Discover the magic of a Polish winter on this 5-day expedition to the spectacular Tatra Mountains. From our base in a traditional, cosy mountain lodge, we will set out on daily hikes to witness breathtaking alpine vistas and serene, snow-dusted valleys. The adventure continues after the trek, as you'll have the chance to savour authentic regional cuisine, rejuvenate your body and soul in the warm, mineral-rich waters of a thermal spa, and explore the unique architecture and culture of the winter capital, Zakopane. This trip is crafted for those who seek both thrilling mountain exploration and restorative comfort.

Day 1: Arrival in Kraków & transfer to Zakopane

Your Polish winter adventure begins as you fly into Kraków Airport (KRK), where you will be met for the scenic 2-hour transfer south into the heart of the magnificent Tatra Mountains. Upon arriving in Zakopane, the bustling 'winter capital' of Poland, you'll check into our traditional and cosy mountain lodge. The rest of the day is yours to settle in and relax after your travels. This is a perfect opportunity to acclimatise to the crisp mountain air before we gather for a welcome dinner at the lodge, giving you a first taste of hearty, local highland cuisine. Rest well, as our mountain exploration begins tomorrow.

Day 2: The Sleeping Knight & Thermal Rejuvenation SPA

Our first full day of hiking takes us towards the iconic peak of Wielki Giewont, Zakopane's famous 'Sleeping Knight'. As this is a demanding winter hike, our route and the possibility of a summit attempt will be determined by the day's weather and mountain conditions. To cap off an exhilarating day, we will spend the evening recovering at Chochołowskie Termy, soothing tired muscles in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the renowned thermal SPA.

Day 3: High Peaks & Winter Fun

Today’s objective is another Tatra classic, the high-altitude peak of Kasprowy Wierch, which sits on the main ridge bordering Slovakia. We will undertake the challenging but rewarding winter trek to the summit, where panoramic views of the entire snow-covered range await. As this is a strenuous high-mountain route, our plans will be guided by the prevailing weather and conditions. After returning from the peak, the evening is all about embracing the simpler joys of winter. We'll take a short twilight walk to enjoy the crisp evening air, followed by some light-hearted fun with an evening of sledging on a local hill.

Day 4: The Black Lake & Zakopane Evening

For our final mountain day, we'll venture into the stunningly beautiful Hala Gąsienicowa, a pristine alpine valley famed for its breathtaking scenery. Our goal is to reach the frozen shores of Czarny Staw Gąsienicowy, the 'Black Lake', which lies nestled dramatically at the foot of the jagged, imposing peak of Kościelec. The trail offers some of the best winter views in the Tatras and a true sense of high-mountain wilderness. After our hike, we will return to Zakopane for a final celebratory evening, finding a great spot to enjoy more of the region's delicious food and drinks and reflect on our incredible week of adventure.

Day 5: Farewell to the Mountains & Kraków Charm

On our final day, we’ll enjoy one last hearty breakfast at the lodge, saying a fond farewell to Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains. We will then travel back to the historic city of Kraków. Depending on flight schedules, there will be time to visit the magnificent Main Market Square, offering a final opportunity to soak up Poland's rich culture, perhaps find a souvenir, and enjoy one last delicious Polish meal. From there, we will make the short transfer to Kraków Airport (KRK) for your journey home, filled with memories of an unforgettable winter adventure.

Our home for the trip is a charming Polish mountain chalet in Zakopane, offering a warm and cosy retreat after each day’s adventure. Built in traditional highlander style, the chalet features wooden interiors, mountain views, and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Tatras. With comfortable rooms, shared spaces to relax, and hearty breakfasts to fuel our hikes, it’s the perfect base for our mountain escape. 

You are free to choose your own flights, but please ensure your arrival and departure times match our pickup and drop-off schedule. This allows us to ensure a smooth transfer for the entire group.

Outbound: Ryanair

London Luton (LTN) - Kraków (KRK)

09:35 - 13:05

Inbound: Ryanair

Kraków (KRK) - London Luton (LTN)

17:05 - 18:35

Peak Expeditions: Travel Terms and Conditions

By booking a trip with Peak Expeditions, you (the "Client") acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to be bound by these Terms and Conditions. This document constitutes the entire agreement between the Client and Peak Expeditions.

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1. Booking and Reservation

1.1. Deposit and Reservation: To secure your spot on one of our adventure trips, you must complete the booking form and pay a non-refundable deposit as specified in the trip itinerary. Your reservation is a binding contract between you and Peak Expeditions once this deposit is received.

1.2. Full Payment: Full payment of the remaining trip cost is due no later than 30 days before the departure date. Failure to make full payment by this deadline will result in the immediate cancellation of your reservation, with the loss of your initial deposit.

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2. Cancellation Policy

2.1. Client Cancellation: You may cancel your reservation at any time, but the following cancellation fees will apply to the total trip cost:

• More than 90 days before departure: Loss of non-refundable deposit.

• 90-60 days before departure: A fee of 50% of the total trip cost.

• Less than 60 days before departure: A fee of 100% of the total trip cost.

2.2. Company Cancellation: Peak Expeditions reserves the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient bookings, natural disasters, political instability, or other unforeseen circumstances (also known as a "Force Majeure" event). In such cases, a full refund will be provided to clients, and no further liability will be accepted.

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3. Acknowledgment of Risk and Liability Waiver

3.1. Acknowledgment of Risk: The Client understands that adventure travel and the activities associated with a Peak Expeditions trip involve inherent risks, including but not limited to injury, illness, death, emotional trauma, property damage, and loss. The Client voluntarily accepts these risks and acknowledges that they are entering into this agreement with full knowledge of the dangers involved.

3.2. Limitation of Liability: Peak Expeditions, its owners, employees, guides, agents, and contractors are not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or damages incurred during the trip, except in cases of gross negligence on the part of our staff.

3.3. Responsibility for Personal Property: The Client is solely responsible for their personal belongings and equipment, and Peak Expeditions is not liable for any loss, theft, or damage to personal property.

4. Travel Insurance

4.1. Mandatory Insurance: All clients are required to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and repatriation expenses.

4.2. Proof of Insurance: Proof of insurance, including your policy number and the emergency contact details for your insurer, must be provided to Peak Expeditions at least 30 days before the trip's departure. The company reserves the right to cancel a booking without a refund if a client fails to provide this proof.

5. Health and Medical Conditions

5.1. Client Responsibility: You are responsible for assessing your own fitness and suitability for the chosen adventure trip. Peak Expeditions may require a medical certificate for certain high-risk trips.

5.2. Disclosure: You must inform Peak Expeditions of any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or dietary requirements that may affect your participation in the trip. This information will be kept confidential and will only be shared with relevant staff for safety and logistical purposes. Peak Expeditions reserves the right to refuse a booking based on this information if a medical condition presents an unacceptable risk to the Client or other participants.

6. Itinerary Changes

6.1. Unforeseen Circumstances: While Peak Expeditions will make every effort to adhere to the planned itinerary, itineraries may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, including weather, safety concerns, or other factors. Any changes will be communicated to clients as soon as possible.

6.2. Compensation: In the event of itinerary changes, Peak Expeditions will make reasonable efforts to provide suitable alternatives. No compensation will be provided for minor changes to the itinerary.

7. Travel Documents

7.1. Client Responsibility: You are responsible for obtaining and carrying all necessary travel documents, including passports, visas, and any required permits. Peak Expeditions is not responsible for any costs or issues related to missing or invalid travel documents.

8. Code of Conduct and Termination of Service

8.1. Expected Conduct: You are expected to follow the code of conduct provided by Peak Expeditions, which includes respecting local cultures and traditions, adhering to safety guidelines, and demonstrating responsible environmental practices.

8.2. Termination of Participation: Peak Expeditions reserves the right to terminate the participation of any client who engages in behaviour that jeopardises the safety or well-being of themselves, other clients, or staff, without any liability for a refund.

9. Governing Law

9.1. Jurisdiction: These Terms and Conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales, and any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

10. Marketing, Photography, and Privacy

10.1. Marketing and Photography: Peak Expeditions reserves the right to use photographs and videos taken during the trip for marketing and promotional purposes. Clients who do not wish to be featured should inform the expedition leader at the start of the trip. The company does not claim any rights to content created by the Client.

10.2. Privacy Policy: We respect your privacy. Personal information provided during the booking process will be used solely for trip-related purposes and will not be shared with third parties except as required for trip logistics (e.g., for visa processing). Our full Privacy Policy is available on our website and outlines how we comply with data protection regulations, including the GDPR.

11. Entire Agreement

11.1. Entire Agreement: This document, together with the booking form and trip itinerary, constitutes the entire agreement between the Client and Peak Expeditions and supersedes all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether electronic, oral, or written.