Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right trek for my skill level?

We offer treks ranging from easy to difficult. Each trek on our website is clearly labeled with a difficulty level and detailed description. Consider your fitness level, previous trekking experience, and desired challenge.

How do I select a Sherpa guide?

You can browse through our Sherpa profiles on each trek page. These profiles include the guide’s experience, specialties, and reviews from previous trekkers. We encourage you to read through these carefully to find a guide whose expertise and personality align with your expectations.

What is Local Sherpa's role in the trekking experience, and what are your responsibilities?

Local Sherpa is a listing platform that connects trekkers with experienced local Sherpa guides. While we strive to provide a reliable service, it’s important to understand our role:

1. We carefully vet and verify each Sherpa guide listed on our platform to the best of our ability. This includes checking their experience, qualifications, and reviews.

2. We provide a platform for communication between trekkers and guides, facilitating the booking process.

3. We offer information about various treks to help you make informed decisions.

However, Local Sherpa is not responsible for the actual trekking experience, any accidents, injuries, or losses that may occur during your trek. We do not organize the treks ourselves, nor do we employ the Sherpa guides directly.

We strongly recommend that all trekkers:
– Thoroughly research their chosen trek and guide
– Purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance
– Take necessary safety precautions
– Communicate clearly with their chosen Sherpa guide about expectations and requirements

By using our platform, you acknowledge that trekking involves inherent risks and that you are choosing to participate at your own risk. We encourage all users to exercise due diligence and make informed decisions for their safety and enjoyment.

How does Local Sherpa contribute to the development of Sherpa guides and local communities?

As a non-profit organization (NGO), Local Sherpa is deeply committed to the development and empowerment of local Sherpa guides and their communities. Our efforts include:

1. Training Workshops: We regularly organize and conduct professional development workshops for Sherpa guides. These workshops cover a range of topics including advanced trekking techniques, first aid, environmental conservation, and customer service skills.

2. Community Development: A portion of the donations received goes directly towards community projects in the trekking regions. This includes initiatives in education, healthcare, and sustainable infrastructure.

3. Sustainable Tourism Practices: We educate both guides and trekkers on responsible tourism practices to minimize environmental impact and preserve local cultures.

4. Economic Empowerment: By connecting Sherpas directly with trekkers, we help ensure fair compensation and sustainable livelihoods for local guides and their families.

5. Continuous Improvement: We use trekker feedback to identify areas for improvement and tailor our training programs accordingly, ensuring ongoing professional growth for our Sherpa guides.

How can I report a guide for severe negligence or misconduct?

At Local Sherpa, we take the safety and well-being of our trekkers very seriously. If you’ve experienced or witnessed severe negligence or misconduct from a guide, we urge you to report it immediately. Here’s how:

Write to us at – contact@localsherpa.org
Submit any supporting evidence (photos, videos, witness statements)

Our team will review your report promptly and conduct a thorough investigation. Depending on the investigation results, we may take actions ranging from additional training for the guide to their removal from our platform.

Please note that while we thoroughly investigate all serious complaints, Local Sherpa is a listing platform and not the direct employer of guides. We will take appropriate action within the scope of our platform policies.

LOCAL SHERPA