french-alps-mont-blanc-ascent

Private guided

Mountaineering

lvl. 5
Mountain Hut with dorms
Multi-day hike
Réf : E529
7 days from 2830 € Book / Enquire

Our trip

  • First 3 days to train and get ready for the ascent

  • The normal and easiest route to ascent.

  • 2 chances to get to the top (days 5 and 6)

The aim of this fantastic one week mountaineering holiday is to climb Mont Blanc; the summit, at 4809m is the highest point in Western Europe. With three wonderful days in the high mountains to acclimatise, and allowing three full days for the ascent of Mont Blanc with two days for the summit itself, this one week adventure gives everyone an excellent chance of reaching the roof of Europe. The acclimatisation days are spent traversing from the Albert Premier hut to the Cabane du Trient hut, spending time on glacier skills along the way and taking in the famous Fenêtre de Saleina and the impressive high landscape of the Col du Tour. The summit of Mont Blanc is reached via the 'Normal Route', from the Tete Rousse and then the new Gouter Hut. The summit day is a long one, but the reward .... you are now the highest point around, with the most awesome views of the surrounding mountain ranges, there will be no doubt that it was worth it.

Your choice of lodging + Guiding

Mountain Hut with dorms From early June to late August

Mountain Hut with dorms From early June to late August

French speaking local guide From 2830 €* Book / Enquire Devis

* Price based on 4-person group

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Past questions
Topics
Leonie S.
Traveler
Timing and season
Hi there! I have some modest mountaineering a rock climbing experience in the states (Owens Spaulding route on the grand Teton, hotlum bollum route on Shasta, east buttress of Mt. Whitney). I’m wondering if it is possible to hire a guide to help me up Mont Blanc from June 20-26 or so. I will be traveling by myself. I am hiking the TMB beforehand and was not planning to bring boots, crampons, axe and gaiters but I could! I leave the states June 12. You can email or text me at 831-588-9545. I speak passable French.
  • Julie M. Julie M.'s photo
    Mont Blanc Experience Team
    Hi Leonie,
    If you are looking to climb Mont Blanc this summer 2023, almost all our trips are fully booked. From now we still have availability for one trip in early June, which you could check on the website.
    As you have a modest mountaineering experience I could recommend you to do first the Gran Paradiso this summer and book your Mont Blanc ascent at the earliest possible for the 2024 season.
    Our 2024 bookings are already open!
    If you have any questions about those trips, please contact me directly at [email protected]!
Madeleine M.
Traveler
Timing and season
Inquiry for Mont Blanc ascent between 14-23 June 2023 for 2 people. We have some modest mountaineering experience (climbed Weismies last summer) and some rock climbing experience. We have ample hiking and trail running experience.
  • Julie M. Julie M.'s photo
    Mont Blanc Experience Team
    Hello Madeleine, all our available dates for the Mont Blanc ascent in 2023 and 2024 are online! If you are looking for a private ascent for your friend and, please contact me directly at [email protected]! I'll be very happy to chat with you about the trip and about your mountaineering skills!
Catalin B.
Traveler
Timing and season
Checking for availability for June 11 - June 17.
Thank you,
Catalin
  • Julie M. Julie M.'s photo
    Mont Blanc Experience Team
    Hello Catalin,
    Thank you for your interest in our company! Please contact me directly at [email protected]. I'll be happy to chat with you about the availability and about your mountaineering skills.
Sam B.
Traveler
Timing and season
Hello
I live in Canada interested to climb mont blanc in late July - early August with an English speaking guide.
Can you provide some info and all in price?

Thank you kindly
  • Julie M. Julie M.'s photo
    Mont Blanc Experience Team
    Hi Sam!
    Thank you for your interest in our company for your Mont Blanc ascent project! We still have some availability to do the summit, please contact me directly at [email protected]. I'll be happy to chat with you about your peoject!
Harris D.
Traveler
Timing and season
Interested in being guided
  • Julie M. Julie M.'s photo
    Mont Blanc Experience Team
    Hi David!

    Please contact me directly at [email protected]! I'll be happy to help you organize your Mont Blanc ascent.
    The Mont Blanc Mountain Huts booking are opened! This is the best moment to finalize your ascent project! The Mont Blanc is very requested, we are recommending you book your trip quickly to be sure to can do it!

Itinerary

Mountaineering: Mountaineering provides access to some of our planet’s greatest peaks. Choose from introduction courses to learn basic mountaineering techniques, climbs up serious committing routes, or adventures to summit prestigious peaks or lesser-known mountains.
Level 5: An average of 6 to 7 hours of hiking per day off trail or on rugged terrain, and/or more than 1000 meters of vertical gain, and/or distances up to 20 kilometers. Sections at higher elevations. Requires knowledge and experience with basic mountaineering techniques for F (“facile” or easy) level routes.
Duration : 7 days
Luggage transfers : All your gear and equipment for 3 days
Lodging : Mountain Hut, Hotel
Guiding : IFMGA guides: 1 guide for 2 persons for the 3 days ascent
Group : Minimum 2 persons
Season : From early June to late August

Day by day

Day 1

Arrival in Chamonix

Lodging : hotel. Meals not included.
Arrival in Chamonix, the "french mountain capital". Check in your hotel.
Day 2

Group meeting - Col de Balme - Albert 1er hut

Ascent : 550 m. Hiking : 2.5 hrs.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Meet your guide at 9am at your hotel. There will be a chance for the guide to check out your clothing and gear. You can hire or buy any missing item in a Chamonix mountain store.
To assist with your acclimatization, we plan to spend tonight in the Albert Premier Refuge (2707m). We take the Charamillon-Balme gondola lift from Le Tour and walk up to the Col de Balme, from here we get the first of many simply stunning views of the Mont Blanc massive. We follow the balcony path round to the Albert Premier Refuge, a lovely and relatively easy going walk to begin our week.

Day 3

Albert 1er - Col supérieur du Tour - Cabane de Trient hut

Ascent : 800 m. Descent : 200 m. Hiking : 5 hrs.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.

A relatively early start this morning and our adventure truly begins as we set out onto the Glacier du Tour. Today we will look again at glacier skills and do some training as we go along. Depending on the conditions there is also the option of climbing to the Col du Midi-des-Grands (3235m). On a clear day it is possible to see the Matterhorn in the distance. We then trek over the Swiss border to the Cabane du Trient where we spend the night.

Day 4

Trient - Fenêtre de Saleina - back to Chamonix

Ascent : 500 m. Descent : 1250 m. Hiking : 6 hrs.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch. Meals not included : dinner.

After an early breakfast we set out into this simply stunning area and make our way up to the famous Fenetre de Saleina. From here we will cross either the Col du Tour or the Col Superieur du Tour and depending on the conditions we have the option of climbing the Tete Blanche (3429m) or the Col des Fourches (3433m) - all great for acclimatisation. After the climb we cross back into France and descend to Le Tour. Transfer with a local bus (or your car) to Chamonix when you have a relaxing night in a center based hotel. This evening after chatting with the guides we prepare for our ascent of Mont Blanc.

Day 5

Chamonix - Nid d'Aigle - Tête Rousse hut

Ascent : 850 m. Hiking : 3 hrs.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
The group will be joined by more guides (ratio 2 clients to 1 guide), in order to give us the best chance of success. We will climb Mont Blanc by the Normal Route, taking advantage of the uplift provided by the Mont Blanc Tramway which will take us to Mont Lachat (2115m). From here, we follow a rocky trail for approximately 3 hours to the Tete Rousse Refuge (3167m) where we will stay overnight.

Day 6

Summit day (first option): Tête Rousse - Mont-Blanc - Goûter hut

Ascent : 1650 m. Descent : 950 m. Hiking : 12 hrs.
Lodging : mountain hut. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
The Big Day! We make an early start - approximately 1am from the Tete Rousse. From the Tete Rousse, we cross the Great Couloir and then a rocky scramble leads up to the Gouter Refuge (3817m). From here the remaining 1000 metres of ascent to the summit of Mont Blanc is entirely on snow. The climbing is never technical being mostly on a broad shoulder with an uphill slope mostly below 30 degrees. However, the final "des Bosses" ridge becomes narrower and we can look down one side to Italy and the other into France as we make the final steps to the top. We are very high up now and the air is thin, so slow and steady is the way forward. The ascent can take about 8 hours depending on conditions. We will make our descent via the same route and we should reach the Goûter hut by early or mid-afternoon were we stay overnight

Day 7

Goûter - summit day (second option) or descend to Chamonix

Descent : 1500 m. Hiking : 4 hrs.
Included meals : breakfast, lunch. Meals not included : dinner.
If we have not summited the day before, we may make the attempt today if the conditions permit and in this case. After summiting, we will descend via the Normal Route all the way back to the valley. If we have summited on day 5, then we have a leisurely start and make an easy descent to the valley. Back to Chamonix. End of your trip

If there is a clear and elevated risk, we reserve the right to: Reinforce our guide team (for guided trips), Modify the itinerary for our tours, Place a tour or destination on hiatus for an extended period of time when we consider the level of risk to be too high. Your safety and your enjoyment are our priority.
- Early June, depending on snow conditions, some lifts / cable cars remain closed as well as Trient hut (Day 3). We may have to adapt our program for the first 3 days and change location to Couvercle hut. 
- For the same reason, the Tramway du Mont-Blanc may open only late June. In that case, no change of the program but you'll have to hike a little more Day 5 from Bellevue to Nid d'Aigle and back on Day 7. 

Pricing

Prices (incl. taxes) from may to august 2023

Mountain Hut with dorms
Price per person		French speaking local guide
Single season
2 people1 shared room3435 €
3 people1 shared room3410 €
4 people1 shared room2830 €
5 people1 shared room2930 €
6 people1 shared room2780 €
  • Single season : From 29 May 2023 to 13 August 2023

Pricing

The price includes / does not include

The price includes
- Professional IFMGA certified guides: 1 guide for 6 people for the three days spent acclimatizing, and 1 guide for 2 people to climb Mt. Blanc.
- Accommodations: 4 nights in mountain huts, 2 nights in 3-star hotel.
- All meals as described.
- All lift tickets required.
- Private transfer in the Chamonix valley from Day 2 to Day 7.

The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point at the start of the trip and from the point where the trip officially ends.
- Dinners on day 1 and day 4 in Chamonix.
- Bottled water in the mountain huts.
- Showers in those huts that charge a fee
- Drinks, tips, and personal expenses.
- Insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen baggage, or assistance.
- Everything not described as "included".

Currencies

France and Italy are part of the Euro zone. You may find ATMs easily in the main cities and towns.
Better to have cash in the most remote areas to purchase extras (ex.: for drinks). Huts do not always accept credit cards.

 

Access

Access

The best way to get to Chamonix is Geneva international airport.
From Geneva, we can organise a private transfer for you for 275€ per group up to 8 persons.

If you're on your own, we advice you to book one of the following shutttle service:
http://www.mountaindropoffs.com/fr/
http://www.chamexpress.com/?gclid=CJ-vzIOkuMoCFRUTGwod0SEFdA

During your trip

Our team

IFMGA english speaking guides: 1 guide for 2 persons for the 3 days ascent and 1 for 6 persons the first 3 days.

Private transfers in Chamonix valley:
- Day 2/4: return trip Chamonix - Le Tour
- Day 5 /7: return trip Chamonix - Les Houches

Lodging

- Twin / double room in a 3-star hotel  in Chamonix
- Dormitories in all mountain huts. These huts, french or swiss do offer all services but are quit "basics": no shower, no drink-water, no double bedrooms.

Meals

Our goal is to ensure that you eat well-balanced meals suited for the effort required each day, and to lighten your pack load as much as possible.
- Dinners (hot meals, very filling) and breakfasts are prepared by your accommodations.
- 2 dinners in Chamonix are not included to allow you to choose your dining place as there are so many options in Chamonix.
- Pic-nic lunches prepared by your guide.

Luggage transfer

This is a hut to hut itinerary, there is no luggage transfer.

Required before leaving

Formalities

Please check with your embassy.

Health

Vaccinations

Required vaccinations

No vaccinations are required.

Recommended vaccinations

Please check to make sure that all your vaccinations are current: DPT, whooping cough, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B.

Dentist and general physician

We recommend a checkup with both before leaving on your trip.

Getting ready

Physical fitness level 5

To take full advantage of your trip, make sure that you stay in good shape by walking or hiking multiple times per week (around 20km) on trails with considerable vertical gain (350m/hr) or by participating in a moderately intense athletic activity to build endurance.

Your first aid kit

For the medication and pain relievers listed below, we recommend that you check with your doctor beforehand, adding what you need based on personal requirements and the specificities of your trip.

  • An analgesic.
  • An anti-inflammatory (pills or gels).
  • An anti-diarrheal tablets
  • A disinfectant, band aids (several sizes), mole skin, sterile compresses, medical tape, Steri-Strips,

Gear list

What you need to bring:
Pack light, remember that you will have to carry all your stuff during the whole trip. We recommend that your backpack doesn't exceed 10 to 15% of your weight. Take only the essentials.

What about gear I want to leave before the trek?
Before departure for your trip you might pack your ‘town clothes' or anything you don't want on trek with you and ask your hotel (if you come back to the same hotel). If you want to do this, then consider bringing or buying a simple bag here for this purpose. We can also help you organize the storage of a larger suitcase, Please ask us for advice.

First aid kit:
It is recommended that you bring a small personal medical kit including your preferred painkillers, throat lozenges, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular medication you MUST bring those medicines with you PLUS an extra supply in case one pack is lost. If you have any allergies and/or take any medications, you MUST advise us when booking your trek!

Essentials :
- Hiking backpack. A chest strap and waist strap are essential to help to distribute the weight. The size approx 45 L.
- Comfortable and worn in mountaineering boots.
- Gaiters if not included on the boots.
- Warm hat.
- Cap.
- Sun glasses (category 4).
- Good quality Merino Wool walking socks.
- Base layer tops - Merino Wool is the best choice.
- Warm mid-layer tops.
- A water and windproof layer (jacket and pants) eg. Gore-Tex.
- 1x walking trousers.
- 1x warm mountain trousers.
- Light gloves.
- Warm gloves.
- 1x Shorts.
- Buff or Snood.
- A natural or synthetic down jacket.
- Casual clothes & footwear for evenings. One set is enough as you will not wear them for a long time.
- Nightwear and underwear.
- Sleeping bag liner - either silk, cotton or fleece.

Essential Accessories :
- Toilet roll/tissues.
- Ziplock bags are handy for convenient leak-proof storage.
- Sun block and lip balm.
- Electrical socket adapter.
- Energy bars/snacks.
- Personal first aid kit + any personal medications you need to take.
- Phone, Camera, batteries and charger.
- Airtight and waterproof ‘dry bags' are great for keeping your clothes dry and storing your dirty laundry separate from clean clothes!
- Head torch and batteries (spare batteries too).
- Walking poles are highly recommended on Alps paths.
- Cash & Cards (Euros).
- Pocket knives or cutlery can be useful for picnics.
- WATER - please be able to carry 2 litres of water.
- Your sense of humour and adventure!

Technical equipment.
- Crampons (with anti-balling plates).
- Helmet.
- Mountaineering harness
- Ice-axe.
We can lend you all these technical items.

Note: keep in mind that the weight of your day pack shouldn't be over 10-12kg.


Safety

The Mont Blanc Experience promise

No region in the world is 100% safe and without danger.

Mont Blanc Experience keeps you informed and is fully transparent when it comes to the potential risks. We gather security risk information from multiple sources: in-house research, monitoring specialized websites, meetings with the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "safety and security" trips in the field, constant contact with our regional specialists, local teams on the ground, and France's travel agency federation.

Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that we cannot make any decisions for you.

If there is a clear and elevated risk, we reserve the right to:

— Reinforce our guide team (for guided trips).
— Modify the itinerary for our tours.
— Place a tour or destination on hiatus for an extended period of time when we consider the level of risk to be too high.

Your safety and your enjoyment are our priority.