SKI SAFARI
Dolomites Grand Backcountry Ski Traverse
TRIP ACCROSS THE DOLOMITES
UP TO 5+ DAYS
MARCH
A guided hut-to-hut backcountry ski traverse across the Dolomites, linking San Martino di Castrozza, the Sella Massif, Marmolada and the wild valleys of Fanes-Sennes-Braies all the way toward Cortina and Lake Braies. Climb with skins, ski long off-piste descents, and experience a true ski mountaineering journey through some of the most iconic alpine landscapes in the world.
Imagine crossing the entire Dolomites on skis, from the silent plateaus of Pale di San Martino to the dramatic walls of the Sella, the Marmolada glacier, and the remote beauty of Fanes Sennes Braies. This Dolomites Backcountry Ski Traverse is a true mountain journey designed to move through wild terrain and hidden valleys, using lift systems only for a few strategic connections that allow us to cross different areas of the Dolomites and keep the traverse flowing naturally from one region to the next.
Most days unfold far from crowded slopes, following classic ski mountaineering lines and long off piste descents. Along the way, you will stay in a carefully selected mix of welcoming alpine hotels and authentic mountain huts, where warm hospitality, traditional food, and a glass of local wine become part of the experience.
Expect daily ascents of around 500 to 1000 meters and ski descents that often exceed 1000 meters. The focus is never just on climbing, but on finding the best snow and the most rewarding lines. The itinerary remains flexible and adapts to weather and conditions, always chasing the finest turns and the true spirit of the Dolomites.
HIGHLIGHTS
Experience a complete ski journey from S. Martino di Castrozza to Lake Braies and Cortina, passing through remote valleys and pristine mountain landscapes.
Daily climbs of 500-1000 meters with thrilling descents of over 1000 meters, offering some of the best off-piste terrain in the Dolomites.
Ski through the stunning natural parks of Pale di San Martino, Puez Odle, Fanes Sennes, and Braies, as well as the Marmolada glacier and the Sella massif.
Benefit from the efficient Dolomiti Superski lift system to connect various sections of the route.
Stay in a combination of hotels and alpine refuges selected for their unique atmosphere, warm hospitality, and excellent traditional cuisine, including local wines.
Ski with certified local mountain guides, choosing the best route based on weather and snow conditions and enjoying the journey with you.
Ski on the Marmolada glacier and enjoy excellent snow conditions on the glacier's slopes.
Ski through the Sella massif, including the legendary Val Mesdì valley, with dramatic rock formations and wide open snowfields.
DAY BY DAY
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You will arrive in S. Martino di Castrozza -2h from Venice airport-, either by yourself or by private transfer ( available on request). This charming village, in the Trentino region, is nestled at the foot of the Pale di San Martino mountain range and offers an alpine atmosphere among charming wooden chalets, and a mix of local and international restaurants and cozy cafes.
You'll check in at your hotel and meet your certified mountain guide before dinner for a itinerary briefing and equipment check! Welcome to the Dolomites!
Accommodation: Hotel in S. Martino di Castrozza
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Today the scenario changes: you will skin up to the Forca Rossa pass (vertical gain: 600 m) and a first beautiful 1000 m descent will take you to Malga Ciapela, at the foot of Marmolada! With the Marmolada Cable Car, in a few minutes you'll reach the 3,265 meters (10,712 feet) top station and can ski a second 1,000 m descent on the glacier's excellent snow!
You will then continue using the Arabba lifts to the lodge in the Passo Pordoi area, among the Sella Mountains and with a view of the Sassolungo!
Accommodation: Hotel in Passo Pordoi
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Experience the thrill of skiing on the Marmolada Glacier, the highest peak in the Dolomites! With over 3 kilometers of slopes, the glacier offers excellent conditions for skiing, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Dolomite mountains. But that's not all – beyond skiing, immerse yourself in history with a visit to the Great War Museum at Punta Serauta, located at an altitude of 2,950 meters. This museum is set in a historic site that played a pivotal role during World War I. As you explore the museum, you’ll learn about the history of the Dolomites as a battlefield, where soldiers faced extreme conditions in the high mountains. The museum offers fascinating exhibits on the soldiers' lives, their struggles, and the importance of the region during the war.
You will then enjoy the afternoon on the excellent snow of the Arabba ski area, with a variety of slopes, from wide, easy runs for beginners to technical and steep descents for more experienced skiers!
Accommodation: Rifugio of the Dolomites
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Today you will take the Pordoi cablecar to immerse yourself in the Sella massif: a stunning natural amphitheater formed by rugged peaks, steep cliffs, and deep valleys, located between the valleys of Val di Fassa, Val Gardena, Alta Badia, and Arabba.
Today's menu might be the legendary descent in the Val Mesdì valley that runs straight accross the massif to the village of Colfosco. The valley itself is characterized by a steep, narrow corridor access and wide open snowfields surrounded by high dramatic rock formations! Depending on the weather and snow conditions your guide will choose the best option from the many that are there to enjoy! (Val Setus, Val Lasties, Val Culea, Forcella Pordoi…).
Accommodation: Hotel in Passo Gardena or Corvara
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You will ascend with the lifts the first part of the magical Edelweiss valley, continue skinning to the Forcella de Ciampei (500 m of vertical gain) and immerse yourself in the Puez - Odle nature park, to make a 1000m descent in the hidden gem of the Antersasc valley, famous for its unspoiled nature and generally good snow! You will arrive in Longiaru’, welcome to the charming Val Badia valley!
After a private transfer you will spend the night in Pederu, with a rustic atmosphere and tyrolina dishes, in the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Natural Park!
Accommodation: Hotel in Pederu
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Today you will go up to the Sennes Plateau and ski directly to the winter wonderland of Lake Braies, the “Pearl of the Dolomites”, nestled in the forests, with dramatic mountain backdrop, and peaceful atmosphere! (800 m vertical gain)
Congratulations on completing what we hope was a truly wonderful ski journey through the Dolomites! You will now transfer to the hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo, for a relaxing wellness treatment and a great dinner! Your luggage is already waiting for you there.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cortina
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After breakfast, you can depart (private transfer to the airport available upon request).
ACCOMMODATION
For your ski safari, we’ll take you to a mix of charming, character-filled hotels and cozy mountain lodges (Rifugi) in smart, hand-picked locations – so you can ski straight out the door, or almost!
Your stay includes half board: a comfy bed, a hearty dinner, and a delicious breakfast to fuel your next adventure.
We highly recommend booking well in advance to secure the best spots – they fill up fast!
Hotels: we carefully select our partner hotels to provide the most authentic experience for our guests.
Refugios of the Dolomites: our handpicked mountain lodges are charming, rustic mountain lodges that offer a warm and cozy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. Located in some of the most stunning areas of the Dolomites, these refuges provide a unique, immersive experience with traditional alpine architecture and hearty local cuisine. Please note that if you request a single or double room, an additional supplement may apply.
COSTS
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Help with planning your trip, from getting to the Dolomites, to ideas for relaxing or exploring on your rest days
5 days of professional guiding by a local English-speaking UIAGM/IFMGA mountain guide
Trip briefing on day of arrival in the Dolomites
Avalanche safety camp
Transfers according to the planned itinerary (chair lifts and cable cars excluded)
6 nights lodging in the Dolomites with Bnb (Bed & Breakfast) in hotels & Rifugios
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DolomiteSafari invoices and collects payment only for guiding services
All accommodation and third-party services are paid directly by the guest to the property
Itineraries are subject to change due to weather or other conditions beyond our control
Contact us for a personalized quote and start planning your ideal Dolomites adventure!
Our programs are fully customizable: you can choose to join for a single day, multiple days, the full 5 ski day experience or even continue the adventure adding some skitouring days in the Dolomites! The estimated price per person depends on the number of participants in your group and the accommodation available. We provide professional guidance, travel planning support, and personalized advice to make your Dolomites adventure unforgettable!
Example Estimated Total Trip Budget
Here’s an example to give you an idea of costs for planning purposes:
2 participants, 5-day / 6-night adventure: from €3,100 per person
3 participants, 5-day / 6-night adventure: from €2,600 per person
4 participants, 5-day / 6-night adventure: from €2,200 per person
Want a shorter or longer adventure? No problem, just get in touch and we’ll create a custom itinerary that fits your schedule and interests!
AREA ON THE MAP
ALL THE SKI TRIPS IN THE DOLOMITES
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![Skiing in Alta Badia, Dolomites]()
ON PISTE DOLOMITES SKI SAFARI
Hotel based & Rifugio - up to 8 days
The classic, unforgettable, ski safari across the slopes of the Dolomiti Superski! A true journey on skis through the most iconic spots in the Dolomites. Relax in a mix of cozy hotels and mountain Rifugios!
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![Skiers on a snow-covered mountain slope with ski lifts and rugged, snow-capped peaks in the background.]()
SELLARONDA GUIDED SKI DAY
1 guided ski day
The most iconic one-day ski tour in the Dolomites! A stunning loop from Val Gardena through Alta Badia and Arabba, for a full day in the Sella area. Great slopes, quick lifts, and cozy mountain restaurants for a perfect ski day!
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![A person skiing on snow-covered terrain near a mountain with rocky cliffs and a shadow across the snow.]()
BACKCOUNTRY SKI GRAND TRAVERSE
Hotels & Rifugios — 5 days
Cross the entire Dolomites from San Martino di Castrozza to Braies Lake, passing the Marmolada, the Sella massif, and the Fanes–Sennes–Braies park, staying in unique mountain spots along the way. Pure wilderness!
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![A skier wearing a purple jacket, black pants, a white helmet, and pink goggles skiing on a snowy slope with rocky mountains in the background.]()
FANES SENNES BRAIES WILD SAFARI
Hotel & Rifugio - 3 to 4 days
A backcountry adventure through one of the wildest corners of the Dolomites! From Alta Badia to Lake Braies, we’ll ski through pristine alpine terrain, ending in traditional Ladin Rifugi with their warm hospitality and local cuisine!
