Venture far from the ski resort slopes on the world's most classic ski tour, the Swiss Haute Route. Travel from hut to hut across the high European Alps taking in some of the area’s most spectacular scenery.
For those who have not yet ventured far from the ski resort, this is a fantastic way to gain experience as you travel with the supervision of our exceptional mountain guides, allowing you to learn with confidence while taking in the grandeur of your surroundings.
| RATIOS | 3 DAYS | 5 DAYS | 6 DAYS | 7 DAYS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chamonix to Verbier (1:1) | €2,800 EUR € | NA | NA | NA |
| Chamonix to Verbier (1:4) | €1,250 EUR € | NA | NA | NA |
| Verbier to Zermatt 'The Highlight Tour' (1:1) | NA | €5,400 EUR € | NA | NA |
| Verbier to Zermatt 'The Highlight Tour' (1:4) | NA | €2,150 EUR € | NA | NA |
| Verbier to Saas-Fee (1:1) | NA | NA | €6,350 EUR € | NA |
| Verbier to Saas-Fee (1:4) | NA | NA | €2,500 EUR € | NA |
| Chamonix to Zermatt (1:1) | NA | NA | NA | €6,500 EUR € |
| Chamonix to Zermatt (1:4) | NA | NA | NA | €2,750 EUR € |
The Haute Route (High Route) is a world class ski-tour through the heart of the Western Alps that begins in Verbier taking us over five days to finish in Zermatt. The journey connects long alpine ski runs over glaciated terrain with descents from high peaks and cols.
Generally, the distances are not too great, about six hours hut to hut each day. We stay each night in Swiss high-mountain huts that are fully catered, leaving us to travel with very light packs so we can relish in the ascents and descents along the route.
In addition there is the possibility of climbing three fine skiable mountains en route, the Rosablanche (3,336m/10,945ft), the Pigne d'Arolla (3,796m/12,454ft) and the Tête de Valpelline (3,802m/12,474ft).
This ski-touring trip is suitable for the confident off-piste skier with a reasonable level of fitness.
In addition to our private tours, you may also wish to join us from Verbier to Zermatt ('The Highlight Tour') on one of our Scheduled Departures:
Duration: 5 days skiing, 2 travel days
| Dates 2023 | |
| Trip 1: Mar 12 - 18, 2023 | BOOK NOW |
| Trip 2: Apr 2 - 8, 2023 | BOOK NOW |
| Trip 3: Apr 16 - 22, 2023 | BOOK NOW |
Pricing Schedule 2023
Price: €2,150 per person on a 1:4 guided ratio
Please contact us for further details and our team will be happy to assist.
Adventure Consultants is renowned for the quality of its service and strategy applied to their trips. Our reputation is attributed to meticulous planning and experienced logistics coordination. We have a philosophy of investing in every expedition and trip to offer our ski tourers the best possible experience.
We employ strong and specialised IFMGA Ski Guides, who are some of the most pre-eminent in the industry.
Many of our expedition members and climbers come to us because they have seen us in action on a previous trip and decide to opt for our level of service and proven experience. Others return because they know we do our very best to make expeditions and guided ski tours safe and successful.
Inclusions
The price of your trip includes the following:
Exclusions
The price of your trip does not include:
Account Information
For our European ski trips, prices are in Euros and must be settled in Euros. All prices are subject to change.
All payments should be made by bank transfer to the following bank and account:
Bank of New Zealand
Offshore Branch
42 Willis Street
Spark Central
Wellington
New Zealand
for the account of Adventure Consultants Limited
Account Number: 1000-594771-0002
Account Type: Euros
Swift Address: BKNZNZ22
We can also accept your deposit and balance payments by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) plus a 3% credit card transaction fee.
Please note that in order to reserve a guide we recommend that you book well in advance. This especially applies to the high season period.
Deposit
In order to confirm a guide and your trip, we require a completed Booking Form and a deposit of €500.
Balance Payment
Full payment is due 60 days prior to the start date for your trip. We will send you receipts for all payments.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Once you have paid your deposit your trip is confirmed, subject to payment of the balance of fees owing 60 days prior to your trip commencement date. A skier may then cancel their participation on the following basis:
We recommend you take out trip cancellation insurance via your travel agent.
The Trip Notes provide detailed information and background for the Adventure Consultants Haute Route Ski Tour.
You can view the trip notes online by clicking the image or download a pdf by clicking the following link:
Team Membership
The number of guides is determined by the size of the group, the ratio of guides to climbers is 1:4 or 1:6 depending on the skill level of the group.
Our Guides
You will find the Adventure Consultants Mountain & Ski Guides companionable and strong guides with considerable power and willingness to see you enjoy your journey through the Alps on skis.
Adventure Consultants is renowned for the quality of its service and strategy applied to their trips. Our reputation is attributed to meticulous planning and experienced logistics coordination. We have a philosophy of investing in every expedition and trip to offer our ski tourers the best possible experience.
We employ strong and specialised leaders/mountain guides, who are some of the most pre-eminent in the industry. We pride ourselves on operating with small teams with the best back-up and support available.
Many of our climbers, ski tourers and trekkers come to us because they have seen us in action on a previous trip and decide to opt for our level of service and proven experience. Others return because they know we do our very best to make our expeditions and trips safe, enjoyable and successful.
Head Office Support Team
Running successful journeys and expeditions is more about experience, knowledge and strategic management than any other factors. As an organisation, we place a substantial amount of time and resources into ensuring our trips are well planned and supported. You can be assured that the AC staff will provide you with friendly advice and knowledgeable support throughout the planning stages of your trip and we will be there to provide backup while the trip is running.
Hayley Furze, Client Liaison
Hayley joins the AC team with a wealth of experience working in the tourism and hospitality industry along with a love of travel. She works as Client Liaison on a number of our European and international ascents, treks and expeditions.
Your Health
Our registration form requests that you advise us of any medical problems you may have and if you are on any medication. Any information you supply will be treated as confidential.
Level of Experience Required
You will need to be a confident off-piste skier for this tour, as well as having a good background level of fitness. Though the days will be relatively short (up to six hours long) you will cover high altitude ground and will need a good level of aerobic fitness.
Most days will start well before dawn, but there is usually some scope for some later starts and relaxed evenings enjoying the classic European culture.
Even skiing and climbing at the moderate altitudes in Europe has a definite physical effect on people. Most skiers notice a lower performance rate than normal. Summit days and touring days are the most physically demanding of the days and can entail 1000m/3,300ft ascent at altitude. These rewarding and photogenic days typically take around six hours.
The Haute Route ski tour is suitable for people wanting to learn and practice general ski-mountaineering skills while touring over classic and challenging passes. Though not essential, some climbing experience is desirable and prior use of ice axe and crampons advantageous.
Difficulty Rating
Each of our trips is individually rated according to its physical and technical difficulty, displayed in the icons towards the top of each trip page. You can click on the accompanying question mark for additional descriptions and the full run-down of our grading system is available on our Difficulty Ratings page.
Preparing for Your Trip
To make the most of your skiing experience we encourage you to work on your fitness and skiing/snowboarding prior to the trip. Your guide places special focus on fitness levels and will regulate the pace accordingly. See our Fitness Training Programs for information on how we can help you prepare for your trip.
History
The European Alps are full of climbing and skiing history. They are the birthplace of mountaineering and their rich heritage adds to the superb facilities (catered huts and lift systems) which provide catering for mountaineers and ski tourers not seen elsewhere.
Food
Adventure Consultants will provide breakfasts for the duration of the trip and evening meals on hut nights while the trip is running. This is from breakfast on Day 1 until breakfast on your departure day. You will be responsible for your own lunch and snacks each day, plus evening meals on the non-mountain nights. This allows you to experience the exciting culinary options available in the region as there are many restaurants and bars within close walking distance that provide a variety of foods to suit your tastes. Any additional food, bottled water, beverages or meals you purchase that are not mentioned in the inclusions will be at your own expense. You should bring a selection of your favourite snack food and hydration drinks with you to ensure you are fuelled for by your preferred brands, as well as money for lunches and snacks whilst in the mountains. Actual amounts depend on your consumption but two per day in addition to your lunch would seem reasonable.
If you have any special dietary requirements, please advise us at the time of registration. If your dietary requirements are especially strict you are advised to bring a sufficient supply of your required food types with you to ensure you are provided for.
Accommodation
Hotel accommodation is provided on a twin share B&B basis as per your trip inclusions. Accommodation in the mountains is in alpine huts in shared bunk rooms or dormitory rooms. Blankets are provided and no sleeping bag will be required. There is no single supplement (or private room) available in the mountain huts but we can arrange this for hotel nights in Verbier, Zermatt, Saas-Fee or Chamonix. Please enquire about costs at the time of booking.
Clothing & Equipment
Skiing in the Alps requires high-quality clothing and equipment due to the extremes of weather. Our focus is on the essential clothing and equipment to keep you warm and comfortable while touring. You will be sent an equipment checklist and your guide will go through this with you at the beginning of your trip. You can rent technical equipment but you must provide your own mountaineering clothing. Actual equipment taken may vary subject to seasonal weather and route conditions. Group equipment including ropes and technical hardware will be provided by your guide.
Verbier to Zermatt or Saas-Fee
| Day | |
| 0 | The team arrives Verbier and enjoys a night in a comfortable local hotel. |
| 1 | The team meets at 8:30am in Verbier. This day is used for revising off-piste and ski touring techniques. We will have a chance to make last minute changes to equipment as well as enjoying the excellent off-piste runs for which Verbier is famous. We will end the day in the Mont Fort Hut (2,457m/8,061ft), to give us an early start the next day. |
| 2 | We make an early start from the hut and climb gently, crossing the Col de la Chaux (2,940m/9,646ft) and then the lovely Col de Momin (3,004m/9,856ft) which suddenly lets us out onto a glacial plateau below the Rosablanche (3,336m/10,945ft). In good weather we will have a chance to climb this mountain before descending to the Prafleuri Hut (2,624m/8,609ft)… excellent skiing. |
| 3 | From the hut, we climb 150m/500ft up to the Col des Roux (2,804m/9,199ft) before traversing the 5km/3 mile long western shore of the frozen Lac des Dix. We pick our way through the Pas de Chat and climb 600m/2,000ft gently up to the Dix Hut (2,928m/9,606ft) where the food is always delicious. |
| 4 | Another big day today, we climb the Cheilon Glacier, the Serpentine and then the Pigne d'Arolla (3,796m/12,454ft). The subsequent ski down to the Vignettes Hut (3,160m/10,367ft) can be, and often is, filled with champagne powder. This is a spectacular day with outstanding views, and the following day is even better! |
| 5 | Making an alpine start again, we slide down to the Col de Chermontane (3,053m/10,016ft), then cross in (hopefully) quick succession the Col de l'Evêque (3,392m/11,129ft), Col du Mont Brûlé (3,213m/10,541ft) and Col de Valpelline (3,568m/11,706ft). Each of these has a fine ski descent after the climb. Now we have the option to climb the Tête de Valpelline (3,802m/12,474ft), adding an extra hour to our day, before skiing under the spectacular North Face of the Matterhorn and then on down to Zermatt (1,614m/5,295ft), hotel, showers and a well-deserved beer or two or a refreshing cup of tea! This is the most special and scenic ski touring day of the trip, providing unsurpassed views. |
| 6 | Depart or add one more day and finish in Saas-Fee... |
Additional day: After an early breakfast we take the Gornergrat railway and cable car to the Stockhorn (3,405m/11,171ft), which allows us to ski down to 3,100m/10,171ft on the Findel Glacier before climbing gently up to the steep Adlerpass (3,789m/12,431ft) which is sandwiched between the 4,000m/13,123ft summits of the Rimpfischhorn and the Strahlhorn. This pass is the gateway to Saas-Fee. On this day we will have skied under three 4,000m/13,123ft peaks. The tour will end with yet another day in paradise.
Alternatively, it is also possible to finish the day in Zermatt with some of the best lift-based off-piste skiing in the Alps. You can descend into Cervinia, ski the top-notch Schwarztor Glacier or climb and ski down the Breithorn (4,164m/13,661ft), which is easily accessible from the Kliene Matterhorn lift.
There are a number of outstanding Haute Route variations. Some are more logical than others but we prefer the above because you keep to skis and snow for the entire tour. Other variants have a road transport section and the Zermatt to Saas-Fee stage can be used as a spare day in case of bad weather.
Chamonix to Zermatt or Saas-Fee
| Day | |
| 0 | The team arrives Chamonix and enjoys a night in a comfortable local hotel. |
| 1 | We meet after breakfast in Chamonix, check gear and organize last-minute hiring of equipment, before off-piste skiing and climbing practice with skins. Return to the hotel. |
| 2 | Today is an early morning start, as we take the lift to Grands Montets (3,200m/10,500ft) and enjoy a delightful 600m/2,000ft ski down to the Argentière Glacier. This is where we stick the skins to our skis for the first big climb of the tour, 700m/2,300ft of gentle zigzagging up to the Col du Chardonnet (3,323m/10,902ft), followed by an exciting rappel descent to the Saleina Glacier. A short ski traverse leads to the next col and an easy climb (skins again) to the Fenêtre de Saleina (3,261m/10,699ft) and the Trient Glacier, from where a gentle ski brings us to the remote Trient Hut (3,170m/10,400ft). The skins go back on again for the 100m/330ft climb up to the hut. |
| 3 | From the Trient Hut we ski down the right bank of the Trient Glacier to 2,750m/9,022ft. We climb 50m/164ft steeply up to the Col des Ecandies (2,796m/9,173ft). In good conditions there is a superb 1,000m/3,281ft powder descent into the Arpette Valley to join the piste and the picturesque little town of Champex (1,500m/4,921ft). We then take road transport to Verbier, join the Verbier lift system and ski over to the Mont Fort Hut (2,457m/8,061ft). Alternatively, we stay at a hotel if finishing in Verbier. Here we join our Swiss Haute Route itinerary. |
| 4 | Depart or continue on to Zermatt. If continuing on you will ski to the Prafleuri Hut (2,624m/8,609ft). |
| 5 | From the hut, we ascend 150m/492ft up to the Col des Roux before traversing the 5km/3 mile long western shore of the frozen Lac des Dix. We pick our way through the Pas de Chat and climb 600m/1,968ft gently up to the Dix Hut (2,928m/9,606ft). |
| 6 | Another big day today, we climb the Cheilon Glacier, the Serpentine and then the Pigne d'Arolla (3,796m/12,454ft). The subsequent ski down to the Vignettes Hut (3,160m/10,367ft) can be, and often is, filled with champagne powder. This is a spectacular day with outstanding views. |
| 7 | Following another alpine start, we slide down to the Col de Chermontane (3,053m/10,016ft), then cross in (hopefully) quick succession the Col de l'Evêque (3,392m/11,129ft), Col du Mont Brule (3,213m/10,541ft) and Col de Valpelline (3,568m/11,706ft). Each of these has a fine ski descent after the climb. Now we have the option to climb the Tête de Valpelline (3,802m/12,474ft), adding an extra hour to our day, before skiing under the spectacular North Face of the Matterhorn and then on down to Zermatt (1,614m/5,295ft), hotel, showers and a well-deserved beer or two or a refreshing cup of tea! |
| 8 | Departure |
Chamonix is located in the heart of the Alps and is central to some of the best ski touring that Europe has to offer. There is a huge variety of properties on offer in Chamonix and after many years of operating in the Alps we have uncovered some of the area's finest. At Adventure Consultants we spend a considerable amount of time reviewing accommodation providers to remain aligned with our high standards.
Contact us if you would like to upgrade your hotel before or after your European Alps trip, as there are several superb properties in the area. We profile our favourite selection below:
HOTEL MONT BLANC
Why we recommend this property
Originally built in 1849, this fine establishment is located in the heart of Chamonix. Surrounded by private gardens, the hotel was recently renovated to be reminiscent of an elegant 19th-century palace. Each room offers a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountains and has been interior-designed by renowned French designer Sybille de Margerie, inspired by nature and the environment. The 14-metre outdoor heated swimming pool can be used year round and offers spectacular views of nearby Mont Blanc. The hotel's in-house restaurant, 'La Mafatan', produces cuisine that will take you on a culinary journey.
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HOTEL LE MORGANE
Why we recommend this property
This luxury boutique hotel is located right in the centre of Chamonix and offers guests top-quality service. Chef Daniele Raimondi produces some of Chamonix's finest cuisine at 'Le Bistrot' restaurant. Le Morgane offers a variety of rooms from singles to deluxe and suites, each featuring balconies with views of Mont Blanc or Le Brévent. Hotel facilities include a small lounge, library, relaxation pool and spa, a ski storage room and free WiFi. Rental of bicycles and electric bikes, as well as a valet car service is available.
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Looking to make the most of the winter break in the Alps? Have a go at ice climbing on our Cogne Ice Climbing Weekend, or push it out to a full week of adrenaline and exploration on our Chamonix-Cogne Ice Climbing Week, taking in some of Europe's best and most classic ice climbing routes. Suitable for both beginner's and more experienced climbers, contact us to learn more.
Your family or friends may wish to join you on your holiday but may not like the idea of ski touring or climbing a mountain. Let us know if this is the situation and we will be able to put together an itinerary that keeps them busy while you are up high. There are so many wonderful things to do, so contact us and we will help to organise the perfect programme.
If you feel your ski touring experience is light or you've been unclipped from your bindings for a season or two, you might consider our Chamonix Ski Touring Weekend to set you up with the competencies required to safely and successfully negotiate the backcountry. Ideal preparation before you head out on a longer ski touring excursion, choose the dates that suit and add this refresher on to the start of your trip.
Please click on the image to view the trip notes online, visit our Chamonix Ski Touring Weekend page or contact us for more information.
Finding the right travel and rescue insurance for your mountaineering adventure can be tricky! Rest assured when you book with the expedition specialists here at Adventure Consultants we'll help by sending through advice on what you'll need, including:
For further information check out our Travel and Rescue Insurance page or contact us.
The following is to serve as a helpful guideline but please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions. Our team is here to help!
info@adventure.co.nz
US: +1 866 757 8722 (Freephone from North America)
NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)
How long have Adventure Consultants been in operation?
Adventure Consultants started in 1990 and we have been guiding internationally ever since. You can read the full story of AC's history here.
A few outfitters claim to have the same level of experience and prestige as Adventure Consultants. In this league, what makes you the first choice for your climbers?
On all of the European trips that we operate, we offer focused guide attention throughout the course to ensure consistency across the programme. Whilst other operators combine you with large groups on training days, we know that your safety will be better protected and the learning progressions will be enhanced with the attentive care of your guide.
Adventure Consultants guides are BMG/NZMGA and/or IFMGA/UIAGM qualified guides. They are professional skiers and mountaineers and operate to the highest standard. Our guides are not only highly experienced climbers, but they are great guides with good people skills hence you will find that your guide is friendly, approachable and focused on providing a safe and enjoyable trip.
What will the accommodation be like?
During your nights in town, accommodation is provided on a twin share B&B basis in a comfortable hotel with good laundry facilities. In the mountains, we stay in alpine huts in a shared bunk room or dormitory. Washing and shower facilities are not available in the huts.
A single supplement is not available in the mountain huts, but we are happy to arrange this for an additional cost at the hotels. If you wish to upgrade to a higher grade of hotel accommodation, then please get in touch to discuss the many fabulous options available.
Which meals are provided?
Adventure Consultants will provide breakfasts for the duration of your trip, plus dinners on nights spent in the mountains. You will be responsible for your own lunches, snacks and bottled water. We recommend you purchase snacks such as nuts, fruit, chocolate, muesli bars and baguette or crackers with cheese, ham and other fillings. Generally, lunch tends to start right after breakfast(!) and continue through the day as we keep energy levels high. Evening meals on non-mountain nights are also not included and this allows you to experience the exciting culinary options available in the alpine resorts. Should you decide to take a meal that is not in the programme, this is at your own expense. We can cater for vegetarians as well as many other special diets as long as we are informed of this prior to the trip.
What is the hut food like?
Breakfasts in the mountain huts usually consist of European-style bread with jam and cheese etc. A typical evening menu would include a hearty soup followed by a pasta dish or stew and then dessert. If you feel like a glass of wine or beer with your meal, please bring cash or a credit card.
Do I need to arrive the day before the trip starts? And when should I book my flight to leave?
No, our trip programmes all have an arrival day and a departure day built into them. You are welcome (and encouraged) to explore your arrival/departure points before or after the trip if you have the time.
When should I book my ticket?
All our European ski trips operate privately on demand, so feel free to book whenever suits. If you see a good deal and want to book your flights early, you should ensure you can make changes to your tickets and it is a good idea to purchase trip cancellation insurance, in the event that you need to cancel.
Where do we meet? Will I be picked up?
For our European departures, we recommend that you arrive into Geneva International Airport, which is located just over the French border in Switzerland. Regular shuttles and train services operate up to Chamonix and private transfers can be arranged to Zermatt, Lauterbrun, Verbier and Grindelwald. We are happy to assist in arranging any transfer requirements and the driver will meet you at the airport, as well as drop you off at your accommodation.
What if I am arriving early or departing late?
Adventure Consultants can make reservations for you and can often make recommendations for attractions you can enjoy while waiting for your trip to begin. Please let our office know your specific plans.
Do you have a recommended list of clothing we should bring?
Yes, you will get be sent a personal clothing and equipment list once our office has received your trip registration form and deposit.
Do I really need all the equipment on the equipment list?
Yes, these lists have been carefully prepared. Please bring everything on the list!
How warm do we need our sleeping bags to be? Will there be extra blankets available if required?
This will be clearly stated in your recommended gear list. It will depend on where you are going, but in general, you will not need a sleeping bag in the European mountain huts as bedding is provided. Adventure Consultants have an experienced Equipment Coordinator, so should any questions arise as to what is required, please do let us know.
How many guides will be assigned to our group?
The ratio of climbers to guides is stated on each trip’s web page in the downloadable 'Trip/Course Notes' section (above).
How much weight can we carry on the climb/course?
When initially accessing the mountain huts, you will be required to carry all of the equipment that you will need for your stay. For day tours from your hut or hotel, you will carry your day pack with warm clothes, water, snacks, sun block, camera and whatever else you need for the day.
Who goes on your trips?
Our climbers and skiers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, interests, countries and skill levels ranging from those seeking skill development to those seeking assistance in view of climbing the world's highest mountains, or purely adventure. We provide courses, expeditions, treks, ski tours and guided ascents for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.
I would like to arrange a private trip, is this possible?
We are happy to arrange a private group trip to the destination of your choice and we have run many successful private trips and expeditions including summits of Europe's more technical and challenging peaks. There is no specific group size, but obviously larger groups are more cost-effective. Please contact the office for more information or visit our Private Customised Expeditions page.
What kind of physical condition should I be in?
We encourage you to work on your fitness prior to your trip. Gym training, swimming, running and cycling add to your base fitness and are a great addition to a pack training program. Visit our Fitness Training page for more details and check out the training programs and online coaching services that we offer in conjunction with our partners at Uphill Athlete.
How do I know this is the right trip for me?
We offer trips to suit all levels of ability and ambition, from your first mountain experience to extreme ascents and everything in between. To help you navigate the choices available, our trips are graded by both the level of physical exertion and the level of skill required, allowing you to find your perfect expedition match. These ratings are displayed in the icons at the top of each expedition page, with a further explanation available by clicking on the accompanying question mark. A full run-down of the categories can be found on our Difficulty Ratings page and our team is more than happy to discuss your experience to find the right trip for you.
Will there be any access to a satellite phone? If yes then what would be the charges for usage?
In Europe, there is no need to use a satellite phone as you will find that there is cell phone coverage in most of the towns and mountain huts that we utilise. Your guide will also stay in touch with our European Coordinator in Chamonix with updates on the trip. It is very easy to purchase a European SIM card but do remember if using a French SIM in Italy, you will be charged international rates and vice versa.
I want to contact my friend or relative, who is on one of your trips, how can I reach them?
The best place to reach a loved one is through our office. As mentioned above, your guide will stay in touch with our European Coordinator who is based in Chamonix, who then relays messages between your guide and our NZ office.
Can I charge electronic devices while in the mountains?
Generally charging is not available so please ensure that your phones, iPods and kindles etc. are well charged up before leaving the hotel for your trip.
What weather report service do you use? How often do you receive a weather report during the trip?
Forecasts are posted daily in the huts and information relayed through the hut guardian to the guides. Your guide will also be in cell phone communication with our Operations Coordinator and/or Chief Guide for weather updates throughout the trip.
What insurance do we need to get?
We highly recommend comprehensive travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance, as well as evacuation and medical insurance. Read your policy's fine print to make sure it covers you for ski or snow boarding, and that it covers you for helicopter evacuation.
Do I need evacuation insurance?
Yes, it is very important. Evacuation insurance is required for members of our European trips to cover your evacuation from the mountain in the case of your injury or illness. You must ensure that your policy covers you for off-piste ski touring as many policies exclude these activities from their schedule of benefits. In the European Alps, rescues are coordinated by the local authorities and the very high costs are charged directly to the user i.e. you/your travel insurance company.
Who do you recommend for insurance?
Coverage varies based on your nationality and the trip that you are taking with us. When you have booked on for a trip with us we will send you comprehensive information on various insurance options which will serve as a good starting point for obtaining the best coverage available for yourself.
What is trip cancellation insurance?
Trip cancellation insurance is an option that may allow you to cancel your trip without losing the total cost of the trip. Adventure Consultants highly recommends cancellation insurance for all of our trips as it is not unknown for people to have unforeseen circumstances that force them to cancel their trips for reasons such as family illness, injury to self, etc. If circumstances cause us to cancel a trip (e.g. minimum numbers are not reached) then we refund your fees paid but trip cancellation insurance covers your airfare and any other costs you may have incurred.
Can I pay by credit card?
We can accept both the trip deposit and balance payment on credit card. Please note that there is a 3% fee for all card transactions. Please contact our office or visit our online payment system.
What is included in the cost of my trip? Does it include airfare?
Please see the 'Payment Conditions' section above for the inclusions and exclusions for this particular trip. There is also a downloadable pdf document in the 'Trip Notes' section above. International airfares are not included in the trip price. We can, however, recommend excellent travel agents with whom we have worked should you require help with arranging your international airfare.
Why are you sometimes more expensive than other operators?
Many of our trips are very similar in price to our competitors. Some companies even wait for us to set our prices and use ours as a guideline! Some of our main selling points, which sometimes do cost more, are internationally qualified guides, small group sizes, safe client-to-guide ratios and quality equipment, among other things. You do get what you pay for which is why we stand out from the rest. Many clients come to us after failing on one of our competitors 'cheaper' trips.
How do I sign up for a trip?
The best way to reserve your space on a trip contact our office or complete our online booking form (click 'Book Now' below). Your deposit can be submitted by bank transfer (please see 'Payment Details' in the 'Payment Conditions' section above) or via our secure online payment system.
info@adventure.co.nz
US: +1 866 757 8722 (Freephone from North America)
NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)
I love the photographs in your brochure and on your website, are they for sale?
Yes, our images are available for licensing or purchase. Please contact our office for more information.
What is the best equipment for photography in alpine environments?
Remember photos are wonderful records of your trip but keep camera gear simple and light to best enjoy the trip you are on. Disposable and digital cameras are the lightest weight, but all cameras have maintenance issues that need to be carefully considered before bringing them to the mountains.
I want to become a mountain guide, where do I start?
Those with limited experience generally start by taking an alpine climbing course and then go out and climb for a few years. You generally should have at least 5 years of climbing and/or teaching/guiding experience. You need avalanche and medical training and then you can apply to do an NZ Mountain Guides Course or the equivalent in your country, aligned with the IFMGA.
Please see Adventure Consultants Mountain Guide Scholarships on our Career Opportunities page and check the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association for more information.
