SKI SAFARI
Silvretta Haute Route – Guided Ski Traverse
BETWEEN SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA
UP TO 5+ DAYS
MARCH/APRIL
A classic hut to hut ski touring journey across the Silvretta glaciers, from Switzerland to Austria, designed as a guided 5 day traverse with flexible routes and optional alpine summits, perfect for first timers in a haute route & for more experienced backcountry skiers!
The Silvretta is one of the most iconic regions in the Alps for ski touring, a place where wide glaciers, elegant peaks and a deep alpine tradition come together in perfect balance!
Often considered the true cradle of ski mountaineering, this mountain group offers ideal terrain for a hut to hut ski traverse. The glaciers are vast yet approachable, the peaks rise directly from the ice, and the routes naturally connect valley to valley across the border between Switzerland and Austria.
At the center of the range stands the legendary Piz Buin (3312 m / 10,866 ft), together with classic summits such as Dreiländerspitze and Piz Silvretta, which add a more alpine and technical dimension for those who want to go further!
Over 5 days, this guided Silvretta Haute Route allows you to fully experience the variety of the region, combining glacier travel, optional summit ascents and beautiful descents in a constantly changing landscape. But what truly makes this traverse special is the atmosphere.
Days are spent moving through a quiet and remote glacial world, while evenings are enjoyed in comfortable mountain huts, where warm meals, welcoming hosts and a strong alpine culture create a unique and authentic experience. Each hut has its own character, from the lively and social atmosphere of places like the Jamtal Hütte to the more intimate and refined feeling of smaller huts on the Swiss side.
This itinerary is designed to be flexible and adaptable, making it ideal both for those approaching their first multi day ski traverse on glaciers and for more experienced ski mountaineers looking for a classic alpine journey.
If you would like to get a deeper feeling of what this experience is really like, you can read the full story of a recent Silvretta ski traverse on our Journal, where I describe day by day a 4 day tour across the glaciers together with my partner Jasmin.
HIGHLIGHTS
A classic Silvretta Haute Route between the Swiss Engadin and Vorarlberg in Austria, crossing borders through a stunning alpine landscape
One of the best choices for a first hut to hut ski traverse, with accessible terrain and flexible route options
Wide glacial landscapes combined with elegant peaks, offering beautiful contrasts between high altitude terrain and the valleys below
Possibility to climb iconic summits such as Piz Buin, Dreiländerspitze and Piz Silvretta
Consistently excellent spring snow conditions, ideal for enjoyable and rewarding skiing
A highly adaptable itinerary, with multiple route options and valley exits depending on weather and group level
Stay in comfortable mountain huts, with small and cozy rooms, warm atmosphere and the perfect place to recover after each day
DAY BY DAY
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We meet in the morning in Bolzano, with pick up directly from your hotel for a scenic 2.5 hour transfer to the Engadin. Alternatively, it is possible to meet directly in the charming village of Guarda around midday.
After a short equipment check, we begin our journey from this idyllic and peaceful village in the Lower Engadin, known for its traditional houses and quiet alpine atmosphere.
From here we follow the beautiful Val Tuoi, entering gradually into the Silvretta mountains. The approach is gentle and enjoyable, with limited elevation gain, allowing us to find a good rhythm and settle into the flow of the traverse.
In a couple of hours we reach the Chamanna Tuoi, beautifully located at the foot of the iconic Piz Buin (3312 m / 10,866 ft).
Here we relax, enjoy our first evening in the mountains and prepare for the days ahead.
Accommodation: Chamanna Tuoi
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After an early breakfast, we begin our first full day on skis, following the valley upward toward the Jamjoch, the pass that leads us from Switzerland into Austria.
The ascent is steady and enjoyable, with beautiful views opening up as we gain elevation. Once at the pass, we enter the glacial world of the Jamtalferner, where the landscape becomes wider and more alpine.
For those who feel strong and motivated, there is the possibility to climb the Hintere Jamspitze (3156 m / 10,354 ft), a rewarding summit offering incredible panoramic views over the Silvretta.
We then ski down to the welcoming Jamtal Hütte, one of the most famous huts in the area, where we spend the night surrounded by glaciers and peaks.
Accommodation: Jamtal Hütte
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Today we continue our traverse across the glacier, heading toward the Ochsentaler Scharte, crossing into the Ochsental basin.
Along the way, for those looking for a more alpine challenge, we have the option to climb the Dreiländerspitze (3197 m / 10,489 ft). This is one of the most iconic peaks of the Silvretta, requiring a short but engaging ascent with crampons and ice axe along a beautiful ridge.
After returning to our skis, we enjoy a scenic descent to the Wiesbadener Hütte, a comfortable and well located hut where we spend the night.
Accommodation: Wiesbadener Hütte
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We leave Austria behind and begin our journey back toward Switzerland.
Skinning up onto the glacier, we move toward the elegant pyramid of the Silvrettahorn (3244 m / 10,643 ft). For those with the energy and desire, this peak offers a beautiful and slightly more technical ascent, including a final section on crampons and ice axe.
After the summit, or directly from the glacier depending on the group’s choice, we enjoy a long and rewarding descent across the wide Silvretta Glacier, with beautiful open terrain and excellent skiing conditions.
We arrive at the Silvretta Hütte, a smaller and more intimate Swiss hut, known for its comfort and refined alpine atmosphere.
Accommodation: Silvretta Hütte
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On our final day we have different options depending on conditions and group energy.
For those who are still feeling strong and motivated, there is the possibility to climb the iconic Piz Buin (3312 m / 10,866 ft). This ascent involves a short section on crampons and ice axe and leads to one of the most famous summits in the Alps.
Alternatively, we follow a beautiful return route across the glacier, enjoying classic spring snow conditions before descending back toward the Chamanna Tuoi and the valley leading to Guarda.
From here we complete our loop, returning to the village where our journey began.
Departure or transfer back to Bolzano & night in hotel.
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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.
Mountain Huts: carefully selected mountain huts combine the lively and traditional atmosphere of Austrian huts with the refined and detailed comfort of Swiss refuges. Located in the heart of the Silvretta, each hut offers a unique alpine experience, from social and welcoming environments to quieter and more intimate settings, always with hearty meals and a warm place to recover after a day on the glacier. 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 Bolzano or Guarda, 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 1
Avalanche safety camp
Transfers according to the planned itinerary (chair lifts and cable cars excluded)
4 nights lodging in the Mountain Huts with Half Board
Optional 2 nights in Bolzano
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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 / 4-night adventure: from €3,100 per person
3 participants, 5-day / 4-night adventure: from €2,600 per person
4 participants, 5-day / 4-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!
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