Featured Hobnailer: Luis Prieto

Our “Featured Hobnailers” series spotlights past and upcoming Hobnail trekkers. In this episode, we interview Luis Prieto of Palm Beach, Florida. Luis tackled the Everest Base Camp Classic trek as part of Hobnail’s inaugural group back in April 2018. (Luis is pictured above between the villages of Lobuche and Gorak Shep.)

Q: What is your occupation?

A: I work in the banking industry.

Q: How and when did you get into adventure travel?

A: Actually, I discovered adventure travel when I found Hobnail in 2017.

Q: Where was your first out-of-country adventure? How did it go?

A: My first extreme, out-of-country adventure was to Nepal to Everest Base Camp with Hobnail. It was the hardest physical adventure I have ever participated in but also the best experience I’ve ever had.

Q: How did you discover Hobnail Trekking?

A: I randomly discovered Hobnail Trekking on a Facebook post. They were hosting a meet and greet at a hiking store in Nashville, TN. I RSVP’d and was able to meet Mark and Holly and their Sherpa, Dawa. At that event, I was able to ask them 1,000 questions about the trek. They were amazing and patient with me!

Q: What are some of your favorite memories from your trip?

A: One of the most meaningful moments of my Everest Base Camp trek with Hobnail was at the start of the journey when we had the opportunity to give back to the local community. Hobnail partnered with a shoe charity, and with the help of our incredible Sherpa team, we arranged a shoe distribution for the children of a village school. Every child received a brand-new pair of running shoes, and to celebrate, we organized a fun race where they got racing bibs and medals for completing the course. The joy on their faces was unforgettable! Afterward, we all came together to sing songs and share in the moment. It was a beautiful experience — not just witnessing their excitement but also connecting with the local culture in such a meaningful way. Truly a highlight of an already incredible journey!

Q: How did your expectations for the trip differ from reality?

A: They really didn’t, thanks to Hobnail’s meticulous planning and attention to detail. From the very beginning, they provided a clear and well-structured itinerary, outlining every route, stop, and scheduled event. Because of this, I knew exactly what I was getting myself into, and there were no unexpected surprises — only incredible experiences. Their organization allowed me to focus entirely on enjoying the trek, immersing myself in the culture, and taking in the breathtaking scenery without any logistical worries.

Q: Were you nervous or concerned about anything prior to the trip?

A: Before the adventure, I was both nervous and excited! I knew this trek would be a challenging but rewarding experience, and I was eager to take it on. The biggest concern for me was dealing with the altitude, as I wasn’t sure how my body would react. While it was definitely a challenge, the Sherpas were incredibly attentive, monitoring me closely to ensure I was safe to continue. Their expertise and care made all the difference, allowing me to push through and fully enjoy the journey. In the end, the experience was everything I hoped for, challenging, breathtaking, and absolutely worth it!

Q: What other destinations are on your adventure-travel bucket list?

A: Mount Kilimanjaro and Antartica!

Hobnail’s Everest Base Camp Classic trek is a legendary journey through Nepal’s Khumbu region, leading to the foot of the world’s highest peak. Over 16 days, you’ll trek among towering Himalayan giants, cross swinging suspension bridges, and visit iconic Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Tengboche. Along the way, acclimatization hikes provide stunning views of Everest, Ama Dablam, and Lhotse. You’ll stand at the climbers’ memorials at Thukla, explore ancient monasteries, and finally reach the storied base camp of Everest. The next morning, a pre-dawn hike to Kala Patthar (18,209 feet) offers the most breathtaking view of Everest’s summit. With comfortable teahouse lodging, expert local guides, and time built in for altitude adjustment, this guided trek is the perfect way to experience the majesty of the Himalayas. Ideal for those seeking a challenging but achievable high-altitude adventure, the Classic EBC trek is the culmination of physical preparation, mental focus, and lifelong dream-chasing.

See the trek page HERE.