I have been enjoying high-altitude trekking for five years. Early on, I made the mistake of booking…read morea solo trek (with a guide and porter but without a group) through a company in Kathmandu. It was not a good experience. Fortunately, that setback didn't stop me from pursuing my dream adventures--Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro, and the Inca Trail.
That's when I discovered Ian Taylor Trekking (ITT), and everything changed. By chance, I learned that Ian lives near me. I picked up the phone, and to my surprise, Ian himself answered. We soon met for drinks, and after meeting Ian and Laura, I knew right away that these were people I could trust with something as important as a trek to Everest Base Camp.
Everest Base Camp turned out to be unforgettable--the magic of the Sherpa culture, the breathtaking scenery, the friendships formed, and of course, Ian's presence on the trip. While ITT's guides, porters, and support staff are absolute professionals, what stood out most was Ian himself. His deep knowledge of the Khumbu (everyone seems to know him!), professionalism, and sense of humor made the journey even more special.
From that first trek onward, ITT has continually exceeded my expectations. After Everest Base Camp, I thought nothing could top the experience. But then came Kilimanjaro--and later, the Classic Inca Trail. Each adventure with ITT only got better.
One of the most important lessons I've learned in the mountains is that success is never guaranteed. Illness, weather, and other factors can change everything. On one trek with a different company, I fell acutely ill after five days of exhausting effort. My guide made the right call to turn us back, even though I was devastated at the time. That experience underscored the importance of choosing the right guide--and how grateful I am to have found Ian Taylor Trekking for my next expeditions.
I've witnessed Ian and his team handle every type of situation with compassion, professionalism, and encouragement. Some clients arrive underprepared. Others, like me on Kilimanjaro, may doubt themselves at critical moments. At less than 100 meters from the summit, I was struggling silently. Ian didn't need me to say it--he noticed. Without turning around, he calmly reminded me of proper breathing technique. That simple guidance carried me to the summit at age 65. That moment changed my life, and I know it wouldn't have happened without such talented, capable, and caring guides.
What makes ITT so exceptional is their philosophy of safety first, modest pacing, and proper acclimatization. This approach not only reduces risks but also increases the likelihood of success. And yet, ITT also understands that trekking isn't just about the summit--it's about the experience along the way. From carefully chosen campsites to passionate, knowledgeable guides (like Miguel on the Inca Trail, who brought history to life with every story), every detail reflects thoughtfulness and care.
The ultimate compliment to any business is when clients return--and bring others with them. I'm about to embark on my next adventure with ITT: climbing Mera Peak. Five members from my Everest Base Camp trek are joining me. That says it all.
As a former business owner, I can say with certainty: Ian Taylor Trekking is doing something truly special, and they're doing it right.
