Walking and Trekking Difficulties Explained

We have graded our walks and treks into five levels of difficulty – if you are unsure of the right trek for you please call or email and we will be happy to discuss it with you.

Leisurely

Low level of difficulty.
Our short day walks are usually between 2 and 5 hours.
They take place at low altitude, with some undulation on good paths.
No previous experience is required.

Moderate

These full day walks are usually between 5 and 7 hours.
They are mostly on good paths, however there may be some rocky and/or hilly terrain.
A reasonable level of fitness will be required.

Challenging

These walks are full days or multi day walking, usually between 6 and 8 hours.
These routes may be off the beaten path, steep, rocky and occasionally require the use of hands and feet.
Ascents/descents may be around 1,000m.
These are physically demanding routes, so you should be used to long days or multi day walking.

Tough

These multi day treks are generally at altitude, and are usually between 6 and 9 hours long.
They generally take place on difficult terrain with some scrambling, as well as exposed sections.
Ascents/descents may be around 1,000m.
You should be prepared for extreme weather conditions.
These are physically demanding, so you should be used to multi day trekking while carrying a rucksack with kit.

Advanced

This is our highest difficulty of trek.
These are our multi day mountaineering treks at altitude.  The days will start early and could be up to 10 hours.
They may include glacier crossings and high passes.
The use of ice axe and crampons may be necessary.
You should be prepared for extreme weather conditions.
You will need a good level of physical fitness, and be used to carrying a full rucksack.