TMB

This trip involves 10 days of walking; 2 days at a Moderate level and 8 days at a Challenging level. Most of the days are long, quite often involving an ascent of 900-1200m (or 3000 - 4000 feet), equivalent to 3 to 4 hours walking uphill, followed by a similar descent. Although the paths are well maintained there are sections that are rough underfoot. On day 2 there are 2 metal ladders to descend en route from Lac Blanc, these are secured against the rock, consist of approximately 12 steps and are not difficult to climb. The route throughout is non-technical however we will be walking mountain paths throughout and this trip is not advised for severe vertigo sufferers.

Most people trek the TMB anti clockwise. From years of experience we have discovered that trekking the route clockwise allows for quieter trails and avoids a tough ascent of the first couple of days. The views and walks are still just as beautiful in this direction.

As this is a group holiday you need to be confident that your fitness will allow you to enjoyably walk at a consistent and steady pace that matches the group average, therefore allowing the group to finish the day at a reasonable time. You will also enjoy the trek a great deal more if your fitness allows you to walk the route in relative ease. A Challenging graded day would be equivalent to walking between 3 to 5 hours uphill and a similar time descending downhill, so up to 9 hours in total depending on the pace (including breaks). Due of the lower altitude, climate, and overall comfort of this trek, it is graded Level 4 (moderate/challenging). Our luggage was transported between accommodations 

It was essential to have helicopter evacuation cover within your travel insurance.

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I used Exodus Tours and together with Lisa Velasco and 10 other lucky people, we walked the circuit through France, Italy, and Switzerland on a 15 day trek around Mont Blanc.