8-day adventure

Climb Mont Blanc

France

Trekking peaks

From $2,925

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France
Climb Mont Blanc

Code: FRMB

8 days

4/5

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Our local team

Established in Chamonix over 30 years ago, our local agency in the Alps provides a huge range of activities from high altitude summit climbs to gentle walks in the foot hills. Our experienced guides and quality equipment will provide you with everything you need to enjoy climbing, hiking and mountaineering in the heart of Europe's most iconic mountains. We share our offices with the equipment manufacturer Simond, who have been manufacturing...

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Kandoo's view

On this 8 day adventure in the western Alps you will master all the basic climbing techniques required to reach the summit of Mont Blanc at 4810m. Training starts on the Glacier du Tour before a warm up climb to the summit of La Tete Blanche at 3429m. Once you are accustomed to the altitude and the terrain, our ascent of the highest peak in western Europe begins!

Every year the summit of Mont Blanc becomes the ultimate objective for mountaineers from all over the world. Standing on the summit of this iconic peak is a massive achievement. The steep ground and high altitude make for a challenging ascent but standing at the summit and gazing down at all the famous peaks of the Alps that surround you is simply incredible.

Trip highlights

Ascend Mont Blanc via the Gouter route
Trek through spectacular alpine scenery
Learn mountaineering and ice climbing skills

Experiences

Trekking peaks

Head to the top of a real mountain summit for a real sense of achievement

Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival

The Kandoo team will meet you at Geneva airport and transfer you to your pre-climb hotel in Chamonix. Later you will attend a pre-climb briefing with your Guide to prepare you for your climb. There are many typical Savoyard restaurants close to your hotel where you can sample some alpine specialities.
- Transport: Private transfer (1.2 hours, 100 km)
- Accomodation: Hotel
Day 2

Training on the Glacier du Tour

We will spend the morning in Chamonix with our guide, reviewing the itinerary, checking kit and assisting with any equipment rental that may be required. We will then depart for the village of Le Tour, where we will take a small two-stage cable car to the Col de Balme (2204m). From here we will begin our trek to the Albert Premier refuge on the Glacier du Tour (2702m). Here we will spend the afternoon training in the snow and ice climbing on the glacier.
- Ascent: 1667 m
- Max. altitude: 2702 m
- Accomodation: Refuge
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3

Ascent of La Tête Blanche

Today we will climb the glacier from the refuge to La Tête Blanche (3429m). We will then cross the Col Supérieur du Tour to reach the Trient refuge.
- Hiking time: 6 - 7 hours
- Ascent: 727 m
- Descent: 259 m
- Max. altitude: 3429 m
- Accomodation: Refuge
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4

Trient Refuge to Chamonix

From the Trient refuge, we will climb back over the Col Supérieur du Tour and head down the slope, passing the Albert Premier refuge (where we can have a short but well-deserved break). Once we are back in the village of Le Tour, the guide will brief us on the following days’ programme. Details will include weather conditions in the mountains and he will pair you up for the ascent of the Mont Blanc (depending on who you are travelling with and your ability level). We will return to Chamonix to rest for the night.
- Hiking time: 6 - 7 hours
- Descent: 2135 m
- Max. altitude: 3170 m
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
Day 5

Chamonix to Tête Rousse Refuge

Our ascent of Mont Blanc begins fairly easily. We take a minibus to Les Houches and then the cable car to Bellevue train station. From here, we catch the Victorian rack railway – “Tramway du Mont Blanc” – to Nid d’Aigle (2372m). We then walk up a winding track, offering stunning views over the Chamonix valley. After a short walk we arrive on a snow-covered area leading to the brand new Tête Rousse refuge (3167m). We can spend the afternoon relaxing and acclimatising, and admire the view of the north face of the Aiguille de Bionnassay.
- Hiking time: 3 - 4 hours
- Ascent: 2132 m
- Max. altitude: 3167 m
- Accomodation: Refuge
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 6

Mont Blanc Ascent

Setting off in the early hours, we start climbing the rocky tracks of the Aiguille du Goûter. A wide passage in the lower slopes in prone to rock fall, so it is very important to follow the guide’s instructions through this section. The rest of the ascent has sections equipped with cables or ropes, and requires some scrambling. Trekking in the darkness we will soon reach the Dôme du Goûter (4304m). As we continue towards the summit, we will reach the Vallot Bivouac, an unmanned refuge usually used for emergency protection for mountain climbers. By now the sun will be coming up, providing us with a much-needed boost as we begin to climb the Bosses Ridge. For 2-3 hours, we climb the ridge to the summit, which can be narrow and exposed, but we are rewarded with spectacular views in all directions. From the highest point in Western Europe at 4810m, we can see deep into the French, Italian and Swiss alps. After celebrating our achievement, we begin the descent. We retrace our footsteps down the Bosses Ridge and overnight at the futuristic-looking Goûter refuge, perched on a cliff on the Aiguille du Goûter (3835m).
- Hiking time: 10 - 12 hours
- Ascent: 1643 m
- Descent: 966 m
- Max. altitude: 4801 m
- Accomodation: Refuge
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 7

Gouter Refuge to Chamonix

We continue our descent on the same route back to the Nid d’Aigle where we will catch the Tramway du Mont Blanc once more. A final cable car journey will take us back to Les Houches for a celebratory lunch. We will then return to our hotel in Chamonix.
- Hiking time: 5 - 6 hours
- Descent: 2800 m
- Max. altitude: 3835 m
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
Day 8

Departure

Farewell Chamonix. After breakfast we will transfer to you to Geneva airport for your flight home.
- Transport: Private transfer (1.2 hours, 100 km)
- Meals included: Breakfast
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Please note

This program may be modified by the guide according to mountain and weather conditions, required physical condition of participants and, above all, your safety. For safety reasons, we need to ensure that all participants have the required level of mental and physical conditions demanded by the itinerary. We reserve the right to end your participation if your technical and/or physical form does not match the minimum required level. The interruption cannot result in a reimbursement or payment compensation.

Trip information

Difficulty

One question we often get asked is 'how fit do I need to be to climb Mont Blanc?' While a high level of fitness will make the climb a lot easier, it by no means requires you to be a super-human. That being said, a solid training plan will help you to better prepare for the climb and will make your time on the mountain far more enjoyable. What all successful climbers share though is a real Kandoo attitude and that means high levels of grit and determination.

If you are comfortable walking for 6-7 hours with an ascent of 1000m then you are certainly fit enough to succeed on Mont Blanc. Similarly if you can do a full hour spinning, a vigorous aerobics class or can jog at a decent pace for 45 minutes then there is no reason why you cannot make the climb.

Food & drink

This trip is on a full board basis (except for nights in Chamonix). For your evening meals in Chamonix there is a wide range of local restaurants for you to sample. If you have a dietary requirement or are a vegetarian then just let us know when you book so that we can plan a suitable menu.

The refuges provide hearty traditional and generous meals prepared by the refuge keepers. Drinks are not included with dinner, so please make sure you have some Euros and Swiss Francs (Trient refuge on day 2) with you.

Packed lunches will be produced by your guide and include local meats and cheeses, crusty bread and fresh seasonal vegetables. The lunch items will be shared between all of the group for carrying each day. Remember to bring your favourite snacks (cereal or energy bars, dried fruits, chocolate) with you to keep you going through the day

Tap water is typically safe to drink in France so you can fill up your water bottle in Chamonix. Unfortunately not all of the refuges have running water, and where water is available it is not drinkable. You will need to bring purification tablets to treat the water, and when running water is not available you will need to buy bottled water which is very expensive (5 to 10 euros per bottle).

Accommodation

Accommodation in Chamonix will be in a 3-star hotel in twin rooms. You will stay in Chamonix on the first, the 4th and the last night of the trip. Please note that your evening meal is not included when you are in Chamonix.

You will spend four nights in mountain refuges in shared mixed-sex dormitory rooms: blankets are provided but you will need to bring a sleeping bag liner. Please only bring very basic toiletries as there is often no running water.

Luggage

During the training and climb, you will carry your own personal equipment in your rucksack. You will go out twice for three days of hiking, with a return to Chamonix in between. Plan to bring a 40-50 litre rucksack to carry everything you need for three days of hiking, including all your climbing equipment and your packed lunch.

A second bag containing spare clothing can be left at the hotel in Chamonix; you will be able to access this bag when you return to Chamonix at the end of the fourth day and then store it again while you climb Mont Blanc.

How do I get there?

For hikers based in the UK or the US, it is best to fly to Geneva International Airport (GVA). Lots of airlines fly to Geneva from all of the major UK airports, and many of the larger US international airports as well.

All of our tours begin at Chamonix , known as the capital of Alpinism, at an altitude of just over 1000 metres above sea level. Chamonix is only 53 miles from Geneva International Airport by car, and we will arrange transport from the airport to your hotel as part of your trek. Transport is generally available at 2 pm, and takes approximately an hour and a half.

Chamonix is an excellent choice for hotel accommodation during your stay, but it does fill up quickly during the peak season, so be sure to reserve your booking with us as early as possible.

Budget & change

The currency in France is the Euro (EUR). For the latest exchange rates please visit www.xe.com

Credit and debit cards are not accepted in the mountain refuges so you will nned to carry a small amount of cash for drinks, snacks and any personal expenses. You can withdraw currency from ATMs in Chamonix.

Tips

Although the custom is practiced here it is not mandatory and should be left to the discretion of each individual.

If you are satisfied with the services of your guide then a tip is always appreciated.

Formalities & health

Passport

Most travellers will require a passport valid for at least 6 months after your return date. It is your responsibility to confirm your specific requirements and please be aware that proof of onward travel may be required.

Visa

Travelling to France is visa free for up to 90 days, for UK and US citizens

Vaccinations

There are no specific health risks in the Mont Blanc region. However, you should ensure that your routine vaccinations and boosters are up to date, such as tetanus and MMR.

Insurance

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fully and adequately insured for the duration of your trip. Please ensure that all activities, excursions and destinations in your itinerary are included in your travel insurance policy, in addition to your regular cover for cancellation and medical expenses. Many insurance policies will have a maximum altitude limit, if you are climbing Mont Blanc or Gran Paradiso you should ensure you are covered for climbing up to 5000m. We ask that you keep a copy of your policy summary (containing policy number and the emergency contact number for your insurer) in your day sack at all times, so that we can access this information should we need to contact the insurer on your behalf.

Equipment & clothing

Clothing to bring

HEADGEAR

Warm beanie style hat – knitted or fleece
Neck gaiter or scarf – useful for keeping dust out and can double as a warm layer for your neck/face
Sun hat – preferably wide-brimmed for protection
Sun glasses – high UV protection (category 4)
Snow Goggles (category 4+)
Headlamp (plus extra batteries)

UPPER BODY

Gloves – silk or merino liners
Gloves – warm fleece or wool gloves
Summit mittens – insulated heavyweight mittens. Have to be extremely weather-proof
Thermal base layer
Lightweight fleece or windshirt
Fleece or heavy jacket
Down jacket (optional but highly appreciated during the summit day if the weather is very cold)
Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood (Gore-tex or similar)

LEGS

Leggings – thermal or fleece base layer (x1)
Mountaineering trousers
Wind and waterproof over-trousers (Gore-tex or similar)

FEET

Gaiters
Breathable, high-wicking liner socks (x2 pairs)
Thermal trekking socks (x2 pairs)
Mountaineering boots – must be able to fit a crampon
Crampons

Equipment to bring

40-50 litre rucksack and waterproof cover – with locks for crampons, ice axe and helmet
Ice axe, helmet, harness, 2 x locking carabiners (you cannot rent locking carabiners, you must bring your own)
Trekking poles
Water bottles – must be able to carry 2.0L of water.
Thermos flask
Lightweight sleeping bag liner – preferably silk
Eating utensils – for your picnic lunch
Pocketknife
Drybags or heavy duty plastic bags – provide additional waterproofing for the kit in your rucksack

OTHER ACCESSORIES

Sunscreen and lip balm – high SPF
Toiletries – only toothbrush and toothpaste. There is not usually running water in the refuges so bring some wipes
Earplugs – if you are a light sleeper
Camera and spare batteries
Plug adapter for charging devices
Personal medication and first aid kit
Personal snacks and energy bars – dried fruit and nuts are a good option

RENTAL GEAR

We recommend that wherever possible you use your own gear for your climb as this is the best way to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. We recognise though that the cost of some items is very high and this may not be possible. We do not have our own gear available for rental but there are many places offering gear for rental in Chamonix. It is your responsibility to check carefully the condition of any item you rent. We accept no responsibility for the quality of equipment hired.

High altitude mountaineering boots
Crampons
Ice Axe
Helmet
Harness
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Rucksack

Please note that you will require two locking carabiners and these cannot be rented. You must bring your own

Dates & prices

From	To	Price	Availability	Book	Enquire
06/06/2021	13/06/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
13/06/2021	20/06/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
20/06/2021	27/06/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
27/06/2021	04/07/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
04/07/2021	11/07/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
11/07/2021	18/07/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
18/07/2021	25/07/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
25/07/2021	01/08/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
01/08/2021	08/08/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
08/08/2021	15/08/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
15/08/2021	22/08/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
22/08/2021	29/08/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
29/08/2021	05/09/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
05/09/2021	12/09/2021	$2,925 £2,249	Available	Book now	Enquire now
05/06/2022	12/06/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
12/06/2022	19/06/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
19/06/2022	26/06/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
26/06/2022	03/07/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
03/07/2022	10/07/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
10/07/2022	17/07/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
17/07/2022	24/07/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
24/07/2022	31/07/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
31/07/2022	07/08/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
07/08/2022	14/08/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
14/08/2022	21/08/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
21/08/2022	28/08/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
28/08/2022	04/09/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now
04/09/2022	11/09/2022	$3,055 £2,349	Available	Book now	Enquire now

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Want to add flights or create a private trip? Don't hesitate to contact us!

Price includes

Airport transfers
6 days of mountaineering with high mountain guides
7 nights accommodation (3 nights hotel, 4 nights mountain refuge)
All group technical and safety equipment
All cable cars and local transport needed for the itinerary (This excludes the first 2 first departures in June when the cable cars are not yet open)
Full board: all breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals, except in Chamonix on days 1, 4 and 7 (dinner not included)

Price does not include

Flights
Evening meal on days 1, 4 and 7 in Chamonix
Drinks and personal expenses
Snacks: cereal & energy bars, dried fruits, chocolate etc
Individual climbing equipment: mountaineering boots, crampons, helmet, harness, ice axe, poles, rucksack, etc (available to rent locally if required)
Travel insurance
Tips for your guide

Options

Additional hotel nights before or after your climb

Our local team

Kandoo's view

Trip highlights

Experiences

Gallery

Itinerary

Arrival

Training on the Glacier du Tour

Ascent of La Tête Blanche

Trient Refuge to Chamonix

Chamonix to Tête Rousse Refuge

Mont Blanc Ascent

Gouter Refuge to Chamonix

Departure