Best of Tour du Mont Blanc Trek

Question 1

Should I tip the guide?

Answer

It is not mandatory to tip in the Alps, but it is always appreciated by the hard-working guides.

Question 2

What kind of accommodation will we stay in?

Answer

Basic, dormitory-style mountain huts with shared bathrooms. Dormitory bedrooms offer platforms of mattresses set out next to each other. In some cases, they offer free-standing bunkbeds. All rooms are mixed-gender.

Question 3

What experience do I need to have? How fit do I need to be? Is this program suitable for children or older people?

Answer

Although this multi-day trek is great for first-timers, you need a good fitness level and some prior experience in the mountains.

If you are not sure about your fitness level, then we strongly suggest starting a training program. If you are starting from zero, you can follow a Couch to 5km program and then continue. The fitter you are the more you will enjoy this trip.

Also, follow the right packing advice so that you don't carry unnecessary weight.

This trip is geared toward adults. The minimum age to join is 18. However, 16-18-year-olds are welcome if they show up in the company of a responsible adult.

Question 4

How do I get from Geneva Airport to Chamonix?

Answer

Transfers are included to Chamonix and back on the first and final day only. These are from Geneva Airport only. If you are traveling to Chamonix or back on a different day, you can take a shared transfer from the Airport to Chamonix.

Question 5

What is the best time of the year for this hike?

Answer

We operate this tour from mid-June. Depending on the winter/spring, there may be snow on the route - which sometimes means adapting the route we take.

Question 6

Can I book in a group as a solo traveller?

Answer

Absolutely! It's a great way to make friends and meet like-minded people.

Question 7

Is there a free parking area?

Answer

Yes, you can leave your car on the roadside parking near the Vert Lodge hotel if you are staying there the night before or after the tour. Otherwise, there is another parking nearby.

Question 8

Can you pick me up in Geneva?

Answer

The shuttle operates from Geneva Airport or Vert Lodge, Chamonix.

Question 9

Can I join a group?

Answer

Of course. We have daily departures across the summer. Let us know some dates that work for you and we'll find the nearest one with availability.

Question 10

Can you pick me up in Chamonix?

Answer

Yes, the bus can either pick you up at Vert Lodge in CHAMONIX or at the airport in GENEVA.

Question 11

What is the weather like?

Answer

The weather in the mountains is very unpredictable, so being prepared is key.

Question 12

Do I need walking boots?

Answer

Yes, walking boots are better than trainers as they provide more grip and help prevent injuries.

Question 13

What is the terrain like?

Answer

You need to be steady on your feet and have experience walking on mountain paths. We will go at a slow steady pace that everyone should be able to keep up with.

Question 14

Is luggage storage available?

Answer

Yes, at the Vert Lodge, you have luggage storage for a small bag per person. The bus will stop there on the way out and back to the airport very quickly for you to pick up your luggage. This service is available to everyone on our tour.

Question 15

How much money should I bring, and in which currency?

Answer

The currency used in France and Italy is the Euro. We recommend changing your money before you arrive as it is not possible once you've left the airport. Most places along the way don't accept credit cards.

Question 16

What plug adapter do I need?

Answer

If you have a 2-pin USB charger then this will work everywhere.

Question 17

What happens in the event of bad weather?

Answer

Our guides keep a close eye on the weather conditions and how it might affect the group. In most cases, they will adapt the departure time, and occasionally the route where possible. In very rare situations a decision may be taken to change the route and accommodation. These decisions are difficult to make and are made with your safety as the highest priority.

Question 18

Will we cover the full Tour du Mont Blanc trekking route?

Answer

No, we will cover part of the Tour Du Mont Blanc. We chose this itinerary to cover 4 of the best days on the full route!

Question 19

What about meals and water?

Answer

Water:

During the summer, we strongly recommend taking two liters of water. The tap water at the accommodations is drinkable but there are limited resources along the way to fill up your bottle.

Food:

Please ensure you have lunch with you for day 1. While trekking, you will taste a great variety of local specialties. During the day, you can buy lunch along the way or pay for a packed lunch from the hut. Your guide will help you order if you take that option. If you have any food allergies (vegetarian, vegan, gluten or dairy intolerance, etc.) please let us know in advance.