Included: 11-day self-guided Walker’s Haute Route Accommodation for 10 nights in dormitory-style accommodation Most meals — 9 breakfasts and 8 dinners (dinner not included in La Sage and Zermatt, breakfast in Zermatt) In-person briefing in Les Houches (optional) Travel information — roadbook, GPS tracks, one map for 2 people Assistance from your guiding company’s team on-site 24/7 support in case of emergency Not included: Transportation to Chamonix and from Zermatt Any other transfers during the tour Accommodations prior to and after the tour — available at an additional cost Dinners on Days 6 and 9, breakfast on Day 9 Lunches, snacks, and personal expenses Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above Repatriation and search & rescue insurance — mandatory, available to add at checkout Travel insurance — highly recommended, available to add at checkout

How fit do I need to be and what’s the hiking like?

The self-guided Walker’s Haute Route is a challenging one. It requires mountaineering skills, excellent fitness and some mountain experience under your belt. Here’s what you can expect: You will be hiking for 11 days in a row through mountainous terrain. There will be significant elevation gains and losses (with up to 1,700 m / 5,580 ft of ascent per day!). You will cover anywhere between 9-24 km (6-15 miles) per day . Regarding the terrain—lots of ups and downs. It’s more difficult than Tour du Mont Blanc due to several reasons: This adventure takes you along less popular trails, which are not as wide or as “smoothed” out as TMB is. These trails reach higher altitudes than TMB, making the physical effort more demanding and the climatic constraints potentially more severe. Daily elevation changes distances covered are much greater than TMB. Trails also feature technical sections on particularly uneven terrain, which may require more attention, caution, and the use of arms as well (such as the crossing of the Grand Desert). However, all technical paths can be crossed, as long as you’re calm and methodical! If you decide to go on this self-guided tour, make sure you’re ready and fit enough. Preparation is always key!

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag) Sleeping bag for the huts Hiking poles — optional Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) 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.

What is a self-guided tour?

Self-guided tours are perfect for those who enjoy exploring on their own terms—at their own pace, and with the company they choose. By joining this self-guided tour , we take care of: Accommodation for 10 nights in dormitory-style accommodation Most meals — 9 breakfasts and 8 dinners (dinner not included in La Sage and Zermatt, breakfast in Zermatt) In-person briefing in Les Houches (optional) Travel information — roadbook, GPS tracks, one map for 2 people Assistance from your guiding company’s team on-site 24/7 support in case of emergency Rather than joining a guided group, you’ll navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the tour operator. For a hassle-free journey with everything arranged for you in advance, there’s no better option! As a self-guided tour is built around your preferred travel dates, your guide will take care of arranging accommodations and details after you book. Note that exact accommodations and dates might shift slightly, so don’t make any travel arrangements until the details of your adventure are confirmed .

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: The minimum number of people for this tour is set at 2 participants . If you’d love to join solo—that’s also possible , but a single supplement fee will apply. Please reach out and we’ll get back to you with a price ! This self-guided Walker’s Haute Route 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 the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

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. Your journey officially starts in the village of Montroc, just 20 minutes away from Chamonix. There are several ways to reach your destination, including public transport. Looking to make airport transfers hassle-free? Check out Mountain Drop Offs —they provide door-to-door service in their comfy and spacious shuttles. Use the code 57HCHX to get a 5% discount! Keep in mind that you should get on the trail on Day 1 in the morning, meaning that you’ll also have to spend a night in Chamonix prior to the first day, so you could get some rest.

Safety measures and insurance

Repatriation/search and rescue insurance is mandatory, while travel insurance is highly recommended to join this trip. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

CHAMONIX | FRANCE

Self-Guided Walker’s Haute Route: From Chamonix to Zermatt

11 days | Challenging | 5.00

From $2,589 ()

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The best way to fully experience the magic of the Alps has to be by trekking the Walker’s Haute Route! This epic, world-renowned route stretches from the outskirts of Chamonix to the charming Zermatt, and its iconic Matterhorn. Lots of people prefer walking and exploring on their own and at their own pace—if you’re one of them, you’ll love this self-guided tour. The 11-day hiking journey was put together by local guides who’ve lived in the Alps all their lives, and they will make your self-guided trek smooth and worry-free—your accommodation, most meals, maps, and 24/7 support are all taken care of. Get your cameras ready: these landscapes feel like stepping into a postcard. And staying there for 11 days.

Adventure Highlights

Alpine scenery every step of the way: From valleys and forests to snow-capped Matterhorn and pristine lakes, take it all in
The iconic Walker’s Haute Route: This route connects two Alpine capitals, allowing you to explore all the beauty in between
Set your own hiking pace: Self-guided tour is carefree, since accommodation, most meals, and route maps are taken care of

Duration

11 days

Season

July through September

Group size

Up to 16 people

Accommodation

Standard: Domitory-style lodging

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

A premier long-distance route that takes you across the Alps. Spectacular scenery along the way. Crossing of the Swiss-French border in style. Sounds good? Then sign up for this self-guided journey through the Alps—and the accommodation, most meals, and detailed route maps will already be arranged for you. Though similar to Tour du Mont Blanc, this 11-day hiking adventure will take you away from crowded trails and instead over high mountain passes and greater distances. Do you have what it takes to traverse this iconic route?

Note

We’re happy to customize your journey and hear your wishes—and we’ll do our best to meet your expectations, contact us!

The itinerary, distances, and altitudes may vary slightly for many reasons beyond your organizer’s control, including weather and terrain conditions.

Accommodation prior to Day 1 and on Day 11 are not included in the self-guided tour. Your guiding company can arrange this for an additional cost.

Day 1: Montroc – Trélechamp – Trient

Begin your self-guided journey in the morning from the village of Montroc, just 20 minutes away from Chamonix. Start hiking to Aiguillette des Posettes, a ridge offering fantastic views. You’ll see the Mont Blanc range, its main summits, the Chamonix valley, and the alpine pastures of Posettes and Balme. You will soon cross the French-Swiss border and pass through the alpine pastures of Catogne. The village of Trient is your destination for the night.

Meals: Dinner
Distance: 11.5 km / 7 miles
Elevation: +1,000 m / +3,280 ft | -1,200 m / -3,940 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 2: Trient — Champex, via Bovine alpine pastures

Hike up to the Col de la Forclaz. The trail will take you through a beautiful larch forest and reach the alpine pastures of Bovine, overlooking the upper Rhone valley and located upstream from Lake Geneva in the Swiss Valais. You’ll also be able to admire the range to the south as well as the peaks of Bernese Alps. Further east, the Pennine Alps (Valaisannes) welcome you with the Grand Combin massif. The Bovine route is used by farmers to guide their cattle through the mountains. The trail then goes down to Plan de l’Au and, finally, Champex le Lac.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
Elevation: +850 m / +2,820 ft | -1,000 m / -3,280 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 3: Champex — Mille Hut

Departing from Champex le Lac, a lovely trail takes you down through the forest, hillsides, and small hamlets. Finally, you’ll reach Val d’Entremont and the village of Orsières located at the bottom of the Grand St. Bernard Pass. And then, the Valaisan Alps show up! A long climb on the western side of the Val d’Entremont is necessary to reach the crests of the Mont Brûlé which allows you to admire the summits one last time. The trail then leads you to the Mille Hut perched at 2,473 m above sea level, and this is where you’ll stay overnight.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
Elevation: +1,700 m / +5,580 ft | -1,700 m / -5,580 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 4: Mille Hut — Louive Hut

A long and easy day starts at Cabane de Mille overlooking the Val d’Entremont. A very pleasant track takes you to the Brunet Hut, and then goes down into the Val de Bagnes. From the village of Fionnay, the path goes up towards the Cabane de Louvie and its magnificent lake overlooking the Val de Bagnes. From there, you’ll be able to see the reflection of the immense Corbassière glacier.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 21 km / 13 miles
Elevation: +1,275 m / +4,183 ft | -1,510 m / -4,954 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 5: Louvie Hut — Prafleuri Hut, via the Louvie and Prafleuri passes

Two exciting passes today! First the Louvie pass at 2,921 m and then the Prafleuri pass at 2,939 m. You will marvel at the Grand Desert nestled between these two passes—this is a vast plateau punctuated by lakes, cairns, and beacons that will guide your crossing. From the Prafleuri pass, the trail goes down to the hut, where you’ll spend the night.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
Elevation: +1,200 m / +3,938 ft | -1,400 m / -4,593 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 6: Prafleuri Hut — Grande Dixence dam — Evolène via Col de la Meina

For today’s itinerary, your guiding company prefers to skip Riedmatten or Pas de Chèvre, as they are very technical and not suitable for those uncertain of their footing in rocky, unstable terrain and for those with a fear of climbing high vertical ladders. So today’s trail leaves the Grande Dixence dam and descends into the Hérémence valley to Motôt. Cross the Merdéré torrent and reach the alpine pastures of Novèlé sometime later. Crossing of the Meina Pass allows the switch to the Val d’Hérens, and when you descend you will reach the pretty hamlet of La Meina. A chairlift will facilitate the descent to the Lannaz village.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 19 km / 12 miles
Elevation: +1,050 m / +3,445 ft | -1,560 / -5,120 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 7: Evolène / La Sage — Zinal, via Col de Thorens et Lac de Moiry

From La Sage in the Val d’Hérens, head towards Zinal and first pass by the Col de Torrent. The view of the Moiry Lake dam with its piercing blue hues is a sight to behold. You will then hike down to the lake by crossing the alpine pastures of Thorens. From the dam, take the local shuttle service to Zinal where you will spend the night.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
Elevation: +1,200 m / +3,940 ft | -700 m / -2,300 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 8: Zinal — Gruben via Col de la Forcletta

The climb to the Col de La Forcletta is a long one. A steep forest path will lead you to a long, pleasant balcony above the Val de Zinal, and then to a welcoming alpine pasture area on the final steep slope. You will go down to the wildest valley in the Valais, the Turtmanntal (Val Turtmann). In the background, you’ll get a glimpse of the Augtsbordpass that’s on tomorrow’s itinerary, as well as the Turtmann glacier surrounded by the Bishorn on one side and the Weisshorn on the other.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Distance: 17.2 km / 10.7 miles
Elevation: +1,250 m / +4,100 ft | -1,090 m / -3,580 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 9: Gruben — St Niklaus — Zermatt

View of the Swiss resort town of Zermatt, one of the stops during the Tour of Monte Rosa, and the towering Matterhorn during summer.

The day starts with a long ascent through forests, alpine meadows, grassy slopes, stones, and rocks to the Augstbordpass at 2,892 m. This is the final major push of the journey and the rewards are immense: Val de Zermatt and the Mischabels massif. The descent goes into the valley and then continues on the steep side of the Twära mountain in the direction of the suspended hamlet of Jungu at 1,954 m. From there, a cable car takes you down to St Niklaus, then a train to Täsch and then to your final destination of Zermatt.

Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
Elevation: +1,100 m / +3,610 ft | -1,000 m / -3,280 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 10: Zermatt — Fluhalp Hut

A relaxing half-day hike will take you through the, once again, idyllic setting of the Alps. You will reach the Fluhalp Hut, allowing you to experience the romantic atmosphere of staying there. The sunrises and sunsets will stay with you forever.

Meals: Dinner
Distance: 8.6 km / 5 miles
Elevation: +1,200 m / +3,940 ft | -200 m / -660 ft
Accommodation: Dormitory

Day 11: Fluhalp Hut — Gornergrat — Zermatt

After a night spent at 2,606 m, you’ll hike even further up to the Gornergrat. At 3,090 m, you will enjoy panoramic views of the Monte Rosa range in the distance, the Pointe Dufour at 4,624 km (Switzerland’s highest mountain) and 29 other peaks over 4,000 m. Finish your adventure with a ride aboard the highest rack railway in Europe on your way down to Zermatt. Congrats! You’ve finished your epic 11-day hiking journey through the heart of the Alps!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles
Elevation: +970 m / +3,185 ft | -350 m / -1,150 ft

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Adventure, packed to go

Self-Guided Walker’s Haute Route: From Chamonix to Zermatt

Adventure Brochure

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What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)

Monica Z.

|August 2024

This was the most scenic hike I have ever been on. The views were spectacular, the huts fabulous and the food was great too. We were very impressed with the local guides with Nuyama.

Lisa Tyerman

As we prepared to leave we contemplated our amazing adventure and sense of accomplishment. Thank you to Nuyama for great organizational skills, prompt responses, sound advice along the way and the perfect for us choices of routes for each day. As we interacted with hosts and fellow hikers it became obvious Nuyama has built solid relationships and is highly respected. We felt confident doing this hike self guided because of our own experience and the support given. Thank you Nuyama! Experience of a lifetime!!

Ludovic Botzung

A beautiful organization. No complaints. Marion was very good advice. I recommend without any hesitation. Thank you

Show all reviews

Monica Z.

|August 2024

This was the most scenic hike I have ever been on. The views were spectacular, the huts fabulous and the food was great too. We were very impressed with the local guides with Nuyama.

Lisa Tyerman

Ludovic Botzung

A beautiful organization. No complaints. Marion was very good advice. I recommend without any hesitation. Thank you

Things to know

Included:
- - 11-day self-guided Walker’s Haute Route
  - Accommodation for 10 nights in dormitory-style accommodation
  - Most meals — 9 breakfasts and 8 dinners (dinner not included in La Sage and Zermatt, breakfast in Zermatt)
  - In-person briefing in Les Houches (optional)
  - Travel information — roadbook, GPS tracks, one map for 2 people
  - Assistance from your guiding company’s team on-site
  - 24/7 support in case of emergency
Not included:
- - Transportation to Chamonix and from Zermatt
  - Any other transfers during the tour
  - Accommodations prior to and after the tour — available at an additional cost
  - Dinners on Days 6 and 9, breakfast on Day 9
  - Lunches, snacks, and personal expenses
  - Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
  - Repatriation and search & rescue insurance — mandatory, available to add at checkout
  - Travel insurance — highly recommended, available to add at checkout
The self-guided Walker’s Haute Route is a challenging one. It requires mountaineering skills, excellent fitness and some mountain experience under your belt. Here’s what you can expect:
- - You will be hiking for 11 days in a row through mountainous terrain.
  - There will be significant elevation gains and losses (with up to 1,700 m / 5,580 ft of ascent per day!).
  - You will cover anywhere between 9-24 km (6-15 miles) per day.
Regarding the terrain—lots of ups and downs. It’s more difficult than Tour du Mont Blanc due to several reasons:
- - This adventure takes you along less popular trails, which are not as wide or as “smoothed” out as TMB is.
  - These trails reach higher altitudes than TMB, making the physical effort more demanding and the climatic constraints potentially more severe.
  - Daily elevation changes distances covered are much greater than TMB.
  - Trails also feature technical sections on particularly uneven terrain, which may require more attention, caution, and the use of arms as well (such as the crossing of the Grand Desert). However, all technical paths can be crossed, as long as you’re calm and methodical!
If you decide to go on this self-guided tour, make sure you’re ready and fit enough. Preparation is always key!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Sleeping bag for the huts
  - Hiking poles — optional
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
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.
Self-guided tours are perfect for those who enjoy exploring on their own terms—at their own pace, and with the company they choose. By joining this self-guided tour, we take care of:
- - Accommodation for 10 nights in dormitory-style accommodation
  - Most meals — 9 breakfasts and 8 dinners (dinner not included in La Sage and Zermatt, breakfast in Zermatt)
  - In-person briefing in Les Houches (optional)
  - Travel information — roadbook, GPS tracks, one map for 2 people
  - Assistance from your guiding company’s team on-site
  - 24/7 support in case of emergency
Rather than joining a guided group, you’ll navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the tour operator. For a hassle-free journey with everything arranged for you in advance, there’s no better option!

As a self-guided tour is built around your preferred travel dates, your guide will take care of arranging accommodations and details after you book. Note that exact accommodations and dates might shift slightly, so don’t make any travel arrangements until the details of your adventure are confirmed.
Group sizes and prices:
- - The minimum number of people for this tour is set at 2 participants.
  - If you’d love to join solo—that’s also possible, but a single supplement fee will apply. Please reach out and we’ll get back to you with a price!
This self-guided Walker’s Haute Route 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 the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
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. Your journey officially starts in the village of Montroc, just 20 minutes away from Chamonix.

There are several ways to reach your destination, including public transport. Looking to make airport transfers hassle-free? Check out Mountain Drop Offs—they provide door-to-door service in their comfy and spacious shuttles. Use the code 57HCHX to get a 5% discount!

Keep in mind that you should get on the trail on Day 1 in the morning, meaning that you’ll also have to spend a night in Chamonix prior to the first day, so you could get some rest.
Repatriation/search and rescue insurance is mandatory, while travel insurance is highly recommended to join this trip. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
A 35% deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid 90 days prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies. . If you cancel the booking…
- - More than 60 days prior to departure, a cancellation fee of 5% of the total trip price will apply.
  - 60-45 days prior to departure, a cancellation fee of 15% of the total trip price will apply.
  - 44-30 days prior to departure, a cancellation fee of 30% of the total trip price will apply.
  - 29-15 days prior to departure, a cancellation fee of 75% of the total trip price will apply.
  - Within 14 days of the departure date, no refund will be issued.
Please note that booking fees are non-refundable in all cases and will be deducted from the refund amount.

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