No previous experience is required. You need enough physical stamina for occasional pulling with your arms and must be comfortable with heights.

What you need to bring

• Rigid-soled mountaineering boots.
• Technical ice axes and crampons with anti-balling plates.
• Harness, two locking carabiners and an anchor sling.
• Gore-Tex or equivalent waterproof jacket and trousers.
• Hiking trousers, fleece, synthetic insulation and a warm down jacket or equivalent.
• Thermal base layer.
• Gloves and a spare pair.
• Warm hat, sun cap, sunglasses and ski goggles.
• 45 litre backpack.
• Poles.
• Sun protection.
• Food and water for the practical outings, plus a flask with a hot drink.

Equipment we can lend you

• Technical ice axes and crampons with anti-balling plates.
• Harness, two locking carabiners and an anchor sling.
• Avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe.
• Helmet.
• A large backpack if you do not have one.
• Contact us for advice.

Included

• Half a day with a high mountain guide.
• Technical equipment: ice axe and crampons if you do not have them.
• Safety equipment: avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe if you do not have them.
• Initial assistance insurance.
• Photos and video of the activity.

Not included

• Accommodation and meals. Contact us for details.
• Transport.

Suggested ice climbing venues and routes

Canal Roya: Ópera Prima, Diaples de Panti and Canal Roya Wall.

Balneario de Panticosa: Hielo por un Tubo and the Pueyo icefalls.

Izas: Ruta Jacobea and Notre Dame.

Bielsa / Barrosa: La Dorada and Directa Americana.

Benasque: Mamporros and Ardones.

Skills covered

Basic movement on ice, ice axe and crampon placements, and coordination. Essential knots and top-rope belaying systems.

Outline schedule

06:00: Meet outside the PirineoSur mountain guides’ office.

07:00: Begin the approach to the icefall.

08:00–09:00: Approximate arrival, depending on the chosen icefall.

14:00: Finish climbing.

15:00–16:00: Return to the vehicle.