Explore-Share logo and link to home

Gran Paradiso Guided Ascent

Gran Paradiso Guided Ascent
Gran Paradiso Ascent
Gran Paradiso
Alps Gran Paradiso

Reach the summit of Gran Paradiso in the Aosta Valley, the highest mountain located 100% within Italy, together with one of our local IFMGA mountain guides.

Group

Alps

3 Days

Jun - Oct

High

Intermediate


Highlights

  • Reach the top of the highest mountain entirely within Italy.
  • Spend the night in a comfortable hut and taste delicious meals.
  • Contemplate stunning views from the summit!

Description

Join us on our Italian Alps adventure, with our main objective being the majestic Grand Paradiso!

Climbing the Gran Paradiso in Valsavarenche is an awesome mountaineering experience. It is a straightforward climb with amazing, rewarding views from the summit. Join us and let us show you this stunning peak!

At 4,061 m (13,323 ft), Gran Paradiso stands tall in the Alps, between the Aosta Valley and Piedmont regions in Italy. This beautiful mountain is relatively easy to climb, although the rocky terrain near the summit requires some prior mountaineering experience. On this program, we will show you the way to the top of this lovely peak, and you will experience all of its splendor.

During the first day of the trip, we’ll enjoy an easy 3-hour hike to Rifugio Chabod. Then, on day 2, we will climb to the summit of Gran Paradiso and enjoy the stunning views that have earned it its name before coming back down to the Victor Emmanuel refuge.

Before bidding farewell, we'll cap off our adventure with a contemplative ascent of Tresenta, offering splendid views of the Gran Paradiso massif. Then we'll descend to the Victor Emmanuel II refuge and return to the valley at the end of the afternoon.

This is a very special ascent because:

  • We may have the chance to observe Alpin animals (like ibex and chamois) on the way to the hut;
  • Italian huts are always very welcoming and the food is fantastic;
  • The views are breathtaking on the way up, down, and from the summit;
  • The Gran Paradiso is very often climbed by mountaineers who want to prepare and acclimatize for ascending Mont Blanc.

So, are you ready to discover this amazing mountain in the Italian Alps? Then don’t hesitate to contact us. It will be a pleasure to guide you!

Price includes

  • Accommodation included
  • Guiding fee
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Mountain guide expenses
  • Rope

Price details

  • Price includes
  • Guiding fee
  • The technical organization of the stay
  • Supervision by a high mountain guide.
  • Half-board accommodation in shelters
  • Picnics
  • Collective equipment necessary for safety.
  • Price does not include:
  • Travel provided by participants' vehicles (if none of the participants has a vehicle to transport the group by carpool, a private transfer will be offered: €450 round trip for the entire group to be paid on site)
  • Racing supplies
  • Individual technical equipment (If you need to rent part of it, we suggest that go to "Concept Pro Shop" in Chamonix. Just let them know you were referred by us to enjoy a 10% discount).
  • Drinks in shelters and personal expenses.
  • The round trip Chamonix-Valsavarenche
  • Insurance/assistance: cancellation, search and rescue costs by helicopter, compulsory hospitalization and repatriation

Itinerary

Day 1: Journey towards Chabod refuge

Starting from Chamonix early in the morning, you'll meet your guide for a briefing on the trip and equipment check, including rental if needed. Then, it's off to Italy's Valsavarenche valley, about 70km away. Once at the Pravieux mountain pasture (1834m), you'll begin your ascent to the Chabod refuge (2750m) along a well-marked path.

Elevation gain: 916 meters

Maximum Altitude: 2750 meters

Accommodation: Chabod Refuge.

Day 2: Ascent of Gran Paradiso

We'll set off very early for the ascent of Gran Paradiso, where you'll be able to catch a glimpse of Mont Viso, Monte Rosa, the Mont Blanc massif, and other peaks! This route features diverse glacial slopes, culminating in a rocky summit push to the Virgin Peak. Don't forget to capture this magical moment with a photo! Afterward, we'll descend to the Victor Emmanuel refuge.

Elevation gain: approximately 1350 meters

Max Altitude: 4061 meters

Accommodation: Refuge Victor Emmanuel II.

Day 3: Tresenta summit

We'll start the glacial ascent via the Montcorvé glacier, leading us to the summit scree of Tresenta (3609m)—yet another breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the Gran Paradiso massif.

We'll then descend to the Victor Emmanuel II refuge and make our way back to the valley by late afternoon.

Elevation gain: 877 meters

Elevation: 1650 meters

Max Altitude: 3609 meters

 

Details

Accommodation

Nights in shelters are spent in dormitories, blankets are provided. Toiletries will be kept to a minimum. Slippers are at your disposal, so there is no need to bring shoes for the refuge

Disclaimer

This itinerary is subject to modification at the discretion of the guide, should mountain conditions, weather, or the physical condition of the participants require it.

For safety purposes and to ensure a consistent standard in line with what's been announced, the management and organization reserve the right to terminate your participation if your technical skills and/or physical fitness don't meet the required standards.

Meeting point

Chamonix

Equipment you will need to bring

Crampons

Ice axe

Harness

Water bottle

Backpack

Rent on site

Helmet

Poles

Ski equipment

Sunglasses


FAQs

Can I join a group?

Yes, you can join one of our upcoming groups. Please check the 'JOIN A GROUP' section for available dates. A minimum of four participants is required to guarantee the trip. If we need to cancel a group departure because there are not enough participants, we will make this decision and inform you at least 30 days before the departure date. We will always try to find a solution before canceling a booking.

What equipment is provided, and what should I bring?

Here's a detailed list of equipment you will need for your Gran Paradiso climbing expedition.

Equipment Provided :

  • Collective gear (ropes).
  • Communal use of slippers (crocs) and blankets/quilts at the shelters.

Essential Equipment you need to have:

Technical Gear:

  • High mountain boots with rigid, crampon-compatible soles are mandatory (trekking shoes are insufficient).
  • A comfortable 40/50-liter mountaineering backpack with attachments for crampons, ice ax, and helmet.
  • An ice ax, crampons, a harness equipped with a screw-lock carabiner (note: carabiners are not available for rent, purchase required if you don’t own one), and a helmet.
  • One or two telescopic ski poles (depending on your preference); highly recommended, especially for descents.
  • A water bottle/thermos of at least 1.5 liters.
  • A headlamp with spare batteries and bulbs.
  • A pocket knife.
  • A rain cover for your backpack (optional).
  • A waterproof pouch for your money, identification documents (including blood type/lens wearer information if possible), insurance/assistance contract, and emergency contact numbers.
  • A pair of gaiters (not available for rent).
  • A sleeping bag liner (mandatory; blankets are provided at shelters; no sleeping bag needed).
  • A Ziploc bag with medications and minimal toiletries (toothpaste, lens solution, hand sanitizer)—generally no running water in shelters, consider alcohol-free wipes for personal hygiene (be mindful of weight).
  • A small tube of SPF 50 sunscreen for face and lips, plus after-sun lotion.

Personal Gear:

  • A beanie.
  • A sun hat or cap and/or a scarf.
  • Glacier glasses (category 4) + ski mask.
  • A balaclava (covers the entire head, very useful in extreme cold).
  • A pair of very warm mittens.
  • A pair of gloves made of fleece or wool.
  • A pair of liner gloves.
  • Two or three long-sleeve technical breathable base layers.
  • A breathable technical undershirt (lightweight fleece or similar).
  • A thick fleece jacket.
  • A down jacket or vest (optional but appreciated in very cold conditions).
  • A windproof, waterproof, and breathable jacket like Goretex.
  • A comfortable mountain pants for approach trails.
  • Windproof pants like Goretex for glacier travel.
  • A breathable technical legging.
  • Socks: three pairs of thin and two pairs of thick.
  • Nightwear for the evening at the Tour chalet on day three, plus toiletries.
  • Hand and/or foot warmers can be useful for those particularly sensitive to cold on summit day.

This equipment list is generic and intended to cover all potential weather conditions you may encounter in high mountain environments. Adapt it according to the specific conditions forecasted for your trip. Always remember that temperatures can drop significantly with altitude and wind chill, so always prepare warm clothing, even if valley temperatures are high.

For equipment rentals, we recommend Concept Pro Shop in Chamonix. Mention that you were referred by us to receive a 10% discount on your rental.

How are accommodation and meals arranged on the mountain?

You'll stay at Refuge Chabod for the 1st night, and Refuge Victor Emmanuel II for the 2nd night.

Accommodation:

You will stay in dormitory-style accommodations at mountain refuges. Blankets are provided, so there is no need for sleeping bags. Personal toiletries should be minimal due to space and environmental considerations. Slippers are available at the refuges, so there is no need to bring additional footwear for indoor use.

Meals:

  • Lunch: Picnics will be provided at midday.
  • Dinner: Enjoy traditional and hearty meals prepared by the refuge keepers in the evenings.
  • Snacks: It's a good idea to bring your own snack foods such as cereal bars, chocolate bars, and dried fruits according to your taste before departure. Feel free to bring small specialties from your region for the aperitifs!

Beverages:

Bottled water is available for purchase at the refuges. Tap water is normally available at our refuges unless there is a shortage. We recommend bringing water purification tablets (like Aquatabs) which allow you to safely consume tap water and stream water. Personal drinks such as coffee, fruit juices, beer, or soda are not included in the price of the stay. Please bring cash, as many refuges do not have card payment facilities.

What happens in the event of bad weather?

The itinerary may be modified at the discretion of the guide based on mountain conditions, weather forecasts, or the physical condition of participants. Please note that interruptions or changes due to weather conditions will not result in a refund or any compensation. This policy ensures that safety remains the top priority while accommodating the unpredictable nature of mountain weather.

What is included in the price, and what is not?

Included:

  • Technical organization of the stay: The planning and coordination required for the expedition.
  • Guidance: Professional supervision by a certified high mountain guide.
  • Accommodation: Half-board lodging in mountain refuges, including dinner and breakfast.
  • Meals: Picnics for lunch during the expedition.
  • Safety Equipment: Collective safety gear necessary for the group.

Not Included:

  • Transportation: Travel costs to and from Chamonix-Valsavarenche are not included. If participants do not have a vehicle for carpooling, a private transfer can be arranged for €450 (round trip) payable on-site by the group.
  • Personal Snacks: Snacks and personal food items during the expedition.
  • Individual Technical Equipment: Participants must bring their own specific technical gear. If you wish to rent part of it, we recommend Concept Pro Shop in Chamonix. Mention that you were referred by us to receive a 10% discount on your rental.
  • Beverages and Personal Expenses: Drinks at refuges and any other personal spending.
  • Insurance/Assistance: Cancellation, search and rescue costs (including helicopter rescue), hospitalization, and repatriation must be covered by personal insurance.
  • Anything else not specified in the 'Included' section.

Is there a recommended place for renting mountaineering equipment?

We suggest that you rent your equipment from Concept Pro Shop in Chamonix. Just let them know you were referred by us to enjoy a 10% discount.

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

We understand that finding the perfect place to stay is an essential part of your adventure experience. To help you with this, we’ve curated a list of three highly recommended hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm. These accommodations are well-suited for adventurers looking to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day of exploration
QC Terme Monte Bianco Pré Saint Didier Italy
See rooms
Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc Courmayeur Italy
See rooms
Hotel Locanda Belvedere Pré Saint Didier Italy
See rooms

About the guide

Request more information

What people are saying about this trip

Oliver

4

The trip is properly organized and includes the necessary bookings and administrative tasks. For unexperienced participants there could be some more explanations about how things work and what to take care of. The guide himself for sure is a nice person, but is really not suited for a such a role. Some actions were slightly annoying and some were just dangerous and nothing else. Additionally there should be at least a really short introduction to people who never stood on crampons how to walk on them or how you do rock climbing if you are tied together to and therefore responsible for other people.

Jeremy

5

Perfect experience with a wonderful guide

Benjamin

5

I had a truly fantastic experience with Gabriele. He was a very experienced, careful guide. He was very considerate and encouraging and I was very fortunate to have this climbing experience.

Dharam

5

Really enjoyed it. Organization of the trip and Guide was awesome.

Harry

5

A 60 ans, j'avais besoin de prouver que mon organisme était encore capable de se surpasser. C'était un test pour l'ascension du KILI. Attention prévenir les novices comme moi à bien s'alimenter lors de l'ascension sous peine de manquer d'énergie dans les 100 derniers mètres de l'ascension du Grand Paradis. Aventure inoubliable. Merci à Andréa.


You may also like

Join our newsletter!

Stay up-to-date on the best adventures.