Mountaineering
Climb Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is arguably the most iconic peak in the world. Rising behind the charming town of Zermatt on the Swiss/Italian border, this is a highly sought-after summit for mountaineers and adventurers alike. Daring, dramatic, and intimidating, this is one of our favourite mountains to guide.
At Adventure Base, we help our clients climb Europe’s peaks, and climbing the Matterhorn is one of the most popular experiences we offer for those with plenty of previous experience. If a Matterhorn climb is on your bucket list, scroll down to find out more about this awe-inspiring adventure. Our team is here to help however we can, so please just contact us if you have any questions about our Matterhorn trip.
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Duration
1 week
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Start Location
Chamonix, France
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Date(s)
July - August
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Price
From €4350.00
Adventure Snapshot
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Mountaineering Climb the Matterhorn
Choose your adventure type
step 1 of 6Most popular
Group Adventure
We have been guiding clients in the mountains for decades with a great safety and success rate. Join one of our fixed departure group trips today.
Join a group tripCustomisable
Private Adventure
If you're looking for something on a different date, on a private basis, or just a little more custom we can make that happen.
You're in safe hands
Our Chamonix based team are here to help you with every step of your adventure. They live and breathe mountain life and enjoy nothing more than creating memorable adventures.
Matterhorn Guided Climb: What to Expect
The Matterhorn is known as ‘the mountain of mountains’, and if you've ever seen it in the flesh, you'll understand why. This iconic peak is steeped in history and was the last great alpine peak to be climbed, marking the end of the golden age of alpinism in 1865. A team of seven, including Edward Whymper, led by two Zermatt guides and French guide Michel Croz, made the first successful summit via the Hornli Grat (Hornli Ridge).
The Hornli Ridge is still the classic ascent route today and is achievable by those with sufficient previous experience and a high level of fitness. As a minimum, we'd expect you to have completed either our Mont Blanc climb or our Monte Rosa Tour. You'll need to be able to climb on technical terrain in a comfortable manner, dealing with high exposure. The route is exposed and rocky, and will require you to move efficiently and quickly over exposed terrain. A head for heights is certainly a must, as is a high level of determination to make the most of your week with us.
If this sounds overwhelming, fear not; we have designed this Matterhorn peak climb so that you spend the first 3 days in Chamonix, France brushing up on climbing skills and familiarising yourself with equipment before heading to Zermatt for the main event. For your summit attempt, you will have your own guide and you will climb on a 1:1 ratio. We also make sure to build in some flexibility to adjust the itinerary if the weather doesn't play ball.
If you'd like to get some experience first, check out some of the trips below. They're a great place to improve and prepare for big mountains like the Matterhorn.
Climb Mont Blanc
Chamonix Winter Skills
Climb Triglav, Slovenia
Climb Gran Paradiso
Not sure whether you're ready to climb the Matterhorn? No problem! Take our Matterhorn 'Readiness' test below to find out where you stand.
Matterhorn 'Readiness' test
Learn more. Download our guide here.
DOWNLOAD PDFEnter your details to download the Climb the Matterhorn brochure
Your Matterhorn Journey Starts Here
Who is this Matterhorn climb For?
If you have previous experience on alpine grade "AD" terrain with a high level of cardiovascular fitness, this climb is within your grasp. We base our Matterhorn guided climbs out of Chamonix because there are some great training routes in the Mont Blanc massif. Climbing these handpicked routes before heading to the Matterhorn puts our clients in the best possible shape for the challenge ahead.
Remember, if you’re not sure whether you’re ready for this Matterhorn guided ascent, you can take our Matterhorn 'Readiness' test.
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Duration
1 week
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Start Location
Chamonix, France
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Date(s)
July - August
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Guide Ratio
1:1
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Ability
Level DLevel D
You’ve been on more adventures than you've had hot dinners and you've built up a crafty skill set to tackle most challenges out there. It's go time Captain Scott!
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Price
From €4350.00
Adventure Overview
Matterhorn Guided Ascent Videos
Climb The Matterhorn
00:31What a mountain! What a trip!
Adventure Base: Through our clients eyes
00:53We asked our clients to let us know how their trips went. They decided to show us instead. Below is footage captured by our clients on some of our favourite adventures. Thanks guys.
The Matterhorn. Thanks Ty!
06:16Ty, one of our Matterhorn climbers, captured the journey along the Hornli ridge to the top of the Matterhorn. Is there a more iconic mountain in the world?
The Cosmiques Arete
04:51As part of the preparation for climbing the Matterhorn we often tackle this gem of a climb. Here Olly and Charlie have a bit fun while doing it.
Meet The Team
01:48Introducing our crack squad of mountain lovers and adventure junkies. We spend most of our days plotting, planning and building some of the very best trips out there for you all to enjoy.
Kit and Equipment Required for Climbing the Matterhorn
Certain items can be rented from Adventure Base such as crampons, ice axes, helmets, harnesses, and trekking poles with snow baskets. You can add these to your cart at checkout. We use the latest kit from Black Diamond and Petzl, meaning you'll be using quality equipment at cheaper prices than if you were to rent from a local shop when you get here. Win! (Note: Your kit might vary slightly from the images below)
Please note this is a guide and you may be required to rent or purchase last-minute equipment on arrival depending on the weather and changes in itinerary. View the full downloadable Matterhorn kit list.
Rent locally
Ice axe
Straight shaft for general mountaineering
Rent locally
Crampons
12 point steel mountaineering crampons
Can be rented
Helmet
Standard hard plastic climbing specific helmet.
Rent locally
Harness
Standard climbing harness
Hardshell Jacket
GORE-TEX® or Similar
FINER DETAILS
YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGE
On arrival day you meet your guides and fellow climbers at the accommodation for a welcome briefing in the evening. One more sleep before go time!
What's Included?
- Climb the Matterhorn (4478m)
- All accommodation and guiding services during the trip
- Up to 3 nights mountain huts on a half-board basis (breakfast and three course evening meal)
- 4 nights in Chamonix accommodation on a B&B basis (breakfast)
- Group welcome dinner at accommodation in Chamonix on arrival day
- En suite rooms in Chamonix
- Hand-picked Adventure Base mountain guides
- All of your guide’s expenses
- All transport (via road) within itinerary
What's not Included?
- Airport transfers to / from Chamonix
- Uplifts according to itinerary
- Personal equipment rental
- Evening meals in Chamonix except welcome dinner
- Personal travel insurance
- Personal snacks, lunches, and drinks
- Tips for the guides
Adventure like a local
The Adventure Base Difference
Born & Bred in the Alps
With an office at the foot of Mont Blanc in Chamonix, we help you Adventure like a local.
Customer Focused
We don't just want you for one trip, we want you for lots! We work extremely hard to earn that right.
Don't take our word for it
Our clients do the talking. Check out their latest reviews and see what makes their trips so special.
Guaranteed Departures
If you can book it, we'll run it even if it's just for you. You shouldn't have to wait to get excited for your trip.
This Trip is running on the following dates
july 2025
5 Datesaugust 2025
2 Datesjuly 2026
1 Dateaugust 2026
2 DatesJoin the waiting list
Adventure: Climb the Matterhorn
Accommodation on This Matterhorn Peak Hike
When not climbing the Matterhorn, we know the importance of having a cosy mountain base with comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere — the perfect spot to rest in between your stays in the mountain huts. But don't let that nice bed linen and the chocolate on your bed win your favour just yet! Wait until you've experienced a good old mountain hut with its basic but charming amenities and friendly hosts. We think you might just go home missing the huts more!
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Valley Accommodation
This summer, 2025, we’re thrilled to offer two fantastic chalets in the heart of Chamonix: Chalet President and Chalet Pele. Both chalets provide the perfect home base for your alpine adventures, with spacious layouts, cozy interiors, and room to accommodate up to 12 guests each. Their central locations make it easy to explore Chamonix while offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Each chalet is staffed by a dedicated team ready to welcome you and ensure you’re well-fed, comfortable, and fully rested throughout your stay. The chalets are the ideal place to relax and recharge after a day in the mountains.
As this summer promises to be busy with climbing trips, some guests may stay in a nearby hotel due to limited chalet space. Rest assured, you’re welcome to leave your belongings securely at the chalet for the week. Please note that any pre- or post-trip nights booked with us will also likely be arranged at a nearby hotel.
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Duration
4 nights
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Internet
Wifi included
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Beds
Shared rooms
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Food
Breakfast + 1 Dinner
Rifugio Torino / Hornli Hutte
When we're up in the mountains we'll be staying in the Rifugio Torino and the Hornli Hutte with their rustic charms and mountain feel. Top tip: don't forget to pack your ear plugs... trust us!
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Duration
3 nights
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Internet
Not included
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Beds
Dormitory
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Food
Half Board
WHAT TO EXPECT
Matterhorn Guided Ascent Itinerary
We always try and stick to the tried and tested itinerary below, but the mountain and the weather sometimes have other ideas. We remain as flexible as possible, which is why we work with experienced and knowledgeable guides. This means we can make changes to plans if required. Check out the full Matterhorn guided climb itinerary for a complete overview.
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Day 1:
Arrival Day
We highly recommend planning your inbound travel so that you arrive in Chamonix by early afternoon. This is especially important if you need to rent mountaineering boots from our local rental shop supplier. You’ll need time to collect any rental equipment before the evening briefing, which is essential for a smooth start to your adventure. There is limited time the following morning to rent items as you will be departing for the mountains straight after breakfast.
You will meet with your guide for a briefing in the evening at approximately 18:00 to go through the plan for the week as well as the current weather and mountain conditions. Here you will have a chance to go through your kit under the experienced eye of your guide and can ask any questions that you may have. Dinner will follow and then it's time for a good night sleep! -
Day 2:
First day in the mountains
You will take the Aiguille du Midi or Flegere cable car and spend the day on rocky ridges such as the Arête des Cosmiques, Traverse of the Aiguilles Crochues or similar. A great way to refresh your skills and start focusing on the techniques required for the Matterhorn. Overnight in Chamonix.
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Day 3:
Overnight in a mountain hut
First day of climbing on the Italian side of Mont Blanc. Typical routes would be the Entrèves, Marbrées, Tour Ronde and the Dent du Géant. This is the final preparation for the real thing, and they are highly sought after routes themselves. Overnight in a charming mountain hut.
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Day 4:
More alpine routes
Second day climbing on the Italian side of Mont Blanc. Typical routes would be the Entrèves, Marbrées, Tour Ronde and the Dent du Géant. This is the final preparation for the real thing, and they are highly sought after routes themselves. Overnight back in the Chamonix valley.
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Day 5:
Head to Zermatt
Drive to Zermatt after breakfast (3 hrs). You will take the uplifts from the town and approach the Hörnli hut where you will spend the night, ready for your summit attempt tomorrow.
4.2kms / 712m up / 43m down -
Day 6:
Climb the Matterhorn
Leave the Hörnli hut at 4am and climb the Matterhorn. This is an incredible day and one where you will need to push hard to reach the summit. If all goes well you will descend and head back to your Chamonix accommodation, but if the weather isn't great you have the option to spend a second night in the hut.
3.6kms / 1234m up / 1237m down -
Day 7:
Spare Day / Return to Chamonix
There is 1 spare day built in to the itinerary in order to facilitate extra training if required and / or to move the summit day based on weather and conditions. All of this is aimed at giving you the best chance of making the summit.
4.5kms / 61m up / 730 m down -
Day 8:
Departure
Departure day.
Frequently asked questions about this adventure
MEET THE GUIDES
Fabio
IFMGA Guide
Fabio has guided with us for close to ten years now and has summited Mont Blanc more times than we can remember. He's even helped Sir Richard Branson get to the top of Western Europe. When asked what his favourite mountain was his response was 'It's the mountain not known to many, in a remote country that provides opportunity for adventure. That said, I do love Cordillera Blanca (Peru) to guide in, Montserrat (Barcelona) because it's where it all started for me and Main De Fatima (Mali) because it's special to me!"
Pablo
IFMGA Guide
Pablo is originally from a small mountain village in Spain and came to Chamonix with only one dream to become a mountain guide. Based in Chamonix since 2013, Pablo made the Alps his playground as a guide and as an alpinist and has climbed many of the classic alpine routes. He combines mountain guiding with helicopter rescue work in Spain during the off seasons.
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Are you ready?
Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Climb the Matterhorn trip is rated Level D, for the pros We recommend you only book a trip that reflects your ability.
Level A
For beginners and newcomers
- You’re not quite sure where to start but you’re hungry for an adventure
- Little / no prior experience
- Shorter time duration
- No technical skills required but keen to learn
- Basic level of fitness
More your level?
Level B
For those with some prior experience
- You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing, and are keen to build on that
- You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more challenging environments
- Some basic skills
- Moderate fitness
More your level?
Level C
For accomplished adventurers
- You enjoy challenging yourself physically and mentally
- You’re comfortable on multi-day adventures and you call yourself an avid adventurer
- You're not quite George Mallory but you subscribe to his 'because it is there' attitude
- Strong level of fitness
More your level?
Level D
For the pros
- You're ready to test your skills on the next challenge
- You're comfortable in most types of alpine environments
- Some level of technical skills
- Strong level of fitness
Think you've got this?
This trip is at this level
Level E
For the experts
- You’ve been on multiple adventures and have built up a solid skillset to tackle most challenges out there
- Good technical skills and knowledge
- Experienced in alpine/mountains environments
- Very high level of fitness
More your level?
Climb Triglav
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Slovenia’s Julian Alps as you embark on an unforgettable trek through Triglav National Park. This exhilarating journey will take you to the summit of Slovenia’s highest peak, lead you through the stunning Triglav Lakes Valley, reveal nature’s most awe-inspiring wonders, and offer you the experience of staying in traditional mountain huts.
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July - September
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Level A
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€950.00
Chamonix: Ice Climbing intro
Whether it is mountain ice or frozen waterfalls, ice climbing is superb and always an ultra rewarding outdoor experience. The ‘thunk’ of your axes bedding into the ice, and the beauty of the mountains in winter is hard to beat.
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January
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Level A
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€1685.00
Climb Toubkal Summer
Enjoy a Moroccan cultural rollercoaster ride in the warmer summer months, from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the wild and quiet Atlas Mountains in just 5 days. Climbing Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa at 4167m, is challenging but suitable for newcomers to trekking mountains. The combination of mountain and culture on this trip is what makes it extra special. This trip runs during the 'summer season'.
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May - October
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Level B
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€620.00
Climb Gran Paradiso
Gran Paradiso (4061m) is the highest peak that lies entirely in Italy. Although an impressive and imposing mountain, it is a feasible objective if you have a high level of fitness.
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June - September
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Level B
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€1050.00
Monte Rosa Spaghetti Tour
This trip is based out of Zermatt in Switzerland and is aimed at climbing a variety of 4000m peaks in the Monte Rosa range whilst developing your mountaineering experience. Learn new alpine skills or refresh old techniques and climb some epic peaks in a stunningly beautiful location. What’s not to like?
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July - August
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Level B
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€3150.00
Climb Mont Blanc
Climb Mont Blanc (4808m), the highest peak in Western Europe. It’s a beautiful, imposing, and highly sought-after summit that sits at the roof of the Alps on the border of France and Italy. If your adventure juices are flowing, then keep on reading...
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May - September
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Level C
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€3295.00
Climb the Triple Crown of the Alps
Climb the famous Triple Crown of the Alps. Mont Blanc, Matterhorn and Eiger. A lifetime mountaineering achievement, all possible within 10 days with the right fitness and preparation.
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July - August
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Level D
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€12900.00
Climb the Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is probably the most iconic peak out there in the mountains. Rising behind the charming town of Zermatt on the Swiss / Italian border this is a highly sought after summit for mountaineers and adventurers alike. Daring, dramatic and intimidating, this is one of our favourite mountains to guide.
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July - August
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Level D
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€4350.00
Climb the Eiger
The Eiger is one of the most sought after summits in the Alps and a formidable challenge for any keen mountaineer. Located in the Bernese Alps in Switzerland, this is a major Alpine classic steeped in historic tales of heroic climbing. On this trip we climb via the Mittellegi ridge. Got what it takes?
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July - August
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Level E
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€4450.00
READY TO CLIMB THE MATTERHORN?
We hope you've found all the information you need above, but if not don't hesitate to get in touch. If you're ready to book, follow the link below.
Deposit/Book Now