Summit of Gran Paradiso
5-day adventure

Climb Gran Paradiso

Italy
  • Trekking peaks
  • Trekking & Hiking
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Code: FRGP

5 days
Moderate

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our UK team

Our local team

Our Italian office is based in the city of Catania on the island of Sicily and near to Mt Etna. We have a team of 6 office staff who take care of the logistics for our adventures as well as a team of specialist mountain guides. The local knowledge and expertise of our staff allow us to deliver first class adventures with seamless organisation and attention to detail. Our guides have been trekking and climbing in the Dolomites for many years and...
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Kandoo's view

An incredible adventure trekking and glacier walking in stunning scenery with an easy climb to conquer the highest peak in Italy. From your hut in the Valsavarenche Valley surrounded by high peaks, you will learn mountaineering and ice climbing skills before ascending Gran Paradiso where you can take in the amazing views across to the Mt Blanc Massif. This is one of the region’s most straight forward 4000m summits and a perfect introduction to alpine mountaineering. The beautiful Gran Paradiso National Park is a breathtaking location where you may catch a glimpse of alpine ibex, golden eagles or bearded vultures.

Trip highlights

  • Reach the summit of Gran Paradiso - the highest peak in Italy
  • Learn mountaineering and ice climbing skills
  • The perfect introduction to alpine climbing

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Gallery

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Arrive in Chamonix

    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

    Chamonix to Chabod Refuge

    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 Valsavarenche Valley in Italy, a 70km drive from Chamonix. We will arrive at Pravieux and begin our trek to Chabod refuge (2750m) using a well-marked path.

    • Hiking time: 3 - 4 hours
    • Ascent: 1715 m
    • Max. altitude: 2750 m
    • Accomodation: Refuge
    • Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
  • Day 3

    Gran Paradiso

    An early departure is required this morning for the Gran Paradiso ascent. This is one of the highest vantage points in the Alps with views of Mont Viso, Monte Rosa, the Mont Blanc massif and many other peaks. You won’t be disappointed by the spectacular panoramas! On the trail we will follow varied glacial slopes, the beautiful ice ridge and finally the craggy finale, which takes us to the Virgin’s peak. We’ll take time for a photo stop to capture this magic moment before descending on an easy and quiet path to the Vittorio Emmanuele II refuge.

    • Hiking time: 10 - 12 hours
    • Ascent: 1311 m
    • Descent: 1326 m
    • Max. altitude: 4061 m
    • Accomodation: Refuge
    • Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Trip information

Difficulty

One question we often get asked is 'how fit do I need to be to climb Gran Paradiso?' 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 Gran Paradiso. 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 can't complete this climb. 


Looking for training advice or a training plan in preparation for this trip? We'd recommend checking out Kate Sielmann and her coaching programs that are specific to mountaineering and trekking training. Find more details here.

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 with you. Refuges do not generally accept credit cards.  


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 and last night of the trip. Please note that your evening meal is not included when you are in Chamonix.


You will spend two 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

In your daily rucksack, you will carry your food (snacks and picnic), your personal belongings and your climbing equipment. It has to have a 40 to 50L capacity and should not weigh more than 10 to 12kg. Your rucksack should be pretty comfortable to carry all day. Your guide will help you arrange your rucksack on the first day of your trip.

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 and Italy is the Euro (EUR). For the latest exchange rates please see www.xe.com

You will need some cash with you at the mountain refuge as credit/debit cards are not accepted. You can withdraw money from ATMs in Chamonix on arrival. Budget for drinks, snacks and any personal expenses. 

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

Vaccinations

No vaccinations are required.

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. If you are climbing Gran Paradiso, please check with your insurance company that you are covered for climbing 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 daypack 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 – fleece or knitted
  • Neck gaiter or scarf – useful for keeping out dust 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
  • Gloves or mittens – insulated, must be weather-proof
  • Thermal base layer
  • Lightweight fleece or windshirt
  • Fleece jacket
  • 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 and be a rigid boot
  • 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


GEAR RENTAL

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 B3 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
13/07/2023 17/07/2023 $1,945 £1,499
Sold out
Sold out Enquire now
03/08/2023 07/08/2023 $1,945 £1,499
Available
Book now Enquire now
18/07/2024 22/07/2024 $2,075 £1,599
Available
Book now Enquire now
08/08/2024 12/08/2024 $2,075 £1,599
Available
Book now Enquire now

Want to ask us a question or book a private trip? Don't hesitate to contact us!

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Price includes

  • Airport transfers
  • 3 days of mountaineering with high mountain guides
  • 4 nights accommodation (2 nights hotel, 2 nights mountain refuge)
  • All group technical and safety equipment
  • Transfers between Chamonix and Valsavarenche Valley
  • Full board except in Chamonix on day 1 and 4

Price does not include

  • Flights and visas
  • Evening meal on day 1 and 4
  • Snacks: cereal & energy bars, dried fruits, chocolate
  • Drinks and personal expenses
  • Mountaineering boots, crampons, helmet, harness, ice axe, poles, rucksack, etc (available to rent locally if required)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips

Options

  • Additional hotel nights before or after your tour