What we’re about
A community of amazing people and endless outdoor adventures. What stories will you tell?
Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, snowshoeing... There must be something for you!
Previously called Touring Monkeys, it is now Monkeys Connect! The new website is being created and should be up and running very soon.
[https://monkeysconnect.com ](https://monkeysconnect.com)
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Monkeys Connect (the “Organiser”) legally operates under CK Stories GmbH, an outdoor event company registered in Switzerland. Monkeys Connect (the “Organiser”) provides organised activities (the “Events”) to interested individuals (the “Participant”).
By booking or participating in an event, the Participant confirms that he/she has read, understood, and agrees to the Monkeys Connect Terms and Conditions.
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Terms of payment
The full amount has to be paid upon booking.
Cancellation policy
If the Participant cancels his/her booking:
- 30 days prior to the Event start date, a cancellation fee equivalent to 50% of the Event cost applies.
- Less than 30 days prior to the Event start date, a cancellation fee equivalent to 100% of the Event cost applies.
The Participant can sell his/her booking to another interested party who meets the fitness requirements of the particular Event. In this case, the Organiser is entitled to an Administration Fee of CHF 30.
The Organiser reserves the right to cancel any Event for any reason whatsoever. In the event of cancellation by the Organiser, the Participant will be offered an alternative Event or a full refund. However, this will not apply for cancellations due to force majeure (adverse weather conditions, war, strikes, earthquake, flooding, epidemic, etc). The Participant is responsible to have adequate insurance to cover these circumstances.
Event changes by the Organiser
The Participant is aware that the conduct of outdoor events depends on uncontrollable external factors, particularly weather conditions. In this regard, the Organiser has the full right to change the itinerary prior to or during the Event or to cancel as deemed necessary for reasons of unforeseen circumstances, operational concerns, or concerns for the health, safety, enjoyment, or comfort of the Participants of the Event. Any changes are at the discretion of the Organiser.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Multi-Pitch Climbing Course in TicinoPonte Brolla, LuganoCHF 500.00
Your registration will only be valid if you sign up on our website. Here is the link to sign up.
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Join us for an intensive weekend learning the essential skills for safe and efficient multi-pitch climbing.
This course will be led by Dan Moore, International Mountain Guide. The course will be held in English, but Dan also speaks German if English is not your main language.
What's the plan?
Meet your guide, Dan, on Saturday at Ponte Brolla train station at 09:45.Day 1:
We'll start with a check of the equipment, essential knots, and belaying techniques. We will then focus on safe abseiling with an extended setup and a prusik cord, coordinating multiple abseils as a team, and avoiding mistakes like abseiling off the rope ends.Dinner in town, together with the rest of the group or on your own, and night in twin rooms at Albergo Ristorante Centovalli in Ponte Brolla.
Day 2:
We'll put skills into practice with a multi-pitch climb in teams of two, and covering rope management and teamwork in a group of three. The day includes buddy checks, decision-making processes, and weather forecasting to enhance safety and confidence.Perfect for climbers looking to progress into multi-pitch terrain with solid safety foundations.
Requirements
To join this event, you need to have some previous sport climbing experience, at least indoor lead climbing (minimum 5a) and belaying. You also need to have done at least one abseil.Insurance
It is the participant's responsibility to get health and accident insurances that cover mountain rescue, including extreme sports. Becoming a Rega patron is highly recommended (CHF 40 per year only for emergency medical assistance from the air).How to get there
If you are traveling from Zurich by public transport, we recommend you take the following:- Saturday: Zurich HB 07:05 - 09:33 Ponte Brolla, Stazione (via Bellinzona and Locarno)
- Sunday: Ponte Brolla, Stazione 16:50 - 19:27 Zurich HB (via Locarno and Bellinzona) - depending on the time the event finishes
If you are traveling by car, there are several parking lots in Ponte Brolla.
Kit list
Day Clothing Essentials- Hiking or approach shoes
- T-shirt
- Climbing trousers (or leggings)
- Fleece
- Down jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Warm hat
- Gloves
Technical gear
Most of it can be rented out - see Equipment rental section below:- Backpack
- Climbing shoes
- Climbing harness
- Climbing helmet
- 5x locking carabiners
- Prusik cord
- 120cm sling (preferably Kevlar)
- ATC belay device
Optional gear
If you have the following items, we encourage you to bring them so that you can train with your own equipment:- Climbing ropes
- Quickdraws
- Climbing tape
- Chalk bag
F&B
- Water (min. 2L)
- Snacks
- Packed lunches
Pharmacy
- Sunscreen and lip protector
- Plasters and basic medicine
Equipment rental
You have the possibility to rent the following equipment, directly from the guide:- Climbing harness: CHF 10
- Climbing helmet: CHF 10
- 5x locking carabiners: CHF 15
- Prusik cord: CHF 5
- 120cm sling (preferably Kevlar): CHF 10
- ATC belay device: CHF 10
- All the above listed items: CHF 50
You will receive an email with a form to fill in a few days before the event, where you can inform us about which items you’d like to rent. These can be paid by cash or Twint on the event day.
Pricing
The price for this event is CHF 500.Included in price
- 2 days of outdoor rock climbing and multi-pitch course, led by an International Mountain Guide
- 1 night of accommodation at Albergo Ristorante Centovalli (twin rooms)
- Climbing guidebooks of the area
- Climbing ropes and quickdraws
Not included in price
- Transport to/from Ponte Brolla
- Meals
Group size
Min. 4 / Max. 6 participantsBy signing up for this event, you agree that you have read, understood and will adhere to our Terms and Conditions.
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Your registration will only be valid if you sign up on our website. Here is the link to sign up.
- Introduction to Mountaineering - Bishorn 4153mZinal, AnniviersCHF 540.00
Your registration will only be valid if you sign up on our website. Here is the link to sign up.
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This is a 2-day introduction to mountaineering in the canton of Valais. We will be hiking up to Tracuit Hut SAC and stay one night there. The hut lies at a height of 3’256m above sea level, at the Tracuit Pass, between Les Diablons and the Tête de Milon in the Pennine Alps.
If you are a fit hiker and would like to try mountaineering and go up to 4000m+, this is for you!
This trip is led by Guy-Robert May, international mountain guide.
What's the plan?
Day 1
We meet in Zinal at 11:00, hike up to Tracuit Hut SAC and do some briefing and exercises for day 2. Night at the hut.
Ascent: 1600mDay 2
Breakfast at the hut, ascent of the Bishorn (4153m), return to the hut for lunch and descent to Zinal.
Ascent: 900m Descent: 2500mRequirements
To join this event, you need to be a very fit hiker. No previous mountaineering experience needed.Insurance
It is the participant's responsibility to get health and accident insurances that cover mountain rescue, including extreme sports. Becoming a Rega patron is highly recommended (CHF 40 per year only for emergency medical assistance from the air).How to get there
If you are traveling from Zurich by public transport, we recommend you to take the following:- Saturday: Zurich HB 07:38 - 11:03 Zinal centre (via Visp, Sierre and Vissoie)
- Sunday: Zinal 15:39 - 19:28 Zurich HB (via Vissoie, Sierre, Visp and Bern) - depending on the time the event finishes
Kit list
Day Clothing Essentials- Crampon compatible mountaineering boots
- Base layers
- Hiking trousers
- Fleece
- Down jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof over trousers
- Sun hat
- Sun glasses
- Warm hat
- Buff
- Thin gloves
- Thick gloves
Night Essentials
- Sleeping bag liner
- Pillow case
- Ear plugs
Technical gear
- Hiking poles
- Hiking backpack (20-30L)
- Waterproof backpack cover or waterproof inner bags or bin bags
- Crampons
- Climbing harness
- Headlamp with spare batteries
F&B
- Water (min. 2L)
- Thermal bottle for tea
- Snacks
- Packed lunches
Pharmacy
- Sun screen and lip protector
- Plasters and basic medicine
Wallet
- Cash
- Air rescue membership card (e.g. Rega, Air Glaciers)
Pricing
The price for this event is CHF 540.Included in price
- 2 days of guided hiking/mountaineering with an international mountain guide
- 1 night of accommodation at Tracuit Hut SAC (dorm)
- Dinner on Saturday
- Breakfast and march tea on Sunday
Not included in price
- Transport to and from Zinal
- Packed lunches
- Drinks and snacks
Group size
Min. 4 / Max. 6 participantsBy signing up for this event, you agree that you have read, understood and will adhere to our Terms and Conditions.
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Your registration will only be valid if you sign up on our website. Here is the link to sign up.
- Summer Haute Route: Guided 10-day Hike From Chamonix to ZermattChamonix, ChamonixCHF 2,600.00
Your registration will only be valid if you sign up on our website. Here is the link to sign up.
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The Haute Route is one of the most spectacular treks, that links Chamonix to Zermatt, the Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn. Starting at the foot of the Mont Blanc, this gorgeous route enables you to traverse an area with the greatest collection of 4’000 meter peaks in all the Alps.
Almost 100 miles, two countries, 37’000 feet of elevation gain, 11 mountain passes, 8 valleys and countless breathtaking views of all the highest mountains of the Alps.
This trip is led by Celine Kahn, international mountain leader.
What's the plan?
Day 1: Chamonix
Check-in at La Chaumière Mountain Lodge after 15:00. Briefing with your guide at 18:00.Day 2: Chamonix - Trient
Transfer to Montroc by train. Hike up on the Aiguillette des Posettes ridge to Col des Posettes, with stunning views of Mont Blanc and surrounding peaks. Possibility to have lunch or a coffee at Refuge du Col de Balme, which marks the border between France and Switzerland. Descent to the charming village of Trient where we have dinner and spend the night.
Tech. info: 17.5km, 1’000 m up, 1’100 m downDay 3: Trient - Arpette
Private transfer back to Trient in the morning. Long climb to the stunning Fenêtre d'Arpette, an impressive narrow mountain pass, facing the Trient glacier, or hike along the high alpine pastures of Bovine, depending on the conditions. Both options are breathtaking! The day ends at Relais d’Arpette, a charming mountain lodge located just above Champex village.
Tech. info: 12.5km, 1’400 m up, 1’100 m downDay 4: Arpette - Cabane de Louvie
Short walk to Champex village. Bus transfer to Le Châble and cable car to Les Ruinettes. We start with a flat path along the Valais bisses (canals), then start the climb on the famous Sentier des Chamois (mountain goat trail), facing the Combins massif. Once we reach Col Termin, we start our descent to the beautiful Cabane de Louvie by Louvie lake, with a breathtaking view of the Grand Combin and the Mauvoisin reservoir. Dinner and night at Cabane de Louvie.
Tech. info: 13.5 km, 800 m up, 800 m downDay 5: Cabane de Louvie - Cabane de Prafleuri
Difficult but stunning day! We start with a climb to Col de Louvie. We then cross a landscape of barren rock with massive mountains, tumbling moraines, and drying glaciers and reach the second pass of the day, Col de Prafleuri. Descent to Cabane de Prafleuri for the night.
Tech. info: 12 km, 1’200 m up, 800 m downDay 6: Cabane de Prafleuri - Arolla
Day with some easy sections and some challenging ones. Climb to Col des Roux and descent on the other side to walk along the giant Lac des Dix. Great views of the Mont Blanc de Cheilon ahead of us and climb to the second pass of the day, Col de Riedmatten before hiking down to the high village of Arolla, where we spend the night.
Tech. info: 17.5 km, 800 m up, 1’500 m downDay 7: Arolla - Cabane de Moiry
Private transfer to Mayens du Cotter, above Evolène. Ascent to Col de Torrent, offering us stunning panoramic views of the 4’000 meter peaks of Valais. From there we hike down to Moiry lake, and up again towards Moiry glacier to sleep at Cabane de Moiry, a hut perched above the glacier.
Tech. info: 14.5 km, 1’500 m up, 1’500 m downDay 8: Cabane de Moiry - Zinal
The day starts with a descent from the hut back towards the lake, on the moraine. We traverse above the lake, all the way to the dam. The views are incredible all day. Climb to Sorebois pass and cable car down to Zinal. Dinner and night at a charming lodge in Zinal.
Tech. info: 11 km, 700 m up, 800 m downDay 9: Zinal - Gruben
After walking through the village, you climb in the woods until you reach a stunning panoramic trail that will take you all the way to the Forclettaz pass. You then descend to the next valley and the first German speaking one of our hike, Turtmanntal, and stay at Hotel Schwarzhorn.
Tech. info: 17.5 km, 1’400 m up, 1’200 m downDay 10: Gruben - Pension Edelweiss
Last pass of the Haute Route, the Augstbordpass. Varied route through woodlands, pastures and stony wilderness which offers stunning views again. We end in the village of St. Niklaus (cable car from Jungen to St Niklaus), and take a train to Zermatt. From Zermatt, one more little climb to stay at Pension Edelweiss, overlooking Zermatt and facing Breithorn and other high mountains.
Tech. info: 16 km, 1’500 m up, 1’100 m downDay 11: Pension Edelweiss - Zermatt
Hike up to and along the Edelweis trail, which offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of Zermatt and its 4’000m peaks and glaciers: North face of Matterhorn, Breithorn, Liskamm... You then hike down to the moraine of the Zmutt glacier, before going through the charming Zmutt village on your way back to Zermatt.
Tech. info: 17.5 km, 800 m up, 1’200 m downDay 12: Pension Edelweiss - Zermatt
Check-out from hotel after breakfast and depart.Requirements
To join this event, very good physical condition is needed, used to hiking several days in a row, with up to 12 miles and 5’000 feet of elevation gain per day. Training required.Insurance
It is the participant's responsibility to get health and accident insurances that cover mountain rescue in France and Switzerland.Kit list
Day Clothing Essentials- Hiking boots
- T-shirt
- Hiking trousers or shorts
- Fleece
- Down jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof over trousers
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Warm hat
- Buff
- Gloves
Night Essentials
- Sleeping bag liner
- Lightweight towel
- Ear plugs
- Cash for drinks at the huts
Technical gear
- Hiking poles
- Hiking backpack (30-40L)
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Waterproof inner bags or bin bags
- Headlamp with spare batteries
F&B
- Water (min. 2L)
- Snacks
Pharmacy
- Sunscreen and lip protector
- Plasters and basic medicine
Pricing
The price for this event is CHF 2’600.Included in price
- 10 days of guided hike with an International Mountain Leader, in your private group
- 11 nights of accommodation, both in hotels and mountain huts
- Dinner from day 1 - day 10
- Breakfast from day 2 - day 12
- All transfers included in the itinerary
- Luggage transfer (up to one piece of luggage per participant, from the hotel in Chamonix to the hotel in Zermatt)
Not included in price
- Transport from Zermatt
- Lunches (possibility to buy packed lunches from all accommodations or to buy groceries along the way)
- Dinner on day 11
- Drinks and snacks
Group size
- Min. 4 / Max. 8 participants
By signing up for this event, you agree that you have read, understood and will adhere to our Terms and Conditions.
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Your registration will only be valid if you sign up on our website. Here is the link to sign up.
Not open - Guided 5-day Laugavegur Trek in IcelandReykjavík, ReykjavíkCHF 1,769.00
Your registration will only be valid if you sign up on our website. Here is the link to sign up.
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Experience Iceland’s legendary Laugavegur trail on this 5-day guided trek. Journey through a land shaped by fire and ice, traversing multicolored rhyolite mountains, steaming hot springs, black sand deserts, and lush valleys.
Each night, rest in mountain huts while our team prepares warm meals. With all logistics covered—transportation, meals, and accommodation—this adventure allows you to fully immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Iceland’s wilderness.
Key Highlights:
- Traverse one of the world's most stunning trekking routes, covering 55 km of diverse landscapes.
- Stay in remote mountain huts, (secured a year in advance, fully booked at this point) offering an immersive experience in Iceland’s pristine nature.
- Led by professional guides, offering detours and excursions to additional highlights every day—ensuring a stress-free and enriching trekking experience.
This trip is led by Tobias Jenni, International Mountain Leader.
What's the plan?
Day 1:
Welcome to Reykjavík! We’ll get an early start, boarding the bus at 7:30 AM for our 4-hour journey to Landmannalaugar.This vibrant area is a destination in itself, with stunning geothermal landscapes to explore. Upon arrival, there’s time to wander without our heavy packs—walking past solidified lava flows, taking in the surreal colors, and even summiting our first peak. In the evening, we’ll relax over dinner and go over the adventure ahead. And for the perfect end to the day? A soak in the natural hot springs—don’t forget your swimwear!
Day 2:
After breakfast, we embark on our trek!
Today’s focus is on Iceland’s volcanic heritage. The trail leads us past steam vents and ancient lava fields, with vivid colours accompanying us as we ascend 500 meters to Hrafntinnusker. Here, the high alpine landscape sets an unforgettable scene for our overnight stay.
Technical info: 11km - 500m ascentDay 3:
Continuing through elevated terrain, we descend toward Lake Álftavatn. Today’s changing landscapes are truly spectacular—from moss-green valleys to rugged, lava-black plains. We’ll be treated to breathtaking views on our descent before setting up camp at Álftavatn. Be prepared to cross our first stream, so waterproof boots are essential!
Technical info: 11km - 450m descentDay 4:
With striking lava domes as our backdrop, we’ll cross two streams and then enter a black sand desert. This barren landscape leaves a lasting impression and reminds us of the stark contrasts in Icelandic nature. Tonight, we camp in a beautiful canyon setting.
Technical info: 16km - 150m ascent - 250m descentDay 5:
Our final destination is just a day’s hike away! Today, we’ll navigate canyons, cross rivers, and tackle one last water crossing before reaching Þórsmörk. Along the way, it’s inspiring to see nature reclaim the land, with small trees and bushes lining our path into this lush valley. From here, a bus will take us back to Reykjavík, with an expected late arrival around 10 PM.
Technical info: 15km - 300m ascent - 550m descentTechnical information
Trekking for 4 consecutive days up to 16 km/day; 500m ascent on the first day.Risks: Emergency exits are limited, and response times may be delayed. Boat/bus schedules depend on weather, so please allow flexibility for return flights. Participants are responsible for their own health and fitness, and a signed waiver is required.
Requirements
To join this event, you need to be a fit hike . It involves 4 days consecutive days of trekking, multiple stream crossings, while carrying a maximum 15kg backpack. Sure-footedness plus a positive attitude in tough conditions is essential.Insurance
It is the participant's responsibility to get health and accident insurances that cover mountain rescue, including extreme sports. Becoming a Rega patron is highly recommended (CHF 40 per year only for emergency medical assistance from the air).How to get there
Get flight to Reykjavik (KEF) International Airport. From here, the easiest way to get to Reykjavik is by using the "re" bus right outside the airport.Important Travel Advisory: We highly recommend wearing or carrying your most essential trekking gear while traveling—such as hiking boots, pants, and a weatherproof jacket. Lost luggage incidents have increased in recent years, and replacing vital gear on short notice can be difficult. Please plan accordingly and allow enough time before the trip to prepare for any potential travel disruptions.
Kit list
- GoreTex jacket
- Weatherproof trousers
- Trekking pants
- Softshell jacket (for warmth while hiking)
- Down or fleece jacket (for warmth when stationary)
- Thin, windproof gloves
- Beanie
- Functional socks & underwear
- Spare clothes
- Swimsuit
- Sturdy trekking shoes (full leather or GoreTex)
- Quick-drying sandals (for fording)
- Possibly gaiters
- Backpack with hip belt
- Rain cover for backpack
- Waterproof pouches (to keep clothes dry)
- Sunglasses
- Sun and lip cream
- Cap
- Thermos flask or camel bag
- Pocket knife
- Own medicine
- Blister tape
- Anti-mosquito spray & after-bite ointment
- Passport
- Possibly hiking poles (available for lending)
- Possibly camera/binoculars
- Snacks for in-between meals
- Sleeping bag (comfort temperature 0°C, or warmer with an insert)
- Toiletries (small format)
- Possibly refreshing tissues
- Sleeping mask (due to up to 21 hours of daylight)
- Earplugs
Pricing
The price for this event is CHF 1’769.
Payment terms
Deposit for Multi-Day Tours- Upon signing up: CHF 100.
- Two weeks after signing up: 40% of the tour price.
- 2 months before the tour begins: balance payment.
Cancellation Fees:
- Up to 6 months before the tour begins: 20% of the tour price
- Up to 4 months before the tour begins: 40% of the tour price
- Less than 2 months before the tour begins: 100% of the tour price
Included in price
- Guided hikes led by an experienced hiking guide
- Round-trip bus transportation from Reykjavík
- Accommodations in huts as outlined in the program (4 nights)
- Meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and complimentary tea and coffee
Not included in price
- Flights to and from Iceland (support for flight booking is available upon request)
- Accident insurance is the responsibility of the participants
- Personal snacks (to be purchased in Reykjavík at the latest)
- Meal and accommodation costs outside of the trek
Program changes: Generally, each tour or course is guaranteed to occur once enough participants have signed up. However, we are dependent on local conditions. Participants assume the risks associated with weather, flight disruptions, or restricted areas and must be prepared for significant changes to the itinerary, location, travel, or accommodations. Any additional costs incurred will be charged to the participant. If a tour is cancelled due to adverse conditions, a refund will be issued, or the booking can be rescheduled upon request.
Group size
Min. 4 / Max. 7 participantsBy signing up for this event, you agree that you have read, understood and will adhere to our Terms and Conditions.
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Your registration will only be valid if you sign up on our website. Here is the link to sign up.