexibility.

Experience Desired

• Social vs. Exclusive
• Group adventure vs. personal milestone
• Comfort and privacy preferences

Itinerary Customization

• Shared trips operate on a fixed schedule.
• Private charters offer more flexibility for stops, sightseeing, and even adding detours to other attractions (subject to weather and regulations).

Time Constraints

• Both options save significant time compared to trekking.
• Private tours may better cater to extremely tight or unique schedules.

Booking & Availability

• Shared flights fill up quickly in peak season but offer more frequent departures.
• Private charters may require booking, especially if you want to coordinate with local festivals or events.

Which Option is the Best Value for You?

By checking this table, you will understand which one to choose for you: Shared Tour or Private Charter options for the Everest region.

Additional Tips for Booking an Everest Helicopter Tour

1. Book with Local Operators: Choose reputable agencies with certified pilots, excellent safety records, and clear communication.
2. Altitude Awareness: Even though the chances of altitude sickness during helicopter tours are very rare, you still need to be aware of it.
3. Weather Flexibility: Himalayan weather can change rapidly. So before booking make sure to check the weather forecast and coordinate with tour operator for perect time.
4. Permits & Paperwork: Before booking the helicopter tour, make sure to check if the package includes all permits and fees.
5. What to Bring: You can pack sunglasses, a camera, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a fully charged phone or camera for photos.

Frequently Asked Questions On Everest Helicopter Tour

How long does it take to complete the Mount Everest helicopter tour?

• You can complete the Mount Everest helicopter tour in just half a day. The total duration of the tour will be around 6 hours.

Is it safe to do the Everest Helicopter tour?

• Yes, it is 100% safe to do the Everest helicopter tour. The helicopters used in the tour are capable of flying at high altitudes and in extreme weather conditions. And the most important part is that it is run by expert pilots who have years of experience.

Does it land in the Everest base camp?

• You will find a huge number of people in the Everest base camp staying in a tent who are preparing for the expedition and summit. Also, there are no proper helipads in the Everest base camp. Due to this reason, helicopters will not land in the Everest base camp.

How much does it cost to book the Shared helicopter tour to Everest?

• Normally, it will cost you around USD 1200 per person.

How much does it cost for a private charter helicopter tour to Everest?

• For the charter helicopter tour to Everest, it will cost you around $6,000.

Can we fly over Everest during this tour?

• No, you won’t directly fly over Mt Everest, but you will fly above the Sagarmatha National Park, Sherpa village, lush hill, Glacial, Everest base camp and Kala Patthar.

When is the best time for the Everest helicopter tour?

• Everest helicopter tours are possible throughout the year; however, people choose to travel during the months of Spring and autumn for clear and beautiful views of Mt Everest. If you love snowy landscapes, then you can travel in winter.

Final Say

Travellers can decide to join a group or a private Everest helicopter tour according to the price, desired experience, and convenience. Both options take you close to the awe-inspiring Himalayas without risking a difficult trek, with breathtaking scenery and once-in-a-lifetime experiences in as little as two hours.

Want to get the most out of your Everest adventure? Start by prioritizing what matters most to you. Is it affordability, camaraderie, and travelling as part of a group with like-minded adventurers? Or is it solitude, flexibility, and creating a customized adventure that’s 100 per cent on your terms? Choose wisely and reserve with confidence. If you want to know a related blog about helicopter tours, trekking, and climbing make sure to subscribe to our page.