From the Mountains to the Sea along the GR5

Mont Blanc to the Mediterranean

France

14 Days

From $7,395

Level 5

Strenuous

Overview

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    Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

    Overview

    Hike from mighty Mont Blanc, with its immense south face, to the palm-fringed beaches of the Côte d'Azur, where the Maritime Alps plunge into the Mediterranean. Setting off from Mont Blanc, we hike through age-old villages and alpine meadows where cowbells echo and blue gentian bloom. Hiking south, we follow the legendary GR5 trail across remote national parks of singular beauty, then enter brightly colored hill villages that announce the Mediterranean is near. Contouring the GR5 across the last of the Alps before they drop to the sea, we arrive on the coast and head for a celebratory dip in the sea. Our unique French adventure has been featured as one of Outside magazine's “Trips of a Lifetime.”

    Arrive: Megève, France

    Depart: Nice, France

    Highlights

    • Hike our unique mountain route across a spectacular range of cultures and landscapes
    • Explore secluded mountain villages and less-traveled national parks
    • Enjoy a small group—maximum 12 people—and expert Trip Leaders

    Overview

      Book Online Download Itinerary

      Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

      Itinerary

      Download Itinerary Expand All Days
      Amid the splendor of the French Alps, we hike up to Mont Joly for spectacular views of Mont Blanc then cross the Col de Bresson below Mont Blanc's south-facing flanks.
      Entering the Vanoise, our trails lead above treeline with views of the glaciated Pralognan Valley and the ice cap of the Dôme de la Vanoise. A ramble along an old Roman road leads us beneath the granite peaks of the Grande Casse to Col de la Vanoise (8,255'), with three alpine lakes along the way. One of our hikes is in the Vallée Etroite, a remote Italian-speaking valley.
      We enjoy a day to explore Briançon, a pretty town with a strong medieval character, or take an optional day hike in the surrounding mountains. In Queyras, one of the most untouched areas of France, we hike across emerald meadows to the Col Cross, where Corsican mouflon sheep roam.
      Auron, the gateway to Mercantour National Park, is one of the Southern Alps' largest ski resorts and in the summer offers many wonderful hiking options. We follow the GR5 across the last of the Alps before they drop to the sea, then head to the coast for a swim in the Mediterranean. Depart on Day 14 via Nice.

      Dates & Pricing

      Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

      Payment & Cancel Schedule

      $600 due at time of reservation
      90 days prior to departure: Balance

      Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

      Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!
      61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost
      46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
      45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

      Included
      • Expert leadership of two Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders
      • Accommodations in hotels and inns
      • All meals included except 1 lunch and 2 dinners as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      • A glass of wine or beer with dinner
      • All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
      • All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      Not Included
      • Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      • Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
      • Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
      • Optional travel insurance
      • Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

      Accommodations

      Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

      Hotel Au Vieux Moulin

      Megève, France

      Days 1-2 (2 nights)

      Just steps from the pedestrian zone of the pretty mountain town of Megève, this is a chalet-type hotel, all in wood, with a friendly atmosphere and a cozy bar.

      Hotel Autantic

      Bourg-Saint-Maurice, France

      Day 3 (1 night)

      With a tranquil countryside location outside Bourg-Saint-Maurice, this modern hotel has traditional Savoyard stone-and-wood architecture and comfortable rooms. Breakfasts are simple but good (with fresh eggs from the hotel's own chickens!).

      Chalet Hotel les Airelles

      Pralognan-la-Vanoise, France

      Days 4-5 (2 nights)

      Located in the lovely area of Pralognan-la-Vanoise, Chalet Hotel les Airelles is a quaint hotel surrounded by mountain views. Guest rooms are cozy, with comfortable beds and private balconies. The hotel has a nice restaurant and breakfast buffet serving simple yet delicious meals. Be sure to take a dip...

      Relais des Deux Cols

      Val Cenis, France

      Day 6 (1 night)

      The Relais des Deux Cols is a simple lodge with a lovely riverside location and a great view over the mountains. The restaurant has a professional chef and excellent cuisine and is popular with the local residents. There is a small seasonal swimming pool.

      Auberge de la Paix

      Briancon, France

      Days 7-8 (2 nights)

      Right in the historic district of the medieval fortified town of Briançon, this hotel has modern, comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.

      Villa Morelia

      Jausiers, France

      Day 9 (1 night)

      Chateau-style Villa Morelia was built a century ago on the edge of Mercantour National Park. It offers a restaurant with terrace dining, an outdoor bar, a pool, spacious grounds, and a beautiful view of the French Alps. Guest rooms are in the original building as well as in a new...

      Le Chalet d'Auron

      Auron, France

      Days 10-11 (2 nights)

      Just steps from the village square, Le Chalet d'Auron is an inviting hotel with a cozy atmosphere. Guest rooms are comfortable and clean, there is a good restaurant on-site, the terrace is a great place to sit and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains,...

      Hotel La Vigneraie

      Levens, France

      Day 12 (1 night)

      The family-run Hotel L'Ecureuil is located in the ski resort of Auron in the heart of the Parc du Mercantour in the Southern Alps. It features a bar, restaurant, and terrace.

      Hotel West End

      Nice, France

      Day 13 (1 night)

      This historic 121-room hotel was the first hotel built on Nice's legendary Promenade des Anglais in 1842—a jewel of the Belle Epoque. Well appointed guest rooms offer views of the turquoise Mediterranean, and there is a private beach area.

      Trip Leaders

      Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

      Stephan Renard

      View Profile

      Mark Tennent

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      Laurence Frison

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      Simone Simpson

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      What the Trip is Like

      This trip is rated Level 5, Strenuous, according to our trip grading system. You will need to be comfortable hiking 10 miles a day, being on your feet for up to 8 hours a day, and hiking significant distances for many days in a row. While no climbing or mountaineering experience is necessary, all trip members should have ample hiking experience and be able to keep up with the group as with the exception of one day, there are no alternative hiking options available. Trail conditions, weather, and the group's level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing.

      Average Hiking Day
      • 7-9 miles
      • 4-6 hours
      • 2,000-3,000 feet gain/loss
      • Altitudes range from 6,000-9,400 feet
      Challenge Day
      • Day 4 - 10 miles, 8.5 hours, and 3,500 feet gain/loss
      Review Trip Level Details
      Trail conditions can be primitive, and there is a good bit of up-and-down (often a 2,000- to 3,000-foot gain and loss in elevation per day). We will undoubtedly encounter snow on the highest passes, and trails can be very rugged. You will need to traverse areas with loose scree, large boulders, and sections of narrow, exposed trails. Your experienced mountain guides are there to assist you if needed.
      The months we visit the Alps are the optimal ones, but mountain weather can be fickle. Temperatures are likely to reach the 70s°F (or even 80s°F) during the day, with cool breezes and occasional rain. At night, the temperature will drop quite a bit, depending on the altitude. We are likely to experience a full range of weather conditions, making rain gear and warm garments necessary items to carry with you on every hike.
      Our accommodations are in small hotels and pensions with private en suite bathrooms. Our hotels have been chosen as much as possible for their ambience and local history. Please note these are hikers' hotels, not five-star resorts. The rooms are clean and comfortable, but are not always of uniform size or amenities. In some of the smaller hotels, a bathroom may have to be shared by two or three rooms. Our leaders do their best to assign rooms in a fair way so that all participants experience an equal advantage throughout the trip as a whole. Single rooms can be requested but are not always available, due to the limited space in the hotels. If you prefer a single room, please make your request as early as possible.
      Lunch will be in a small village, at a mountain lodge, or at a picnic spot amidst the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Most evening meals will be taken at our hotels and will be hearty, nourishing mountain fare, often with the cuisine the region is known for. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the US. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.
      Our van will transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack for items you need during the day (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). Trip members are always free to skip a day's hike and travel to the next destination in the support vehicle (or remain at the hotel if we are not transferring that day).

      Client Testimonials

      "I loved everything about the trip and just wish it could have lasted longer. Thank you for making my trip so wonderful."

      Carrie M.

      Boise, ID

      "I loved it all. A great hike with extraordinary views, great company, delicious meals, cozy inns, and dramatic scenery changes. To end with a swim in the Mediterranean was perfection!"

      Cathy C.

      Sonoma, CA

      "Another spectacular WT adventure!"

      Christina S.

      San Francisco, CA

      "I’ll be doing more of these trips!"

      Deborah C.

      Santa Monica, CA

      "The variety in scenery from day to day was wonderful. There was always something new to see!"

      Elizabeth M.

      Long Beach, NY

      "What a grand adventure! We loved the varied terrain, the hikes, and our fantastic guides."

      Ellen Q.

      Irvine, CA

      "This was the best world trip we have experienced in 25 years of travel—a truly great French Alps experience!"

      George P.

      Castro Valley, CA

      "This was an ideal vacation for my wife and me: being in the mountains all day, at the peak of wildflower season, with two guides who were both knowledgeable and fun to be with, having a good hotel at night, and great French food in the evenings."

      Guy A.

      Woodacre, CA

      "A trip I would highly recommend!"

      Helen F.

      Clancy, MT

      "This trip was a wonderful blend of beautiful alpine scenery, great outdoor exercise, charming towns, and interesting foods. Each day was a treat, and our guide worked in special stops on the days we had to drive longer distances (like for cappucino in Italy!)."

      Inge K.

      Concord, MA

      "Great trip! Excellent leaders and companions, food, scenery, and lodgings. Pretty much what we have come to expect from WT."

      Larry A.

      Golden, CO

      "A superb trip with superb leaders."

      Laura T.

      Oakland, CA

      "This is my second time on this trip! It’s a great hike."

      Neil C.

      Swampscot, MA

      "We traveled to places that we would never have been able to see without the expertise of Wilderness Travel and the guides."

      Penny A.

      Los Angeles, CA

      "A fabulous trip! Everything was terrific, really quite perfect!"

      Randie B.

      San Francisco, CA

      "This was a very special trip. The variety of landscape, the length of time to feel like a real group of friends, variety of hotels and food—it was amazing."

      Read P.

      Castro Valley, CA

      "This was a great trip—I have zero complaints and would recommend it to any capable hiker."

      Richard S.

      Branford, CT

      "This is the second time I’ve traveled with WT. I’m noting consistent high quality, excellent planning, excellent Trip Leaders, and nice clientele."

      Teddie G.

      Pocatello, ID

      Book your trip today

      Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

      Itinerary

      Submit the form below to download itinerary

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      Trip Levels

      With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

      Level 1 – Easiest

      Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

      Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

      Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

       

      Level 3 – Moderate

      Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

      Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

       

      Level 5 – Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

      Level 6 – Very Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

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There are beautiful panoramas of the Savoie Pre-Alps and peaks of the Vanoise that we will be visiting in a few days. We hike back to the cable car for a ride down to town. Hotel overnight in Meg&egrave;ve.\r\nHiking Details: 7 miles, 4 hours, 2,500 feet ascent\/descent","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Col de Bresson \/ Bourg-Saint-Maurice","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We head to Lac de Roselend for a hike up to Col de Bresson (8,098'), with a descent to the chapel of St. Gu&eacute;rin. Near the top of the col, we enjoy impressive vistas of the southern flanks of the Mont Blanc range and the monolith of Pierra Menta (8,902'), site of the most prestigious ski-mountaineering competition in France. 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We begin at the entrance to Vanoise National Park, the first national park in France, created in 1963 to preserve the wild eastern section of the Vanoise massif. The park safeguards precious mountain fauna and is home to some 2,000 ibex and 5,500 chamois, yet it is also the most extensive skiing area on the planet. There are also more than 300 miles of footpaths here. Our hike brings us above treeline to Lac de la Plagne (7,035') and Col du Plan S&eacute;ry (8,560'), with a descent to Champagny le Haut, a beautiful pastoral hamlet. At hike&apos;s end, we head to Pralognan-la-Vanoise, &ldquo;capital&rdquo; of Vanoise outdoor activities and surrounded by 10,000-foot peaks. 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On the hike back, we stop at the Refuge du Roc de La P&ecirc;che, where we can enjoy a lunch of local specialties.\r\nHiking Details (Option 1): 5.5 miles, 7 hours, 3,300 feet ascent, 3,000 feet descent\r\n(Option 2): 4 miles, 5 hours, 800 feet ascent, 2,000 feet descent","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":6,"Headline":"Col de la Vanoise \/ Termignon","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A cable car carries us up to Mont Bochor (6,635') for some of the best views in the Vanoise, including the rounded D&ocirc;mes de Vanoise and the very impressive Grande Casse (12,648'). Our hiking route follows an ancient Roman road linking La Tarentaise with the Haute Maurienne valley, and we hike beneath the towering Grande Casse to Col de la Vanoise (8,274'), with beautiful reflections in three gleaming alpine lakes along the way. We continue hiking to the Refuge Entre Deux Eaux, and our van transports us to Termignon, a sleepy little village in the Haute Maurienne valley and a step back in time. Overnight at hotel.\r\nHiking Details: 9 miles, 6 hours, 1,600 feet ascent, 1,300 feet descent","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Vall&eacute;e \u00c9troite \/ Brian\u00e7on","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A spectacular drive brings us from Termignon to Modane via the Arc Valley, with a glimpse of the old fortifications of Aussois, including hilltop Fort d&apos;Esseillon, a reminder of the wars between the French and Austrians as late as the 19th century. We pass through the Fr&eacute;jus Tunnel into Italy, and over the Col \u00c9troite back into France to reach the Vall&eacute;e \u00c9troite (&ldquo;Narrow Valley&rdquo;), a remote Italian-speaking valley that was used long ago as a passage into France from Italy. This afternoon, we hike to Col des Thures (7,196') through a beautiful and unspoiled forest and then into high alpine meadows, with a descent to the little mountain village of N&eacute;vache, where we visit its beautiful, ancient church, the Saint Claude de Val-des-Pr&eacute;s. Later we continue to Brian\u00e7on for an overnight in a hotel.\r\nHiking Details: 7.5 miles, 4 hours, 1,500 feet ascent, 1,250 feet descent\r\nDriving Time: 2 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"Rest Day \/ Optional Hikes \/ Brian\u00e7on","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Brian\u00e7on is a very pretty town with a strong medieval character, and it&apos;s a great place to take a break from hiking. We enjoy a rest day here with time to stroll ancient streets between narrow, colorful buildings. Not much has changed here over the centuries, and the many shops with local products create the atmosphere of a medieval marketplace. Outside the city ramparts, we have options for hikes in the surrounding mountains, where there are numerous fortresses, some built by Vauban during the reign of Louis XIV. A worthwhile hike in good weather is the Le Grand Ar&eacute;a (9,411'), a barren peak with an irresistible panorama of rewarding views from Mont Blanc in the north to the giants of Les \u00c9crins and La Meije in the south, as well as of Mont Viso and the mountains of Queyras that we visit in the following days. Overnight in Brian\u00e7on, with dinner on your own to sample the array of local restaurants.\r\nHiking Details: 3 miles, 3 hours, 2,000 feet ascent\/descent","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":9,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"Queyras Regional Park \/ Jausiers","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Heading to St. Pancrace, we start our hike to Col des Ayes (8,124'), gateway to the regional park of Queyras. The Queyras is one of the most remote and scarcely populated areas of France, where people live in a self-sufficient way cut off from the rest of the country. Dropping down to the Swiss-style chalets of Eychaillon, we traverse flower-covered meadows to climb up to the Col du Cros, where we can see herds of the Corsican mouflon mountain sheep that roam these slopes. We continue hiking down to Brunissard, then drive past Arvieux, on the route of one of the most famous Tour de France mountain passes, the Col de l&apos;Izoard, to our alpine hotel in the Ubaye Valley near Jausiers.\r\nHiking Details: 7 miles, 6 hours, 3,200 feet ascent, 3,100 feet descent\r\nDriving Time: 2 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":10,"DayTo":10,"Headline":"Col de La Bonette \/ Auron","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"This morning we set off for a drive across the Route des Grandes Alpes (&ldquo;Great Alpine Road&rdquo;), a scenic mountain road that offers us a spectacular transition from the culture and terrain of the French Alps of the north to the Mediterranean Maritime Alps. En route, we cross two mountain passes over 7,000 feet, including Col de La Bonette (8,907'). We break up our drive with a hike in the summit area just past the Col to enjoy superb panoramas of Mercantour National Park. A steady climb on old military trails brings us to the Cime de la Pelousette (9,300') and to the remnants of a fortification built on the ill-fated Maginot Line established on the French border in World War I. We have lunch here while taking in the views, and can imagine what it must have been like for snowbound French soldiers stationed here during the winter. We descend to the ruined military buildings at Camp des Fourches and our waiting vehicle. We continue our drive, stopping along the way to enjoy the views and explore little villages, including pretty St. Etienne de Tin&eacute;e. In the afternoon, we arrive at our simple hotel in Auron, located right on the GR5.\r\nHiking Details: 3 miles, 3 hours, 1,000 feet ascent, 2,000 feet descent\r\nDriving time:&nbsp;1 hour","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":11,"DayTo":12,"Headline":"Mercantour National Park \/ Roya \/ Levens","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"The gateway to Mercantour National Park, Auron&nbsp;is a popular ski resort in the winter (it's one of the biggest ski stations in the Southern Alps), and in summer offers&nbsp;great hiking options. On Day 11, we'll venture out on one of the park's many trails. The following day, our hike starts on the ski slopes and follows the GR5 over the Col de Blainon, with a descent to the small village of Roya. If time allows, we can continue up the mountain ridge to the summit of Las Donnas (8,117&apos;) for breathtaking views over Mercantour National Park. After our hike, we&apos;ll drive to the medieval hilltop village of Levens. Overnight at hotel. (Day 11), BLD (Day 12)\r\nHiking Details (Day 12): 7.5 miles, 6.5 hours, 2,300 feet ascent, 3,200 feet descent\r\nApproximate Driving Time (Day 12): 2.5 hours","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":13,"DayTo":13,"Headline":"Levens \/ Nice","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We walk straight from our hotel in Levens to the GR5 trail this morning. Our last day of walking is one to savor as we follow the GR5 straight to the bustling Mediterranean port city of Nice. Our route circumnavigates the last of the Alps, Mont Cima (2,280&apos;) and Mont Chauve (2,296&apos;), before they drop into the sea and the views as we walk are spectacular. The heat of the south, the olive groves, the grape-growing terraces, and the terracotta houses all add to our very atmospheric last day of walking. From our pickup point just north of the city of Nice, we make a short drive to our hotel in the historic center of Nice. Tonight we gather for a festive Farewell Dinner. Overnight at hotel.\r\nHiking Details: 7.5 miles, 5 hours, 1,800 feet ascent, 2,300 feet descent\r\nDriving Time: 1 hour","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":14,"DayTo":14,"Headline":"Depart","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Transfer to the Nice airport or the train station whenever you want after breakfast, or extend you stay on your own in Nice.\r\nA Special Note: This itinerary is as accurate as possible, but please note that the hiking distances and elevations listed are estimates. The mountain weather will dictate our exact hiking itinerary.\r\n","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Meg&egrave;ve \/ Mont Blanc Massif","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Amid the splendor of the French Alps, we hike up to Mont Joly for spectacular views of Mont Blanc then cross the Col de Bresson below Mont Blanc&apos;s south-facing flanks.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Vanoise National Park","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Entering the Vanoise, our trails lead above treeline with views of the glaciated Pralognan Valley and the ice cap of the D&ocirc;me de la Vanoise. A ramble along an old Roman road leads us beneath the granite peaks of the Grande Casse to Col de la Vanoise (8,255'), with three alpine lakes along the way. One of our hikes is in the Vall&eacute;e Etroite, a remote Italian-speaking valley.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":10,"Headline":"Brian\u00e7on \/ Queyras Regional Park","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We enjoy a day to explore Brian\u00e7on, a pretty town with a strong medieval character, or take an optional day hike in the surrounding mountains. In Queyras, one of the most untouched areas of France, we hike across emerald meadows to the Col Cross, where Corsican mouflon sheep roam.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":11,"DayTo":14,"Headline":"Auron \/ Mercantour National Park \/ Levens \/ Nice","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Auron, the gateway to Mercantour National Park, is one of the Southern Alps' largest ski resorts and in the summer offers many wonderful hiking options. We follow the GR5 across the last of the Alps before they drop to the sea, then head to the coast for a swim in the Mediterranean. Depart on Day 14 via Nice.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/mont-blanc-to-the-mediterranean-itinerary-2024.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"2","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/mont-blanc-to-the-mediterranean-predeparture.pdf"}],"whattoexpect":[{}],"highlights":[{"DisplayOrder":1,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Hike our unique mountain route across a spectacular range of cultures and landscapes","Image":"","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":33778,"caption":""},{"DisplayOrder":2,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Explore secluded mountain villages and less-traveled national 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Room","VendorName":"Hotel Au Vieux Moulin","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"hotel-au-vieux-moulin","Custom_Location":"Meg&egrave;ve"}},{"VendorID":70999,"Day_Number":3,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Hotel Autantic","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"hotel-autantic","Custom_Location":"Bourg-Saint-Maurice"}},{"VendorID":73081,"Day_Number":6,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Relais des Deux Cols","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"relais-des-deux-cols","Custom_Location":"Val Cenis"}},{"VendorID":73082,"Day_Number":7,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Auberge de la Paix","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"auberge-de-la-paix","Custom_Location":"Briancon"}},{"VendorID":73083,"Day_Number":12,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Hotel La Vigneraie","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"hotel-la-vigneraie","Custom_Location":"Levens"}},{"VendorID":73084,"Day_Number":13,"Sequence":11,"Duration":1,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Westminster Hotel and Spa","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"westminster-hotel-and-spa","Custom_Location":"Nice"}},{"VendorID":73086,"Day_Number":9,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Villa Morelia","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"villa-morelia","Custom_Location":"Jausiers"}},{"VendorID":73127,"Day_Number":13,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Hotel West End","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"hotel-west-end","Custom_Location":"Nice"}},{"VendorID":73205,"Day_Number":10,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"Le Chalet d'Auron","CustomFields":{"Custom_slug":"chalet-auron","Custom_Location":"Auron"}},{"VendorID":74855,"Day_Number":3,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"Description":"Standard Room","VendorName":"La Tourmaline H&ocirc;tel & Spa"}],"inclusions":[{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"E","Description":"Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":2,"Type":"E","Description":"Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":3,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":4,"Type":"E","Description":"Optional travel insurance","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":5,"Type":"E","Description":"Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":1,"Type":"I","Description":"Expert leadership of two Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":2,"Type":"I","Description":"Accommodations in hotels and inns","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":3,"Type":"I","Description":"All meals included except 1 lunch and 2 dinners as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":4,"Type":"I","Description":"A glass of wine or beer with dinner","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":5,"Type":"I","Description":"All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""},{"DisplaySequence":6,"Type":"I","Description":"All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary","Highlight":0,"AdditionalText":"","Category":"","ProductType":0,"ImagePath":"","ImageAltTag":""}],"destinations":[{"DestinationID":216,"Name":"Alps"},{"DestinationID":46,"Name":"Europe","Type":"Region"},{"DestinationID":74,"Name":"France","Type":"Country"}],"activities":[{"ActivityID":225,"Name":"Hiking & Trekking","Primary":0}],"guides":[{"GuideID":850970,"First_Name":"Stephan","Last_Name":"Renard","BioShort":"","BioLong":"Stephan Renard was born in Grenoble in the French Alps and grew up in the wild and remote Vercors region of the Rh&ocirc;ne-Alpes, where he gained his passion for hiking, climbing, and skiing. A professional mountain leader and ski instructor since his youth, he loves outdoor pursuits of every kind and also has an affinity for jazz music, French and American literature, and Irish culture (acquired during his years of guiding French tours in Ireland)."},{"GuideID":851082,"First_Name":"Mark","Last_Name":"Tennent","BioShort":"A native of Bath, England, Mark Tennent quickly learned his calling was in the mountains. He completed a specialist Outdoor Education degree at Bangor Normal College in North Wales, subsequently instructed at various outdoor centers in the UK, then graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and was commissioned into the British Army, which he left as a Captain. A recipient of several mountaineering and leadership certificates, Mark has worked in various parts of the world including Afghanistan, Macedonia, Kosovo, Kenya, Sudan, and India. Since 2005, he has lived in the Savoie department of the French Alps, near Albertville, where he shares his passion for the outdoors, French food, and the local culture. He&apos;s a member of the French Syndicat Interprofessionnel de la Montagne, bringing together mountain guides, climbing instructors, and mountain leaders. When not guiding, he can be found ski-mountaineering, rock climbing, and cycling.","BioLong":"A native of Bath, England, Mark Tennent quickly learned his calling was in the mountains. He completed a specialist Outdoor Education degree at Bangor Normal College in North Wales, subsequently instructed at various outdoor centers in the UK, then graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and was commissioned into the British Army, which he left as a Captain. A recipient of several mountaineering and leadership certificates, Mark has worked in various parts of the world including Afghanistan, Macedonia, Kosovo, Kenya, Sudan, and India. Since 2005, he has lived in the Savoie department of the French Alps, near Albertville, where he shares his passion for the outdoors, French food, and the local culture. He&apos;s a member of the French Syndicat Interprofessionnel de la Montagne, bringing together mountain guides, climbing instructors, and mountain leaders. When not guiding, he can be found ski-mountaineering, rock climbing, and cycling."},{"GuideID":851022,"First_Name":"Laurence","Last_Name":"Frison","BioShort":"Traveler, hiker, skier, and guide by passion, and graphic designer by trade, Laurence (&ldquo;Lolo&rdquo;) Frison embodies the life of an adventurer. She spent a decade exploring the world from Africa to Australia, including a three-month road trip from Vancouver to Los Angeles, and has specialized in guiding groups in the French Alps, gaining her French national credential in mountain leadership. When not leading hiking adventures with WT, she enjoys biking and beekeeping in Thonon-les-Bains in the French Alps, where she lives.","BioLong":"Traveler, hiker, skier, and guide by passion, and graphic designer by trade, Laurence (&ldquo;Lolo&rdquo;) Frison embodies the life of an adventurer. She spent a decade exploring the world from Africa to Australia, including a three-month road trip from Vancouver to Los Angeles, and has specialized in guiding groups in the French Alps, gaining her French national credential in mountain leadership. You can often find Lolo leading our groups on tasty detours through the French markets, a cultural gateway to the heart of France, she says. When not leading hiking adventures with WT, she finds new adventures through biking and beekeeping in Thonon-les-Bains in the French Alps, where she lives."},{"GuideID":851083,"First_Name":"Simone","Last_Name":"Simpson","BioShort":"An avid wilderness and backcountry explorer, Simone Simpson taught outdoor education in the Snowdonian mountains of Wales for 13 years before moving to the southern French Alps, where she leads treks in the Alpes Maritimes in southeast France. Her leadership stints have taken her far beyond Europe&mdash;she has guided in Costa Rica, Borneo, and one year she led a month-long expedition to Botswana and Zambia with a team of 11 school girls! Alongside her adventurous career as a guide, she is also an advanced paraglider pilot and once competed at a national level. When not leading trips, Simone lives off the grid with her husband in the Alpes Maritimes in a solar-powered house that she and her husband built.","BioLong":"An avid wilderness and backcountry explorer, Simone Simpson taught outdoor education in the Snowdonian mountains of Wales for 13 years before moving to the southern French Alps, where she leads treks in the Alpes Maritimes in southeast France. Her leadership stints have taken her far beyond Europe&mdash;she has guided in Costa Rica, Borneo, and one year she led a month-long expedition to Botswana and Zambia with a team of 11 school girls! Alongside her adventurous career as a guide, she is also an advanced paraglider pilot and once competed at a national level. When not leading trips, Simone lives off the grid with her husband in the Alpes Maritimes in a solar-powered house that she and her husband built."}],"guestreviews":[{"GuestNames":"Carrie M.","GuestLocation":"Boise, ID","GuestReview":"I loved everything about the trip and just wish it could have lasted longer. Thank you for making my trip so wonderful."},{"GuestNames":"Cathy C.","GuestLocation":"Sonoma, CA","GuestReview":"I loved it all. A great hike with extraordinary views, great company, delicious meals, cozy inns, and dramatic scenery changes. To end with a swim in the Mediterranean was perfection!"},{"GuestNames":"Christina S.","GuestLocation":"San Francisco, CA","GuestReview":"Another spectacular WT adventure!"},{"GuestNames":"Deborah C.","GuestLocation":"Santa Monica, CA","GuestReview":"I&#8217;ll be doing more of these trips!"},{"GuestNames":"Elizabeth M.","GuestLocation":"Long Beach, NY","GuestReview":"The variety in scenery from day to day was wonderful. There was always something new to see!"},{"GuestNames":"Ellen Q.","GuestLocation":"Irvine, CA","GuestReview":"What a grand adventure! We loved the varied terrain, the hikes, and our fantastic guides."},{"GuestNames":"George P.","GuestLocation":"Castro Valley, CA","GuestReview":"This was the best world trip we have experienced in 25 years of travel&#8212;a truly great French Alps experience!"},{"GuestNames":"Guy A.","GuestLocation":"Woodacre, CA","GuestReview":"This was an ideal vacation for my wife and me: being in the mountains all day, at the peak of wildflower season, with two guides who were both knowledgeable and fun to be with, having a good hotel at night, and great French food in the evenings."},{"GuestNames":"Helen F.","GuestLocation":"Clancy, MT","GuestReview":"A trip I would highly recommend!"},{"GuestNames":"Inge K.","GuestLocation":"Concord, MA","GuestReview":"This trip was a wonderful blend of beautiful alpine scenery, great outdoor exercise, charming towns, and interesting foods. Each day was a treat, and our guide worked in special stops on the days we had to drive longer distances (like for cappucino in Italy!)."},{"GuestNames":"Larry A.","GuestLocation":"Golden, CO","GuestReview":"Great trip! Excellent leaders and companions, food, scenery, and lodgings. Pretty much what we have come to expect from WT."},{"GuestNames":"Laura T.","GuestLocation":"Oakland, CA","GuestReview":"A superb trip with superb leaders."},{"GuestNames":"Neil C.","GuestLocation":"Swampscot, MA","GuestReview":"This is my second time on this trip! It&#8217;s a great hike."},{"GuestNames":"Penny A.","GuestLocation":"Los Angeles, CA","GuestReview":"We traveled to places that we would never have been able to see without the expertise of Wilderness Travel and the guides."},{"GuestNames":"Randie B.","GuestLocation":"San Francisco, CA","GuestReview":"A fabulous trip! Everything was terrific, really quite perfect!"},{"GuestNames":"Read P.","GuestLocation":"Castro Valley, CA","GuestReview":"This was a very special trip. The variety of landscape, the length of time to feel like a real group of friends, variety of hotels and food&#8212;it was amazing."},{"GuestNames":"Richard S.","GuestLocation":"Branford, CT","GuestReview":"This was a great trip&#8212;I have zero complaints and would recommend it to any capable hiker."},{"GuestNames":"Teddie G.","GuestLocation":"Pocatello, ID","GuestReview":"This is the second time I&#8217;ve traveled with WT. 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Once you receive your physician's approval, please upload the signed form to your Portal (directions on how to do this can be found in your Portal).<\/p>","Custom_Welcome_Email_Send_List":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-13T06:37:03 --><p>Extra Service Request Form<br \/>Medical Practitioner Form<\/p>","Custom_FI_Optional_Donation_Text":"","Custom_Final_Docs_Letter_Send_List":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Trip_Sales_Points":"<body>Another fun resource is this <a href=\"http:\/\/photoblog.wildernesstravel.com\/from-the-mountains-to-the-sea-hiking-the-gr5\/\">blog post<\/a> by one of our recent travelers, complete with amazing photos from their experience that I think will give you a great sense of the adventure ahead.<\/body><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/>\n","Custom_Sales_Email_-_TP_Trip_Sales_Points":"<body>Another fun resource is this <a href=\"http:\/\/photoblog.wildernesstravel.com\/from-the-mountains-to-the-sea-hiking-the-gr5\/\">blog post<\/a> by one of our recent travelers, complete with amazing photos from their experience that I think will give you a great sense of the adventure ahead.<\/body><meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/>\n","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Payment_Terms":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>In order to confirm your space on this trip, we require a first deposit of $600 per person, which is fully refundable up to 91 days prior to departure.<\/body>","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Emergency_Evac_Insurance":"","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Reading_List":"<strong>Reading List:<\/strong> Elevate your travel experience by delving into this <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-mont-blanc-to-the-mediterranean\">curated collection of books<\/a> tailored to your upcoming adventure.","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"","Custom_Carry-On":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-26T17:00:36 --><p><strong>CARRY-ON: <\/strong>Valuable or essential items, such as well broken-in hiking boots, camera equipment, binoculars, prescription medications, and any paperwork required to enter France, should be hand carried on your flights to avoid loss or damage. <\/p>","Custom_Hiking_Poles":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-26T17:00:50 --><p><strong>HIKING POLES: <\/strong>If you choose to bring hiking poles, they must be packed in your checked luggage as they are not permitted in carry-on bags.<\/p>","Custom_Daypack":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-26T17:00:13 --><p><strong>DAYPACK: <\/strong>Daypack, large enough for a jacket or rain gear, water bottle, camera, and other items you want on the trail. Very few daypacks or fanny packs are waterproof and any items that you need to keep dry should be put in a waterproof stuff sack inside your pack.<\/p>","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Arrival":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-05-01T16:41:44 --><p><strong>ARRIVING IN GENEVA<\/strong><br \/>Wilderness Travel provides a complimentary transfer between the Geneva Airport and our hotel in Megeve, France. Please note this is a public van transfer service and it is likely other passengers may join the same transfer. There will likely be a waiting period between your arrival and the shuttle's departure as the other travelers scheduled for your transfer arrive. Upon arrival, a driver holding a sign with your name on it will meet you by the entrance of the Montreux Jazz Cafe, situated to the far right hand side of the Geneva Arrivals Hall - Swiss Sector. The journey from the Geneva Airport to Megeve is roughly 1.5 hours.<\/p><p>If you have booked our complimentary transfer service, your reservation confirmation has already been emailed to you by Chamonix Valley Transfers. Please check this email to ensure that they have correctly noted your arrival information. You will also receive an email the night before your arrival to confirm the exact time of pickup as well as your driver's name and phone number. You can show either of these confirmation emails to your driver either printed or on your cell phone. If you have any problems (i.e. lost luggage), please contact your driver using the information provided in your final transfer confirmation, or alternatively contact the local office for Chamonix Valley Transfers at (+33) 485-800-132<\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p><strong>MEETING PLACE<\/strong><br \/>On Day 1 at 6:00 pm, please meet your Trip Leaders in the lobby of the Hotel Au Vieux Moulin. After a brief trip orientation, we will walk into town for our welcome dinner. <br \/><\/p>","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-26T17:01:41 --><p><strong>DEPARTING NICE <\/strong><br \/>Your Trip Leader or the hotel front desk will help you arrange a taxi to the Nice Airport or train station.<br \/><\/p>","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-26T17:01:54 --><p>If friends or family wish to contact you during the trip, we encourage them to call, text, or email you directly. Another option is to reach you by calling the hotel (please see the enclosed Hotel List). If they are unable to reach you directly, please instruct them to call our office in Berkeley, California, and we will get a message to you as soon as possible. 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This is a van service that will meet you at your requested flight free of charge -- even if you arrive a few days ahead of the actual trip start date. Please note this is a public van transfer service and it's likely that other passengers may join the same transfer.<\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p>A driver holding a sign with your name on it will meet you near the &quot;General Information&quot; desk directly outside of the customs exit (arrivals) area. The journey from Geneva is approximately an hour with this service. Please let us know if you would like to book this transfer by filling out our Extra Services Request Form.<\/p>","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-14T09:06:57 --><p><strong>Suggested Airport:<\/strong> Nice C&ocirc;te d'Azur Airport (NCE)<br \/><strong>Suggested Date &amp; Time:<\/strong> Day 14, anytime<br \/><br \/>Your Trip Leader or the hotel front desk can help you arrange a taxi from the group hotel to the Nice C&ocirc;te d'Azur Airport, or the train station.<\/p>","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-14T09:04:35 --><p>You are responsible for making your own arrangements for flights to and from Europe. <br \/><br \/>There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at <a href=\"https:\/\/exitotravel.com\/\">www.exitotravel.com<\/a>.<br \/><br \/>Depending on your routing, it is necessary to depart from the US one or possibly two days prior to Day 1 of the trip itinerary. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the US.<br \/><br \/><strong>Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip.<\/strong> Once your tickets have been purchased, please send us a copy of your airline schedule. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for this trip.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_file_name":"mont-blanc-to-the-mediterranean","Custom_Passport":"A valid passport is required for your trip. Be sure to check the expiration date. Your passport must be valid for three months after your date of exit from France. In addition, we recommend your passport have at least two completely blank visa pages for every country you will be visiting. It is very important that the blank pages say &#8220;Visas&#8221; at the top. The last few pages of your passport, which say &#8220;Amendments and Endorsements,&#8221; and the final page of your passport, which may not have a page number, are not considered to be legitimate visa pages. The service of adding pages for visas was discontinued as of January 1, 2016. You can request a new passport through <a href=\"http:\/\/travel.state.gov\/passport\">US Passport Services Office<\/a> or use a visa service agency, which can take care of your passport renewal and expedite the process, if needed. We recommend <a href=\"http:\/\/www.passportvisasexpress.com\/?affId=2120\">Passport Visas Express<\/a>. Be sure to allow sufficient time to acquire this before your trip. <br><br>It is very important to carry photocopies of your passport's photo page and any acquired visa pages for your trip (if applicable) in case your passport is lost or as an additional piece of identification, as well as two extra passport photos.","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"US citizens do not need a visa for countries visited on this trip. If you are a citizen of any country other than the US, check with a local consulate for entry requirements.","Custom_Money":"The Euro is the official currency of France. The most convenient way to obtain Euros is to use your debit card at ATMs. To use an ATM internationally, you must have a four-digit PIN. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops in cities and larger towns. If you plan to use your credit cards, inform your credit card company before your departure that you will be using the card abroad.","Custom_Tipping":"Tipping is completely discretionary, but over the years, clients have asked us for tipping guidelines to reward guides for outstanding service. We suggest a tip of $250 or more per trip member for each of the Trip Leaders, preferably in local currency. The Trip Leaders take care of gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff, and for local guides and drivers.","Custom_Food":"Please reach out to us directly to discuss any dietary restrictions or concerns you may have. We can easily make arrangements for most diets, but please keep in mind that certain cultural differences or logistical limitations can make it difficult or at times impossible to accommodate all requests. With this in mind, please inform us at least eight weeks before your trip if you have a special diet, and any food allergies in particular, so we can do our best to meet your needs.<br><br>","Custom_Communications":"<strong>Telephone<\/strong><br>The international dialing code for France is 33. Please contact your cell phone company for specific instructions for international use.<br><strong><br>Email &amp; Internet Access<\/strong><br>Internet access is available at all of our lodges but can be spotty and unreliable.","Custom_Electricity":"Europe has 220-volt current. Plugs usually have two or three prongs.","Custom_Laundry":"The hotels where we stay two consecutive nights should be able to do laundry for you, but it's a good idea to consider doing your own (bring soap, clothesline, etc.).","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"No inoculations are required. However, it is easy to get a small cut, so a tetanus booster is strongly recommended (good for 10 years). If you take prescription medicines, be sure to bring enough for the duration of your trip.","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"<html><body style='font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;'><\/html>","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"We strongly urge you to train for your trip, as your enjoyment will be highly dependent on your level of fitness. The best training for a hike is to hike, especially over hills or rough terrain. Next best are running, swimming, bicycling, or other cardiovascular exercise. Stair climbing machines are excellent preparation for hiking uphill. Your feet should also be well prepared&mdash;make sure your hiking boots are sturdy, comfortable, and thoroughly broken-in. Altitude is generally not a problem on this trip. However, some people still experience a few problems when they first reach high altitude. Slight headache and sleeplessness are the most common symptoms.","Custom_Medical_Care":"","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Covid-19":"","Custom_Reading_List":"Elevate your travel experience by delving into this curated collection of books tailored to your upcoming adventure. They will not only entertain but also provide invaluable insights into the history, culture, cuisine, wildlife, mountain trails, or even folklore of the places you're about to explore. Discover the perfect companions for your journey ahead by <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-mont-blanc-to-the-mediterranean\">following the link<\/a> or scanning the QR code.","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"<ul><li>\nAir tickets (or E-tickets)<\/li><li>\nPassport<\/li><li>\nOne other picture ID, such as a driver's license<\/li><li>\nExpense money<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Luggage":"We have limited space for luggage in our vehicle, so we ask that you restrict your luggage to one piece plus your daypack. Most of the small family-run inns we use on this trip do not have elevators or luggage porters and we need to rely on your trip leaders for luggage service, so please keep this in mind when deciding how big and heavy your packed luggage is. Additional luggage can be checked at the airport if you plan to return to the same airport for departure. It is a sensible precaution to wear or hand-carry your hiking boots on the plane. Nearly everything else can be replaced in case of baggage loss, but not a pair of well-fitted, fully broken-in hiking boots. <br><br>\nMedium-sized daypack or backpack (20-30 liters), large enough for a fleece jacket, rain gear, water bottle, camera, and other items you want on the trail. A padded hip belt and padded shoulder straps add greatly to the comfort.","Custom_Clothing":"<strong>Layers<br><\/strong><div>Warmth and comfort are the main priorities. Weather conditions will vary greatly. On a hot and sunny day, you might want to hike in shorts and a t-shirt, but remember that in the French Alps, rain and cold weather can occur at any time. Dressing in layers is the best way to stay comfortable. An insulating base layer (top and bottom) beneath your hiking clothes will keep you warm and comfortable. Capilene, fleece, and other synthetic fabrics are excellent, as are lightweight wool insulating layers by Patagonia, Icebreakers, and SmartWool. Cotton is not a good insulator, especially as the first layer next to the skin. Once it gets wet from perspiration, it stays wet and keeps you cold. (Cotton is fine for city wear and touring.) As your insulating layer, we suggest a fleece jacket and pants, which are lightweight, warm, and breathable, or wool, which also keeps you warm even when wet. Finally, a good outer layer is necessary to block the wind and keep you dry in case of rain. Gore-Tex and equivalent fabrics are waterproof and breathable and are a practical choice. Your outer layer should be roomy enough to fit over other layers of clothing. <br><br><strong>The clothing list below is provided as a guideline only:<\/strong><br><ul><li>Gore-Tex rain\/wind shell jacket with hood, and Gore-Tex rain\/wind pants (preferably with leg zippers so that they can be taken off without removing your boots). Important: Whether you choose Gore-Tex, Supplex, or a similar fabric, make sure your jacket has a hood and sealed seams to prevent leaking.<\/li><li>Thick fleece jacket or heavy wool sweater<\/li><li>Fleece vest&mdash;optional (great for layering)<\/li><li>Fleece sweater or sweatshirt<\/li><li>Polypropylene, Capilene, or wool long underwear, bottoms and tops<\/li><li>Long-sleeved shirt&mdash;wool, fleece, or quick-drying &#8220;travel&#8221; fabrics like nylon<\/li><li>T-shirts<\/li><li>Hiking pants, one or two pairs. Jeans are not suitable because they are made of dense cotton, and once wet, will stay wet. Pile pants or synthetic hiking pants are a practical choice, as are &#8220;convertible&#8221; pants.<\/li><li>Hiking shorts, two pairs. Quick-drying nylon shorts are great.<\/li><li>Shade hat with a wide brim<\/li><li>Fleece hat for warmth<\/li><li>Fleece mittens or gloves<\/li><li>Medium to heavyweight waterproof hiking boots designed for on- and off-trail hiking with multi-day hikes in mind<\/li><li>Comfortable walking shoes<\/li><li>Hiking socks. Thick pairs (Thorlo-type) as well as synthetic liner socks.<\/li><li>Underwear&mdash;synthetics dry faster<\/li><li>Bathing suit (for hotel pools)<\/li><li>Sleepwear (long underwear can double)<\/li><li>Casual city\/hotel attire (for certain evenings when we dine in some quite fine restaurants, you might feel more comfortable wearing dressier, non-hiking clothes. Khakis and a nice shirt will suffice for men; coat and tie are not necessary).<\/li><\/ul><\/div><div><br><\/div>","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"<strong>Your boots must be waterproof, warm, comfortable, and broken in, with an excellent tread!<\/strong> If you are uncertain about the tread quality of your boots, buy a new pair rather than risk slipping on rocky trails and scree. Please choose your boots carefully. It is a sensible precaution to wear or hand-carry your hiking boots on the plane. Nearly everything else can be replaced in case of baggage loss, but not a pair of well-fitted, fully broken-in hiking boots. <br><br>\nFor this trip, you need medium- to heavyweight hiking boots designed for on- and off-trail hiking with multi-day hikes in mind. Lightweight boots don't offer the high degree of ankle support and foot protection you need. Full-grain leather is extremely water-resistant and durable and is preferable to split-grain leather or nylon. Remember that full-grain leather boots tend to be stiffer and will need a break-in period. If you are shopping for new boots, ask your store about boots with built-in Gore-Tex-type waterproof barriers that enhance water-resistance. If you have old full-grain leather boots, coat them with silicon waterproofing material to increase their water resistance. Waterproofing materials wear off over time and need to be re-applied. Gore-Tex boots are considered waterproof for one year unless the membrane is punctured. <br><br>\nIf you're buying a new pair of boots, make sure a qualified salesperson gives you proper guidance in determining fit. Don't buy any boots that you are not permitted to return after wearing for several hours around the house. Blisters caused by improperly fitted or insufficiently broken-in boots are the most common and painful problem normally encountered on hiking trips. Before you depart, you should be able to wear your boots for a full, active day with no discomfort. Even boots you have owned for years can sometimes produce blisters when you are doing this amount of hiking. Limber up feet and boots before departure, and bring a good supply of Second Skin. <br><br>\nRunning shoes are not sufficient for the hiking conditions you'll encounter, although they are comfortable to change into at night.","Custom_Equipment":"<ul><li>Hiking poles (must have rubber tips for hiking in the Vall&eacute;e des Merveilles)<\/li><li>\nTwo reusable water bottles, 1 qt. capacity.<\/li><li>\nGood quality sunglasses with case. A spare pair of sunglasses is a good idea should your first pair be broken or lost.<\/li><li>\nBandannas (many uses)<\/li><li>\nStuff sacks or plastic bags to compartmentalize items in luggage<\/li><li>\nSmall amount of detergent for hand-washing clothes<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"Every trip member must bring a small kit for personal use. Your own experience will influence your choices.<br><br><ul><li>\nSunscreen SPF 30 or higher and lip balm with sunscreen. We recommend mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because they do not contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Brands such as Honest Company, Badger, and Alba Botanica are found in most sporting goods stores and drugstores.<\/li><li>\nAspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol for muscle pain or headache, Tylenol PM for sleep<\/li><li>\n\nBlister kit. Look for long-lasting gel-type bandages that you can apply directly on blisters, such as Band-Aid Advanced Healing Bandages or Curad Gel Multi-Day Bandages. &#8220;Liquid band-aids,&#8221; such as New-Skin, are useful because they dry rapidly to form a tough protective cover over a blister.<\/li><li>\nPrescription medications properly labeled<\/li><li>\nSpare contact lenses or spare prescription glasses<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Optional_Items":"<ul><li>Voltage converter and plug adapter for appliance use in hotels<\/li><li>\nFlashlight or headlamp with extra batteries<\/li><li>\n\nFleece neck gaiter<\/li><li>\nCamera, spare batteries, and memory cards<\/li><li>\nReading\/writing material<\/li><li>\nSmall umbrella<\/li><li>\nMoney belt or neck pouch. Always carry your passport, credit cards, and cash with you in a money belt or neck pouch tucked down inside your shirt or blouse.<\/li><li>\nWashcloth, if you like to use one (most European hotels do not provide them)<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"From the Mountains to the Sea along the GR5","Custom_Lodging":"13 nights rustic hotels and inns","Custom_Meals":"All meals included except 1 lunch and 2 dinners","Custom_Difficulty":"12 hiking days on moderate to steep trails, 5-7 hours a day, altitudes between 6,000-9,400 feet, van support (for luggage or if you wish to skip a day&apos;s hike)","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Header":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Text":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"This trip is rated <strong>Level 5, Strenuous<\/strong>, according to our trip grading system. You will need to be comfortable hiking 10 miles a day, being on your feet for up to 8 hours a day, and hiking significant distances for many days in a row. While no climbing or mountaineering experience is necessary, all trip members should have ample hiking experience and be able to keep up with the group as with the exception of one day, there are no alternative hiking options available. Trail conditions, weather, and the group's level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing. <br><strong><br>Average Hiking Day <\/strong><ul><li>7-9 miles <\/li><li>4-6 hours <\/li><li>2,000-3,000 feet gain\/loss <\/li><li>Altitudes range from 6,000-9,400 feet<\/li><\/ul><strong> Challenge Day<\/strong> <ul><li>Day 4 - 10 miles, 8.5 hours, and 3,500 feet gain\/loss<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Terrain":"Trail conditions can be primitive, and there is a good bit of up-and-down (often a 2,000- to 3,000-foot gain and loss in elevation per day). We will undoubtedly encounter snow on the highest passes, and trails can be very rugged. You will need to traverse areas with loose scree, large boulders, and sections of narrow, exposed trails. Your experienced mountain guides are there to assist you if needed.","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"The months we visit the Alps are the optimal ones, but mountain weather can be fickle. Temperatures are likely to reach the 70s\u00b0F (or even 80s\u00b0F) during the day, with cool breezes and occasional rain. At night, the temperature will drop quite a bit, depending on the altitude. We are likely to experience a full range of weather conditions, making rain gear and warm garments necessary items to carry with you on every hike.","Custom_Accommodations":"Our accommodations are in small hotels and pensions with private en suite bathrooms. Our hotels have been chosen as much as possible for their ambience and local history. Please note these are hikers&apos; hotels, not five-star resorts. The rooms are clean and comfortable, but are not always of uniform size or amenities. In some of the smaller hotels, a bathroom may have to be shared by two or three rooms. Our leaders do their best to assign rooms in a fair way so that all participants experience an equal advantage throughout the trip as a whole. Single rooms can be requested but are not always available, due to the limited space in the hotels. If you prefer a single room, please make your request as early as possible.","Custom_Cuisine":"Lunch will be in a small village, at a mountain lodge, or at a picnic spot amidst the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Most evening meals will be taken at our hotels and will be hearty, nourishing mountain fare, often with the cuisine the region is known for. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the US. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.","Custom_Transportation":"Our van will transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack for items you need during the day (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). Trip members are always free to skip a day's hike and travel to the next destination in the support vehicle (or remain at the hotel if we are not transferring that day).","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"<p>Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, or activities you may not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 or email us at <a href=\"mailto:\/\/info@wildernesstravel.com\">info@wildernesstravel.com<\/a>.<\/p>","System_References":"<p>We&rsquo;d be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<p>At <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can book your trip online or find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and one-time Limited Edition adventures that aren&rsquo;t listed in our catalog. You can also access our complete library of detailed itineraries filled with enticing photos and videos, read bios of our Trip Leaders, find descriptions of trip accommodations, and check real-time availability of any trips that interest you.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"This is a new adventure and one that we are particularly excited about offering. However, as with all new departures, flexibility and a spirit of adventure are always appreciated! Activities are described in the itinerary but they can vary, sometimes considerably, depending on weather conditions, the group, and other factors.","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions&mdash;and enjoy the WT touch on all aspects of the journey.<\/p>","System_Limited_Edition_Adventures":"This is a Limited Edition adventure&mdash;which means a unique trip we've never run before or offer only every few years. Led by our most experienced Trip Leaders, these journeys often take place in remote destinations with only the most basic infrastructure for tourism. If you see a Limited Edition trip scheduled for this year, now is the time to sign up, as spaces fill very early and the trip may not be back for a while! Planned daily activities and actual timings may vary due to local conditions or the discretion of your Trip Leader&mdash;it is important to bring your spirit of adventure for these special exploratory journeys!","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<p><strong>PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>Please review your Pre-Departure Information booklet included in this packet for important information regarding Wilderness Travel's COVID-19 protocols, packing lists, recommended reading, tipping, etc.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:31 --><p>If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p><p>If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-28T12:27:44 --><p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_COVID-19":"The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired in 2023. As of March 2024, we no longer require guests who exhibit cold or flu symptoms to test for COVID-19. Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to follow local health protocols, wear a mask in group vehicles and during indoor activities for the remainder of the trip, and may be asked to dine separately. Any travel companion sharing a room with them will also be required to wear a mask at all times in the shared group vehicles for the remainder of the trip.<br><br>We encourage all travelers to actively monitor their own well-being and to use common-sense preventative measures such as regular handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer) and\/or wearing a face mask. If you are feeling sick, we encourage you to self-isolate and\/or wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. Guests may be required to wear a mask if the Trip Leader believes the situation warrants it.<br><br>Leading up to the trip, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy, including avoiding close contact with anyone displaying cold or flu symptoms and washing your hands often. As always, by traveling with Wilderness Travel, guests agree to be accountable for their own well-being. If you are worried about a fellow traveler's cold or flu-like symptoms, you may opt to wear a mask or distance yourself as needed. It's important to remember that there are inherent risks associated with travel and group settings.<br><br>These protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as guidance evolves. <br><br>","System_Photography":"<strong>Camera Recommendations<\/strong><br>With the many advances in digital technology, a simple compact digital camera or even your smartphone is capable of taking pictures suitable for the needs of most people. For higher quality images and the ability to use long lenses for closer wildlife pictures, a DSLR camera is well worthwhile, though heavier. Most digital cameras and phones have good video options, but you may want to consider a GoPro for a lightweight, waterproof option. Always practice ahead of time with new equipment and bring your manual with you. You may want to consider renting camera equipment for your trip from places such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lensrentals.com\/\">lensrentals.com<\/a>. This is an especially good idea for renting large zoom lenses that you may need for just one trip. Adding their extra insurance fee to cover expensive equipment is recommended. <br><strong><br>Camera Accessories<\/strong><br>We recommend bringing at least two large capacity memory cards or a small digital storage unit (or tablet) to back up your photos, freeing space on your memory cards. Don't forget to bring a battery charger and a backup battery so one is always charged and ready to use. For trips where you may be away from power sources for multiple days, consider looking into a solar-powered battery charger or buying additional backup batteries, and check that you have the appropriate adapter for the electrical outlets in your destination.<br><strong><br>Sharing Your Images<\/strong><br>We would love for you to share photos from your trip, and with your permission, may even use your photos in our marketing materials or on our photo blog. We request that you send us a small sample of your best images. Please email your photos to wtphotoblog@gmail.com or tag us @WildernessTravel on social media.<br><strong><br>Photography Etiquette<\/strong><br>When taking pictures of local people, be aware of cultural considerations. Approaching people with a warm smile and using polite gestures or simple phrases to ask permission to photograph them usually works well. It is always recommended to engage people in conversation before asking to photograph them, but if people do not wish to have their photo taken, please honor their requests. We urge travelers to avoid giving money in exchange for photo opportunities, which makes it harder for future travelers to have a meaningful personal interaction with local people. Please always heed your Trip Leader's guidelines for what is appropriate. ","System_Gear_Store":"To help you prepare for your next WT adventure, we've put together a great collection of top brands including Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Eagle Creek, and more at our WT Gear Store (<a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.newheadings.com\/\">wildernesstravel.newheadings.com<\/a>).","System_Questions?":"<p>Our Area Specialists are your single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about your trip!<br>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Pricing_Detail-Small_Group_Adventure":" <br><br>To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. Please note that Wilderness Travel staff, or guests of Wilderness Travel such as travel writers, photographers, or leaders-in-training, are not included in the tier pricing count.","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/leaders\/\">wildernesstravel.com\/leaders<\/a>.<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<p>$600 due at time of reservation <br \/>90 days prior to departure: Balance<\/p>","CancelSchedule":"<p>Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!<br>61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost<br>46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost<br>45 days or less: 100% of trip cost<br><\/p>"}}