Climb Mont Blanc via the Cosmiques Route, from Chamonix (2 days)
Join E-S Adventure Guides Team for a challenging but rewarding 2-day ascent of Mont Blanc via the Cosmiques Route. Enjoy amazing views as you pass over two other peaks on the massif and some excellent climbing as well.
Private
Alps
2 Days
Jun - Sep
High
Intermediate
Highlights
- Enjoy the stunning scenery of the French Alps and Mont Blanc Massif.
- Summit three of the massif's peaks as you go.
- Spend the night in a traditional mountain refuge.
Description
While there are numerous routes to the summit of Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest peak, there is something special about the Cosmiques Route.
Starting from the Cosmiques mountain hut at 3,616 metres in elevation, the route takes you over Mont Blanc du Tacul (4,100 metres) and Mont Maudit (4,400 metres) before reaching the 4,810-meter high summit of Mont Blanc.
We will begin the 2-day adventure in Courmayeur, where we will meet up and discuss the plan as well as rent the gear. From there, we will transfer to Chamonix and take the gondola to Aiguille du Midi, descending down a snow-covered crest and traversing a glacier to reach the mountain hut.
Getting an alpine start on the second day – about 2 am – we begin with a short downhill part before making the long ascent to the shoulder of Mont Blanc du Tacul.
After summiting this first peak, we will descend slightly, crossing a wide ice plateau, before making a steep ascent to the shoulder of Mont Maudit, which we should reach by dawn.
As the sun begins to rise over the horizon, we will descend once again toward the Colle Della Brenva, where we will take a short break before making the final ascent to Mont Blanc’s summit.
This last part is the hardest, so we will consume a high energy snack before setting off. These last 500 vertical metres are the toughest as the effects of the altitude begin to kick in. However, the rewards for getting to the top are well worth it. The panoramic views of Switzerland, Italy and France are unforgettable.
We will finish the trip with a descent down the same route or via the Goûter hut.
Keep in mind that this is a challenging climb that requires prior preparation and experience. A good fitness level and command of mountaineering technique.
Book now for this unforgettable mountaineering adventure to the summit of Mont Blanc!
If you like the look of this trip then we think you will also enjoy our 1-day guided ascent of Breithorn from the Italian side!
Price includes
- Guiding fee
Price details
- The price does not include the extra fees for accommodation at refuge, lift tickets and all the guide´s expenses (accommodation, meals, lift tickets, etc), extra meals and beverages, transport to the meeting point (if required).
Meeting point
Itinerary
Day 1: Courmayeur to Cosmiques Mountain Hut
In the morning, we'll assemble at the designated meeting point in Courmayeur, discuss the trip plan, and rent necessary gear. In the afternoon, we will transfer from Courmayeur to Chamonix and take the gondola to Aiguille du Midi.
By evening, we'll descend from Aiguille du Midi down a snow-covered crest and traverse a glacier to reach the Cosmiques mountain hut at 3,616 metres. After, we'll settle in and prepare for the early start the next day.
Day 2: Summit Day
At 2:00 AM, we will begin the climb with a short downhill section before starting the long ascent to the shoulder of Mont Blanc du Tacul (4,100 metres).
By early morning, we will summit Mont Blanc du Tacul, then descend slightly and cross a wide ice plateau.
Then, we will make a steep ascent to the shoulder of Mont Maudit (4,400 metres) and reach the shoulder as the sun rises. We will descend towards Colle Della Brenva and take a short break, consuming a high-energy snack in preparation for the final ascent.
Begin the final 500 vertical metre ascent to Mont Blanc’s summit (4,810 metres), overcoming the toughest part of the climb while dealing with the effects of altitude. We will enjoy panoramic views of Switzerland, Italy, and France from the summit.
In the early afternoon, we will begin the descent from the summit, returning via the same route or descending via the Goûter hut, depending on conditions and preferences. Finally, we will return to Chamonix, wrap up the adventure, and share experiences from the climb.
Details
More info
EQUIPMENT: Mountaineering boots, Backpack 30 l, Climbing helmet, Harness, Lanyard or daisychain, Ice-axe, Standard crampons with anti-balling plates, Collapsible trekking poles, Sleeping bag liner (mandatory in mountain huts), Mineral salts, Water bottle (1 l min) or thermos, Energy bars or dried fruit/nuts, Sunscreen (at least SPF 30) and UV protection lip balm, Personal first aid kit, Headlamp (with new batteries plus spares as backup), Vanity bag (toothbrush and toothpaste, paper tissues, wet wipes), Camera. CLOTHING: Wool cap/beanie or fleece-lined hat, Buff, Hiking socks (2 pairs), Sun hat, Wicking turtleneck (2nd layer), Gaiters, Waterproof shell jacket (Gore-Tex®, Paclite®, Conduit, etc.) (4th layer), Light backup gloves, 1 pair, Heavy insulated gloves 1 pair, Insulating garment made of Windstopper® or Primaloft® (3rd layer), Ski goggles, Mountaineering/glacier sunglasses, Shoeller climbing pants, Down jacket (optional), Waterproof overtrousers (Gore-Tex®, Paclite®, Conduit, K-Way®), Thermal leggings or tights, Breathable T-shirt (1st layer) 2x.
Equipment you will need to bring
Crampons
Ice axe
Harness
Water bottle
Backpack
FAQs
What is the route from Chamonix to Mont Blanc like?
The Cosmiques Route is a popular mountaineering path to the summit of Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest peak. The route starts at the Cosmiques mountain hut at 3,616 metres, traverses over Mont Blanc du Tacul (4,100 metres) and Mont Maudit (4,400 metres), before reaching the 4,810-meter high summit of Mont Blanc.
Where will we meet at the start of the trip to Mont Blanc?
The adventure begins in Courmayeur, where we will meet, discuss the plan, and rent gear. From Courmayeur, we will transfer to Chamonix and take the gondola to Aiguille du Midi.
How challenging is the climb?
The climb is challenging and requires prior preparation and experience in mountaineering. Participants need a good fitness level and command of mountaineering techniques. The last 500 vertical meters are particularly tough due to the altitude.
What should I bring for the Mont Blanc climb?
You should bring suitable mountaineering gear, which can be rented during the trip. Essential items include warm clothing, climbing boots, crampons, an ice axe, harness, helmet, and high-energy snacks
Can I book similar trips with you?
Yes, if you enjoy this trip, you may also be interested in our 1-day guided ascent of Breithorn from the Italian side.
What's included in the price?
The price includes the guiding fee.
What is not included in the price?
The price does not cover additional fees for accommodation at the refuge, lift tickets, or the guide's expenses (including accommodation, meals, lift tickets, etc.). Extra meals and beverages, as well as transport to the meeting point (if required), are also not included.
How can I get to Chamonix?
You can get to Chamonix from Geneva airport (or other destinations in the Alps) with Alps2Alps, a provider of ski & mountain transfers across the Alps (private or shared). You can book here: https://bit.ly/es-alpstransfers
What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?
About the guide
E-S Adventure Guides
4.9
(316)
Gauthier and the E-S Adventure Guides Team work with a trusted network of certified mountain guides, leaders, and rock climbing instructors (including Ann-Laure, Christophe, Ivan, Leo, Nolwenn, Willy, and others) to offer high-quality guided outdoor experiences in France and Belgium.
From bouldering in Fontainebleau to via ferrata and rock climbing around Dinant and Namur, each experience is led by an experienced local professional who knows the area inside out and adapts the day to your level and expectations.
Gauthier manages the booking process. He'll be helping you choose the right experience and ensuring everything is organized smoothly. Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll be connected directly with your guide to finalize the details and prepare your adventure together.
Whether you’re looking to discover outdoor climbing for the first time or build your skills in iconic locations across France and Belgium, the E-S Adventure Guides Team ensures a safe, personalized, and enjoyable experience.
Languages
| Italian | French | English
Certificates
UIMLA | UIAGM | IFMGA | DEJEPS | SNAPEC
What people are saying about E-S Adventure Guides
Christian
Ivan was excellent. 5 out of 5 stars.
Josh
Lorenzo
Fantastic experience, the instructor Willy is very knowledgeable and capable, recommended experience
Catriona
It was such a fun experience, as beginners in just a few hours we got some really helpful tips to improve our bouldering in general, as well as a great explanation on how to navigate the Fontainebleau maze and confidence to boulder outside independently in future. Ivan obviously really cares about protecting the rocks and the forest environment, his enthusiasm and volunteering his time sets such a good example. Also it was really kind to help us with a good walking trail for after the session and make sure we set off on the right way.
Sebastiaan
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