Alps Rate: Inclusions and Exclusions

In order to maximize flexibility and minimize the financial confusion, I’ve adopted the “European” approach to my European rates.

I charge a flat $700USD/day. This is my wage. Depending on the objective, it may be able to be split between three people, two people, or one. Examples of this include:

• A 1:1 client-to-guide ratio is required for the biggest or more technical routes, such as the Matterhorn or Eiger.

• A 2:1 ratio ($350/person/day) is allowed for shorter, less technical routes, such as Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa. Some ski-mountaineering objectives require groups to be no larger that 2:1.

• A 3:1 ration ($233.33/person/day) is common during ski season. All of my hut-tour offerings can be guided up to a 3:1 ratio.

• A 4:1 or even 5:1 ratio is possible on certain ski tours (and not possible on others), for an additional $200/person/day

Trip prep and reservations:

• I charge an additional half-day ($350) to make any reservations required for our trip.

• If the trip is significantly long (typically longer than 6 days/5 nights) or complicated in payments (see below), I may charge a full day.

What isn’t covered by this rate, and is an additional expense for you and your team:

• Travel costs for yourself and your guide (me) while on the trip. This can include taxis, trains, busses, and lift tickets. I do make a honest attempt to describe all of the items in emails and your Deposit Invoice. I do not charge for my travel to or from our meeting point/ending point.

• Hut fees for yourself and your guide (me) while on the trip. This is typically broken down to the bed, a Demi-pension (breakfast and dinner set menu), and extra’s incidentals (lunch, beverages, afternoon snack, showers, etc). I do not charge for my accommodations before the morning a trip starts or the evening a trip ends. Hut fees average €75/night for Members of a European Alpine Club, €90/night for non-members, and €50/night for your guide.

• Pivots. I reserve the right to change the agreed-upon itinerary due to weather, avalanche conditions, or your physical capabilities. Often this “pivot” in itinerary will include additional travel and lodging costs for yourself and your guide (me), and you will be responsible for these charges. I will always consult with to make sure you understand and agree to this.

How do these additional expenses get paid? Two options:

• You pay as we go. This is not uncommon.

• I pay and you reimburse me as we go. Less common, but useful for folks who didn’t have time to pick up cash (not all huts can accept credit cards).