Summit Matterhorn, The Matterhorn Trip, 6 Days, Climb, The Alps
From: CHF 5'650
Summit Matterhorn. A climbing trip to one of the most iconic mountains in the magnificent Alps.
The season is July to September
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Vacation Style Holiday Type
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Activity Level Challenging Adventure Holidays
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Group Size Small Group
Climb The Matterhorn
The Matterhorn is undeniably the most magnificent and well-known peak in the Alps. Its bold pyramidal shape evokes emotions of wonderment and even fear in those who view it for the first time as its four distinct faces stand omnipotent and menacing over the green meadows below. Separated by sharp ridges, the four faces are orientated to the four points of the compass, the northern aspects within Switzerland while the southern side lies in Italy.
We ascend via the Hörnli Ridge that separates the North and East faces via a long and technical route requiring the utmost attention from climbers. The steep rock ridge is very involving and a successful attempt requires a rapid rate of ascent and full concentration by a fit party. The steep North and East face drop away spectacularly on either side and the sense of exposure is dramatic.
With its formidable history and the magnificent grandeur of its architecture, the Hörnli Ridge in Climb the Matterhorn trip is a climb that is definitely worth aspiring to.
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
To climb the Matterhorn you need to be fit, have strong physical and mental stamina and be capable of strenuous exercise for several days duration. Prospective climbers must be competent in rock and alpine climbing practices and be aware that your ability to succeed will be determined more by your current condition and capability, than previous ascents you may have made in the past. You will need to be proficient in snow/ice techniques and cramponing.
In order to get up this long route, prospective climbers must be confident in rock climbing in alpine boots to grade US 5.7/ AUS 15/ UK HS and be capable of moving at a steady pace for extended periods in technical terrain on snow and rock. It is imperative you have a high degree of cardiovascular fitness to cope with the strains of the climb and the altitude.
In your build-up to the climb, it would be appropriate to be rock climbing regularly as well as training on hills for overall fitness. Your climbing history will include ascents of long and technical multi-pitch alpine routes, and you will be an active rock climber, current with use of rope skills and snow and ice climbing techniques.
Even climbing at the moderate altitudes in Europe has a definite physical effect on people. Most climbers notice a lower performance rate than normal. Summit day is physically demanding and a dedicated training programme is essential to enhance your chance of success. It is preferable to spend a few days at altitude prior to your scheduled climb to assist with your acclimatisation. Climbers regularly attend our Pre-Course & Acclimatisation Programme in Chamonix prior to partaking in the ascent. Ask about this during booking.
Preparing for Your Trip
To make the most of your climbing experience you must train in the months leading up to your trip. By adopting a programme of running, cycling and/or hill walking you will greatly increase your chance of success on this peak. Build up your training until you are able to hike on consecutive days for at least 8hrs whilst carrying a 10kg / 22lbs pack, incorporating the elevation gain of over 1200m/4000ft which is required on summit day. A regular rock climbing programme is also essential. Your guide will be attuned to your fitness levels and will regulate the pace accordingly; however, it is essential that you arrive physically prepared to succeed on this mountain.
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. We also advise getting trip cancellation insurance to cover you should you be forced to cancel your participation prior to the trip starting.
- Meals (except for dinners on hotel nights and extra drinks/meals in huts)
- Lodging for 7 nights
- Lifts
- Hut fees
- Transport ex Chamonix or Zermatt
- Any costs that are additional to the program that come about due to changes to program caused by weather or organisational changes. (Any changes will generally be due to factors outside our control such as weather, lift failure (etc) and actioned only after you have been consulted by your guide)
- Personal mountaineering clothing and equipment as per lists supplied
- Evening meals during hotel nights
- Extra additional meals or snacks/drinks purchased from huts/hotel
- Insurance
- Transport to and from Chamonix or Zermatt (although we can arrange it for you)
- Gratuity