Gran Paradiso Guided Ascent
4.9
(16)
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.
3 Days
Jun - Oct
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
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
Meeting point
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.
More info
What happens if I need to cancel the trip?
If you book your Tour more than 30 days in advance, you will have a 48-hour span after booking to cancel and receive a full refund without any deductions.
After that period of time, if you decide to cancel the Tour, you will have the possibility to do so in accordance with the following indemnity scheme (refunded or to be paid depending on whether the payment was made and received):
100% refunded (or 0% paid) if the cancellation is notified in writing by email to the Guide up to 60 days before the first day of the Tour (minus fees as described below and the eventual non-reimbursable expenses the Guide paid to organize the Tour);
75% refunded (or 25% paid) if the cancellation is notified in writing by email to the Guide between 59 and 30 days before the first day of the Tour (minus fees as described below and the eventual non-reimbursable expenses the Guide paid to organize the Tour);
50% refunded (or 50% paid) if the cancellation is notified in writing by email to the Guide between 29 and 21 days before the first day of the Tour (minus fees as described below and the eventual non-reimbursable expenses the Guide paid to organize the Tour);
0% refunded (or 100% paid) if the cancellation is notified in writing by email to the Guide less than 21 days before the first day of the Tour
Non-refundable fees that will be discounted from the refund include:
- Administration fee: 3% of the total price of the Tour.
- Service fee: 5% of the total price of the Tour.
- Credit Card fee, if applied: approximately 2.3% of the amount paid by credit card.
- The eventual non-reimbursable expenses the Guide paid to organize the Tour (accommodation, administration expenses, salaries, porters, food, etc.), to be defined by the guide at the moment of the client’s request for cancellation.
Any other fee that had been clearly mentioned to the client as non-refundable before the client booked.
What happens if the guide cancels the trip because of bad weather/unsuitable conditions?
In case of exceptional circumstances that obliges the Guide to cancel the trip, such as bad weather conditions, he will:
- Propose an alternative Tour similar to the initial Tour on the same date; or
- Propose to postpone the Tour until a later date; or
- Propose to cancel the Tour.
In the case where Guide proposes an alternative Tour similar to the initial Tour, the User will have to accept this alternative Tour or the Standard cancellation policy will apply. Please note, that the call to cancel a trip due to bad weather can only be made by the guide (not the client). Under exceptional circumstances, the guide could, however, decide at his sole discretion to refund the client (minus the mentioned fee/s).
Take into account, however, that if accommodation, flights or transfers were included in the trip you booked, then a different policy may apply as the guide will be bound by the provider’s cancellation policy.
We strongly advice to purchase an insurance policy that covers cancellations.
What happens if the guide doesn’t show up or cancels for personal reasons?
If the guide cancels for reason of injury or other, you will get a 100% refund on your trip.
Equipment you will need to bring
• Screw carabiner - Your Harness must be equipped with it (be careful, carabiners cannot be rented, you will have to buy one if you don't have one). • A water bottle/thermos of at least 1.5 liters. • Headlamp, with batteries and spare bulbs. • A pocket knife. • A bag protector in case of rain (not obligatory). • 1 waterproof pouch with your money, identity papers (+ if possible blood group / contact lens wearer, etc.), insurance/assistance contract and emergency telephone numbers. • A pair of gaiters (no rental possible). • A meat bag type sheet (obligatory, and there are blankets in the shelter): USELESS SLEEPING BAG. • A Zyploc bag with medications and toiletries (bare minimum: toothpaste + contact lens product + hydroalcoholic lotion to clean hands): no running water in shelters in general, bring some alcohol-free wipes if you wish ( pay attention to the weight). • A small tube of index 50 sunscreen (face and lips) + after-sun
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT • Hat. • Hat (or cap) for the sun and/or scarf. • Glacier glasses (category 4 index) + ski mask. • A balaclava (balaclava type that covers the entire head (very useful if it is very cold) • 1 pair of very warm mittens. • 1 pair of fleece or wool gloves. • 1 pair of undergloves. • 2 or 3 long-sleeved, breathable technical underwear. • Breathable technical undershirt (carline, light fleece fur, etc.) • Thick fleece jacket. • Down jacket or vest (not obligatory but useful if very cold on summit day). • 1 windproof, waterproof and breathable Goretex jacket. • 1 comfortable mountain pants for approach trails. • 1 Goretex windproof pants when you are on the glacier. • 1 breathable technical tights. • Socks: 3 thin pairs and 2 thicker pairs. • 1 night outfit for the evening of D3 at the Tour chalet + toiletries • A few hand and/or foot warmers can be useful for those who are more chilly on summit day
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.
About the guide
Montagne Expédition
1.0
(1)
Languages
English | French
What people are saying about this trip
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.
Perfect experience with a wonderful guide
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.
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