Breathtaking views of the Matterhorn

Summer Haute Route Trek

The Summer Haute Route or 'high-route' is a spectacular and demanding trek through the French and Swiss Alps, from Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland. You will stay in high mountain refuges and hotels each night as you follow the route that traverses below the summits of ten of the highest peaks in the Alps.

A physically demanding, yet spectacular trek on which you will descend icy glaciers, traverse green alpine meadows and pass through picturesque alpine villages along the way - a trek to be relished forever!

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Difficulty Level Low ?
Fitness Level Low ?
Duration 7 days
Elevation 3,796M / 12,454FT
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The trek begins in the lower reaches of the Chamonix Valley - Paolo Pieroni

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A classic and demanding high alpine trek - N Knuckey

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Olivier Baron

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Enjoy spectacular views across the Alps - Olivier Baron

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Roping up to safely cover the steeper sections - Olivier Baron

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Stay in mountain refuges such as the seemingly precariously perched Dix Hut - Olivier Baron

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Approaching Col de l'Évêque - Olivier Baron

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Crossing glacial moraine en route to col de Bertol - Olivier Baron

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Climbing the Bertol Ladders to Col de Bertol - Olivier Baron

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Crossing the glacier below Aiguille de la Tour - Paolo Pieroni

RATIOS 7 DAYS
1:4 €2,550 EUR
2:6 €2,770 EUR
2:8 €2,420 EUR
  • Overview

    • Trek from Chamonix, France to Zermatt, Switzerland
    • Experience the Alps in bloom
    • Breathtaking views of the Matterhorn
    • This alpine classic follows the original route pioneered over 150 years ago, through the French and Swiss Alps, from Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland.


    The Haute Route is a demanding route, crossing glaciers and high passes deep in the Alps. Our efforts are rewarding with endless panoramic views, unique and remote mountain huts and a route steeped in alpine history.

    The route ascends high mountain passes including the Serpentine Col and climb of Pigne d’Arolla at 12,454ft / 3,796m that is one of the most stunning vantage points in all the European Alps.

    You will descend icy glaciers and traverse green alpine valleys with flower-covered meadows with occasional picturesque villages to pass through. In no time you will become absorbed into a world of glaciers and towering, snow-capped peaks interspersed with the vibrant culture of French and Swiss mountain villages. Finally you will arrive into the beautiful alpine town of Zermatt, one of the most beautiful alpine villages in the world, nestled just beneath the famous East Face of the imposing and famous Matterhorn. You will relish participating in this physical yet spectacular trek forever.

  • Why AC?

    Because we want you to remember this trek for being so much more than just a hike, we at Adventure Consultants have taken enormous pleasure in planning a fusion of all the best components that we know make this a truly memorable experience.

    We are renowned for our quality of service and the strategy applied to our treks. Our reputation is attributed to meticulous planning and experienced logistics coordination.

    We have a philosophy of investing in every trip to offer our trekkers the best possible experience.

    We employ strong and specialised trek leaders, who are some of the most pre-eminent in the industry. We pride ourselves on operating with small teams and the best back-up and support available, to promise you an experience of a lifetime!

    Many of our team members come to us because they have seen us in action on a previous trip and decide to opt for our level of service and proven experience. Others return because they know we do our very best to make our trips safe and successful.

  • Payment Conditions

    Inclusions

    The price of your trip includes the following:

    • IFMGA Guide
    • Breakfast and lunch during mountain component of the trek
    • Dinners when staying in mountain huts and refuges
    • Mountain huts as per the schedule
    • 2 nights hotel B&B on a twin share basis
    • Transport during trip dates as per schedule
    • Lifts/taxis as per the schedule
    • Transfer of luggage from Chamonix to Zermatt

    Exclusions

    The price of your trip does not include:

    • Any lift, hut, hotel or transport costs additional to the programme due to weather or logistics (any changes will be actioned only after you have been consulted by your guide)
    • Personal equipment and clothing
    • Evening meals in Chamonix or Zermatt
    • Airport transfers to/from Chamonix and Zermatt (although we can arrange it for you)
    • Any extra hotel nights prior to and after the Haute Route
    • Any hotel single supplement costs
    • Extra additional meals or snacks/drinks purchased from huts/hotel
    • Travel insurance
    • Gratuity

    Account Information

    For our European treks, prices are in Euros and must be settled in Euros. All prices are subject to change.

    All payments should be made by bank transfer to the following bank and account:

    Bank of New Zealand
    Offshore Branch
    42 Willis Street
    Spark Central
    Wellington
    New Zealand

    for the account of Adventure Consultants Limited

    Account Number: 1000-594771-0002
    Account Type: Euros
    Swift Address: BKNZNZ22

    We can also accept your deposit and balance payments by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) plus a 3% credit card transaction fee.

    Please note that in order to reserve a guide we recommend that you book well in advance. This especially applies to the high season period (early-July to end of August).

    Deposit

    In order to confirm a guide and your trip, we require a completed Booking Form and a deposit of €500.

    Balance Payment

    Full payment is due 60 days prior to the start date for your trek. We will send you receipts for all payments.

    Cancellation & Refund Policy

    Once you have paid your deposit your trip is confirmed, subject to payment of the balance of fees owing 60 days prior to your trip commencement date. A trekker may then cancel their participation on the following basis:

    • Cancellations outside of 60 days will result in the loss of the trip deposit.
    • For cancellations made within 60 days of the trip commencement date we reserve the right to retain 50% of the full fee.
    • For cancellations made within 30 days of the trip commencement date we reserve the right to retain 75% of the full fee.
    • For cancellations within 15 days of the departure date a cancellation fee of 100% of the full fee applies.


    We strongly recommend you take out trip cancellation insurance via your travel agent.

  • Trip Notes

    Summer Haute Route Trip Notes 2022 CoverThe Trip Notes provide detailed information and background for Adventure Consultants' Summer Haute Route Trek.

    You can view the trip notes online by clicking the image or download a pdf by clicking the following link:

    Summer Haute Route Trek Trip Notes 2022

    Our Guides

    IFMGA NZMGA BMG UIMLAAdventure Consultants trekking guides are International Mountain Leaders or qualified under the BMG/NZMGA and / or IFMGA/UIAGM. They are professional trekking guides and operate to the highest industry standards.

    Our standards demand that our trip leaders are great guides with good people skills as well. You will find your guide friendly, approachable and focused on providing a safe and enjoyable trip in line with your objectives and comfort level.

    Success with the highest margin of care is always a hallmark of our approach; promoting the realisation that even extreme pursuits such as high altitude mountaineering can be undertaken safely.

    Head Office Support Team

    Running successful journeys and expeditions is more about experience, knowledge and strategic management than any other factors. As an organisation, we place a substantial amount of time and resources into ensuring our trips are well planned and supported. You can be assured that the AC staff will provide you with friendly advice and knowledgeable support throughout the planning stages of your trip and we will be there to provide backup while the trip is running.

    Hayley Furze Profile April 17Hayley Furze, Client Liaison

    Hayley joins the AC team with a wealth of experience working in the tourism and hospitality industry along with a love of travel. She works as Client Liaison on a number of our European and international ascents, treks and expeditions.

     

    Staff Photo

    Your Health

    Our registration form requests that you advise us of any medical problems you may have and if you are on any medication. Any information you supply will be treated as confidential.

    Level of Experience Required

    Most days will involve roped glacier travel and although previous alpine trekking experience with an ice axe and crampons is useful, these skills are not required and your guide will teach these techniques along the way. You can expect to cross loose terrain, with some exposed sections that may require the use of a rope at times.

    Difficulty Rating

    Each of our trips is individually rated according to its physical and technical difficulty, displayed in the icons towards the top of each trip page. You can click on the accompanying question mark for additional descriptions and the full run-down of our grading system is available on our Difficulty Ratings page.

    Preparing for Your Trip

    An excellent level of fitness is required and participants must be able to walk between 6-8 hours per day, with daily ascents/descents totalling 1,000m/3,300ft or more. The terrain is varied and mostly off-trail, requiring a good sense of balance and agility. It is imperative that you are pack fit and able to carry 15kg/33lbs for the trekking days, as this will make all of the difference to your enjoyment on the trek.

    Your guide will be attuned to your fitness levels and will regulate the pace accordingly. See our Fitness Training Programs for information on how we can help you prepare for your trek.

    Food

    We provide nutritious lunches and a supply of snack food throughout the trip according to the program. It is a good idea to bring a small selection of your favourite snack food and hydration drinks with you to ensure you are fuelled by your preferred brands. Actual amounts depend on your consumption but 2 per day in addition to the lunches we provide would seem reasonable.

    Adventure Consultants will provide breakfasts and lunches for the duration of the trek and evening meals on the hut/refuge nights while the trip is running. Should the group decide to take a restaurant lunch that is not in the programme that will be at your own expense. Evening meals when in Chamonix / Zermatt are not included, so that you have the option to explore many of the wonderful restaurants along the tour route. Any additional food, beverages or meals you purchase that are not mentioned in the inclusions will be at your own expense.

    If you have any special dietary requirements, please advise us at the time of registration. If your dietary requirements are especially strict, you are advised to bring a sufficient supply of your required food types with you to ensure you are provided for.

    Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided on a twin share B&B basis from the evening of the first night (day 0) through to the morning of day 7 after breakfast. Accommodation in the mountains is in alpine huts in shared bunk rooms or dormitory rooms. Blankets are provided and no sleeping bag will be required. There is no single supplement (or private rooms) available in the mountain huts but we can arrange this for you at additional cost for the hotel nights during the trek. Please enquire about costs at time of enquiry.

    Clothing & Equipment

    Climbing and trekking in the European Alps requires you have high quality clothing and equipment due to the extremes of weather conditions. Our focus is on having the essential clothing and equipment to keep you warm and comfortable during the trek.

    Your guide will go through an equipment checklist with you at the beginning of your trip. You can rent technical equipment for the trek but you must provide your own clothing appropriate to trekking as per the equipment list.

    Communications & Messages

    Our guides are in cell phone communication with our operations base throughout the trip. This assists us with schedule and weather forecast updates, lift / taxi and accommodation co-ordination and safety back up. Your own mobile phone should work in the region though you may want to check with your own service provider first. Local mobile phones can be rented at the international airports.

    Trekking Season

    July to September is the best time to walk the Haute Route. In June and early July the high passes may still have snow on the ground, and as temperatures warm up into the summer months from mid-July we traditionally experience more settled weather and warmer temperatures.

    Europe has a continental climate which in general encourages more stable weather. However, the weather in the high mountains can be changeable and at times very severe. July and August brings settled hot weather.

    Travel

    We commence our Summer Haute Route Trek from Chamonix in France. The closest international airport is at Geneva, just over the border in Switzerland. Regular shuttles operate up to Chamonix and the trip takes about 1.5 hours. Your shuttle driver will drop you at our accommodation. The shuttle transfers are at your own cost but we can help arrange this for you. 

  • Itinerary

    Day  
    0 Arrive at La Chaumière lodge in Chamonix. In the evening your guide will go over the details of the Haute Route Trek and answer any questions.
    1 Your guide will come to La Chaumière in the morning and help you arrange any last-minute hiring of equipment. You will then travel to Argentière, located just out of Chamonix to begin the Haute Route tour. You will trek up towards the the Glacier du Tour and the Albert Premier Hut (2,702m/8,865ft) to enjoy a lunch break. From here, you head onwards, upwards and over the Col Supérieur du Tour (3,288m/10,787ft) to Switzerland, and the Trient Hut (3,170m/10,400ft) where you will spend the night.
    2 Start by descending the Glacier D’Orny, giving spectacular views that stretch all the way to the Matterhorn. You will then descend to Champex, where we will have lunch before taking a taxi to the Lac de Mauvoisin (1,961m/6,434ft) and then trek to Chanrion Hut (2,471m/8,107ft) for an overnight stay.
    3 Today you will retrace your steps for a short distance to reach the small Col De Tsofeiret (2,596m/8,517ft) about 1.5km/1 mile from the hut and then head up the trail to the Col de Lire Rose (3,115m/10,220ft). You then traverse the scree slopes to a high bowl below the SW ridge of La Ruinette and onwards up to the Col du Mont Rouge (3,326m/10,912ft). This is your high point of the day; from here you cross the basin of the Glacier de Giétro to the Col de Cheilon (3,230m/10,597ft) and you finish the day by descending to Dix Hut (2,928m/9,606ft).
    4 Today involves travelling from Dix Hut to Vignettes Hut, and you head off to cross Glacier de Cheilon before ascending up to the Col de Serpentine (3,529m/11,578ft) from where you can enjoy the spectacular views. From here, it is up to our highest point on the Haute Route, the Pigne d’Arolla (3,796m/12,454ft) to enjoy the 360-degree views of the European Alps before a breath-taking descent to Vignettes Hut (3,160m/10,367ft).
    5 This will be a big day with almost 1,200m/4,000ft of climbing that is split between two sections. The first is on the climb up to the Col de l'Évêque (3,382m/11,096ft), which is reached with a long but gentle glacier ascent. This is followed by a moderately long descent of the Haut Glacier d'Arolla and then you will continue down for another 2km/1.2 miles. The second climb of the day starts from the Plans de Bertol up to the Bertol Hut (3,311m/10,863ft). This is a big 800m/2,600ft climb and very little of it is on the glacier itself. Looking up, you will be able to see the Bertol Hut on its perch high above. The trail soon peters out among morainal boulders, glacier-polished slabs and half-buried ice remnants of the nearly extinct Bertol Glacier. The going gets tougher as you clamber up boulders and progressively steeper snow. One brief section of ladders helps you surmount a short section of rocky cliffs and a last push up fairly steep snow brings you at last to the Col de Bertol (3,268m/10,722ft). The Bertol Hut overlooks an immense glacier plateau to the east feeding the Mont Miné and Ferpècle Glaciers. 
    6

    Although relatively short in distance at 10.6km/6.6 miles and mostly downhill, this day's stage covers some of the most rugged terrain of the trip. Leaving the hut you will first ascend the gentle upper slopes of the Mont Miné Glacier to the Col de la Tête Blanche at almost 3,600m/11,800ft. From here, you will descend the crevassed Stockji Glacier to pick up a faint path that traverses along the base of the Stockji to the moraines of the Schönbiel Glacier. Crossing these and the rubble-covered lower reaches of the glacier, you will make your way up the steep northeastern bank to the Schönbiel Hut (2,694m/8,839ft), the last hut night of the trip.

    7 This last day is short and easy, following grassy trails, gentle moraine crests and finally a broad well-trodden trail through the charmingly preserved village of Zmutt, and at last into Zermatt.
    8 It is your final day to enjoy breakfast and exchange photos with your group, before departing for home. Please Note: Itinerary may change if conditions are more suitable in another region or factors such as weather to lift service or road conditions precludes access into this region.
  • Add Ons

    Chamonix is located in the heart of the European Alps, and is central to much of the best mountaineering that the Alps have to offer. There is a huge variety of properties on offer in Chamonix and after many years of operating out of the Alps we have discovered the area's finest. At Adventure Consultants we spend a considerable amount of time reviewing the accommodation providers, so as to keep this aligned with our high standards.

    If you would like to upgrade your hotel before or after your European Alps trip, there are several superb properties in the area. We profile our favourite selection below:

    HOTEL MONT BLANC

    Why we recommend this property

    Originally built in 1849, this fine establishment is located in the heart of Chamonix. Surrounded by private gardens the hotel was recently renovated to be reminiscent of the elegant19th-century palaces. Each room has been interior-designed by renowned French designer Sybille de Margerie and is inspired by nature and the environment. Every room offers a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountains. The 14-metre outdoor heated swimming pool can be used year round and offers spectacular views of nearby Mont Blanc. 'La Mafatan' restaurant where chef Mickey Bourdillat produces cuisine that will take you on a culinary journey.

    Hotel Mont Blanc Room 600x400Hotel Mont Blanc Library 600x400 1Hotel Mont Blanc Exterior Winter 600 x 400Hotel Mont Blanc Exterior Summer 600x400

    HOTEL LE MORGANE

    Why we recommend this property

    This luxury boutique hotel is located right in the centre of Chamonix and offers guests top quality service. Chef Daniele Raimondi produces some of Chamonix's finest cuisine at 'Le Bistrot' restaurant. Offers a variety of rooms from singles, deluxe to suites, and every room features balconies allowing views of Mont Blanc or Le Brévent. Hotel facilities include a small lounge, library, relaxation pool and spa, a ski storage room and free WiFi. The loan of bicycles and electric bikes, as well as a valet car service is offered.

    Le Morgane Terrace resized 600x400Le Morgane Junior Suite resized 600x400Le Morgane Exterior night resized 600x400Le Morgane Pool and Spa Resized 600x400

    Are you arriving early, departing later or have some extra time up your sleeve while in Chamonix? If so, we can recommend some fun activities that have been tried and tested by our Chamonix team. If interested in any of these options, please do let your client liaison know and this can be arranged in advance. If you are in Chamonix and find you have extra time, this can be arranged through your guide or our fabulous Chamonix liaison, Karoline.

    Fly Chamonix Tandem Paragliding 

    Enjoy a 20-minute flight and who could think of a more fun way to get a scenic bird’s eye view of Chamonix and the Mont Blanc Massif. Overall this activity takes an hour from meeting your pilot, riding up the lift, take-off and then landing. No age limits apply!

    Peak Powder Mountain Biking 

    Peak Powder offer a huge variety of mountain biking trips that cater for skill levels, whether it be downhill riding at one of the biking areas; Balme Le Tours and Les Houches, a ride between France into Switzerland, and into Italy or you would like some biking instruction, Peak Powder offer it all.

    Rafting or Canyoning with Cham Aventure 

    An array of water activities are on offer with Cham Aventure and including rafting or canyoning down the L’Arve River, or rafting the Dora Baltéa River In Italy.

    Your family or friends may wish to join you on your holiday but don't like the idea of actually climbing a mountain. Let us know if this is the situation and we will be able to put together an itinerary that keeps them busy while you are up high. There are so many wonderful things to do, so have a chat with us and we will help to organise the perfect programme.

  • Travel Insurance

    Adventure Consultants recommends the following travel insurance insurance options for trekkers, although this is only just a start! Once you book on a trip with AC, your Client Liaison will help you by sending through advice on travel insurance including trip interruption and cancellation cover.

    COVERMORE INSURANCE

    CoverMore LogoIndulge your spirit of adventure, but protect yourself against all of those unforeseen events that can occur prior to or whilst on your trek with Adventure Consultants. Together with Cover-More Insurance, Adventure Consultants are now offering advice and assistance in purchasing Cover-More policies. With quality travel insurance cover, comes peace of mind and the freedom to venture around the world with confidence, in the knowledge that you will have the support and assistance of Cover-More, if you need it.

    Adventure Consultants highly recommends the YourCover Plan as this gives you the highest level of cover and benefits available. This includes cover benefits for trip cancellation and amendment which protects your travel investment, medical and dental emergencies, lost luggage/personal belongings and travel delay, amongst other things.

    You can tailor your cover further by adding choosing your own excess amount and additional benefits such as ‘cancel for any reason’, adventure activities and snow sports cover, increased luggage limits, annual multi-trip cover, scooter riding and working holidays to name a few.

    Why Cover-More?

    • They provide cover where others won’t. e.g. terrorism scares, natural disasters, civil unrest and redundancy.
    • No matter what your emergency is, the Cover-More team is just a phone call away and their 24-hour emergency medical and travel assistance centre that is staffed by specialist doctors, nurses and case managers are on hand to assist.

    Who and what trips is the policy suitable for?

    • New Zealand residents travelling outbound on a trekking adventure e.g. Everest Base Camp Trek, Khumbu Trek, Kilimanjaro, Tour du Mont Blanc Trek and Mustang Horse Trek.
    • Other nationalities through the following links: Australian residentsUK residents and US residents.


    For more information or assistance, please contact your Client Liaison at Adventure Consultants. Policies can also be purchased directly at Cover-More.

  • FAQ

    • Contact Us

      The following is to serve as a helpful guideline on our European Treks. Please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions. Our team is here to help!

      info@adventure.co.nz
      NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)

    • Choosing a Provider

      How long has Adventure Consultants been in operation?
      Adventure Consultants started in 1990 and we have been guiding internationally ever since. You can read more on the history of Adventure Consultants here.

      A few outfitters claim to have the same level of experience and prestige as Adventure Consultants. In this league, what makes you the first choice for your trekkers?
      On all of the European treks, courses and ascents that we operate, we offer focused guide attention throughout the trip to ensure consistency across the programme. Whilst other operators combine you with large groups we know your safety will be better protected and the trek more enjoyable with the attentive care of your guide.

      Adventure Consultants trek guides are International Mountain Leaders or qualified under the BMG/NZMGA and/or IFMGA/UIAGM. They are professional mountain leaders and operate to the highest standards. Our guides are not only highly experienced climbers and trekkers, but they are great guides with good people skills hence you will find that your guide is friendly, approachable and focused on providing a safe and enjoyable trip.

    • Food, Accommodation & Facilities

       

      What food will be available?
      We provide nutritious meals and a supply of snack food throughout the trek (please see specific meal inclusions in the 'Payment Conditions' section above). If you do have a favourite snack food that you like to eat while trekking, feel free to bring along a small supply. We can cater for vegetarians as well as many other special diets as long as we are informed of this prior to the trip.

      What is the food like?
      Breakfast in the huts typically consists of European-style breads with jam, cheese etc. Lunch on trekking days tends to start right after breakfast(!) and continue through the day as we keep energy levels high with nuts, fruit, chocolate, muesli bars and baguette or crackers with cheese, ham and other fillings. Evening meals are provided when staying in the huts; a typical menu would include a hearty soup followed by a pasta dish or stew and also dessert. If you feel like a glass of wine or beer with your meal then please bring some cash or credit card accordingly.

      Should you decide to take a restaurant lunch that is not in the programme, this is at your own expense. Evening meals on non-mountain nights are not included, and this allows you to experience the exciting local culinary options.

      What is the accommodation like? 
      For nights in town, hotel accommodation is provided on a twin share B&B basis. In the mountain huts, this is on a shared bunkroom or dormitory room basis. A single supplement is not available in the mountain huts, but we are happy to arrange a single supplement for an additional cost for your hotel nights. Washing and shower facilities are also not available in the huts. 

      On our Luxury Tour du Mont Blanc Treks, we utilise a range of high-quality accommodation providers including 5-star hotels. 

      If you wish to upgrade to a higher grade of hotel accommodation on one of our standard treks, then please contact us to discuss the many fabulous options available.

    • Travel

      Do I need to arrive the day before the trip starts? And when should I book my flight to leave?
      No, our trip programmes all have an arrival day and a departure day built into them. You are welcome, and encouraged, to arrive a bit earlier to explore the local area if you have the time.

      My travel agent says I can just get an e-ticket (electronic ticket) and will not need to be actually issued a physical ticket.
      E-tickets are the standard practice these days and are now acceptable in most locations. Do ensure you print your itinerary and have your booking number with you, as this allows you to change your flight in the event that this is required.

      When should I book my ticket?
      We generally ask you to wait until 60 days prior to your trip start date to ensure your trip has met the minimum numbers and will operate. If you are on a private trip, feel free to book this whenever suits. If you see a good deal and want to book your flights then ensure you can make changes to your ticket and it is a good idea to purchase trip cancellation insurance, in the event that you need to cancel.

      Can I get a cheap ticket online?
      The problem with these tickets is that you usually end up having to pay quite a lot more if you have to make any changes to your ticket. We do recommend using a travel agent as there are many intricacies that they can help you with. In the long run, they save you money!

      Where do we meet? Will I be picked up?
      We recommend that you fly into Geneva International Airport, which is located in Switzerland, just over the French border. Regular shuttles and train services operate up to Chamonix and Lauterbrun or Grindelwald. We are happy to assist in arranging any transfer requirements and the driver will meet you at the airport and drop you off at your accommodation.

      What if I am arriving early or departing late?
      Adventure Consultants can make reservations for you and can often make recommendations for attractions you can enjoy while waiting for your trip to begin. Please let our office know your specific plans.

    • Clothing & Equipment

      Do you have a recommended list of clothing we should bring?
      Yes, you will get be sent a personal clothing and equipment list once our office has received your trip registration form and deposit.

      Do I really need all the equipment on the equipment list?
      Yes, these lists have been carefully prepared. Please bring everything on the list!

      How warm do we need our sleeping bags to be? Will there be extra blankets available if required?
      This will be clearly stated in your recommended gear list. It will depend on where you are going, but in general you will not need a sleeping bag in the European mountain huts as bedding is provided. Adventure Consultants have an experienced equipment coordinator, so should any questions arise as to what is required, please do let us know.

    • Acclimatisation

      I will be trekking at altitude, does Adventure Consultants take this into consideration?
      When planning our trek programmes, we seriously take into consideration the altitude and ensure that all of our itineraries allow for sufficient acclimatisation and rest days, if required.

    • Guides & Team Members

      How many guides will be assigned to our group?
      The ratio of trekkers-to-guides is stated on each trip’s webpage in the downloadable 'Trip Notes' section.

      Who goes on your trips?
      Our trekkers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, interests, countries and skill levels. From those seeking skill development to those seeking purely adventure, we provide courses, expeditions, treks and guided ascents for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.

      I would like to arrange a private trip, is this possible?
      We are happy to arrange a private group trip to the destination of your choice and we have run many successful private trips and expeditions including summits of Europe's more technical and challenging peaks and trekking destinations. There is no specific group size, but obviously larger groups are more cost-effective. Please contact the office for more information or visit our Private Customised Expeditions page.

    • Health & Fitness

      What kind of physical condition should I be in for a trek?
      We invite you to check out our Fitness Training Programs page and recommend checking with your physician before embarking on strenuous physical activity. For our treks, you should be comfortable walking for 6-8 hours with a medium weight pack. Walking an hour a day, then 6 or more hours on the weekends is generally a good realistic training programme.

      How do I know this is the right trip for me?
      We offer trips to suit all levels of ability and ambition, from your first mountain experience to extreme ascents and everything in between. To help you navigate the choices available, our trips are graded by both the level of physical exertion and the level of skill required, allowing you to find your perfect expedition match. These ratings are displayed in the icons at the top of each expedition page, with a further explanation available by clicking on the accompanying question mark. A full run-down of the categories can be found on our Difficulty Ratings page and our team is more than happy to discuss your experience to find the right trip for you.

    • Communication & Electronic Devices

      Will there be any access to a satellite phone? If yes then what would be the charges for usage?
      In Europe, there is no need to use a satellite phone as you will find that there is cell phone coverage in most of the towns and mountain huts that we utilise (with the exception of Vittorio Emmanuele Hut). Your guide will also stay in touch with our European coordinator in Chamonix, with updates on the trip. It is very easy to purchase a European SIM card, but do remember if using a French SIM in Italy you will be charged international rates and vice versa.

      I want to contact my friend or relative, who is on one of your trips, how can I reach them?
      The best place to reach a loved one is through our office. As mentioned above, your guide will stay in touch with our European coordinator who is based in Chamonix and can relay messages between your guide and our NZ office.

      Can I charge electronic devices while in the mountains?
      Generally charging is not available so please ensure that your phones, iPods, Kindles, etc. are well charged up before leaving the hotel for your trek.

    • Weather Forecasts

      What weather report service do you use? How often do you receive a weather report during the trip?
      Forecasts are posted daily in the huts and information relayed through the hut guardian to the guides. Your guide will also be in cell phone communication with our Operations Coordinator and/or Chief Guide for weather updates throughout the trip.

    • Insurance

      What insurance do we need to get?
      We highly recommend comprehensive travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance, as well as evacuation and medical insurance. Read your policy's fine print to make sure it covers you for trekking and helicopter evacuation.

      Do I need evacuation insurance?
      Yes, it is very important. Evacuation insurance is required to cover your evacuation from the mountains in the case of your injury or illness. You must ensure that your policy covers you for trekking as some policies exclude these activities from their schedule of benefits. In the European Alps, rescues are coordinated by the local authorities and the very high costs are charged directly to the user i.e. you/your travel insurance company.

      Who do you recommend for insurance?
      Coverage varies based on your nationality and the trip that you are taking with us. When you have booked on for a trip with us we will send you comprehensive information on various insurance options, which will serve as a good starting point for obtaining the best coverage available for yourself.

      What is trip cancellation insurance?
      Trip cancellation insurance is an option that may allow you to cancel your trip without losing the total cost of the trip. Adventure Consultants highly recommends cancellation insurance for all of our treks as it is not unknown for people to have unforeseen circumstances that force them to cancel their trips (e.g. family illness, injury to self, business issues, etc.). If circumstances cause us to cancel a trip (for example minimum numbers are not reached), then we refund your fees paid but trip cancellation insurance covers your airfare and any other costs you may have incurred.

    • Fees & Payments

      Can I pay by credit card?
      We can accept both the trip deposit and balance payment on credit card. Please note that there is a 3% fee for all card transactions. Please contact our office or visit our online payment system.

      What is included in the cost of my trip? Does it include airfare?
      Please see the 'Payment Conditions' section above for the inclusions and exclusions for this particular trip. There is also a downloadable pdf document in the 'Trip Notes' section above. International airfares are not included in the trip price. We can however recommend excellent travel agents whom we have worked with in your country should you require help with arranging your international airfare.

      Why are you sometimes more expensive than other operators?
      Many of our trips are very similar in price to our competitors. Some companies even wait for us to set our prices and use ours as a guideline!! Some of our main selling points, which sometimes do cost more, are internationally qualified Western guides, proven dependable local operators, small groups sizes and safe client-to-guide ratios, quality equipment and high summit success rates, among other things. You do get what you pay for which is why we stand out from the rest. Many clients come to us after failing on one of our competitors ‘cheaper’ trips.

      How do I sign up for a trip?
      The best way to reserve your space on the trek is to contact our office or complete our online booking form (click 'Book Now' below). Your deposit can be submitted by bank transfer (please see 'Payment Details' in the 'Payment Conditions' section above) or via our secure online payment system.

      info@adventure.co.nz
      NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)

    • Photography

      I love the photographs in your brochure and on your website, are they for sale?
      Yes, our images are available for licensing or purchase. Please contact our office for more information.

    • Employment

      I want to become a mountain guide, where do I start?
      Those with limited experience generally start by taking an alpine climbing course and then go out and climb for a few years. You generally should have at least 5 years of climbing and/or teaching/guiding experience. You need avalanche and medical training and then you can apply to do an NZ Mountain Guides Course or the equivalent in your country, aligned with the IFMGA.

      Please see Adventure Consultants Mountain Guide Scholarships on our Career Opportunities page and check the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association for more information.

Book Now

Mt Blanc Paolo Pieroni 4

A huge thank you to you all for making our trip so easy, enjoyable and especially memorable!!
Tour du Mont Blanc, 2017

Jane White
Australia
Rockclimber Paolo Pieroni

I felt like I had great support from AC with getting prepared for my trip, and wouldn't have done anything differently. I can only imagine how great they must be when getting clients ready for longer/more arduous expeditions, and wouldn't go with anyone else, even though this was only my first guided expedition. Absolutely everyone I interacted with was fantastic; prompt, clear, helpful.
Gran Paradiso Course & Ascent, 2017

Brydie Ockwell
New Zealand
Nick Ironside

The logistics were really good, even up until a few days before when the weather was changeable the programme was changing to accommodate this and ensure a great trip.
Gran Paradiso Course & Ascent, 2017

Nicky Ironside
United Kingdom


Latest News

May 29, 2023
We are thrilled to report that the AC Everest team topped out on Mount Everest on 23 May 2023!  Congratulations to the team....
May 24, 2023
We've just heard news from Base Camp that Anna and Pemba Chewang are on the summit of Lhotse at 8.40am, Nepal time. Congratulations!......
May 17, 2023
We left Chhukung, swiftly walking down the valley, and reached the village of Dingboche. At Dingboche our paths split, with Todd Woodhouse and Karl heading away with Tshering for the next seven days.....
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