Mont Blanc is a bucket-list adventure destination for a reason. Escape the crowds on a guided or self-guided hike. Hike the entire trek or just part of it. Almost every step will be a revelation of the Alpine grandeur. The towering peaks, pristine lakes, lush meadows: you’ll get it all.
The finest trails in Europe
Itineraries tailored to you
Local guides lead the way
We had a wonderful time on the TMB. Cloud 9 was very well organized and communicative throughout the process, from preparation through the actual tour. Our guide, Gary Daines, was superb. He is extremely knowledgeable and made each day of the tour a pleasure. In addition to his guiding expertise, Gary is a great photographer and provided a wonderful record of our group experience.
My daughter and I were so impressed with the guides from Nuyama. The routes they designed were absolutely fantastic. We easily navigated the gaia mapa and were able to add on additional hikes. They were very easy to reach via What’s App and extremely helpful. This was an incredible hiking experience. We would highly recommend using Nuyama again. Thank you!! Monica Zack
Alex was a great guide who kept the team motivated and engaged every day. He was clear on the challenges ahead throughout the week.
Yes, while reaching the summit of Mont Blanc itself is not recommended for beginners, the Mont Blanc area offers a variety of hiking options suitable for beginners. The key is to choose trails that match your experience and fitness level. Here are some examples:
The Lac Blanc hike: This beautiful lake hike is a short and easy trail with stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif. It’s a perfect option for families with children or those looking for a leisurely stroll.
Lac des Chêvres: This scenic hike takes you through a lush forest to a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains. It’s a moderate hike with some gradual climbs but offers plenty of rewarding views for anyone looking to push their limits.
The time it takes to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc trail depends on your experience level, fitness, and how many rest days you take. However, most people take between 7 and 11 days to complete the entire circuit, which is roughly 170 kilometers (105 miles) long.
Experienced hikers will generally take 7-8 days, intermediate hikers can take 9-10 days, while a more leisurely hiker could hike the Tour du Mont Blanc for 11 days or more. Your choice of route and the weather conditions will also play a big role. Make sure to plan your trip carefully and be realistic about your abilities when estimating how long your Tour du Mont Blanc hike will take you.
The best time for a hiking tour in the Mont Blanc area depends on your priorities and preferences.
Mid-July to mid-August: This is the peak season for hiking in the Mont Blanc area, with the warmest temperatures, longest daylight hours, and tons of greenery. But, it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
Mid-June to late June: Early summer offers pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful wildflower displays. However, there might still be snow on some higher-altitude trails, so checking trail conditions beforehand is crucial.
Early September: Early fall means comfortable hiking temperatures with fewer crowds compared to peak season. But, some accommodation options and facilities might have limited hours or be closed by this time.
Late September to mid-October: Shoulder season means stunning fall foliage and minimal crowds, but be prepared for colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and the possibility of snowfall at higher elevations.
Yes, hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) trail is absolutely possible without a guide, and it is actually a popular option for many experienced hikers. The trail is well-marked, with clear signage and markers throughout the route.
However, before you decide to go guideless, it’s crucial to consider the following factors:
Going with a guide or choosing a well-planned self-guided tour will usually mean a safer, logistically smoother & more comfortable experience. Weigh your options and choose the right one for you.
The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB): This classic 7-11 day circuit is arguably the most popular hike in Europe. The trail circumnavigates Mont Blanc, offering stunning scenery & diverse alpine landscapes throughout. While not technically challenging, it requires good fitness and experience navigating mountain terrain.
The Walkers Haute Route: Originally a ski traverse, this route is great pick for anyone looking to escape the crowds of the Tour du Mont Blanc. It stretches from Chamonix to Zermatt, and provides breathtaking views of the most impressive summits in the Alps, including Mont Blanc & Matterhorn.
Mer de Glace: This beginner-friendly, but breathtaking glacier hike offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains without requiring any technical skills. You can access the starting point by taking a scenic train ride from Chamonix.
