France·June - September
HIKING THE TMB: TOUR DU MONT BLANC
A 4-day adventure on the World's most famous hiking itinerary around Europe's highest mountain, Mont Blanc.
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Overview
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Tour du Mont Blanc circuit as you immerse yourself in the splendor of the Alps. Starting from Chamonix, our 4-day guided hike will get you through Val Ferret, Switzerland's La Fouly, Lac to Trient and Col De Balme for an immersive experience around the Italian, French and Swiss Alps.
Highlights
The Ultimate Alpine Odyssey!
Join us on a remarkable 4-day hiking expedition that circumnavigates Europe's crown jewel, Mont Blanc. Traverse across the borders of Italy, Switzerland, and France as you immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Alps. Our expertly curated itinerary guarantees an unforgettable journey, leading you through iconic spots like Val Ferret Valley, Grand Ferret Pass, and the picturesque Champex. Explore diverse landscapes and relish the camaraderie of fellow passionate hikers who share your level of experience. Embark on this unparalleled adventure with AlpsAdventures and experience Mont Blanc like never before!
Trailblazing the Tour du Mont Blanc
Unleash your inner adventurer on our latest offering - a thrilling 4-day hiking escapade through the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc trails. Discover hidden gems like Val Ferret valley, Grand Ferret Pass, and Lac du Trient, each a testament to the breathtaking diversity of the Alps. Trek through Italy, Switzerland, and France, and relish the challenge of Col De Balme. Our meticulously planned journey guarantees an immersive experience, tailored to your hiking proficiency. Forge lasting connections with fellow explorers who share your passion and skill level. Experience the enchantment of the Mont Blanc region with AlpsAdventures!
Elevate Your Hiking Experience with Mapo Tapo's Camaraderie
Elevate your hiking journey with Mapo Tapo's signature camaraderie! Embark on an exhilarating 4-day trek, tracing the remarkable Tour du Mont Blanc circuit. Traverse three countries, indulge your senses in Val Ferret Valley, conquer Grand Ferret Pass, and unwind at Champex. Our unique approach ensures you hike with like-minded enthusiasts who match your experience level. Whether you're a seasoned trailblazer or a novice explorer, our meticulously organized trips cater to your proficiency. Forge deep connections, share stories, and conquer challenges together. Mapo Tapo - where camaraderie meets the stunning Mont Blanc adventure!
Local Partners
AlpsAdventures are a group of friends who have worked in the outdoors for over 20 years each. They have lived worldwide and have an incredible wealth of outdoor experience and qualifications. They all love, work, and play in the Alps.
Tom
Tom is an International Mountain Leader, Climbing Instructor, Mountain Instructor Summer, Kayak Guide, Norwegian High Mountain Guide... shall we continue? He has led multiple hiking trips on TMB, and he can't wait for the next one!
The Experience
The Tour du Mont Blanc typically takes between 7 to 11 days to complete, however, we will hike for 4 days through 3 of the best stages this circuit has to offer
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DAY 1
Day 1: Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti, Val Ferret - An Immersive Start
Embark on a captivating journey as you kick off your Tour du Mont Blanc trek from Courmayeur to Rifugio Bonatti. Departing from either Geneva Airport (8 AM) or Vert Lodge in Chamonix (9 AM), you'll be seamlessly transported to the Italian side of Mont Blanc. Prepare to be enthralled by the awe-inspiring Mont Blanc Massif vistas while ascending the Val Ferret valley.
You'll reach the serene Rifugio W. Bonatti in the afternoon with a 6-kilometer, 550 meters of elevation gain hike. Marvel at the tranquil surroundings and get ready for the adventure ahead.
DAY 2
Day 2: Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly - Conquer the Grand Ferret Pass
We will be hiking across mountainous landscapes from Rifugio Bonatti to La Fouly, for 16 kilometers and 870 meters of elevation gain.
Ascend toward the Switzerland border and relish stunning views of Mont Blanc's south face. Pause for a well-deserved break before conquering the pinnacle of your hike - the Grand Ferret Pass, standing proudly at 2,536 meters. Your journey continues as you descend into Switzerland, passing a local farm offering delightful cheese samples. Your day culminates in the charming village of La Fouly.
DAY 3
Day 3: Champex-Lac to Trient - Alpine Charm and Breathtaking Views
This is going to be a day of exhilarating contrasts, commencing with a gentle descent through enchanting woods from Champex-Lac. The challenging ascent to Bovine follows, renowned for its delectable rosti. In the afternoon, descend through the iconic Col de la Forclaz, a historic route of the Tour De France cycle race. Complete your day's trek with a picturesque descent to the Swiss haven of Trient.
We will be hiking for approximately 18.5 kilometers and 810 meters of elevation gain.
DAY 4
Day 4: Trient to Le Tour - A Grand Finale with Mont Blanc's Splendor
Prepare for an early start on your final day of trekking (11 kilometers, 1000 meters of elevation gain), tracing your steps back into France from Trient. Ascend to the majestic Col De Balme, treating your senses to unparalleled Mont Blanc panoramas. The afternoon offers a pleasant descent through meadows, culminating in Le Tour.
A bus ride to Vert Lodge awaits, where you'll bid farewell to this extraordinary adventure. For those homeward-bound, transfers to Geneva Airport commence at 4:30 pm. Opt for flights post 8:30 pm to accommodate potential mountain or transit delays.
The programme is very flexible to take into account weather conditions, activities level and endurance of the group.
Gallery
Exploring Mount Blanc's surroundings
Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak, boasts awe-inspiring natural beauty that captivates hikers from around the globe.
The Tour du Mont Blanc, a legendary trek encircling the mountain, promises an unforgettable adventure amidst breathtaking vistas. Traversing through France, Italy, and Switzerland, the trail unveils majestic glaciers, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and lush meadows teeming with wildflowers. Each step reveals a new panorama, rewarding hikers with unparalleled scenes of rugged peaks and serene valleys. This iconic journey is a testament to Mont Blanc's allure, drawing outdoor enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in its pristine wilderness and unparalleled hiking potential.
Basecamp
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Mountain huts
We stay in mountain refuges (huts) which are quite basic/dormitory-style with shared rooms and bathrooms. Electricity, warm showers, and snacks are available. Most have Wifi or 4G: some are in 4G areas, some are not, and sometimes it depends on the weather! Bedding will be provided for you in each hut - you just need to bring a sleeping bag liner, which you can buy from Alps Adventures if you need to. All have charging points for your electronic devices.
Night 1: Rifugio Bonatti - remote, awesome views, showers, dorm room.
Night 2: Relais d’Arpette - mountain views, car accessible, showers, dorm room.
Night 3: La Grande Ourse Hotel - mountain views, awesome bar and garden, next to the pink church, car accessible, showers, dorm room.
What's Included
What's Included
Accommodation
Dinners
UIMLA Certified Guide
Accident Insurance
Breakfast
Transfer from/to Geneva airport at specified times
What's Not Included
Flights
Food and drinks
Personal items/gear
Lunches and snacks
Everything not specified in the paragraph “What is included”
More Info
Hiking skills
It is important that you are steady on your feet and have experience walking on mountain paths. Do try and get some practice in before you come. We go at a slow steady pace that everyone can keep up with. We will be hiking up to 18.5 km in a single day (day 3) for an average estimated hiking time of 6-8 hours per day.
Liability
Mapo Tapo selects itineraries and local partners with the utmost care. We can for any inaccuracies, however, accept no liability. Hiking is a potentially risky sport that takes place in nature. Ultimately, you are fully responsible for the choices you make.
Travel
Please only book your flights after the trip is confirmed. Most of our trips need a minimum number of participants to run, so to avoid disappointment wait for a confirmation email before booking any non-refundable transport.
Blog Posts
Wed 21 Jun 2023 · Hiking tips
A complete guide for backpacking in the Alps
Embarking on a backpacking journey through the majestic Alps is a dream for many outdoor enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide explores the possibilities of backpacking in the Alps and provides valuable insights to make your adventure successful.
Thu 13 Jul 2023 · Hiking destinations
A Comprehensive Guide To The Mont Blanc Hike and Tour du Mont Blanc
You can now stop wondering whether you'll ever be able to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc or not. Here, you'll find every kind of information, data, estimated times, how much it costs and different solutions to tackle arguably the best hiking trail n the world.
Wed 21 Jun 2023 · Hiking tips
Stop Confusing Between Hiking And Trekking: 5 Main Differences
Let's shout it: hiking and trekking are not the same thing. From duration and difficulty to gear and self-sufficiency, uncover the unique experiences offered by hiking and trekking.
Wed 21 Jun 2023 · Hiking tips
Stop Confusing Between Hiking And Trekking: 5 Main Differences
Let's shout it: hiking and trekking are not the same thing. From duration and difficulty to gear and self-sufficiency, uncover the unique experiences offered by hiking and trekking.
FAQs
How do I get to Chamonix? Where will you pick me up?
Your transfers are included to Chamonix on the first day of your trip only, and back on the final day only. You meet the transfer just outside the Montreux Jazz Cafe, Geneva Airport. This transfer will leave the airport at 8 AM on the day of arrival (with or without you!), and return by 6.30 PM on the day of departure.
However, if you are travelling there or back on a different day (to make the most of your time away), you can take a shared transfer from the airport to Chamonix. You can book the hotel and/or a transfer, with a discount code, via this link https://www.vertlodge.com.
If you are arriving early we will meet you at the Vert Lodge, Chamonix, from 9 AM on Day 1.
If you are staying in Chamonix after the trip we will drop you at the Vert Lodge, Chamonix by 4 PM on the final day.
Do I need travel insurance?
NO. The booking fee also includes out accident insurance.
Is the Certified Hiking Guide included?
YES. You will be accompanied by Certified Hiking Guides (UIMLA, Union of International Mountain Leaders Association) from AlpsAdventures for the whole duration of the trip. They are eligible to guide you through all terrains on the Tour du Mont Blanc.
What are our normal heights and distances?
Day 1: Distance 6 km, Ascend 550m, Descend 50m. Walking Time 3.5 hours
Day 2: Distance 16 km, Ascend 870m, Descend 1290m, Walking Time 8 hours
Day 3: Distance 18.5 km, Ascend 810m, Descend 1000m, Walking Time 7 hours
Day 4: Distance 11 km, Ascend 1000m, Descend 1192m, Walking Time 6 Hours
NB: We may have to change the plan if conditions require it.
What is the terrain like?
STUNNING! The trek involves a fair bit of ascent and descent on a mix of trails. This includes rocky terrain, forest trails, and sometimes gravel tracks. It is important that you are steady on your feet and have experience walking on mountain paths. Do try and get some practice in before you come. We go at a slow steady pace that everyone can keep up with.
What currency do I need?
Euros (EUR) and Swiss Francs (CHF). You can get this at the airport ATM. You need at least 100 EUR & 100CHF spending money for drinks and lunches, tips and souvenirs.
Do you cater to dietary requirements?
Yes, but please let us know in advance via your trip form. We, and the hut guardians, will do our best to accommodate your requirements.
How do I make this trip a success?
By being a good member of a team. Teamwork is crucial on any trip and with this trip, there will be times when you are doing well and when you need help, so look out for everyone, be positive and supportive, and have a strong can-do attitude.
Dates
June 19 - 22 2024
FROM$801/pp
July 4 - 7 2024
FROM$801/pp
July 11 - 14 2024
FROM$801/pp
July 18 - 21 2024
FROM$801/pp
July 25 - 28 2024
FROM$801/pp
August 1 - 4 2024
FROM$801/pp
August 8 - 11 2024
FROM$801/pp
August 15 - 18 2024
FROM$801/pp
August 22 - 25 2024
FROM$801/pp
August 30 - September 2 2024
FROM$801/pp
September 5 - 8 2024
FROM$801/pp
September 12 - 15 2024
FROM$801/pp
September 19 - 22 2024
FROM$801/pp