An Interview with a local Tour du Mont Blanc Guide

We have been fortunate to talk to a local tour guide who takes many groups around the Tour du Mont Blanc every year. Find out more about what you need to expect during this popular hike.

Q: When should you go to Mont Blanc?

A: The best time to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc is from early June to the end of September. Because it is a lot less crowded, however bare in mind that in June there tends to be leftover snow which can make it more difficult to hike than usual. 

Q: What is the weather like?

A: You have to prepare for the drastic changes in weather. The weather is generally very pleasant (side note: due to global warming it changes every year) you can expect temperatures to be around 30 degrees in the valley or even 0 to -5 degrees when hiking up. That is why you need to be flexible with temperature expectations and be prepared for sudden drops! For example, the temperature can drop from 10 degrees to 0 in less than an hour.

Q: How long is the hike?

A: There are many ways to complete the TDMB. The full route is 10 days of walking the entirety, this is the best way to see all 3 countries, see all the highlights, and the wonderful views. It’s well worth it.

The 7 day hike is the most popular route as it’s slightly shorter and includes transport to speed things up. Over this route, you will see all the key highlights. The 5 day trip is also an interesting choice, still a great option. You will start in Italy and you will only be able to view the north part of the massif.

Q: How fit do you have to be?

A: It’s a medium level hike, there’s no climbing, no big drops, and there is sometimes rocky terrain but even that’s not difficult. If you’re a generally active person and do some kind of exercise per week, you can definitely complete the hike! We don’t require people to have previous experience, so if you’re a complete beginner don’t let it scare you. However, it’s always good to elevate your training 3 months previously. The fitter you are the more enjoyable it will be especially for the 10 day hike!

Q: How much does your daily pack weigh?

A: Around 22 pounds/10kg give or take. It’s a relatively light backpack, you only carry your stuff for the day. 

Q: Do you need to prepare for high altitudes? 

A: The maximum elevation is 2600m/8500ft. This isn’t considered very high and 99% of people have no problems whatsoever.  

Q: Is there any special gear I need to bring with me? 

A: You only need basic gear such as hiking boots, hiking pants, shorts, and tops. Qe recommended layers! They are important due to the changes in temperature. You can bring your own backpack or rent one. In June there might still be some snow so bring your microspikes.

Q: What will we eat?

A: The tour company organizes all the food you will be eating. Of course, you are welcome to bring and buy extra snacks. They also organize food for any dietary requirements, you just have to give advance notice of this. The group will eat breakfast at the accommodation and it’s delicious European food, which I think is great! Lunch will be prepared during a break while you’re hiking, this may include fruits and local cheese. Finally, dinner will be at the accommodation you’re staying at for the night. 

Q: How much water do we have to carry with us?

A: Water is drinkable the whole way! As they provide clean water for the cows too, the water is clean and totally safe so you don’t need to bring a filter with you. You should ideally carry 53-70oz with you but don’t stress as you can refill throughout the day. Remember to hydrate!

Q: Where will we be sleeping? 

A: Most nights a traditional hut/dormitories. They are very clean and super comfortable, there are usually 8-12 people per room and you’ll have a shared bathroom. It’s one of those places where you get to speak to the owner, learn more about the culture, and meet other hikers. 

The other accommodations included are a little more luxurious but still,  shared rooms and bathrooms. Because the Tour du Mont Blanc is so popular and many people visit yearly there, work has been done on the accommodations to make them really nice.