Total personalisation

Europe Private Instruction Course

Our Private Instruction Courses are the most flexible mountaineering program available, where you can outline the type of skills you would like to achieve in line with your future climbing objectives.

The course can be structured to prepare you for ascents of Europe’s classic peaks through to joining one of our high altitude climbing expeditions. No matter what level you are at now, our courses will provide you with the most current and essential mountaineering skills that will enhance your ability levels and enable you to take your climbing to the next level.

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Climb and learn at your own level and pace with Private Instruction Courses - Paolo Pieroni

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From introductory to technical level - depending on your skills and goals - Paolo Pieroni

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Choose your preferred mountain area, Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa or Gran Paradiso - Paolo Pieroni

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A course tailored to your preference, be it Alpine Climbing, Ski Mountaineering or Ice Climbing - Paolo Pieroni

From January to December
Departs from Chamonix, France
RATIOS 5 DAYS 6 DAYS 7 DAYS
1:1 €4,080 EUR €4,780 EUR €5,450 EUR
1:2 €2,400 EUR €2,750 EUR €3,180 EUR
1:3 €1,990 EUR €2,250 EUR €2,580 EUR
1:4 €1,650 EUR €1,870 EUR €2,150 EUR
  • Overview

    • Select dates and duration to suit your timeframe
    • Focus on the skills you want to develop
    • Participate with your friends or by yourself


    This is one of our most popular course options as it allows you to design your own course content and itinerary. The European Alps also offers a diverse range of climbing opportunities across a wide range of climbing styles. The peaks are very accessible and supported by a superb lift and hut system that enable you fast access to superb climbing venues.

    Join as an individual for 1:1 personalised instruction, or put your own group of like-minded companions together. A maximum 1:4 guide to climber ratio applies. We will work with you to design an appropriate and stimulating course format with a specialist guide in that field, whether you aspire to further your skill base through a course in a specific discipline such as high alpine climbing, or you require individual attention from your guide to develop skills at your own pace. The overwhelming response from past course participants is that they have enjoyed dramatic improvements in their climbing standards, as they can focus specifically on their own needs.

  • Why AC?

    We offer focused guide attention to ensure consistency across the program. Whilst other operators combine you with large groups on training days we know your safety will be better protected and the learning progressions will be enhanced with the attentive care of your guide and smaller guide to climber ratios.

    Adventure Consultants guides are BMG/NZMGA and / or IFMGA-UIAGM qualified mountain guides. They are professional mountaineers and operate to the highest industry standards.

    Being a technically proficient climber alone is not enough to work with us; our standards demand that trip leaders are great guides as well. You will find your guide friendly, approachable and focused on providing a safe and enjoyable trip in line with your objectives and comfort level.

    Success with the highest margin of care is always a hallmark of our approach; promoting the realisation that even extreme pursuits such as high altitude mountaineering can be undertaken safely.

    Adventure Consultants only employs IFMGA qualified guides for European ascents and courses and this is the only certification that is recognised in the French Alps. In order to gain these qualifications guides must undergo rigorous training and assessment on climbing skills, instructional skills, avalanche training and assessment, wilderness first aid, rescue training and much more. The qualification takes many years to attain and ensures you are getting a world class professional service.

  • Payment Conditions

    Inclusions

    The price of your trip includes the following:

    • Qualified mountain guide
    • Group technical equipment
    • Lift passes as per the scheduled itinerary
    • Hut accommodation as per the scheduled itinerary
    • Hotel accommodation on a B&B basis during trip dates as specified on the schedule, including first / last night of your trip
    • Local ground transport as per the scheduled itinerary
    • Breakfast & dinner during mountain component of course/trip


    Exclusions

    The price of your trip does not include:

    • Any lift, hut, hotel or transport costs additional to the programme due to weather or logistics (any changes will be actioned only after you have been consulted by your guide)
    • Personal mountaineering clothing and equipment as per lists supplied
    • Evening meals during hotel nights in town
    • Lunches during the climbing days
    • Additional meals or snacks/drinks purchased from huts/hotels
    • Insurance
    • Transport to and from trip departure location (although we can arrange it for you)
    • Gratuity

     

    Account Information

    For our European ascents and courses, 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 (early-July to end of August).

    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 course/ascent. 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.

    • Cancellations outside of 60 days will result in the loss of the trip deposit.
    • For cancellations made within 60 days of the trip commencement date we reserve the right to retain 50% of the full fee.
    • For cancellations made within 30 days of the trip commencement date we reserve the right to retain 75% of the full fee.
    • For cancellations within 15 days of the departure date a cancellation fee of 100% of the full fee applies.


    We recommend you take out trip cancellation insurance via your travel agent.

  • Course Notes

    Europe PIC 2023 Trip Notes CoverThe Course Notes provide detailed information and background for Adventure Consultants' Private Instruction Courses in Europe.

    You can view the course notes online by clicking the image or download a pdf by clicking the following link:

    Europe Private Instruction Course Notes 2023

    Team Membership

    You can join as an individual for 1:1 personalised instruction, or put your own group of like-minded companions together. A maximum 1:4 guide to climber ratio applies.

    Our Guides

    IFMGA NZMGA BMGAdventure Consultants guides are BMG/NZMGA and / or IFMGA-UIAGM qualified mountain guides. They are professional mountaineers and operate to the highest industry standards.

    Being a technically proficient climber alone is not enough to work with us; our standards demand that trip leaders are great guides as well. You will find your guide friendly, approachable and focused on providing a safe and enjoyable trip in line with your objectives and comfort level.

    Success with the highest margin of care is always a hallmark of our approach; promoting the realisation that even extreme pursuits such as high altitude mountaineering can be undertaken safely.

    Adventure Consultants only employs IFMGA qualified guides for European ascents and courses and this is the only certification that is recognised in the French Alps. In order to gain these qualifications guides must undergo rigorous training and assessment on climbing skills, instructional skills, avalanche training and assessment, wilderness first aid, rescue training and much more. The qualification takes many years to attain and ensures you are getting a world class professional service.

    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 Profile April 17Hayley 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.

     

    Staff Photo

    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

    These courses are not just for those new to climbing, for the seasoned climber these courses offer the facility to up-skill yourself in your chosen field from one of our specialist professional guides.

    You may have the opportunity to develop additional skills before the course commences. Rope skills can be learned through local alpine clubs or climbing Gyms. Previous rock or alpine climbing experience will allow you to gain even more from the course.

    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 climbing experience we encourage you to work on your fitness prior to the trip. You will find that training on hills with a +10kg pack on is the best preparation for the mountains, with the aim of building your endurance. Your guide will be attuned to your fitness levels and will regulate the pace accordingly. See our Fitness Training Programs for information on how we can help you prepare for your course.

    A note about training on lower altitude peaks - if your focus is on joining one of our expeditions in the future, we recommend training in lower altitude mountain ranges such as the European Alps where there are many peaks of around only 3000-4000m in height. This allows you to concentrate on the technical skills required for successful alpine climbing. We find that without the hassles of altitude slowing you down you are able to progress your skills so much more quickly and you can concentrate on your altitude training further down the line. 

    Insurance

    We strongly recommend that you take out trip cancellation and travel insurance to protect yourself in case of injury or mishap prior to/or whilst on our trips.

    While our focus is on safety and our track record supports this, the mountains do have hazards and there is the potential for mishap. If you were injured whilst on the trip there is a very efficient rescue service nearby.

    Food

    Adventure Consultants will provide breakfasts for the duration of the course and evening meals on hut nights while the trip is running. This is from breakfast on Day 1 until breakfast on the final scheduled day of your trip. You will be responsible for your own lunches and snacks each day and your own evening meals on non-mountain nights in Chamonix. This allows you to experience the exciting culinary options available in Chamonix as there are many restaurants and bars within close walking distance that provide a variety of foods to suit your tastes. Any additional food, beverages or meals you purchase that are not mentioned in the inclusions will be at your own expense.

    It is a good idea to bring a small selection of your favourite snack food and hydration drinks with you to ensure you are fuelled by your preferred brands. 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

    Accommodation is provided on a twin share B&B basis in hotels whilst in Chamonix and huts in the mountains. 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 rooms) available in the mountain huts but we can arrange this for you in Chamonix.

    A single supplement is available at additional cost for the hotel nights during the course. Please contact our office for further information and costs.

    Clothing & Equipment

    Climbing in the European Alps requires you have high quality clothing and equipment due to the extremes of weather conditions. Our focus is on having the essential clothing and equipment to keep you warm and comfortable during the climb.

    Your guide will go through the equipment checklist with you at the beginning of your trip. Actual equipment taken may vary subject to seasonal weather and route conditions. You can rent technical equipment for the climb but you must provide your own clothing appropriate to mountaineering as per the equipment list. Group equipment including ropes and technical hardware will be organised by your guide.

    Communications & Messages

    Our guides are in cell phone communication with our operations base throughout the trip. This assists us with schedule and weather forecast updates, lift and accommodation co-ordination and safety back up. Your own mobile phone should work in the region though you may want to check with your own service provider first. Local mobile phones can be rented at the international airports.

    Climbing Season

    We guide the high peaks all year as conditions allow although our main climbing season is from June through to end of September. In June and early July we can expect more snow and ice cover on the glaciers making for easier access and better conditions on snow routes. As temperatures warm up into the full summer months of mid-July to mid-August and into September the conditions are optimum for the majority of guided climbs on the major peaks although some mountains become cut off due to access difficulties from early August. Late summer is generally better for attempting major rock routes.

    We do specialise in ice climbing through the winter months. Ice climbing conditions are especially good through February and March.

    Our guides are also qualified and experienced ski guides so enquire about combining ski touring with your course. Ski one day, climb the next!

    Europe has a continental climate which in general encourages more stable weather. However, the weather in the high mountains can be changeable and at times very severe. It is possible weather conditions may thwart our program. However, due to the length of the course and our focus on the forecasts we can often change our itinerary slightly to work around frontal systems.

  • Curriculum

    We operate our mountain courses in the Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa or the Gran Paradiso mountain regions depending on your preference. We can extend our courses to focus on specific skills such as winter ice climbing in which case we may base ourselves in the Cogne or La Grave regions that are world famous for their ice routes. We may move venues throughout the course to ensure the best conditions are encountered at the time. For rock specific courses our guides are also able to travel with you to a preferred venue or one where the weather is best.

    Our objective is to pass on the skills, which have made us successful in our own international climbing careers. The most important attributes being:

    • A solid climbing standard and mountain awareness
    • Sound judgement of your own ability
    • Good planning and preparation skills
    • Good decision making

    You tell us what you want to do on the course! With our private instruction courses the choice is yours. You may deem that the course focus primarily on an aspect of climbing that you most want to gain instruction so you can increase your skill set in that area. Alternatively you can follow a standard training curriculum as would be covered in the Introductory, Intermediate or Advanced courses.

    On the Private Instruction Course you can select the skills you want to focus upon such as those below:

    • Snow-craft and ice-craft
    • Mountain first aid and health
    • Rope skills applicable to alpine climbing
    • Rescue techniques & Emergency shelters
    • Camp Management
    • Glacier travel and self-rescue skills
    • Route finding and navigation
    • Weather analysis
    • Rock climbing
    • Ice climbing
    • Alpine rock climbing skills
    • Preparation for high altitude expedition climbing

    We spend as much time as possible actually climbing whilst developing skills. Initially you will develop and reinforce your skills in a contained environment and move on to more challenging routes and terrain during the course.

    Experiential learning is a major factor in becoming a competent mountaineer. The emphasis of the course is on safe application of skill development. We will introduce skills through actually climbing peaks and increase the intensity of the program at your pace.

    Alpine climbing can involve long days with early starts in order to gain a summit with descent before nightfall. There are times when the weather may be rough and there can be periods of discomfort. We manage this through consultation with the group members and our objectives are dictated by the strength and motivation of the group as a whole.

    You may have the opportunity to develop additional skills before the course commences. Rope skills can be learned through local alpine clubs or climbing Gyms. Previous rock or alpine climbing experience will allow you to gain even more from the course.

    We commence our Private Instruction Course from Chamonix in France. The closest international airport is at Geneva, just over the border in Switzerland. Regular shuttles operate through to Chamonix and the trip takes about 1.5 hours. Your shuttle driver will drop you at your accommodation. At the completion of the course the shuttle can take you back to the airport. The shuttle transfers are at your own cost but we can help arrange this for you.

  • Add Ons

    Chamonix is located in the heart of the European Alps, and is central to much of the best mountaineering that the Alps have to offer. There is a huge variety of properties on offer in Chamonix and after many years of operating out of the Alps we have discovered the area's finest. At Adventure Consultants we spend a considerable amount of time reviewing the accommodation providers, so as to keep this aligned with our high standards.

    If you would like to upgrade your hotel before or after your European Alps trip, 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 the elegant19th-century palaces. Each room has been interior-designed by renowned French designer Sybille de Margerie and is inspired by nature and the environment. Every room offers a stunning panorama of the surrounding mountains. The 14-metre outdoor heated swimming pool can be used year round and offers spectacular views of nearby Mont Blanc. 'La Mafatan' restaurant where chef Mickey Bourdillat produces cuisine that will take you on a culinary journey.

    Hotel Mont Blanc Room 600x400Hotel Mont Blanc Library 600x400 1Hotel Mont Blanc Exterior Winter 600 x 400Hotel Mont Blanc Exterior Summer 600x400

    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. Offers a variety of rooms from singles, deluxe to suites, and every room features balconies allowing 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. The loan of bicycles and electric bikes, as well as a valet car service is offered.

    Le Morgane Terrace resized 600x400Le Morgane Junior Suite resized 600x400Le Morgane Exterior night resized 600x400Le Morgane Pool and Spa Resized 600x400

    Are you arriving early, departing later or have some extra time up your sleeve while in Chamonix? If so, we can recommend some fun activities that have been tried and tested by our Chamonix team. If interested in any of these options, please do let your client liaison know and this can be arranged in advance. If you are in Chamonix and find you have extra time, this can be arranged through your guide or our fabulous Chamonix liaison, Karoline.

    Fly Chamonix Tandem Paragliding 

    Enjoy a 20-minute flight and who could think of a more fun way to get a scenic bird’s eye view of Chamonix and the Mont Blanc Massif. Overall this activity takes an hour from meeting your pilot, riding up the lift, take-off and then landing. No age limits apply!

    Peak Powder Mountain Biking 

    Peak Powder offer a huge variety of mountain biking trips that cater for skill levels, whether it be downhill riding at one of the biking areas; Balme Le Tours and Les Houches, a ride between France into Switzerland, and into Italy or you would like some biking instruction, Peak Powder offer it all.

    Rafting or Canyoning with Cham Aventure 

    An array of water activities are on offer with Cham Aventure and including rafting or canyoning down the L’Arve River, or rafting the Dora Baltéa River In Italy.

    Your family or friends may wish to join you on your holiday but don't like the idea of actually 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 have a chat with us and we will help to organise the perfect programme.

  • Travel & Rescue Insurance

    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:

    • Travel insurance including trip interruption and cancellation cover
    • Medical Evacuation and Rescue Insurance


    For further information check out our Travel and Rescue Insurance page or contact us.

  • FAQ

    • 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
      NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)

    • Choosing a Provider

      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 courses and ascents 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 mountain guides. They are professional 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.

    • Food, Accommodation & Facilities

      What will the accommodation be like on my trip?
      During your nights in town, accommodation is provided on a twin share B&B basis in a comfortable hotel. These hotels all have laundry facilities and it is easy to leave any additional gear stored safely whilst you are away. In the mountains, we stay in alpine huts on a shared bunk room or dormitory basis. 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.

      Please note that for some courses we incorporate camping nights. This will be clearly stated in the course curriculum.

      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. On climbing days, 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. 

    • Travel

      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?
      If on a course, we generally ask you to wait until 60 days prior to your trip start date to ensure that your trip has met the minimum numbers and will operate. If you are on an ascent or private trip, do feel free to book whenever suits. If you see a good deal and want to book your flights, 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 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.

    • Clothing & Equipment

      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.

    • Acclimatisation

      I will be climbing at altitude, so does Adventure Consultants take this into consideration?
      When planning our courses and ascent programmes, we seriously consider the altitude and ensure that all of our itineraries allow for sufficient acclimatisation and rest days, if required.

      I want to give myself the best chance of success on my climb; what advice does Adventure Consultants have to help me succeed?
      If you are concerned about how you will cope at altitude, wish to refresh your climbing skill, or simply just want to give yourself the best chance of success, then consider the 2-day Pre-Course & Acclimatisation Programme. This pre-course has been designed to kick-start your acclimatisation and refresh your climbing skills before heading onto the main objective of your course or ascent.

    • Guides & Team Members

      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 Notes' section above.

      How much weight can we carry on the climb/course?
      When initially climbing up to the mountain huts, you will be required to carry all of the equipment that is needed for the following day's course or ascent. From the hut, you will carry your day pack with your technical climbing equipment, warm clothes, water, snacks, sun block, camera and whatever else you need for the day. Generally, it will be around 10kgs/20lbs.

      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.

    • Health & Fitness

      What kind of physical condition should I be in?
      We encourage you to work on your fitness prior to your course or ascent. When training, it is recommended you carry a pack for long periods on hills and uneven terrain. Over time, increase the pack weight until you are comfortable with 15-20kgs. Gym training, swimming, running and cycling also 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.

    • Communication & Electronic Devices

      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 (with the exception of the Vittorio Emanuele Hut). 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 climb.

    • Weather Forecasts

      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.

    • Insurance

      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 trekking or climbing, depending on what trip you have booked 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 Courses & Ascents to cover your evacuation from the mountain in the case of your injury or illness. You must ensure that your policy covers you for mountaineering 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.

    • Fees & Payments

      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/Course 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, proven dependable local operators, small group sizes and safe client-to-guide ratios, quality equipment and high summit success rates, 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
      NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)

    • Photography

      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 high elevations.

    • Employment

      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.

Book Now

IMG 3364

What I got was far superior to the normal experience with local guides (on many levels)… superb guides who will teach in an environment with reliable weather, a massive variety of routes, and push you fairly hard but also stick within an acceptable margin of safety.
Europe Private Instruction Course

Ashley Alder
Hong Kong
remarks july 2010 010s steve off

Super knowledgeable, very well organised and prepared, highly skilled guides and you guys go pretty much everywhere!
Europe Private Instruction Course, 2016

Matt Cooper
Australia
Gary Lewis I

Excellent experience, exactly what I was looking for.
Private Instruction Course, 2017

Gary Lewis
Australia


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