Self-Guided Haute Route (Chamonix-Zermatt)

An itinerary of Self-guided trekking for the independent traveler.

Stone shelters near Lac Louvie on the Haute Route. Photo by Tom Dempsey

Alpenwild Adventures are designed for people who are energetic, active and filled with a spirit of adventure. We rate this trip as strenuous. You should be a strong and experienced hiker with proven endurance and in good physical condition. You should be capable of walking 5 to 8 hours per day on good trails, ascending to 3,900 vertical feet per day, at an elevation up to 10,000 feet above sea level.

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Testimonials

I have nothing but kudos to you and Alpenwild for a superb trip. We did very well self-guiding and had a terrific time. - L.J. - New Hampshire

Arrival

After arrival in Geneva, we will arrange a shuttle to get you to Chamonix.

Departure

On your last day, we will provide you with a train ticket back to the Geneva Airport.

Pre- and Post-Tour Travel

Our Alps experts and Certified Switzerland Specialists can assist with recommendations for your pre- and post-tour travel arrangements. Simply call or email us your plans and we are happy to help make the best of your vacation experience. Consider an Alpenwild Getaway, a short-stay, self-guided option that’s easily combined with your tour plans.

Accommodations

Typically, we provide you with 13 nights' accommodations in conveniently-located, independently-owned inns, small hotels, and 2 classic Swiss mountain huts that capture the authentic charm of the Alps, but you can customize these options with one of our Haute Route experts to meet your preferences.

Meals

Our general package includes 13 buffet breakfasts at the hotel, hut, or inn, and 9 dinners (Note: Dinners are not included in Chamonix, Verbier, or Zermatt since hotels do not offer half-board option, but there are ample choices nearby), but you can customize these options with one of our Haute Route experts to meet your preferences.

Included

13 nights' accommodations in conveniently-located, independently-owned inns, small hotels, and 2 classic Swiss mountain huts
13 buffet breakfasts at the hotel, hut, or inn
9 dinners (Note: Dinners are not included in Chamonix, Verbier, or Zermatt since hotels do not offer half-board option, but there are ample choices nearby)
Shuttle from the Geneva Airport to Chamonix
2nd Class train pass from Zermatt to Geneva or Zurich (or any other Swiss town)

Not Included

Airfare
Luggage Transfers (can be added on for extra charge)
Beverages (beer, wine, water, soda) with meals
Meals not specified
Trip insurance (can be purchased separately)
Items of a personal nature (laundry, phone calls, room service)
Mountain trams and cableways
Extra shuttles (if you choose not to hike)
Swiss Topo Maps (available for extra charge)