What you get on this adventure: An experienced, certified IFMGA mountain guide with extensive knowledge of the area 5 days of climbing (including training, duration of the tour subject to changes depending on a number of factors) Transportation during the tour What’s not included: Transportation to Chamonix, France Airport transfers — we recommend Mountain Drop-Offs Accommodation Parking in Grindelwald Train to Jungfraujoch Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

In order to climb Eiger’s Mittellegi Ridge or the North Face Route, you need to be an experienced alpine climber on rock, snow, and ice. You need to have excellent physical fitness, strong mental stamina, and be capable of strenuous exercise for the entire duration of your tour. Multi-pitch climbing rope skills, including belaying and lead climbing, are essential. On some days, you’ll be climbing for 10 to 15 hours a day on technical terrain, which requires full focus and confidence.

What if I’ve never climbed before?

Alpine climbing the Eiger mountain isn’t a walk in the park. Like many rewarding ascents, successful ascent of the Eiger is a result of a long preparation. That being said, this tour is not suitable for beginners. If you’re looking to get into the climbing world, we recommend this course of Chamonix rock climbing basics or a day of alpine climbing in Chamonix .

What do I need to bring?

This is a list of technical climbing equipment that you’ll need: Helmet Alpine climbing harness with a primary attachment locking carabiner, 3 locking carabiners, 8 regular carabiners, and a belay device Ropes Ascender Accessory/prusik cord Bungee tether Technical ice axes Crampons Double length runner (48”) Belay/rappel device Trekking poles Bivy gear Here’s a list of clothing we suggest you bring: Warm hat, face mask, sun hat Heavyweight, medium-weight, and lightweight gloves Summit mittens and hand warmers Neck gaiter Glacier glasses & ski goggles Softshell, hardshell, and puffy jacket Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex recommended) Softshell pants, hardshell waterproof pants Bottom synthetic or wool long underwear bottoms Synthetic or wool layers, underwear, and socks Synthetic or wool underwear Mountaineering socks Overboots Mountaineering boots Here are other personal items you’ll need: Daypack large enough to carry all items listed (around a 30-40L backpack) Water bottle and 1L of water Thermos with a warm beverage — optional Food you can eat on-the-go First aid kit Sunscreen and lip balm Camera — optional Sunglasses Toiletries Maps and compass Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For alpine climbing the Eiger peak, client-to-guide ratio is 1:1. For training climbs in Chamonix, there may be 2 clients with one guide. The cost does not decrease as the group grows. Alpine climbing the Eiger can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join alpine climbing the Eiger on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has climbers under the age of 18 , contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Deposits and cancellation policy

A 30% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 3 months (90 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies. If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to one hundred twenty (120) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a full refund. For cancellations ninety (90) to one hundred nineteen (119) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking. For cancellations seventy-five (75) to eighty nine (89) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of twenty-five percent (25%) of the total amount paid when Booking. After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to Chamonix, most people fly into Geneva International Airport (GVA) , one hour away. Once you arrive, there are several ways to reach your destination, including public transport. Looking to make the airport transfer hassle-free? Check out Mountain Drop-Offs —they provide door-to-door service in their comfy and spacious shuttles. Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.

Covid measures in France and Switzerland

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity. We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in France and Switzerland, please refer to the official website of France Diplomacy and COVID-19 entry restrictions in Switzerland . Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

Eiger Mountain and the North Face in Switzerland.

Climber going up the Eiger mountain, Switzerland.

Eiger Mountain | Switzerland

Climbing the Iconic Eiger

Season

Year round

Nearest city

Chamonix, France

Duration

5 days

Difficulty

Guide

Jeff Witt

From $2,750 () / 5 days

Got any questions? or Talk with us

Overview
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Things to know

A world-famous mountain in Switzerland’s Bernese Alps, Eiger’s iconic reputation is well-earned and well-known. Standing at just under 4,000 meters above sea level (13,120 ft), it’s been testing even the most seasoned alpinists for over 150 years now. Home to plenty of classic climbs, like the impressive Mittellegi Ridge or the historic North Face route, it’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping. While other classic peaks of the Alps were being summited, it wasn’t until 1938 that the North Face—also known as the Death Face—of Eiger was first ascended. Since then, it’s held an allure that draws climbers from all over the world. Just a few hours from Chamonix, Eiger’s challenging alpine routes make for some of the best guided climbing experiences you’ll find in all of Europe. Find out more about climbing Eiger’s North Face from Jeff Witt, IFMGA-certified guide.

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One of Europe’s most challenging ascents at almost 4,000 m
Practice on classic Chamonix routes as preparation for the summit
Choose between the superbly exposed Mittellegi Ridge and the biggest North Face in the Alps

Available itineraries

Climb the Famous Mittellegi Ridge

Mittellegi Ridge is the classic Eiger introduction for aspiring alpinists and the perfect training ground for the Matterhorn. This rock and snow alpine route requires solid skills with crampons and an ice ax as well as the ability to climb mid-5th class rock in mountaineering boots. You’ll spend several days preparing on some classic Chamonix routes to get ready. The Mittellegi Ridge is long and intricate, with moderately technical exposed terrain. You’ll follow the east ridge of the mountain overlooking the famous North Face.

Climbing the Mittellegi requires some prep time and planning with your guide, so you’ll arrive in Chamonix two days prior to the climb. You’ll spend the night in Chamonix.
Today you’re continuing your training for the big climb. The Mont Blanc Massif has plenty of peaks on which you can acclimatize and practice for the Eiger, such as the Arête des Cosmiques. There’s not a set number of climbs for these first two days, they will depend on a number of factors and will be decided by you and your guide after booking. After a day out, return to your accommodation.
Drive to Grindelwald, a charming village in Switzerland around 3.5 hours away from Chamonix. Take the 1.5-hour train to the Jungfrauhoch saddle. When you get there, complete the technical ascent up to the Mittellegi Hut, where you’ll spend the night.
Today’s the day when you finally get to the top of Eiger! Wake up early because there’s a long day of climbing ahead of you. When you reach the summit, standing at an altitude of 4,215 m (13,830 ft), take a moment to appreciate the incredible view. Descend the South Ridge to the Monchsjoch Hut at 3,658 m (12,000 ft). If conditions aren’t optimal, you’ll climb the South Ridge instead.
Depending on the weather and energy levels, spend another day mountaineering on the area’s classic routes. From the Monchsjoch Hut, choose between the Monch, Jungfrau, or Grosses Fiescherhorn. At the end of the day, take the Jungfraujoch train back to Grindelwald and return to Chamonix to celebrate your achievements!

Climb the Iconic North Face

The North Face of Eiger is one of the classic alpine routes that climbers long to conquer. With worn out gear from the 50s still in place, climbers will find themselves battling fickle weather, rock fall, ice, snow, and ever-changing conditions in tricky alpine terrain to reach the top. Routes require a high level of skill, experience, and mental strength. Duration is dependent on a number of factors, and usually requires a few days of prep before taking on the North Face. It’s a demanding endeavor, but with the right training, planning and guidance, you can summit Eiger’s North Face and add your name to the list of those who dared to take on this iconic route.

Arrive in Chamonix and settle into your chosen accommodation. Meet with your guide and discuss the ascent up the North Face.
The North Face is a tough and challenging ascent. Allow yourself enough time to practice on nearby peaks and familiarize yourself with the terrain—your guide will be with you the whole time and help you every step of the way. The day of the summit, you’re going to get up very early, climbing on snow and rock terrain until you reach the summit.

Note: Keep in mind that this is a customizable ascent. The North Face isn’t a walk in the park and not every climber is the same regarding how much prep time they need. Contact us to make proper arrangements and a tailored tour for you.
After a hard day in the field, this day is all about rest. It’s time to say goodbye to your guide, but feel free to stay a bit longer in the Chamonix area!

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Meet your guide

5.00

Jeff Witt

AMGA/IFMGA Mountain Guide

Jeff is a professional mountain guide with more than 25 years of experience in the field and the founder of High Peak Adventures. He’s been everywhere and climbed it all — from the U.S. to the Himalayas, the Alps and more. He’s also based out of Chamonix, so he’s got all the insider info that you’d want to know on the area. He’s all yours for an hour, so pick his brain, learn the ropes and get inspired.

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Climbing the Iconic North Face of Eiger With IFMGA Guide Jeff Witt

Jeff Witt

AMGA/IFMGA Mountain Guide

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - An experienced, certified IFMGA mountain guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 5 days of climbing (including training, duration of the tour subject to changes depending on a number of factors)
  - Transportation during the tour
What’s not included:
- - Transportation to Chamonix, France
  - Airport transfers — we recommend Mountain Drop-Offs
  - Accommodation
  - Parking in Grindelwald
  - Train to Jungfraujoch
  - Guide gratuities — optional
In order to climb Eiger’s Mittellegi Ridge or the North Face Route, you need to be an experienced alpine climber on rock, snow, and ice. You need to have excellent physical fitness, strong mental stamina, and be capable of strenuous exercise for the entire duration of your tour. Multi-pitch climbing rope skills, including belaying and lead climbing, are essential. On some days, you’ll be climbing for 10 to 15 hours a day on technical terrain, which requires full focus and confidence.
Alpine climbing the Eiger mountain isn’t a walk in the park. Like many rewarding ascents, successful ascent of the Eiger is a result of a long preparation. That being said, this tour is not suitable for beginners. If you’re looking to get into the climbing world, we recommend this course of Chamonix rock climbing basics or a day of alpine climbing in Chamonix.
This is a list of technical climbing equipment that you’ll need:
- - Helmet
  - Alpine climbing harness with a primary attachment locking carabiner, 3 locking carabiners, 8 regular carabiners, and a belay device
  - Ropes
  - Ascender
  - Accessory/prusik cord
  - Bungee tether
  - Technical ice axes
  - Crampons
  - Double length runner (48”)
  - Belay/rappel device
  - Trekking poles
  - Bivy gear
Here’s a list of clothing we suggest you bring:
- - Warm hat, face mask, sun hat
  - Heavyweight, medium-weight, and lightweight gloves
  - Summit mittens and hand warmers
  - Neck gaiter
  - Glacier glasses & ski goggles
  - Softshell, hardshell, and puffy jacket
  - Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex recommended)
  - Softshell pants, hardshell waterproof pants
  - Bottom synthetic or wool long underwear bottoms
  - Synthetic or wool layers, underwear, and socks
  - Synthetic or wool underwear
  - Mountaineering socks
  - Overboots
  - Mountaineering boots
Here are other personal items you’ll need:
- - Daypack large enough to carry all items listed (around a 30-40L backpack)
  - Water bottle and 1L of water
  - Thermos with a warm beverage — optional
  - Food you can eat on-the-go
  - First aid kit
  - Sunscreen and lip balm
  - Camera — optional
  - Sunglasses
  - Toiletries
  - Maps and compass
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For alpine climbing the Eiger peak, client-to-guide ratio is 1:1. For training climbs in Chamonix, there may be 2 clients with one guide.
  - The cost does not decrease as the group grows.
Alpine climbing the Eiger can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join alpine climbing the Eiger on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
A 30% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 3 months (90 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.
- - If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to one hundred twenty (120) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a full refund.
  - For cancellations ninety (90) to one hundred nineteen (119) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking.
  - For cancellations seventy-five (75) to eighty nine (89) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of twenty-five percent (25%) of the total amount paid when Booking.
  - After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.
To get to Chamonix, most people fly into Geneva International Airport (GVA), one hour away. Once you arrive, there are several ways to reach your destination, including public transport. Looking to make the airport transfer hassle-free? Check out Mountain Drop-Offs—they provide door-to-door service in their comfy and spacious shuttles.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in France and Switzerland, please refer to the official website of France Diplomacy and COVID-19 entry restrictions in Switzerland.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!