Gran Paradiso Guided Ascent

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.