Vallée Blanche traverse
EXPERIENCE ONE OF THE MOST BREATHTAKING TREKS IN THE WORLD
The Vallee Blanche traverse is one of the most spectacular glacier walks in the Alps and an absolutely must see if you are planning to visit Chamonix between May and beginning of September.
It is a relatively easy high altitude trek involving approximately 600m of descent and 200m of ascent, which takes you through the spectacular glaciated terrain of the Glacier de Geant over to Pointe Helbronner on the Italian side of Mont Blanc. You will be surrounded by towering alpine peaks, glistening seracs and icy blue crevasses – which you will get to see again from above as you take the Helbronner cable car back across the Vallee Blanche to the Aiguille du Midi!
You will be accompanied the whole time by one of our highly qualified and experienced UIAGM mountain guides, who will not only lead you but will also share with you their expert knowledge on the area, making this a unique and unforgettable experience.
Stunning views of the Chamonix valley and the majestic Mont Blanc provide incredible photo opportunities! This is a great outing suitable for both experienced alpinists and novices alike, as no previous experience of mountaineering or glacier travel is necessary.
Itinerary
Vallee Blanche Traverse Itinerary
This is a one day trip, you will start early in the morning by taking the Aiguille du Midi cable car from Chamonix up to the summit at 3824m. The trek starts by descending a 150m exposed snow ridge from the lift station to the glacier. You will hike across the Glacier du Geant to the Punta Helbronner lift station on the Italian side of the Vallee Blanche. We will take the lift from the Helbronner back to the Aiguille du Midi and down to Chamonix, this panoramic cable car trip offers amazing views of the Vallee Blanche, Glacier de Geant and the Mont Blanc range from above. Expect to be back in Chamonix by early afternoon.
Learning outcomes
This glacier trek is suitable for beginners in glacier travel and high mountain climbing. This is a good opportunity to learn alpine skills such as basic rope work, crampon work and also to learn about the safety when traveling on a glacier, all of which will be demonstrated to you by your guide.
Level requirements
You do not need to be extremely fit to complete this hike but please note that it is a full day and you will need to have a reasonable level of fitness to cope not just with the hike but also with the effects of high altitude, which can cause fatigue and dizziness.
Equipment
Additional services
Equipment hire
Please see the list of recommended equipment on the other tab. Most technical equipment can be rented here in Chamonix, please contact us if you would like prices and advice on whatever you need. Chamonix has dozens of outdoor shops selling everything from basic head torches to expedition standard sleeping bags, so whatever you don’t already have you can find it here.
Insurance
We highly recommend that you take out specific insurance for mountain activities. This will cover you for search and rescue services, evacuation by helicopter and emergency medical treatment. You should also make sure that you have adequate travel insurance that covers you for the usual things such as cancelled flights, lost luggage, hospital treatment, etc. Please contact us to organise mountain rescue insurance for your trip.
Accommodation in Chamonix
If you wish to book accommodation in Chamonix we would be happy to recommend some local hotels, gites, self-catered apartments, or chalets and advise on the best locations. Please contact us if you would like help finding accommodation in Chamonix.
Airport transfers
We can help you to organise your transport to/from Chamonix. We work with well-established airport transfer companies which use new and comfortable vehicles and which have the capacity and know-how to handle everything from delayed and cancelled flights, to unexpected traffic jams with professionalism and efficiency.
To book your transfer, we will need the following:
- Your full name
- Mobile phone number
- Email address
- Your destination address
- Your flight details (date, time and flight number)
Shared transfers:
This is the most economic and ecologically friendly way of travel. The driver will meet and greet you at the airport, gather you and the rest of the passenger group together and then head off to your chosen destination. The door-to-door service means that you will be dropped off and picked up right at your hotel /chalet / apartment. From 40€ per person for one-way and 80€ per person for a return trip.
Private transfers:
Private Transfers are the quickest way to get to and from the airport. Your driver will meet and greet you at the airport and guide you to your vehicle. There is no waiting for other passengers. Private transfers are available for one to eight person bookings and travelling together and you are guaranteed sole occupancy of the vehicle for your transfer. And, of course, it’s a door-to-door service, so you won’t be lugging any bags very far.