Glacier Walking Travel Insurance
Cover for glacier walking at elevations up to 3000m
Access to 24/7 emergency medical support
Quick online quotes for your trip
Get QuotesOver 100 activities included at no extra cost on Direct Travel policies.
What is glacier walking?
Glacier walking involves travelling across a glacier on foot, usually as part of an organised and guided excursion. Routes can involve uneven ice, steep sections, hidden crevasses and rapidly changing weather.
This activity covers recreational glacier walking at elevations up to 3000m. It does not automatically include ice climbing, technical mountaineering or expeditions above this limit.
Can I get travel insurance for glacier walking?
Yes, policies that cover amateur glacier walking up to 3000m can be available through Direct Travel. Glacier walking is treated as a Winter Sport, so you will need to add the appropriate Winter Sports cover when getting your quote.
Check that the Winter Sports extension appears on your Policy Certificate or policy documents and make sure your planned route remains at or below 3000m.
Glacier walking top tips:
- Add the appropriate Winter Sports extension
- Check that the extension appears on your policy documents
- Make sure no part of the route goes above 3000m
- Book through an established provider and stay with your guide
- Follow all instructions and check local glacier and weather conditions
What can travel insurance help with?
If you’re injured while taking part in insured glacier walking up to 3000m, emergency medical expenses and repatriation can be covered, subject to the terms and limits of your policy.
Depending on the policy and Winter Sports cover selected, cover may also be available for cancellation, curtailment and other travel-related problems. Mountain, helicopter and search and rescue costs are not automatically covered in every situation. Check the applicable Policy Wording.
Glacier Walking FAQs
Is glacier walking treated as a Winter Sport?
Yes. You will need to add the appropriate Winter Sports extension and check that it appears on your policy documents.
Will ordinary travel insurance cover glacier walking?
No. Ordinary travel insurance without the appropriate Winter Sports extension will not provide the required cover for glacier walking.
What does the 3000m limit mean?
The highest point reached during the glacier walk must not exceed 3000m above sea level.
Does glacier walking need to be guided?
You should book through an established provider, remain with the group, and follow the guide’s instructions. Check the Policy Wording for any specific supervision requirements.
Does glacier walking include ice climbing?
No. Ice climbing, technical mountaineering, and other activities involving a more technical ascent are separate. Make sure your cover matches everything you plan to do.
Can medical expenses be covered if I am injured?
Emergency medical expenses can be covered when the appropriate Winter Sports extension appears on your policy documents, the route remains at or below 3000m and the claim meets the policy’s terms and conditions.
Can I get cover if I have a medical condition?
Pre-existing medical conditions are considered separately from activity cover. Declare them when getting your quote, as cover is subject to medical screening and acceptance.
Cover is subject to the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of your policy. Read about the available Winter Sports cover, check the applicable Policy Wording and review your policy documents before taking part.
