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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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
Softshell Jacket
Light technical jacket, ideally with a hood.
FULL KIT LIST
More info
Click the link in the text above to find the full kit list
"The guides are always the most important element and I cannot praise David and Pablo enough. They were both absolutely brilliant, the perfect balance of friendly and professional. This meant it felt easy to get to know them and build a rapport which is really important in terms of familiarity, trust and communication while also being incredibly professional. We were all in tears when we had to say goodbye."
"I enjoyed the week very much. Pablo and David were wonderful. Very professional, experienced, measured and calm. Can’t praise them enough. They were also a great company throughout the trip."
"Could not recommend these guys enough. Fantastic company, well organised with brilliant guides."
"AB are unequivocally the best. I don’t believe it could have been a better week, from the Chalet, to Jo the cook/cleaner/enthusiastic listener, to Olly the organiser, the other climbers (wonderful bunch) and most importantly the guides. A 10 out of 10 experience."
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
Matterhorn: What Insurance Do I Need?
Let’s face it, these types of trips don’t come risk free. We’re putting ourselves in amazing environments Read more
Let’s face it, these types of trips don’t come risk free. We’re putting ourselves in amazing environments but also environments that carry an element of risk with them. In order to protect yourself adequately you will need a specialist travel insurance that caters for the types of activities you will be undertaking. It is a condition of our agreement that you are covered by adequate travel insurance for your arrangements. Click here to understand which one is for you.
What type of boots do I need for Matterhorn?
You will either need B2 or B3 mountaineering boots for the Matterhorn. All mountaineering boots are graded in a B1, Read more
You will either need B2 or B3 mountaineering boots for the Matterhorn. All mountaineering boots are graded in a B1, B2, B3 system.
This will greatly depend on the conditions of the Matterhorn. If it is dry and warm B2 boots will be suitable. If it’s a little snowy and cold, B3 boots will be required. Both can be rented locally. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to hear the latest conditions on the Matterhorn.
Matterhorn: Do I need to have previous experience?
Yes. If you have previous experience on alpine grade AD terrain with good physical fitness, the Matterhorn is within your Read more
Yes. If you have previous experience on alpine grade AD terrain with good physical fitness, the Matterhorn is within your grasp. We aim to attempt the Matterhorn climb towards the end of the week, after suitable preparation and acclimatisation. You must have a good head for heights and a good level of balance control whilst walking along narrow exposed ridges.
Matterhorn: How many clients per guide?
Matterhorn: Are ski/snowboard trousers suitable?
Ski/snowboard trousers aren’t suitable for the conditions on the Matterhorn. You’ll need a pair of mountaineering trousers ( Read more
Ski/snowboard trousers aren’t suitable for the conditions on the Matterhorn. You’ll need a pair of mountaineering trousers (soft shell) as well as a waterproof hard shell pair that are lightweight and not insulated. Conditions can be harsh especially on the summit days so it’s important to have these two layers. We also recommend to bring lightweight thermal leggings.
What are the guides like?
All of our guides are highly experienced. They have all been hand picked by us over the many years we’ Read more
All of our guides are highly experienced. They have all been hand picked by us over the many years we’ve been in the guiding industry. Our guides all speak a good level of English and are very attentive. Their primary role is to get you to the summit safely, but they also provide a high level of customer service along the way and are very interesting people to spend time with. They like to share their knowledge of the mountains and their experiences, so don’t hesitate to ask questions and pick their brains. Lastly, they know the route on the Matterhorn like the back of their hands and this is the most important thing when it comes down to making key decisions in the mountains and providing the safest experience for our clients.
What are the mountain huts like?
The mountain huts we use for our Matterhorn course are fairly basic but comfortable. You will sleep in dormitories on Read more
The mountain huts we use for our Matterhorn course are fairly basic but comfortable. You will sleep in dormitories on a shared basis, usually 6-8 per room. The huts provide breakfast, lunch and a 3 course dinner. In Chamonix we tend to use the Refugio Torino and Cosmiques Refuge for the training days. For your Matterhorn climb we use the Hornli Hutte which is situated at the base of the Hornli ridge.
What size backpack should I bring?
Your backpack should be no bigger than 50l and no smaller than 30l. It is important that your backpack has Read more
Your backpack should be no bigger than 50l and no smaller than 30l. It is important that your backpack has an ice axe strap to stash your ice axe when you are not using it. Your backpack must also have a rain-proof cover.
What will we do if the weather is bad?
This depends on a few factors and how bad the weather actually is. Should the Matterhorn be unsafe, we will Read more
This depends on a few factors and how bad the weather actually is. Should the Matterhorn be unsafe, we will study the conditions on other peaks in the region, like Monta Rosa. Should conditions be a lot better elsewhere, we will propose this to you as an option.
Strong high winds – this means reaching the summit is unlikely. High winds on the ridge will put us in danger and therefore we will likely look for an alternative.
Precipitation – When it snows on the Matterhorn it usually means a summit attempt will be very difficult. The route to the summit of the Matterhorn is a rocky ridge and if its covered in snow and ice it becomes a treacherous task. Route finding in a snow storm is also unsafe.
Whiteout – A cloudy whiteout will make a summit attempt difficult. Route finding in a whiteout is generally unsafe and therefore we will encourage you to consider an alternative.
Heat – This doesn’t tend to offer up any problems. When the Alps is hit with high temperatures and dry conditions, the Matterhorn is in good climbing condition.
Will I definitely make it to the summit?
In short, no. Whilst we will always strive to get you to the summit safely, sometimes the weather or the Read more
In short, no. Whilst we will always strive to get you to the summit safely, sometimes the weather or the conditions of the mountain don’t play ball. When there is precipitation, high winds and low visibility for example, we cannot guarantee reaching the summit and will sometimes recommend an alternative. Each Matterhorn course has a lead guide. The lead guide will always conduct a meeting with the clients and other guides the day before the Matterhorn ascent is due to begin (Usually the evening before we leave Chamonix for Zermatt). During this meeting the latest weather forecast, conditions of the mountain, and the clients own ability to reach the summit will be discussed. Clients and guides alike will voice their opinions and/or concerns at the time and then decide how best to proceed. We fully trust our guides to make these final decisions based on their years of experience on the mountain. They are entrusted to make the final call and the client must accept any decision made. All decisions will have client safety as a top priority.
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.
Miha
IFMGA Guide
Miha is an IFMGA guide from Slovenia based between the beautiful Julian Alps and Chamonix. He has been climbing for over 20 years all over the world, including expeditions to Nepal, Tibet, India, Pakistan, USA, Mexico and Peru. He summited an 8000er on his first expedition to the Himalaya, did a first ascent on the previously unclimbed Lasher peak in the Himalaya and climbed El Capitan and many routes over the Alps.
Nacho
IFMGA Guide
Meet Nacho, our expert high mountain guide and ski instructor from Spain. With decades of experience and a background that includes European and Spanish ski touring championships, Nacho has climbed and guided all over the Alps, Pyrenees, Andes, Himalayas and beyond. Ski touring is his true passion, but whether it’s snowy peaks or technical alpine ascents, Nacho brings world-class expertise and a calm, friendly approach to every trip.
Roger
IFMGA Guide
Roger has spent over 15 years guiding around the world. He is a Guide instructor at the Spanish School of Guides and is fascinated by discovering mountains with clients. Roger has a big passion about showing people his beloved mountains and sharing climbs and descents with skis.
Faust
IFMGA Guide
Born in the Aran Valley, from parents who were ski teachers and mountain guides, the motivation inherited by nature has led him to practice all facets of mountain sports such as climbing, skiing and mountaineering. He has spent his alpine career as part of the FEDME team (Spanish Federation of Mountain and Climbing Sports) and his passion and profession have led him to travel to other continents to carry out his activity.
Fede
IFMGA Guide
"My favorite mountain is the Midi d’Ossau, in the Pyrenees. It is a volcanic and unique mountain, that a stands out from the other peaks around. It is a huge fortress with many different features that provides incredible rock climbing routes, and the most important thing is that is 20 minutes from my house ;)"
Jon
IFMGA Guide
"If asked about my favourite mountain or mountain range, it wouldn't be easy to answer since perfect places to climb, ski or explore can be found all over the world. But, if I had to choose one, I think I'd say the Pyrenees, not very high, but wild and still quite unknown: the mountains where I learnt when I was a child and where I can still live great adventures far from the crowd".
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
Summer Mount Toubkal Climb
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