PRICE €1299

Poland Alpine Crown Challenge

Five -Day Tatra Mountains Odyssey
Overview Route Details Practical Info
Book Now

Poland Alpine Crown Challenge


Location

Poland

Duration

5 Days

Route

Standard

Grade

Moderate – Challenging

Altitude

2122 m

Activity

6-8 Hours

Experience the perfect introduction to high-altitude adventure with our Alpine Crown Challenge – a carefully crafted 5-day journey through Poland’s most spectacular mountain landscapes. This expedition strikes the ideal balance between challenge and accessibility, making it perfect for ambitious hikers ready to step up to serious alpine terrain. Your adventure begins with a gentle warm-up through the enchanting limestone gorges of Kościeliska Valley before launching into an epic ridge traverse across five magnificent peaks. You’ll walk the dramatic Western Tatra ridgeline, cross into the pristine High Tatras, and discover the legendary Five Lakes Valley – one of Europe’s most stunning alpine amphitheaters. Led by world renowned mountaineering specialist Jason Black and his Mountaineering’s expert guides, this expedition combines thrilling mountain challenges with comfortable mountain hut accommodation. You’ll experience authentic Polish mountain culture while building confidence on exposed ridges, high passes, and technical terrain. With three nights in traditional mountain refuges and bookend nights in Zakopane, you’ll get the full spectrum of Tatra mountain life.

Expedition Highlights


⛰️ Five-Peak Ridge Marathon
Conquer an entire day traversing five spectacular summits from Ciemniak to the iconic Giewont, experiencing continuous ridgeline travel with jaw-dropping panoramas stretching across three countries.

🏔️ High Tatras Gateway
Cross from the limestone Western Tatras into the granite wilderness of the High Tatras via Kasprowy Wierch, witnessing the dramatic geological and landscape transition that defines this unique mountain range.

💎 Five Lakes Valley Paradise
Explore Poland’s crown jewel alpine valley, home to pristine glacial tarns, the thundering Siklawa Waterfall, and some of the most photographed mountain scenery in Central Europe.

🏠 Mountain Hut Immersion
Experience authentic mountain life with three nights in traditional refuges including the legendary Murowaniec Hut, where generations of mountaineers have found shelter and camaraderie.

🌲 Limestone Gorge Discovery
Begin your journey through the mystical Kościeliska Valley, exploring hidden caves, ancient pine forests, and dramatic limestone walls that showcase the Tatras’ geological diversity.

🎯 Perfect Challenge Balance
Designed for moderate-to-challenging difficulty, this expedition builds confidence while delivering serious mountain adventure, making it ideal for hikers ready to elevate their alpine experience.

Route Map


Trip Details


  • Arrival Airport: Kraków International Airport
    Transfer to Zakopane – Meet & greet, gear check, and safety briefing
    .
    Afternoon :
    • Light trek through Kościeliska Valley, one of the most scenic limestone gorges in the Tatras, filled with caves, pine forests, and dramatic walls.
    • Evening welcome dinner
    • Overnight at Mountain Hut

  • Route:
    Kościeliska Valley → Ciemniak (2,096 m) → Krzesanica (2,122 m) → Małołączniak (2,096 m) → Kopa Kondracka (2,005 m) → Giewont (1,894 m)
    • An exhilarating day of continuous ridgeline travel with breathtaking panoramas
    • Lunch on the go, enjoyed high above the clouds
    • Descent to the peaceful Kondratowa Valley
    • Overnight & Dinner at Mountain Hut in Kondratowa Valley

  • Route:
    Kondratowa Valley → Sucha Kopa (1,895 m) → Goryczkowa Czuba (1,912 m) → Kasprowy Wierch (1,987 m)
    • A steady high-mountain trail with grand views
    • Lunch at Kasprowy Wierch Lift Centre
    Afternoon Traverse:
    Kasprowy → Beskid (2,012 m) → Liliowe Pass → Świnicka Przełęcz → Czuba nad Karbem → Gasienicowa Valley
    Overnight & dinner:  Murowaniec Mountain Hut

  • Route:
    Hala Gasienicowa → Krzyżne Pass (2,112 m) → Descent into Five Lakes Valley
    • A stunning journey through one of Poland’s most beautiful alpine regions
    • Lunch will be served at the Five Lakes Valley Hut
    Afternoon:
    • Leisurely walk around the lakes and a visit to the Siklawa Waterfall
    • Begin descent from the valley to Palenica Białczańska
    Transfer: Return to Zakopane
    Evening celebration dinner in Zakopane
    Overnight Hotel in Zakopane

  • Morning Transfer: Travel to Kraków Airport
    Return Flight: Depart for Ireland with lasting memories of the Alpine crown challenge.

  • Accommodation included
  • Expert Guiding fee
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • In country transport during the tripExcluded
  • Welcome dinner in Zakopane
  • Celebratory dinner in Zakopane

Gallery


PRICE €1299

Deposit €399 on booking.

No events available
We were unable to redeem you gift voucher, the date and time you have selected are not available any more. Please chose another date and time.
Poland Alpine Crown Challenge
Admin notice: please enable gifts for product P76 in TuriTop admin panel
Loading
Gift Voucher
Gift's recipient will choose from dates and times available
Total:
Download Information Pack
Adventure + Expertise + Purpose

Practical Info

Frequently asked questions

The following frequently asked questions may help answer any queries you have about Jason Black Mountaineering, what this expedition involves, and what is required. If your question isn’t answered here please check our dedicated Expert Advice page, otherwise don’t hesitate to get in touch.

  • The Alpine Crown Challenge is designed as a more accessible introduction to serious alpine hiking, with a day less in the mountains and a focus on the most spectacular highlights. While still challenging, it includes more rest time and strategic comfort stops, making it perfect for those stepping up to multi-day mountain adventures or with slightly less time available.

  • Day 2’s five-peak ridge traverse is the expedition’s crown jewel and most demanding day, requiring 7-8 hours of continuous mountain walking with some exposed sections. Prepare with regular hill walking, build endurance for long days with a loaded pack, and practice scrambling on rocky terrain. Your guides will provide technique coaching throughout.

  • Absolutely! This expedition is designed to introduce hikers to authentic mountain hut culture in a supportive environment. The huts provide beds, meals, and basic facilities, though accommodations are simple and shared. Your guides will explain hut etiquette and help you feel comfortable with this quintessential alpine experience that’s been welcoming mountaineers for over a century.

Download Packing List
Clothing
  • Waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex)
  • Waterproof pants (Gore-Tex)
  • Lite Insulated jacket (Down)
  • Mid layer fleece
  • Base layers (top & bottom, moisture-wicking)
  • Hiking trousers (quick-dry)
  • Warm hat + gloves
  • 3 x Socks
Footwear
  • Waterproof hiking boots (broken-in)
  • Trail Trainers (for huts)
  • Ice cleats (for snow passes)
Gear
  • Back pack (50L)
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp + spare batteries
  • Sunglasses + Ball cap
  • Water bottles / hydration bladder (2L minimum)
Essentials
  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts)
  • Hydration capsules
  • Personal first aid kit & medication
  • Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF 30+)
  • Passport/ID & cash for snacks at huts
  • Sleeping liner
  • Toothbrush + Paste
  • Small travel towel
  • Phone + charging cable
  • Plug (Type C)
Optional
  • Swimsuit & towel (for Zakopane spa)

You may pay your deposit and balance using any lawful means. If sending money by electronic bank transfer then you will be responsible for covering the cost of the fees associated with the transfer, so that the company receives the full amount shown on your invoice, in the denomination shown on your invoice.
See more about our payment policy Here

On Booking your expedition our returns policy can be viewed here

Why Jason Black Mountaineering?

World Leading Mountaineer


At the helm of Jason Black Mountaineering is Jason Black himself, a renowned global Mountaineer and International Expedition Leader.

With a remarkable list of achievements, including summiting Mt Everest and the formidable K2, Jason holds multiple world records in high-altitude mountaineering. His feats, such as being the fastest to summit Kilimanjaro twice and completing the Aconcagua traverse in record time, establish him as one of the world’s leading high-altitude mountaineers.

As a high altitude specialist, Jason’s passion for testing his physical and mental capabilities remains undiminished. His accolades include being awarded Ireland’s National Outdoor Athlete of the Year for his historic summit of K2.

The Future of Adventure


We are proud to Inspire and empower individuals and organisations. Showing globally how our adventures are leaving a positive life changing humanitarian impact. We supporting local communities and contribute positively to the balance of global inequalities.

Putting purpose before profit, empowering local communities, employing locals, supporting local businesses and leaving a lasting positive humanitarian impact on all our expeditions is at the core of our mountaineering values. Join us on a transformative expedition, where purpose, passion, and the thrill of the great outdoors converge.

Commitment to Safety and Environment


Jason Black’s commitment to safety standards, extensive high altitude mountain knowledge, and adventure travel sets him apart from the rest.

The small group approach adopted by Jason Black Mountaineering offers significant advantages, including a better guide-to-client ratio, reduced environmental impact, and a stronger team dynamic.

What our
clients say


Cait O Meara
Cait O Meara
2025-01-07
I had an awesome weekend climbing with Jason Black in Lugnaquilla, one of Ireland 7 summit. Jason Black mountaineering company went above and beyond expectations that I expected. He is such an amazing and humbled human being and also made history by becoming the first Donegal man to conquer Everest and K2 altogether, overall I really admire his determination and bravery.
Mtui Mtui
Mtui Mtui
2024-12-12
It’s a very good 😊 experience to work with Jason Black, he is a kind person working hard man. He's always very supportive and friendly to everyone can’t recommend the Jason Black mountaineer as your best company to explore with in the world.
sarah messer
sarah messer
2024-12-10
I'm not long back from the most amazing adventure, an African/Tanzanian adventure which got to the very heart and soul of life in Tanzania and an experience I will never forget. The trip was exactly as the website itinery stated, literally taking us to places both well known and clearly well loved by Jason, completely off the beaten track and into rural life not accessible to just anyone. A well organised, clearly planned trip of a lifetime which we were well prepped for. The adventures started from the day we arrived and we were immersed into the sights, smells, tastes, sounds and textures of Tanzania. We embarked on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with confidence in Jason's knowledge, expertise, professionalism, friendly chatter and so many laughs along the way. His team of 45 porters, guides, chefs, kitchen/waiter crew and toilet dude, to name just a few of their roles, were well known to him and instilled yet more confidence within our group of 14 intrepid explorers. Benson, Jason's lead guide was also key to the team and personally for me, Hope was the guy who was just the most patient when the challenge of the summit was tough. The team were highly organised, efficient and confidently prepped in ensuring we had the best food, the best gear and we all felt we were in safe and helping hands at every moment of our ascent, summit and descent. The magic of the mountain really was phenomenonal but the most amazing adventures continued after descent when we were fully immersed in the cultural day with the villagers and families of our 45 staff. This Tanzanian adventure has been a roller coaster that I'm not willing to get off just yet! The memories will be treasured forever. I highly rate and recommend Jason Black Mountaineering and would not hesitate to book with the team again.
Ian Hanney
Ian Hanney
2024-12-06
Not long back from the adventure of a lifetime to Island Peak with Jason and team. With Jason you get the full expedition experience and meet some amazing folk along the way as he has a great web of connections. Jason puts safety first and foremost and ensures your experience is the best it can be. There is great craic along the way and long trekking days really glide by. If the Himalayas are your thing (and they are just magnificent) then a trip with JB is the only way to go.
Adam Sweeney
Adam Sweeney
2024-12-03
From the minute I booked the trip with Jason the experience has been amazing. His expertise and skills as well as his ability to have good craic makes him the best out there. Not only did he make me feel safe throughout he also made my family back home feel relaxed about the journey which is very important. If you’re thinking about booking a trip with Jason I couldn’t recommend him more. Thanks so much for the amazing experience and I look forward to many future adventures with you .
Marie Donnelly
Marie Donnelly
2024-12-01
This Kilimanjaro expedition is much more than a mountain climb , it is a cultural experience of the kindness and generosity of the Tanzanian people. We were made to feel so welcome and have made special connections with the guides and team that we will always hold dear. By undertaking the Kilimanjaro expedition under the skilled and experienced Jason Black Mountaineering Team we were supported every step of the way to meet our personal goals and at all times felt completely safe, supported and part of a bigger team. The whole experience was so uplifting, spiritual and fun. The Tanzanian song, dance and camaraderie encapsulated the One Team One Dream philosophy that we genuinely felt a part of. Our fellow mountaineers were an amazing group of people that we have had the privilege of sharing an adventure of a lifetime with. We were so well fed and cared for we could not recommend Jason Black Mountaineering more if you are considering climbing Kilimanjaro. You will not just climb a mountain but experience a team that is knowledgeable , compassionate, and ethically motivated to do the right thing for the mountain, the environment, locals and visitors. Thank you Jason, Benson and Lipman and team for creating the most wonderful experience that we will always remember and hold special in our hearts and memories. Adrian and Marie
Malachy Doyle
Malachy Doyle
2024-11-26
Wow! To celebrate entering my eighth decade I signed up to climb Kilimanjaro with Jason and his team. My trip surpassed all expectations. First I climbed Mount Meru with Benson, my wonderful guide - it was tough but amazing, and brilliant to trek through the Arusha National Park at the start, past giraffes etc. Then I joined the rest of the gang and we set off to climb Kilimanjaro. Again I found it tougher than expected, but the team of guides, porters, cooks and even toilet engineer were superb and made the whole thing both achievable and enjoyable. All Jason's extras - the visit to the Masai village, to the swimming lake, to make coffee, to the school he's help build etc. etc. all added massively to the experience. The add-on safari at the end was incredible. And then I had 10 days in Zanzibar. It was the experience of a lifetime, and I can't praise Jason or his team too highly. They were all fantastic!
chris morrison
chris morrison
2024-09-29
"Incredible Trekking Experience to Mount Toubkal" I recently had the pleasure of trekking to Mount Toubkal with Jason Black Mountaineering, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. The journey was challenging yet rewarding, offering stunning views and a deep sense of achievement. A special shout-out to our mountain guide, Hassan, who was exceptional throughout the trip. His knowledge of the terrain, his professionalism, and constant support made a huge difference. Whether it was offering guidance during difficult parts of the climb or sharing fascinating insights about the local culture and environment, Hassan was an absolute gem. If you're looking for a well-organized, exhilarating trek with top-notch guides, I highly recommend Jason Black Mountaineering. This was an adventure I'll never forget!
caroline duffy
caroline duffy
2024-09-23
Jason convinces you that you can get up whichever mountain you are standing at the base of, he is inspirational. I’ve just completed the 4 peaks challenge and can’t quite believe what we did on Carrauntoohil but he knew we could, so we did it.
micheal mckenny
micheal mckenny
2024-09-23
Just finished the national 4 peak challenge with jason.. his knowledge is mindblowing but they most important thing he really is a great man a true gentleman ..if you get the chance definitley go you will not regret it..great experience.. thank you jason 🤎
Ready to take on the Challenge?

Adventure ● Expertise ● Purpose

  • jason@jasonblack.ie
  • +353 879814461
  • Everest Lodge, Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal F92EV66 Ireland

Newsletter

Stay tuned with the latest articles and expedition news. Join our Newsletter

Copyright © 2023 Jason Black Mountaineering | Powered by TuriTop