Self-guided hiking in the Mercantour

Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the formalities required for entry and stay in the destination country.

You can also consult this information on the France Diplomatie website (https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/).

In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require that your passport be valid for at least 6 months after your return), visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations.

And don't forget to take into account any customs restrictions and other possible obligations of the country of destination or transit.

ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.

⚠️ For this stay, you must also bring your health insurance card and a European health insurance card.

1. "Roadbook" assisted navigation application
2. Detailed itinerary with map background
3. Real-time location
4. Points of interest and route variations
5. Travel diary in PDF format
6. Description of your itinerary
7. Map excerpts tailored to your route
8. Vouchers or exchange vouchers, to be given to service providers (accommodation providers, taxis, etc.)
9. Cultural guide describing local heritage
10. GPS tracks in GPX format (compatible with GPS devices and smartphones)
11. Print your travel journal
12. Detailed maps with OpenMap background and route tracking
13. Points of interest to explore along your hike
14. Real-time geolocation and guidance, even in airplane mode (after downloading)

1. 30/35 litre backpack with waist belt
2. 2 telescopic poles (recommended) for better stability
3. Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and Vibram-type sole
4. Thermos, water bottle or water bladder (minimum capacity of 1.5 L )
5. Small airtight plastic container, cup, knife and fork for picnics
6. Race snacks (dried fruit, energy bars, etc.) to replenish energy along the way
7. A small waterproof pouch for your valuables (money, ID, bank card, health insurance card, travel insurance policy). You can leave your other documents and car keys at the hotel during your stay.
8. Survival blanket
9. Toilet paper in a sealed bag for disposal in the nearest available bin.
10. A few changes of clothes are enough
11. Opt for toiletries in compact sizes , samples, or travel kits, especially if you're carrying your bag.
12. A sleeping bag liner is mandatory (beds are equipped with duvets or blankets)

Make sure your luggage does not exceed 8 kg to facilitate travel and ensure your comfort. Important : At the beginning of the season, depending on snow conditions, small hiking crampons may be required.

When hiking, the 3-layer system remains the recommended equipment for your comfort and safety.

• A short-sleeved t-shirt made of breathable material (hollow fiber)
• A fleece fur jacket
• A windproof, waterproof and breathable jacket (gore-tex type)

Pack quick-drying clothes, so avoid cotton. Opt for wool, silk, and synthetic fibers, which will keep you dry and warm for as long as possible. Sweat is a hiker's enemy, as it dampens clothing and chills you during breaks.

Recommended clothing for hiking:

• 1 sun hat or cap
• 1 multifunctional hat or neck warmer (BUFF© type) and 1 pair of lightweight gloves to protect against the cold at altitude
• 1 short-sleeved t-shirt suitable for physical activity (synthetic or natural microfiber type)
• 1 insulating garment type: fleece or down jacket
• 1 windproof, waterproof and breathable jacket with a hood if possible (gore-tex type or equivalent)
• 1 rain poncho or a protective cover for the backpack in bad weather (often integrated into the bags)
• 1 pair of loose-fitting trekking trousers
• 1 pair of shorts or bermudas suitable for walking

• 1 pair of high hiking socks suitable for walking