Switzerland

The best time depends on the activities you're interested in. For hiking, biking, and other summer activities, June to September is typically the best time.

For winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, snow sledding in Switzerland, and winter hiking in Switzerland, December to March is ideal.

Standard travel insurance should cover things like flight cancelations as well as more standard trekking tours. However, some insurers might not cover adventure activities, especially high-risk ones. Check your policy and consider getting a special policy that covers activities like mountaineering.

Switzerland has high safety standards for outdoor activities and adventure sports.

However, as with any adventure activity, like the most dangerous hike in Switzerland, there are inherent risks.

It's important to go with reputable operators, listen to the guide's instructions, use the appropriate gear, and take out insurance.

Adventure tour operators on Skyhook provide most of the necessary equipment, but it's always good to confirm in advance. If you have your own personal gear, such as hiking boots or trekking poles, you may want to bring it along as it can save you the cost of a rental.

If you're wondering what to wear while hiking in Switzerland, for instance, layers are key for Swiss weather.

Even in summer, temperatures can be cool in the mountains. Waterproof and warm clothing is essential for winter activities.

Sturdy shoes are recommended for hiking and climbing. Refer to the FAQs of a specific trip, like our Matterhorn highlights hike, for our best packing recommendations.

Many of the trails in Switzerland are well marked and it is possible to trek unguided, particularly with the best hikes in Switzerland for beginners.

However, we recommend joining a tour for the social aspect as well as organizational convenience. Guides also have a lot of knowledge and nuggets of information to share which you miss out on when hiking alone.

Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). You can draw cash from the machines at Geneva Airport. If your tour takes you across the boundaries of France (as does Tour Du Mont Blanc) you should also take Euros to use on the French side. We recommend that you change your money before you leave the airport as there may not be a chance afterward.

In the months leading up to your trip, we recommend exercising regularly and following a good fitness plan. Check out our training plan for Tour Du Mont Blanc for inspiration.