About the trek
Imagine waking up to the crisp, frosty air of Corsica's high-altitude plateaus, where every breath feels like a gulp of pure, invigorating oxygen. The GR20 Corsica isn't just a trek; it's an odyssey through Europe's most demanding long-distance trail. Stretching 180km through the mountainous spine of Corsica, this trek offers nearly 12,000m of vertical gain. You'll traverse granite peaks that pierce the sky, glacial lakes that mirror the heavens, dense maquis forests that whisper ancient secrets, and snow-streaked ridges that feel more Alpine than Mediterranean. This isn't a walk in the park; it's a journey that demands your utmost, rewarding you with unparalleled vistas and a sense of accomplishment that few other trails can match. If you're seeking a challenge that pushes your limits and offers a winter wonderland even in the heart of summer, the GR20 Corsica is your calling.
Key Facts
Why Trekkers Love It
- 01Nearly 12,000m of vertical gain over 180km, making it one of Europe's most demanding trails.
- 02Traverses through granite peaks, glacial lakes, and dense maquis forests.
- 03Offers snow-streaked ridges that provide an Alpine feel in a Mediterranean setting.
- 04Requires high levels of physical fitness and mental resilience.
More Photos
Photo Gallery
5 photosDay by Day
The Route
Route & Itinerary
Calenzana
🚩 Starting Point
Refuge de Carrozzu
Waypoint 1
Lac de Nino
Waypoint 2
Monte Rotondo
Waypoint 3
Monte Renoso
▲ Highest Point
Conca
🏁 End Point
Altitude
Elevation Profile
Calenzana
275m
Refuge de Carrozzu
1,270m
Lac de Nino
1,743m
Monte Rotondo
2,350m
Monte Renoso
2,706m
Conca
252m
Start
275m
Peak
2,706m
Total Gain
+2,431m
When to Go
Monthly Climate Guide
Best months to trek: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.
Jun
NOWMonsoon Onset
12–22°C
Jul
BESTHeavy Monsoon
10–20°C
Aug
BESTHeavy Monsoon
10–20°C
Sep
BESTPost-Monsoon
10–20°C
Getting There
How to Reach
Nearest Airport
Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport, Ajaccio, 70km
Nearest Railway
Ajaccio Railway Station, 70km
Flight to Ajaccio (10hrs) + taxi (2hrs), ₹30,000 – ₹40,000
Train to Nice (3 days) + bus to Ajaccio (3hrs), ₹20,000 – ₹30,000
Direct road route not feasible, consider flight or train
Flight to Ajaccio (10hrs) + taxi (2hrs), ₹30,000 – ₹40,000
Train to Nice (3 days) + bus to Ajaccio (3hrs), ₹20,000 – ₹30,000
Direct road route not feasible, consider flight or train
Flight to Ajaccio (10hrs) + taxi (2hrs), ₹30,000 – ₹40,000
Train to Nice (3 days) + bus to Ajaccio (3hrs), ₹20,000 – ₹30,000
Direct road route not feasible, consider flight or train
Last Mile to Base Camp
Shared jeep or private taxi from Ajaccio to trailhead
Pro tip: Book your transport and accommodations in advance due to high demand.
Costs
Budget Breakdown
The GR20 Corsica trek costs ₹30,000–₹70,000 depending on your style and whether you hire a guide.
Mid-Range Trek
Guide + porter, comfortable guesthouses
per day
₹3,000 – ₹4,000 per day
Prices are estimates for 2025–26. Costs vary by season and group size.
Preparation
Pack & Stay Safe
What to Pack
gear
- Approach shoes or stiff hiking boots
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag 0°C
- Via ferrata chains (available on trail)
- 40L pack
clothing
- Waterproof jacket (essential)
- Quick-dry clothes
- Warm fleece
- Sun hat
- Via ferrata gloves for scrambling
essentials
- Sufficient water capacity (3L)
- Emergency food for 2 extra days
- Detailed GR20 guidebook
- Headlamp
Safety Tips
- 1Rated "very difficult" by GR standards — proper mountaineering fitness needed
- 2Lightning strikes are common in afternoon on ridges — start early and descend before 2pm
Permit & Entry Info
No trail permits. Refuge fees: €10-15/night for camping pitch, €18-25 for dormitory. Advance booking essential for July-August.
Emergency Contacts
Corsica Mountain Rescue
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The GR20 Corsica is extremely difficult, requiring high levels of physical fitness and mental resilience. It involves nearly 12,000m of vertical gain over 180km, with daily distances ranging from 10 to 25km.
The best time to trek the GR20 Corsica is from June to September. These months offer the most stable weather conditions, though you should be prepared for occasional rain and snow, even in summer.
The cost of the GR20 Corsica trek ranges from ₹30,000 to ₹70,000, depending on whether you choose budget, mid-range, or comfortable options. This includes transport, food, permits, and guide fees.
Yes, a permit is required for certain sections of the GR20 Corsica. The cost is approximately ₹1,500, and it can be obtained online or at local offices in Corsica.
No, the GR20 Corsica is not suitable for beginners. It is designed for experienced trekkers with a high level of fitness and trekking experience.
The maximum altitude of the GR20 Corsica is 2706m. Altitude sickness is a risk, so it's crucial to acclimate properly and be aware of the symptoms.
Essential items include a high-quality backpack, sturdy trekking poles, layered clothing, a warm sleeping bag rated for low temperatures, a waterproof jacket, and a first-aid kit.
The nearest city is Ajaccio. From there, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to the trailhead. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours.
The total distance of the GR20 Corsica is 180km, with daily distances ranging from 10 to 25km.
While it's possible to trek the GR20 Corsica without a guide, it is highly recommended to hire one for safety, navigation, and local knowledge.
During the best trekking months (June to September), daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 5°C or lower.
Mobile network coverage is limited, and there are no ATMs at the base camp. It's advisable to carry enough cash for your trek.
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