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Legendary summit Aiguille Verte
Duration:
5 days
Level:
Level 1: You have never practiced.
Level 2: You have some initial experience.
Level 3: You practice occasionally.
Level 4: You practice regularly.
Level 5: You have a sustained practice.
General information
The Aiguille Verte is one of the iconic peaks of the Mont Blanc Massif. The famous French mountaineer and writer Gaston Rébuffat contributed significantly to this reputation when he said of it in the 50's “Before the Verte one is a mountaineer, after the Verte one becomes a proper mountaineer. It is certainly true that there are no easy routes on this peak and each face is a significant challenge. The south face of the Aiguille Verte is an outstanding snow route that follows the Whymper Couloir for over 700 metres. This is unquestionably one of the most beautiful routes in the massif, and we offer a four-day programme for its ascent.
This trip is part of a series of programs that we set for you to climb the iconic peaks of the Alps. We have selected a route together with a specific preparatory package for each peak. Each route chosen is universally recognised as unmissable. Thanks to our unique centre of expertise, we can also guide you on other routes. So don’t hesitate to dream big, as our expertise is at your service to help you make your dreams come true.
When is the best time to climb the Aiguille Verte?
The current evolution of the climate has profoundly altered the snow conditions in high mountain areas, requiring a modification of mountaineering practices. The optimal period for ascending the Aiguille Verte via the Whymper Couloir now extends from mid-March to early June. Depending on encountered conditions, ski touring equipment may be necessary for the approach.
Private booking
Private booking is the historical relationship that binds a guide to his/her client. It allows you to be alone, or in a constituted group, with your guide that meets your specific needs. It is undoubtedly the ideal formula to realize your projects because it guarantees you a maximum of comfort. You are free to choose your departure date (depending on the availability of the huts) and the itinerary can be adjusted, according to your specific expectations.
Dates : From mid March to early June
Price 2024 : 2885€ per person
Included in the package :
- IFMGA English speaking mountain guiding service
- two half-board in mountain huts (dinner, breakfast and night)
- transfer go & back to Italy (Day 1&2)
- lift access as per programme
Not included in the package :
- personal drinks in huts and other personal expenses (we recommend you bring Euros and Swiss Francs)
- take out lunches and daily snacks
- nights in the Chamonix valley
- cost of getting to meeting point (Chamonix)
- personal technical equipment
Further information
In this section, find all the information about this activity. To prepare your trip effectively, refer to the guides’ tips. They share their expertise and recommendations, ensuring you have a great experience.
Meeting point : Departure on day 1 is at 8.30am from the Compagnie des Guides in Chamonix.
Fitness level : Suitable for individuals in excellent physical condition. Participants should be prepared for 10 to 12 hours of physical effort.
Technical level : Participants should have experience in climbing routes with an AD+ (Assez Difficile Plus) difficulty rating and a strong background in using crampons.
Guiding policy : One participant per guide. This guiding policy ensures high-quality guiding services
Accommodation : Half-board in huts for 2 nights.
Benefit from specials prices with our hotel partners in Chamonix.
Documentation : Participants must have mountain sports insurance with repatriation cover. We strongly recommend that this also includes cancellation cover. You can take out insurance when you sign up. Participants must also take valid ID with them.
Documents available for download
Equipment
We recommend you to pay particular attention to the choice of your equipment. It contributes greatly to the success of your stay. Weight is decisive: you always have to evaluate the ratio weight/comfort, to find the best compromise. In a general way, it is better to pile up several light coats rather than wear one big clothing.
Equipment
- High Mountain boots : snow-covered, plastic or new generation material (to use semi-rapid crampons).
- Comfortable frameless rucksack (about 35-40 litres)
- Crampons with” anti-stick soles”, ice-axe, harness, helmet,
- A cotton or silk sleeping bag is compulsory. Huts provide blankets.
- Rock climbing shoes
- Belay device + one lockable carabiner
Clothing
- Breathable t-shirt
- Polar fleece
- Gore-Tex jacket
- Pants (type Gore-Tex)
- Gaiters
- Thermal underwear
- Mountain socks
- Wollen hat and cap or bandana, gloves or mittens
Clothing
- 1.0 or 1.5 quart water bottle
- High-altitude sunglasses, suncream, head lamp and pocket knife
- Personal medical kit ; aspirin, compede and elastic tape, plasters, ear plugs,
- Toilet kit : toothbrush, toothpaste, pre-moistened towlettes, T.P., tissue
- Passport / identity papers + money for drinks in huts
- Camera : be carefull with the batteries
Our Rental Partners : You can rent your equipment with our rental shops partners and benefit from special price Sanglard Sports, Ravanel & Co & Concept Pro Shop
Our Equipment Partners : Millet, Dynastar, Julbo, Grivel & Monnet
Itinerary
Day 1
Route from Pointe Helbronner - Night in the Torino Hut (3370m)
Before undertaking the ascent of the Aiguille Verte, it is essential for your body to acclimate to the altitude. Your guide must also assess your technical skills to ensure they align with the requirements of such a climb. This step also provides the opportunity to make necessary adjustments to fully prepare you. Example of route : South-west couloir of the Aiguilles Marbrées (3535m). Night in Torino Hut.
Day 2
Route from the Torino hut
This second day will reinforce the essential process of acclimating your body to the altitude while providing you with the opportunity to make any necessary adjustments. Example of route : Ascent of Gervasutti Couloir on the Tour Ronde (3 798m).
Day 3
Rest day
Rest/spare day depending on weather conditions.
Day 4
Climb up to Couvercle Hut (2687m)
We set off from Le Montenvers (1913m), which we reach by train. We walk up the Mer de Glace, take the Egralets ladders and follow a path to the hut. 3-4 hours of walking.
Day 5
Ascent of Aiguille Verte (4122m) via Whymper Couloir
We head out at around 01:00 in the morning. We cross the Talèfre glacier to reach the start of the couloir. We climb the couloir (45-50º) to the summit in the morning. We descend via the same route including downclimbing and rappels. We return to the hut and from there to Le Montenvers. 10-12 hours walking return trip hut-to-hut.
Calculate your carbon footprint
Discover the carbon emissions of this activity and add your trip to the meeting point.
CO2 emitted per person for the activity: 117 kg. Learn out more about the footprint calculation of this activity
CO2 emitted per person for the activity: 117 kg. Learn out more about the footprint calculation of this activity
CO2 emitted per person for this activity & journey(s) = 0 kgIn order to limit global warming to +2°C by 2100, the COP-21 agreement stipulates that each human should emit no more than 2t of CO2 per year. According to the French Ministry of Ecology, today European citizens emit an average of 11t per year, and American citizens emit an average of 21t annually., or 11.7€The price for a ton of CO2 is currently 100€ in the European Union to offset.
Find out more about our zero impact strategy.
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