Chamonix Ice Climbing Course | Adventure Base
Rated 4.8 on Trustpilot
Mountaineering

Chamonix Ice Climbing Course

Are you searching for an introduction to the thrilling world of ice climbing? Look no further than our ice climbing course in Chamonix! Whether it’s mountain ice or frozen waterfalls, ice climbing is never short of incredible and always an ultra-rewarding outdoor experience. The ‘thunk’ of your axes bedding into the ice, and the beauty of the mountains in winter, are hard to beat.

This bite-sized Chamonix ice climbing trip is action-packed, with climbs every day before returning to our warm, comfortable hotel base to relax in the evenings. With a whole new set of skills under your belt, you’ll be more prepared than ever for future mountaineering tours in the Alps.

Ready for your introduction to ice climbing in Chamonix? Scroll down to find out more about this trip, and please just contact us if you have any questions.
Duration
3 Days, 4 Nights
Start location
Chamonix, France
Date(s)
January
Difficulty
Beginner
Book Now From €1.790,00 Make an enquiry
Screenshot-2021-11-04-at-13.08.49

Chamonix Ice Climbing Trip: What to Expect

Get ready for three full days of scaling frozen waterfalls in the Mont Blanc region of the French Alps. World-famous for stellar ice climbing, the areas we visit are superb places to learn your new skills. Prepare to test yourself on some of the best ice climbing in the world — we can guarantee sore forearms by the end of the course!

Please note that this Chamonix Ice Climbing Course runs on a 1:2 ratio, which means you will share an IFMGA guide with only one other person. This will enable you to make the most of your time in the mountains, learning as many skills and techniques as possible.

We have designed this Chamonix ice climbing trip to introduce those who don't have any experience in climbing or mountaineering to the world of ice climbing. By the end of the trip, you'll be familiar with the equipment needed for climbing and know all about essential techniques. And, just as importantly, you will have had an unforgettable adventure in the mountains!

Not sure whether you're ready to tackle ice climbing in Chamonix? No problem! Just take our Ice Climbing Intro 'Readiness' test.

TAKE THE TEST

Learn more. Download our guide here.

GOT WHAT IT TAKES? Take the readiness test

Ready to embark on your next adventure? Take our quick fitness readiness test to see how prepared you are for an unforgettable holiday!

TAKE THE TEST

Your Ice Climbing in Chamonix Starts Here

Who is This Ice Climbing Course in Chamonix For?

No experience is required to join our Chamonix Ice Climbing Course, but it helps if you have a basic understanding of what's required. We also advise coming with a good level of fitness as you'll be on your feet most of the day for three consecutive days.

Not sure whether you're ready? No sweat! Get in touch and we'll be happy to talk it through with you.

TAKE THE TEST

Adventure Overview

Duration
3 Days, 4 Nights
Start location
Chamonix, France
Guide Ratio
1:2
Date(s)
January
Ability
Beginner
Price
From €1.790,00
Screenshot-2021-11-04-at-13.08.31

Ice Climbing in Chamonix Videos

  • Ice Climbing

    04:21

    We have a rule that every month we get out of the office, away from the noise and in to the great outdoors. This month Olly decided ice climbing was the activity of choice so we called upon Pablo one of our mountain guides to show us what it's all about. Many of you will know Pablo from your trips with us but for those that don't, make sure you watch all the way to the very end where he'll introduce you to his good friends...

  • Meet The Team

    01:48

    Introducing 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.

  • What is the Food Like in Alpine Huts?

    3:03

    Charlie and Olly share what to expect from meals in Alpine huts and refuges, from breakfast and communal dinners to dietary requirements and snacks.

  • Best First Summits for Beginners

    1:13

    Charlie and Olly share two of the best mountains in the Alps to start your mountaineering journey: Gran Paradiso in Italy and Triglav in Slovenia.

Equipment Required for This Chamonix Ice Climbing Trip

Certain items can be rented from Adventure Base, such as crampons, a helmet, and a harness. You can add these to your cart at checkout. Ice axes for the course are provided by your guide. Please note that your kit might vary slightly from the images below.

This is only a guide and you may be required to rent or purchase last-minute equipment on arrival, dependent on the weather and changes in itinerary.

Download the full Chamonix Ice Climbing Course kit list for a more detailed overview.

View full kit list

Rent locally

crampons

Crampons

12 point steel mountaineering crampons

Rent locally

harness

Harness

Standard climbing harness

Rent locally

ice-axe

Ice axe

Straight shaft for general mountaineering

Can be rented

helmet

Helmet

Standard hard plastic climbing specific helmet.
thorson_0571-e1618487672121-scaled

Down Jacket

Lightweight and thin down jacket.
Jormun_10030-e1618488473813-scaled

Hardshell Jacket

GORE-TEX® or Similar
FLOYEN_0555-e1618488539471-scaled

Softshell Jacket

Light technical jacket, ideally with a hood.
Jøttnar Hemming lightweight fleece in navy

Lightweight fleece

Something light and thin.

FULL KIT LIST

Create-from-blank-1

More info

Click the link in the text above to find the full kit list

Brilliant experience from start to finish.

Adventure Base handled the coordination, accommodations, meals, transfers, and execution of the guided trek exceptionally well. A special thank you to our guide, Rosella C., who added real value throughout the journey and dealt with any issues quickly and professionally. Tristan at Adventure Base was excellent with all of the pre-trip planning and logistics, and kudos as well to Madi for reaching out after the trip to gather feedback. Adventure Base took away much of the administrative work and worry, allowing me to simply enjoy the experience. The entire trip felt seamless and extremely well organized. The Dolomites certainly did not disappoint, and sharing the journey with a great group of fellow trekkers made it even better. Highly recommend Adventure Base.

Mike Herzog

4 Incredible Trips with Adventure Base

I've done four trips with these guys and its been incredible, I've climbed Mont Blanc, Hiked the Tour Du Mont Blanc, did four days on the Alta Via 1 and climbed Toubkal in North Africa - all with Adventure Base. Charlie and the team are professional, courteous and just overall great people to book trips through. Theres never been an issue Adventure Base can't fix, they make you feel like there are no silly questions and they've always done everything they can to ensure I've had a great trip. And I always have - every trip I've been on has been incredible, I regularly recommend them to friends, colleagues and family. If I could give them more then five stars I would.

Dave Mac

We didn't want to stop walking!

Haute Route with Adventure Base - we didn't want to stop walking! Iconic trek made special by Adventure Base with lots of trusted support, excellent accommodation and thoughtful additions. Would recommend to anyone who wants to challenge themselves slightly up from the TMB. The clever mapping app showed profiles of each day to help us prep and we felt guided and safe even though we walked alone. Thoroughly enjoyed stays in both refuges and spa hotels to relax! Met lots of people on and off along the route which was very easy to follow. We were lucky with stunning weather but the SUCH varied scenery of each section was breath-taking. If you want to feel guided with help prepping, questions answered and someone always on hand if you need it, trust Adventure Base!

Louise Addis

Incredible Experience!

Just got back from the self-guided Bernese Oberland Traverse in Switzerland and we were blown away! My wife and I have lots of prior hiking experience, but having the logistics of where we were staying and the route mapped out for us saved us a lot of time before the trip! The app they send you with your trip details and the route for every day is easy to navigate, has great offline capabilities, and has everything you need for each day of your trek (including any side adventures). For anything we needed, the team was easily accessible by phone or WhatsApp. All of the accommodations they chose were a 10 out of 10. We made so many memories on this trip without all the headache of managing your own logistics and its all thanks to the great team at Adventure Base!

Bryan Terschan

I was blown away by Adventures Base

I was blown away by Adventures Base attention to detail. Incredible guides and an incredible experience. My 2nd trip and will be booking my next soon. They have some of the best guides ive experienced. Brilliant customer service from beginning to end. A+++++

Pete

They exceeded my expectations!

The 11-day TMB experience was perfect. Our guide, Rob, was incredibly attentive from the very first minute. He was meticulous about every detail and every participant, highly attuned to the group's needs, and possessed a great sense of humor and deep knowledge of the terrain. He ensured an excellent experience. All logistics, mountain huts, and hotels were perfect; I wouldn't change a thing. They exceeded my expectations, and we were even blessed with perfect weather. I couldn't have made a better choice for my TMB trip.

Cacilda Amaral

Rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 300+ reviews on

Trustpilot

FINER DETAILS

YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGE

On arrival day you meet with your guides and fellow climbers at the accommodation for a welcome briefing in the evening. Here you will have an opportunity to ask any last minute questions as well as share your pre trip excitement with your group.

What's included?

  • 4 nights accommodation with breakfast included
  • Handpicked Adventure Base guides
  • All guiding fees
  • All group equipment required for ice climbing
  • Local transport where necessary

Optional extras

Enhance your adventure with these additional services.

Please get in touch with our team to discuss optional extras. Get in touch

What's not included?

  • Travel to / from Chamonix
  • Evening meals in Chamonix

Adventure like a local

The Adventure Base Difference

Excellent 4.8 From 300+ reviews

  • 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

Depart

Thu 21 Jan, 2027

Return

Mon 25 Jan, 2027

Availability

Join waiting list

Accommodation on This Ice Climbing Course in Chamonix

When not climbing in the mountains, we know the importance of having a comfortable base. That's why we've chosen this mountain lodge with its super comfortable rooms and warm atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to rest up in-between your stays in the mountain huts. But don't let that nice linen and chocolate on the 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 bet you go home missing the huts more!

Bedroom with balcony doors open to snowy mountains

Chamonix

The lodge is an excellent base for our ice climbing trip. With stunning views of the mountains, it's well placed and just a few minutes walk from Chamonix centre. Rooms are on a twin share basis with en suite bathrooms. There is a bar and restaurant for the evenings, with some lovely outdoor space to relax in after the climb.

  • Duration

    4

  • Wifi

    Wifi included

  • Beds

    Twin rooms

  • Food

    Breakfast

Chamonix Ice Climbing Course Itinerary

HERE'S YOUR ITINERARY 

While we try and stick to the tried-and-tested itinerary below, the mountain and the weather sometimes have other ideas. We will always remain as flexible as possible, which is why we only work with experienced and knowledgeable guides, to make sure we can change any plans if required.
Screenshot-2021-11-04-at-13.09.03

GETTING TO THE ADVENTURE START POINT

Getting to your destination can be half the adventure, but probably not the type of Adventure you want. If you have any worries or questions then just get in touch.

Recommended

GENEVA AIRPORT

GVA

The closest airport, with regular flights from all major cities. Pre-book a shared or private door-to-door transfer to the valley – we recommend our partners Haute Transfers.

Approx. 1 hr 30 min by transfer to Chamonix, the adventure start point.

Frequently asked questions about this adventure

Ice: What is ice climbing?

Ice climbing is a form of climbing that involves ascending frozen waterfalls, cliffs, and other ice formations using specialised tools such as ice axes, crampons, and ice screws.

Ice: What is the best time of year to go ice climbing?

The best time of year to go ice climbing will depend on the specific location and the conditions. In general, the ice climbing season typically runs from December to March in areas with cold climates, but this can vary depending on the specific conditions and location.

Ice: 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 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.

Ice: Can I change my trip dates?

You can change your trip dates subject to availability and a €50 admin fee. Please contact us if you would like to explore changing your dates.

View trips by difficulty

  • 07_MB_1.16.1-scaled
    Mountaineering

    Gran Paradiso National Park

    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.

    2 Days June - September Intermediate
    From €1.095,00
    View adventure
  • WhatsApp-Image-2025-07-07-at-19.00.25-scaled
    Mountaineering

    Zermatt, Switzerland

    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?

    1 week June - September Intermediate
    From €3.485,00
    View adventure

Meet your guides for this adventure

WhatsApp-Image-2020-10-13-at-12.18.08

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".
MIHA-2

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.
PABLO-2

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.
FABIO-1-scaled

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!"
WhatsApp-Image-2023-08-05-at-15.23.48-scaled-e1692795104185

Lars

IFMGA Guide

Lars is a IFMGA Guide originally from Belgium, with over 20 years of experience climbing and splitboarding in the Mont Blanc massif, the Alps and the greater ranges of the world. Having lived in Chamonix for over a decade he has enjoyed the unique and unlimited climbing possibilities in and around the valley. Lars is also one of the most recognised and experienced splitboard guides leading expeditions to Kamchatka, Greenland, Iceland and more.
FAUST

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-1

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 ;)"

Are you Ready?

This adventure is rated Beginner on our difficulty scale and is best suited to for beginners and newcomers. We recommend choosing an adventure that matches your fitness, experience and comfort level.

  • 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

This trip is at this level

“I always wanted to try my hand at ice climbing having seen some epic pictures. Although I had no experience Adventure Base guided me through the whole process and by the end I felt like a pro... sort of. Great trip and great company!”

Silvia

Ice Climbing

“Couldn't have asked for much more for a short getaway. Who knew I'd be an ice climbing addict!”

Jane

Ice Climbing

Photo-17-12-2018-10-41-44

READY TO TAKE ON THIS EPIC CHALLENGE?

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.

Book Now From €1.790,00 Make an enquiry