Tour Du Mont Blanc Trek Adventure Planner

August 5-14th, 2023

Welcome To Your Adventure: There is ALOT of information listed. Please take your time to review everything.

Currently there are no covid test results that need to be shown to fly out of Switzerland to enter the USA. If you are traveling to another destination please be sure to check travel requirements. Please do make sure you have your vaccination card showing proof that you are fully vaccinated as this could be requested at any time. 

If you have questions, please refer to the bottom of this page as we have FAQ’s for this trip listed. 

We highly recommend flying in a day early just in case something happens with flight delays. For example, fly into Geneva and stay the first night, then take a train to Chamonix in the morning. (transportation is not provided to Chamonix).

To arrange arrival and departure transfers between the Geneva Airport and the hotel in Chamonix, please click HERE

We advise that you book both your arrival and departure transfers in advance. Please make sure you have the following TRAVEL DETAILS before booking:

– Flight number
– Flight Arrival Time and Date
– Flight Departure Time and Date
– Passenger’s Name
– Number of Passengers
– Email
– Valid Mobile Telephone Number
– Drop off and/or Pick Up Address

Alternate to transfer company:

We will not actually start our adventure until the Welcome Meeting on the first day in Chamonix. 

We will be traveling through 3 countries, and will need to abide by the each countries mandates. 

About this trip

**WE CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH, THIS IS A TOUGH HIKE THAT YOU MUST TRAIN FOR!** See Training below for more information

In 2018 we took our first group on the world-famous TMB. It was life-changing. No words can do the beauty of this trek any justice; no photo captures the majesty and beauty. You will see things you’ve never seen and feel a sense of accomplishment not known before. Come and experience the rarified air of Europe as you trek the Alps from France to Italy and Switzerland along the Tour du Mont Blanc. This challenging hiking circuit will reward you with mesmerizing views of glaciers, steep valleys, and, of course, Mont Blanc itself. Travel across high passes and through Alpine meadows, recharging at night with delicious mountain cuisine in simple refuges. Challenge yourself to conquer one of the world’s premiere hiking routes, uncovering the alpine heart of Europe on this incredible active adventure. The Tour du Mont Blanc is arguably the most famous multi-day trek in Europe, forming a circuit of Western Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc (4,808m). The TMB offers some of the best Alpine hiking in the world; our guided tour takes you on an 11-stage adventure with one rest day in Courmayeur around this spectacular hiking route.

The TMB is a challenging multi-day trek. You will need to train to be fully prepared and genuinely enjoy the experience. Each day you will hike many miles, ascend and descend 4,000 plus feet and challenging your mind, body, and spirit. Your reward is conquering a trail very few take the time to see and experiencing Europe in such a unique way as you pass through three countries along the route. My1FitLife Adventures will give you ideas and suggestions for training, and we will encourage you to start months in advance. We want everyone on the trek to have the time of their lives, and that requires we are all prepared.

**Please note, these adventures are planned far in advance, and sometimes things come up that are unforeseen or unplanned. With that forethought, know the group will be accompanied on this adventure by Keith, or Michelle, and/or My1FitLife Ambassador.

We have seen first hand the need for travel insurance. Whether it be flight cancellations, theft, sickness, or pandemic issues, we now require each guest to purchase this. It is a very affordable and could save you a lot of headaches! My1FitLife uses World Nomads, however, please use which ever company you are comfortable with. Please make sure you fully understand your coverage to ensure all aspects are covered. Our guides will need this information for confirming your hotel accommodation. 

Please be sure to inquire and fully understand about the coverage your policy includes in the case of COVID. 

Packing List

Please take a time to watch Keith’s Packing video HERE as well. 

If you missed any of the Zoom calls, we have put together a list of additional FAQ’s that were asked HERE. You can see more questions below.

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)

Essentials:
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards (we suggest having at least $250 cash for guide tips as well as spending money at refuges as you cannot count on debit/cards use)
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs/night shades (please respect others sleeping habits. EVERYONE needs a good nights sleep for the hikes each day)
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear- for hiking and to change into for refuges
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (some places could require these)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Mont Blanc Trekking:
• Hiking Pack (required) (Max 40 litres capacity – it is essential to pack light as you will be carrying your own gear.)
• Rain gear (required) (Jacket and pants, must be windproof and waterproof. We recommend using a jacket with a hood made of Gortex or similar fabric, and advise against bringing pac-a-macs or ponchos.)
• Sleeping bag liner/sleep sheet (required) (Cotton or silk liners are essential to use at the refuges.)
• Clothing (We recommend bringing 1 outfit to wear during the evenings and days off, preferably lightweight top and bottoms.)
• Fleece jacket or warm layer
• Gloves (We recommend packing warm gloves in case of cold and wet weather.)
• Hat (For cool weather, a warm beanie is most appropriate. For sunny weather, a wide brimmed hat or cap. We recommend preparing for both weather conditions.)
• Hiking boots (We recommend hiking boots instead of hiking shoes, as boots provide better ankle support on rough terrain and protection from snow early in the season.)
• Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended. We recommend 2 pairs of trousers, and 1 pair of shorts.)
• Lightweight wicking shirts
• Long-sleeved shirt for hiking
• Pack liners to waterproof bags (A rucksack liner or large Ziploc bags/dry bag(s) to keep clothes and equipment dry inside your backpack in case of rain.)
• Quick-dry socks (Trekking socks (woollen or synthetic, not cotton). We recommend packing 2-3 pairs.)
• Shoes/sandals (Sport sandals, flip-flops or light sneakers to wear at the refuges is optional, as most refuges have crocs available to wear during your stay.)
• Snacks (Protein bars, chocolate, dried fruits, candies, energy sweets. You will be able to purchase these along the way.)
• Thermal base layer (Woollen or synthetic, not cotton.)

Note: This is a mountain trek going up to over 2500m/8000ft, therefore it is important that hikers are prepared for changing weather conditions (especially in the June and September).

When choosing your gear please bear in mind that the best clothing for trekking is either wool or synthetic materials, as these are quick-drying and can keep heat in better. The optimum clothing system for trekking is layering, as it allows for easy temperature regulation as you ascend or descend. We suggest a base-layer, then a mid-layer such as a sweater, followed by a fleece jacket or similar, then a windproof and waterproof jacket. For your bottom half, thermal underwear, hiking pants then windproof and waterproof layers are recommended.

Hiking poles are strongly recommended, especially for departures in June and early in the season. Hiking gear is not available for rent in Chamonix. If you require additional items (poles, rain gear etc.) it may be purchased.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS

  • Money belt or hidden pocket
  • Neck wallet
  • Undercover Bra Stash for credit cards and cash only
  • Leg wallet
  • Incognito All Terrain Money Belt which looks like a real belt!
  • Luggage Travel Lock
  • Reflective clothing and luggage accessories
  • Bring a headlamp or mini flashlight, better to be safe than unprepared

Wearing a money belt or neck wallet lets you keep your valuables close to your body and away from prying hands.

Be sure to check out My1FitLife Adventures Recommended Gear List

Transportation / Accommodations

Transportation

Arrive at any time. The Geneva Airport lies closest to the Tour duMont Blanc. You can book a shuttle or train directly to Chamonix. Transportation to Chamonix is not included. 

Our circuit begins and ends in Chamonix, France.

Accommodation

More information for that will be released as we get closer. The types of accommodations will be listed below in the itinerary. Specifics may be listed closer to the adventure.

Important Forms

The World Health Organization has declared the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) a worldwide pandemic. Due to its capacity to transmit from person to person through respiratory droplets, the government has set recommendations, guidelines, and some prohibitions which XYZ Company, LLC. (the “Organization”) adheres to comply.

In consideration of my participation in the foregoing, the undersigned acknowledge and agree to the following:

I am aware of the existence of the risk on my physical appearance to the venue and my participation in the activity of the Organization that may cause injury or illness such as, but not limited to Influenza, MRSA, or COVID-19 that may lead to paralysis or death.
I have not experienced symptoms that of fever, fatigue, difficulty in breathing, or dry cough, or exhibiting any other symptoms relating to COVID-19 or any communicable disease within the last 14 days.
I have not, nor any member(s) of my household, traveled by sea or by air, internationally within the past 30 days.
I did not, nor any member of my household, visit any area within the United States that was reported to be highly affected by COVID-19, in the last 30 days.
I have not been, nor any member(s) of my household, diagnosed to be infected with the COVID-19 virus within the last 30 days.

Following the pronouncements above I hereby declare the following:

I am fully and personally responsible for my own safety and actions while and during my participation and I recognize that I may be in any case be at risk of contracting COVID-19.
With full knowledge of the risks involved, I hereby release, waive, discharge the Organization, its board, officers, independent contractors, affiliates, employees, representatives, successors, and assigns from any and all liabilities, claims, demands, actions, and causes of action whatsoever, directly or indirectly arising out of or related to any loss, damage, injury, or death, that may be sustained by me related to COVID-19 while participating in any activity while in, on, or around the premises or while using the facilities that may lead to unintentional exposure or harm due to COVID-19.
I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Organization from and against any and all costs, expenses, damages, lawsuits, and/or liabilities or claims arising whether directly or indirectly from or related to any and all claims made by or against any of the released party due to injury, loss, or death from or related to COVID-19.
By signing below I acknowledge that I have read the foregoing Liability Release Waiver and understand its contents; that I am at least eighteen (18) years old and fully competent to give my consent; That I have been sufficiently informed of the risks involved and give my voluntary consent in signing it as my own free act and deed; that I give my voluntary consent in signing this Liability Release Waiver as my own free act and deed with full intention to be bound by the same, and free from any inducement or representation.

This waiver will remain effective until laws and mandates relevant to COVID-19 are lifted.

COVID-19 Daily Self- Screening Questions

Do you have a fever (temperature over 100.4F or 38C) without reducing medications?

Do you a loss of smell or taste?

Do you have a cough?

Do you have muscle aches?

Do you have a sore throat?

Do you have shortness of breath?

Do you have chills?

Do you have a headache?

Have you experienced any gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite?

Have you, or anyone you have been in close contact with, been diagnosed with COVID-19 or placed in quarantine for possible exposure to COVID-19?

Have you been asked to self-isolate or quarantine by a medical professional or a local public health official?

If you reply YES to any of the questions in the checklist, stay home.

If you begin to feel ill while at work, you should immediately go home. If possible, avoid all public transportation, or ridesharing. See the “What Should I Do If I Feel Sick” under Novel Coronavirus Virus (COVID-19), Frequently Asked Questions…located on Student Health Services Website. You will be expected to leave campus and self-isolate until all appropriate criteria for your return are met.

Training

This hike is HARD

We highly encourage you to use our 3 Month Training Guide which can be found HERE

Trip Outline

If you are coming in early please be sure to make your own accommodations. 

Aug. 5th – DAY 1- Adventure officially begins

Welcome To Chamonix France -Arrive Chamonix

Arrive at any time.

Our circuit begins and ends in Chamonix, France.

This evening is our first opportunity to try out some of the best Alpine specialities in a typical restaurant, such as Cheese fondue, Tartiflette or Raclette accompanied with some famous “Vin de Savoie” wine.

17:00 Evening: As this is a challenging active trek, demanding good fitness and equipment, it is very important that you arrive on time for this briefing to learn more about the route and to hear your leader’s recommendations on equipment. Please make every effort to arrive on time. If you are delayed,  we  will leave you a message detailing where they can be contacted and when to meet later in the evening or early the following morning.

 

Aug. 6 – DAY 2

Chamonix/Les Contamines-Montjoie

Travel to Les Houches and enjoy a 24km (14 mi) hike through the stunning countryside to Les Contamines and savour a delicious dinner in the evening.

We set off this morning after breakfast for our first day of hiking. We’ll take the bus to the village of Les Houches, where we begin with a cable car ride to Bellevue. From here on a clear day you’ll enjoy great views of the Chamonix Valley and the Mont Blanc Range, before beginning our hike to Les Contamines.

Local Bus

Chamonix – Les Houches

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Mont Blanc Trek – Les Houches to Les Contamines-Montjoie

Les Houches – Les Contamines-Montjoie8h30m24km

Hike past the Bioniassay glacier and the rolling slopes of Col du Tricot (if weather permits,) afterwards descend into the Valley of Les Contamines-Montjoie. Then climb up along an old Roman ridge and past an original Roman bridge. Arrive to the Gîte in a valley that leads to the Col du Bonhomme and stop for the night for a well-deserved rest.

Approximate hiking time is 8.5hrs. 900m – 2952ft ascent, 1300m – 4265ft descent

Accommodation: Refuge Nant Borrant (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

 

Aug. 7 – DAY 3

Les Contamines-Montjoie/Les Chapieux

Hike the challenging 18km (11 mi) from Les Contamines to Les Chapieux.

Mont Blanc Trek – Les Contamines-Montjoie to Les Chapieux

Les Contamines-Montjoie – Les Chapieux7h18km
Begin the steep ascent to the Col Du Bonhomme, then hike to the Croix du Bonhomme and stop for lunch. While eating your meal, enjoy the amazing view of the Vallee des Chapieux. Descend to Les Chapieux for the night. Today the group will tackle steep uphill and downhill routes on rough terrain, this part of the tour can be extremely difficult but hikers’ feeling of satisfaction after climbing the Col du Bonhomme make the challenges worthwhile.

Approximate hiking time is 7 hours. 1300m – 4265ft ascent, 900m – 2952ft descent

Accommodation: Auberge de la Nova (or similarHostel

Meals included: Breakfast|Dinner

 

Aug. 8 – DAY 4

Les Chapieux to Courmayeur

Pass glacial lakes on the 23km (14 mi) trek from Les Chapieux to the Italian town of Courmayeur.

Mont Blanc Trek – Les Chapieux to Courmayeur

Les Chapieux – Courmayeur5h23-28km

Climb through open pastures and snowfield to Col de la Seigne and the border with Italy. Pass by picturesque glacier lakes while descending into beautiful Val Veny. Continue on a 45 minute descent to Rifugio Elisabetta, then a further 45 minute descent will bring the group to La Visaille. From this small hamlet take a bus or taxi to the picturesque town of Courmayeur, Italy.

Approximate hiking time is 5hrs. 750m – 2460ft ascent, 800m – 2625ft descent

Free Time

Courmayeur Evening

Free time to explore what the biggest town in the Italian Mont Blanc circuit has to offer such as restaurants and bistros.

 

Aug. 9 – DAY 5

Free Day – Explore Courmayeur

The picturesque mountain town of Courmayeur is an ideal backdrop for a free day. Opt to ride a cable car to Pointe Helbronner or go for a day hike.

Today we have a scheduled rest day to put up our weary feet or take the opportunity to enjoy the lovely town of Courmayeur and La Saxe.

Enjoy an optional dinner with the group and our leader to taste some of the Italian Alpine specialities offered in Courmayeur’s many atmospheric restaurants.

Free Time

Courmayeur – Full Day
Relax and enjoy the mountain scenery or enjoy one of the optional activities available here.

Optional Activities – 

Spa Centre of Pré St Didier Courmayeur (1h-3h50EUR per person) Enjoy an indulgent thermal bath or massage to relax those well-worked
muscles at the amazing Spa Centre of Pré St Didier.

Cable Car Ride to Pointe Helbronner Courmayeur (52EUR per person) Enjoy a magnificent cable car ride to Pointe Helbronner and back — the views are stunning.

Cable Car Ride to Pointe Helbronner

Courmayeur52EUR per personEnjoy a magnificent cable car ride to Pointe Helbronner and back — the views are stunning
Rafting
Courmayeur2h-4h30-95EUR per personRaft down the scenic Dora Baltea River in the Aosta Valley.
Aosta Visit
Aosta5h-6h7EUR per personGet to know this charming bilingual city nestled in the Italian Alps. It offers many sights to explore, including the ancient town walls of Augusta Prætoria Salassorum, still preserved almost in their entirety, and an ancient Roman amphitheatre.

Accommodation: Hotel Cristallo (or similar)

Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast

 

Aug. 10 -DAY 6

Courmayeur/Val Ferret

Hike the 14km (8.6 mi) from Courmayeur to the Italian Val Ferret. It’s a steep climb but the rewarding views are worth it.

Mont Blanc Trek – Courmayeur to Val Ferret

Courmayeur – Val Ferret5h14-20km

Lace those hiking boots back up! Start the steep climb up to Rifugio Bertone with the best view of the Mont Blanc Massif. Hike along the Mont de la Saxe, taking the balcony path facing the ridge of the Grandes Jorasses. Stop for a picnic lunch and take in the unforgettable view. Continue to Rifugio Bonatti, overlooking the Italian Val Ferret for the night.

Approximate hiking time is 5hrs. 850m – 2789ft ascent, 700m – 2297ft descent

Accommodation: Rifugio Bonatti (or similarRefuge

Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

 

Aug. 11 – DAY 7

Val Ferret/La Fouly

Embark on a long, steep hike of 20km (12 mi) followed by a stay in the Swiss mountain village of La Fouly.

Mont Blanc Trek – Val Ferret to La Fouly

Val Ferret – La Fouly6h20km

Start towards Arp Nouva, then begin the steep climb across the Grand Col Ferret, and descend into the hamlet of Ferret, Switzerland. Continue the decent into the Alpage at La Peule before reaching a high traverse above the valley; from here, enjoy the view of the deep, green forest crawling up the foothills of the surrounding mountains. Continue downward on a the final passage, finishing in the mountain village of La Fouly, where you can finally kick those feet up and relax.

Approximate hiking duration is 6hrs. 900m – 2953ft ascent, 1400m – 4593ft descent

Accommodation: Auberge des Glaciers Fouly (or similarHotel

Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

 

Aug. 12 – DAY 8

La Fouly/Trient

After a short bus journey to the picturesque village of Champex, follow the “Bovine Way” and trek 16km (10mi) from La Fouly to Trient.

Mont Blanc Trek – La Fouly to Trient

La Fouly – Trient5h16km

Taking the Bovine Way, an old trail used to access the flower-filled summer cow pastures high above the valley, we continue along our circuit today, passing the Col de la Forclaz and then heading downhill to Trient.
Approximate hiking duration is 5hrs. 750m – 2460ft ascent, 950m – 3117ft descent

Accommodation: La Grande Ourse (or similarHotel

Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner

 

Aug 13 – DAY 9

Trient/Chamonix

Enjoy a final day of trekking 14 km (8.6mi) over the Col de la Balme to the Chamonix valley.

Mont Blanc Trek – Trient to Montroc

Trient – Montroc5h14km

Head back towards the Chamonix Valley and out of Switzerland. Walk uphill through a large forest and then open alpine slopes to the Col de Balme. Trek the last downhill stretch to Montroc in the Chamonix Valley to wrap up this unforgettable trek.

Approximate hiking duration is 5hrs. 900m – 2952ft ascent, 750m – 2460ft descent

Accommodation: Pointe Isabelle (or similarHotel

Meals included: Breakfast

 

Aug. 14 – DAY 10

Chamonix – Departure Day

We suggest booking your flight no earlier than 12:00 if you would like to leisurely enjoy your last morning in Chamonix. Please keep in mind that Geneva is several hours away.

Please note that most international flights depart from Geneva Airport, and you will need to allow at least 3 hours prior to your departure time to travel from Chamonix to Geneva. For this reason, our suggested 12:00 flight departure time is not mandatory, but recommended to allow a leisurely final morning on tour.

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? We can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast

Trip Includes

Not Included
  • Airfare/train transportation
  • Meals and/or snacks not included above
  • Trip Insurance – Trip Insurance is NOT included and you MUST have it.

Misc.

Spending Money

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Money Exchange

France and Italy are in the Eurozone and the unit of the currency is the Euro. Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) however euros are very widely accepted and you should have no problem making any cash purchases in Euros.

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. Visa cards are the most widely accepted credit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in France, Italy or Switzerland. You should be aware when purchasing products or services on a credit card, that a fee usually applies.

Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Euros, traveller’s cheques and cards is best. Avoid relying on traveller’s cheques alone as these are less and less readily cashed as clients use them very little.

Always take more rather than less, as you don’t want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Emergency Fund

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an ’emergency’ fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Departure Tax

Usually included in international air ticket- check with your travel agent

Tipping

While conventions can vary from country to country, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers.

Tipping is an expected – though not compulsory – component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

At the end of each trip, if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €30-€40 per person, per week can be used as a guideline.

FAQ’s

What airport should I fly into?
  • The Geneva Airport lies the closest to the Tour du Mont Blanc. Our adventure begins in Chamonix, France. You can book a shuttle or train directly to Chamonix in the arrival lounge at the Geneva Airport. This transportation is not included.
 
Where do we meet for the first evening?
  • Typically we will meet at a room in the hotel where we are staying. This information will be announced through What’s App. Hotel information will go out closer to the start of the adventure.
 
How do we stay in touch while traveling?
  • We have an open group chat through What’s App. If you are not familiar with this, it is a free app through the App Store. If you are attending the August 17th trip CLICK HERE. For the August 29th trip, CLICK HERE. If you do not have this app, once you click the link for the proper trip it will prompt you download OR put you directly into the chat.
 
Do I need to be vaccinated?
  • You will be traveling through 3 different countries and will need to abide by the each countries mandates. Make sure your vaccination card is available upon request. 
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