Carros de Foc | Spain Pyrenees | Challenging hiking guide
Hike Carros de Foc in Aigüestortes National Park: 6 days, 61 km of challenging alpine trails with certified mountain guides through the Spanish Pyrenees.
Tour Details
- Location: spain-pyrenees-aigestortesiestanydesantmauricinationalpark
- Duration: 6 days
- Difficulty: challenging
- Price: EUR 875 per person
- Guide: CRISTIAN PEREZ
- Group Size: Up to 8
- Elevation Gain: 4660m
- Distance: 61km
- Terrain: Rocky terrain with loose rocks, High mountain passes, Glacial valleys, Alpine terrain, Rocky trails, Alpine meadows, Scree slopes, Mountain passes
- Meeting Point: Parada de taxis del Parc Nacional d'Aigüestortes
Description
Carros de Foc is a 61-kilometer circular route connecting 6 mountain refuges in Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park. Created by park guards in 1987, the route traverses high mountain passes and glacial valleys over 6 days, with 4,660 meters of cumulative elevation gain. Terrain includes loose rocks, alpine environments, and steep ascents between refuges positioned at 2,000 to 2,500 meters elevation. The park hosts chamois and marmots among granite peaks, mountain lakes, and glacial valleys. Weather conditions change rapidly at elevation.
Tour Highlights
- Wildlife spotting opportunities
- Local mountain cuisine experience
- Expert guide with local knowledge
- Small group for personalized experience
- Panoramic mountain vistas
- Unique refuge network
- Challenging terrain
- Diverse flora and fauna
- National park
Itinerary
- Aigüestortes, the National park -
A taxi will take us to the park entrance, we hike through an old glacial valley to the Estany Llong refuge. From there the trail climbs steadily through characteristic Pyrenean landscape, crossing some boulders and passing alpine lakes as we gain elevation into our first mountain pass. The descent will take us toward Refugi de Colomina.
- A world of lakes and electricity -
A shorter but spectacular day.
We will start the stage around beautiful lakes and old hydroelectric constructions. It will follow a couple of demanding mountain passes. Then, we will descend to Josep Maria Blanc refuge surrounded by a spectacular landscape and lakes where we will spend the night.
- Towards Sant Maurici lake -
We will start the day ascending the Monestero pass. We will descend through the vast Monestero valley to the Ernest Mallafré shelter, where we will surround the iconic Sant Maurici Lake. The final climb will bring us up to Amitges shelter where we will spend this night surrounded by the spectacular Agulles d’Amitges.
- Easy day half way -
We tackle Collada de Ratera navigating scree slopes and rocky terrain to reach the pass. The descent brings us into the spectacular Colomèrs cirque, a glacial valley dotted with dozens of mountain lakes. The landscape here is particularly dramatic.
- The work of the glaciers -
Today we will go into the great Colomers Cirque. We will start the day ascending to Port de Caldes pass. We will then cross the Port de Rius to descend to the Restanca shelter. From here we will make our way up to Port de Rius to climb the Coll de Tumeneia. It will bring us to Ventosa i Calvell shelter.
- The highest crossing before the end -
Our last day crosses the Collada de Contraix, the high mountain passes on the circuit. The terrain becomes rockier as we navigate loose rocks and scree slopes before descending into Aigüestortes valley. The trail demands careful footing on technical sections.
We complete the circuit through the same glacial valley, finishing where we started at the park entrance after six days of sustained mountain.
What's Included
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Overnight accommodation
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- UIMLA certified mountain guide
Not Included
- Transportation to/from starting point
- Personal hiking equipment
- Lunch
- Flight tickets
- Meals not specified as included
- Extra expenses at the mountain shelters such drinks, hot showers or wifi
Next Departures
- 28 June 2027 — 8 spots left
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of fitness do I need for this tour?
You need to be in excellent physical condition. We cover 61 km over six days with 4,660 meters of elevation gain, crossing high mountain passes and navigating rocky, technical terrain including scree slopes and loose rocks.
Where does the tour start and how do I get there?
We meet at the taxi stand of Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park in the Spanish Pyrenees. Your guide will provide detailed directions and transport recommendations once you book.
What kind of terrain will we encounter?
Expect varied alpine terrain including rocky trails with loose rocks, high mountain passes, glacial valleys, alpine meadows, and scree slopes. You'll need sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and experience with technical mountain walking.
Do we stay in mountain refuges or camp?
The Carros de Foc circuit traditionally uses the network of mountain refuges throughout the national park. Your guide will confirm the specific accommodation arrangements for your dates when you book.
What's the best time of year to do this tour?
Summer months are ideal when the high passes are free of snow and refuges are fully operational. Your guide will advise on current conditions and the optimal window for your specific tour dates.
Is previous alpine hiking experience required?
Yes. This challenging tour requires prior experience with multi-day mountain trekking, navigation on rocky terrain, and comfort at high altitude. You should be confident hiking 10+ km daily with significant elevation changes.
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Why Book With Made to Hike
This tour is led by a certified mountain guide verified through Made to Hike. All guides on the platform hold recognised certifications such as IFMGA, IML, or equivalent local qualifications. Bookings include secure payment processing, a money-back guarantee, and direct communication with your guide before the trip.