Difficutly Levels

Categorizing hiking difficulty is inherently subjective, as no universal system exists. However, after reviewing scales used in Europe and the USA (e.g., Swiss Alpine Club, Yosemite Decimal System, Appalachian Trail classifications),we have outlined the following levels, ranging from class 1 to class 5, to help you choose a tour suited to your abilities. These ratings do not absolutely describe the amount of effort required; Level 1 can be long and strenuous and class 5 can be quick and easy. They mainly describe the technical difficulty of the most difficult part. "Technical difficulty" refers to specific terrain challenges (e.g. exposure, steepness, scrambling) rather than just endurance.

Please read these carefully before booking to ensure you can fully enjoy the experience. Less experienced hikers may need to prepare with pre-tour training for more challenging hikes. Note that the hiking times provided are estimates; slower hikers or those taking extended breaks should plan for up to 50% additional time.

Level 1 - Walk in the Park

Short walks in low-altitude hills, requiring minimal gear..
Clearly marked paths with limited navigation challenges.
Families with small children can join Level 1 hikes.
Low-risk hiking, but may be challenging from a cardiovascular perspective.
Daily walking: Up to 4 hrs and/or up to 15 km / 9,5 miles.
Climbing/descending: Up to 400 m / 1300 ft per day.

Level 2 - Easy Hikes

Moderate fitness required.
Hikes primarily through maintained trails and gentle slopes with possible brief steep ascents.
May include uneven paths or rocky sections.
Daily walking: Up to 6 hrs and/or. 20 km / 12,5 miles.
Climbing/descending: Up to 800 m / 2600 ft per day.

Level 3 – Moderate Hikes

Suitable for fit hikers.
Paths near steep drops but with minimal risk if caution is exercised.
Hikes over varied terrain, including alpine landscapes and uneven trails. Steep stages, talus and scree may require hands for balance and trekking poles.
Exposed trails, if any, are usually maintained and secured for safety.
Daily walking: Up to 7 hrs and/or potentially exceeding 20 km / 12,5 miles.
Climbing/descending: Up to 1200 m / 3940 ft per day.

Level 4 - Challenging Alpine Treks

Suitable for really fit hikers.
Non-technical hikes along trails in the high alpine zones (above the tree-line).
Significant elevation gain on a daily basis.
May include longer and strenuous steep stages, exposed passages, gravel or pathless rock slopes, ridges, scrambling sections (i,e, using hands for support) pose danger of falling.
Daily walking: Up to 8 hrs and/or up to 25 km /15,5 miles.
Climbing/descending: Up to 1600 m / 5250 ft per day.

Level 5 - Expert-Level Hikes

Suitable for experienced and/or very fit hikers.
Tracing high alpine terrains, cirques, high mountain passes.
Covering rather strenuous routes.
Sure-footedness is required as trekking on exposed slopes is common.
May include sections requiring basic mountaineering skills, scrambling or easy rock climbing (class 3).
A rope may be used at an exposed spot to protect against falls but is not strictly required –
Daily walking: Up to 10 hrs and/or up to 25 km / 15,5 miles.
Climbing/descending: Up to 2000 m / 6560 ft per day.