Climb the Matterhorn via the Hörnli Ridge – 2-Day Guided Ascent
Join IFMGA-certified guide Nejc for a thrilling 2-day climb of the Matterhorn (4,478 m) via the iconic Hörnli Ridge. This classic alpine route offers an unforgettable challenge for experienced mountaineers.
Private
Alps
2 Days
Jul, Aug
High
Advanced
Highlights
- Climb one of the most iconic peaks in the world.
- Guided ascent via the historic Hörnli Ridge with IFMGA guide Nejc.
- Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the summit at 4,478 m.
Description
The Matterhorn’s pyramidal silhouette is one of the most iconic images of the Alps. Towering at 4,478 meters, it has long captured the imagination of mountaineers across the world. This 2-day guided ascent via the Hörnli Ridge, led by IFMGA-certified guide Nejc, is your chance to climb one of the most legendary peaks in Europe.
The Hörnli Ridge (Hörnligrat) is the classic route to the summit. Though not technically extreme, it requires confidence in exposed terrain, solid movement over mixed rock and snow, and a high level of fitness. The route follows the historic first ascent line from 1865, with climbing up to UIAA III–IV, and includes fixed ropes, rock scrambling, and short snow passages.
The Experience
- Day 1 begins with the approach to the Hörnli Hut at 3,260 meters, reached via well-marked trails and rocky sections. The afternoon allows for rest, acclimatization, and a detailed route briefing.
- Day 2 is summit day. You’ll set off before dawn to climb the exposed Hörnli Ridge. After several hours of sustained climbing, you’ll stand atop the Matterhorn with breathtaking views of the Monte Rosa massif, Dent Blanche, and other 4000ers. The descent follows the same route back to the hut and down to Zermatt.
This short but intense alpine program is ideal for experienced mountaineers looking for a professionally guided, safe, and unforgettable ascent of one of the Alps’ greatest classics. If you are not confident enough to go for the 2-day ascent, I also offer a 3-day Matterhorn climb via Hornli ridge with preparation in Breithorn.
Request to book now and take your place on the summit of the Matterhorn.
Price includes
- Guiding fee
Meeting point
Itinerary
Day 1: Zermatt-Hörnli Hut
– Approach from Zermatt to the Hörnli Hut (3,260 m) – Ascent on marked trails and rocky terrain – Rest, acclimatization, route briefing and overnight in the hut
Day 2: Matterhorn summit
– Early start (~4 a.m.) – Climb the Hörnli Ridge to the summit of the Matterhorn (4,478 m) – Descend via the same route – Return to Zermatt by evening
Details
Accommodation
Overnight at the Hörnli Hut (not included in the price)
More info
- This trip is highly dependent on weather and conditions. Flexibility is key.
- Guide-to-client ratio is always 1:1 for safety.
Equipment you will need to bring
Required Gear List:
Mountaineering boots (crampon-compatible)
Crampons and ice axe
Climbing harness and helmet
Headlamp with extra batteries
Warm layers (base layer, insulation, shell)
Gloves and hat
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Backpack (30–35 L)
Snacks, water, and any personal medication
FAQs
What experience and how fit do I need to be to climb this mountain? Is this program suitable for children or older people?
The trip is only suitable for experienced and fit climbers, with:
- Excellent physical condition (12–14 hours of sustained effort)
- Experience with crampons, ice axe, and exposed alpine terrain
- Sure-footedness and comfort with UIAA III–IV climbing on rock and mixed ground
Do I need prior alpine experience?
Absolutely. This climb is suitable for mountaineers with extense previous experience using crampons and an ice axe on mixed terrain, and experienced in roped climbing.
Can I do this climb without prior acclimatization?
No. It is strongly recommended to be acclimatized before attempting the climb to reduce risk and increase success.
About the guide
Nejc
4.7
(9)
Mountain Guide
Mountains have been a part of my life since childhood. I started doing more serious mountaineering expeditions at the end of high school after successfully completing all levels of mountain climbing courses. In the last 10 years, I have been at least on one expedition every year. I climbed in Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, the USA, Scotland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, France, Swiss, Italy, Japan, Pakistan, Tibet and Nepal.
I completed my training as a mountaineering guide and became a full member of the IFMGA family.
I enjoy climbing both Slovenian and foreign mountains.
Some of my most unforgettable and also the most successful routes:
Tsoboje - Slovenian direct (2021)
Kang Ri - East pillar (2013)
Janak - Blue racer (2012)
K7 West - The dreamers of the golden caves (2011)
The route I climbed on K7 West was rewarded with Piolet d’or recognition for mountaineering achievements in the world.
If you want to climb the north face of Triglav (Slovenia’s highest mountain) or any other walls in Slovenia, please contact me. I also enjoy guiding ski trails in winter in the Julian Alps.
Languages
Slovenian | English
Certificates
ZGVS | IFMGA
What people are saying about Nejc
margriet
We succesfully climbed Jungfrau and Monch with Nejc and his collegue Martin. It was a fantastic experience. Both were very helpfull and professional during our trip. The mittellegi ridge was unfortunately not possible due to the weather (too much snow) the mittellegi hut was closed. Instead, we drove to Zermatt for some better weather conditions en climbed Matterhorn until Solvay Bivak, a memorable experience. Thank you Nejc and Martin for a wonderful trip!
Hans
He made sure I manage to climbe Matterhorn. Im forever thankfull for that. I dont climb often but make to have time for the client to enjoy the view and get the few very "cool" pictures from the trip. Nothing more :)
Hadi
Nejc is a really friendly yet professional guide and I was very happy with the guidance and coaching he provided. He possesses strong technical skills as well as fantastic planning for the hike. I successfully summited Matterhorn with him, a magical experience.
Damian
Nejc is a phenomenal guide. Way better than I could have hoped for and clearly the best guide on the mountain as was evidenced by a number of other guides following his route when they were more than a little off course. Can’t give enough stars
Shannon
What a great day with Nejc! It may have been white out conditions with clouds but the climb and summit was amazing! Nejc was a joy to climb with and an incredible guide! Picked me up and we headed out to the park. He has so much experience as an elite alpinist and a great personality. Would love to climb again with him! Highly recommend Nejc and this trip.
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