Laura Bennati-Rassion
Hiking Guide & Volcanologist
Hiking Guide
State Diploma - 2021
Volcanologist Geophysicist
Master's Degree, IPGP, France - 2006 Master's Degree, Purdue, USA - 2010
“Walking is pointless, just like all essential activities.”
David Le Breton, a French anthropologist and sociologist.
Laura Bennati-Rassion - Hiking Guide & Volcanologist
It all started, of course, with the mountains. I come from a family of ski instructors, mountain hut wardens, and amateur mountaineers… Thanks to them, I spent my childhood surrounded by nature. As a young adult, I studied Earth Sciences in Nice and quickly specialized in volcanology in Clermont-Ferrand, then in Paris, before completing my studies at Purdue University in the United States. I spent five years in the corporate world working at ExxonMobil. But I felt trapped in an office… so one day, I walked away from it all to return to the field, where the Earth comes alive and where people marvel at its wonders.
I’m the only one who holds both a Mountain Guide certification and degrees in volcanology. This isn’t a coincidence, it’s a lifetime’s journey that has led me here. Today, my job is to take you hiking in the mountains and on active volcanoes during trips that combine sports, scientific knowledge, and contemplation. I’ve fulfilled my childhood dream, and I’m the person I’ve always wanted to be !
A remarkable journey...and above all, a unique one !
1980–1990
Childhood in the Mountains
A family of mountain lovers: grandparents who are mountaineers and hikers, parents who are ski instructors, an uncle and an aunt who work as mountain hut caretakers… The mountains came first, even before I could walk !
1998-2001
Science track high school diploma - I've made my decision
Life and Earth Sciences track. My passion for volcanoes began in middle school. My goal is clear: to become a volcanologist.
2002-2010
8 years of study in volcanology
DEUG in Nice
Bachelor degree in Clermont-Ferrand
Master's Degree IPGP Paris
Master's degree from the EAPS Department at Purdue University
2010-2015
Geophysicist - ExxonMobil
Five years of office work, data processing, meetings… I’ve had my fill. But I need some fresh air and, above all, a sense of purpose —> The Big Turn.
2017-2021
Career Change - Hiking Guide Certification
4 years of education at the CNSNMM - National Center for Nordic and Mid-Mountain Skiing
2022-2025
Chamonix Guides Association
Full Member
Dozens of guided trips: Tour du Mont-Blanc, Chamonix-Zermatt, GR5, Vanoise, Grand Paradis Tour (Italian side), Swiss Oberland…
Since 2025
Independent Hiking Guide and Volcanologist
Full-day or half-day hikes in Chamonix and the surrounding area
Customized trips to the mountains and active volcanoes
All over the world !
1980–1990
Childhood in the Mountains
A family of mountain lovers: grandparents who are mountaineers and hikers, parents who are ski instructors, an uncle and an aunt who work as mountain hut caretakers… The mountains came first, even before I could walk !
1998-2001
Science track high school diploma - I've made my decision
Life and Earth Sciences track. My passion for volcanoes began in middle school. My goal is clear: to become a volcanologist.
2002-2010
8 years of study in volcanology
DEUG in Nice
Bachelor degree in Clermont-Ferrand
Master's Degree IPGP Paris
Master's degree from the EAPS Department at Purdue University
2010-2015
Geophysicist - ExxonMobil
Five years of office work, data processing, meetings… I’ve had my fill. But I need some fresh air and, above all, a sense of purpose —> The Big Turn.
2017-2021
Career Change - Hiking Guide Certification
4 years of education at the CNSNMM - National Center for Nordic and Mid-Mountain Skiing
2022-2025
Chamonix Guides Association
Full Member
Dozens of guided trips: Tour du Mont-Blanc, Chamonix-Zermatt, GR5, Vanoise, Grand Paradis Tour (Italian side), Swiss Oberland…
Since 2025
Guide de Randonnée ET Volcanologue indépendante
Full-day or half-day hikes in Chamonix and the surrounding area
Customized trips to the mountains and active volcanoes
All over the world !
Legitimacy built through education...
Hiking Guide
Master of Science
American Master of Science
Certificate of Qualification
And on the field !
I'm not hiking guide who has only seen active volcanoes from a distance as a tourist. Of course, I went there for my own enjoyment. But I have also carried out numerous scientific missions. Field studies, data collection, approaching erupting volcanic craters using safety protocols that only researchers are familiar with… I have gained extensive experience in active volcanic terrain.
It's this dual role that makes my trips unique : You’ll benefit from real-world experience that traditional agencies can’t offer you.
🌋 Piton de la Fournaise – France
1 mission · active lava flow survey and lava sampling
🌋 Etna – Italy
1 mission · walking across an active lava flow and approaching erupting craters
🌋 Vesuvius – Italy
1 mission · descent into the active crater – an extremely rare experience, inaccessible to the general public
🌋 Stromboli & Vulcano – Italy
4 missions · approaching erupting craters each time
🌋 Erta Ale & the Afar Rift Valley – Ethiopia
6 missions · including 3 that approached the active lava lake
🌋 Ubinas (5,434 m) & Misti (5,838 m) – Peru
3 missions · ascents to active craters
🌋 Santa Maria / Santiaguito – Guatemala
1 mission · approaching the erupting crater
What they say
EXCELLENT
Basée sur 29 avis
Publié sur Google![]()
Jannah June NievesTrustindex vérifie que la source originale de l'avis est Google.
Participated in a 12-day hut to hut hike of the TMB with Laura as a guide. She was truly knowledgeable about the many routes of this hike as well as both major landmarks and even types of rocks and vegetation you’ll find along the trek. Although our group consisted of 12 girls, Laura was attentive to each one of our fitness levels and even small things like personal preferences for foods/allergies. She’s always prepared for unexpected obstacles such as accommodating sick days for hikers or alternate trails to avoid unexpected weather. She made sure that everyone enjoyed the TMB experience to the fullest! I highly recommend trekking with Laura. Not only is she such a knowledgeable, efficient guide, but she is such a wonderful person! It was so easy for each gal in our group to get along with her like a friend!Publié sur Google![]()
Vivian VázquezTrustindex vérifie que la source originale de l'avis est Google.
Laura was an absolutely phenomenal guide, I would highly recommend joining any trip she organizes. I spent 12 days hiking the entire TMB with a 12-person group she led. Laura brought positive energy every day, making us laugh, motivating us, and sharing a wealth of knowledge about the area and culture. In terms of logistics, Laura made everything seem so seamless I was able to just enjoy the hiking and trek experience. She booked the hotels and refugios we stayed at and knew the owners personally, communicating with them about any last minute changes or dietary needs. For a few days that we didn’t get picnic lunches pre-made from our refugios, Laura provided delicious lunches with local foods and would surprise us with chocolate treats. Laura made quick changes as weather or any unexpected things came up - she was cool as a cucumber through it all! I felt incredibly confident completing this trek because of Laura’s leadership. She was quick to advocate for anyone in the group if we needed anything, and often checked in with us individually to make sure we were having a great experience. While on the trails, several times people came up to her and asked for her information and advice about the TMB - they could tell she’s a pro! Thank you so much Laura for the adventure of a lifetime - will never forget it!!Publié sur Google![]()
Monica RobertsTrustindex vérifie que la source originale de l'avis est Google.
I was lucky enough to get to spend 12 days hiking the TMB with Laura and she made the trip such an incredible experience in my life!! She is so funny, knowledgeable, and kind. Her expertise in geology and experience in the area made the trip even more special, I learned so much more than I would have if I hadn’t been with her. Her kindness & friendliness is really highlighted by how well liked she is by the hut owners and other guides on the trail. She also always got us the best picnic lunches so I could make amazing trail sandwiches! Her trip planning and guiding skills are top tier and I cannot wait to join her on future trips. 🫶🏻 I highly recommend booking with her!!Publié sur Google![]()
Beverly LopezTrustindex vérifie que la source originale de l'avis est Google.
Laura was an absolutely amazing guide! She made the entire experience so much fun and kept us laughing throughout the trip. She was incredibly patient, knowledgeable, and always flexible when plans needed to change. Her experience and knowledge of the TMB made us feel comfortable and well taken care of every step of the way. She knew when to encourage us, when to adjust the plan, and how to keep the group in good spirits—even on the long days! I couldn’t have asked for a better guide for such an unforgettable adventure. If you’re looking for someone to guide you, I highly recommend Laura! 🏔️🥾❤️Publié sur Google![]()
Gareth PritchardTrustindex vérifie que la source originale de l'avis est Google.
Laura took our family (kids 13 and 16 years old) on a 2 day hike near Chamonix. It was a great experience. She was extremely organised, professional and friendly. Also, very responsive in the planning stages and made sure the trip was exactly right level for us. She was great at motivating the kids up the mountain and the overnight stay the refuge on the glacier was the highlight on the holiday. Thank you Laura! Have recommended to other family members and would use her again.Publié sur Google![]()
Daphné RobichaudTrustindex vérifie que la source originale de l'avis est Google.
Laura était notre guide lors de la traversée du Grand Balcon Nord du Montenvers jusqu'au Plan de l'Aiguille le 5 août 2026. Elle était professionnelle, très connaissante, axée sur la sécurité du groupe et facile d'approche, en plus d'avoir un excellent sens de l'humour! Nous étions un groupe de 18 personnes et elle a su offrir conseil et soutien à chacun d'entre nous. Elle nous a même accompagnée jusqu'en haut de l'Aiguille du Midi et a offert une excellente visite guidée qui a approfondi nos connaissances de la haute montagne et du massif du Mont Blanc. Elle est une vraie passionnée de la montagne et sa passion est contagieuse! Merci encore Laura :)Publié sur Google![]()
Patricia Crovetto (Pat98000)Trustindex vérifie que la source originale de l'avis est Google.
Voilà plusieurs années qu’avec mes amies j’effectue une semaine de randonnée avec Laura. La Vallée de la Clarée, le Tour du Mont Blanc, la Vanoise, la Chartreuse, et cette année les Dolomites. Pendant ces séjours privés, Laura apporte, en plus de ces qualités de guide , ses connaissances géologiques très pertinentes . Les randonnées sont une découverte, étudiées en fonction de notre niveau. Cette semaine de trek est un plaisir partagé dans la bonne humeur. Bien sûr on marche, c’est le but , mais les compétences de Laura font que je pars avec confiance et surtout en sécurité . Je sais que la semaine sera chouette et j’attends la prochaine avec impatience. Merci Laura.Publié sur Google![]()
NVDTrustindex vérifie que la source originale de l'avis est Google.
Grâce aux compétences et au professionnalisme de Laura mon rêve s'est réalisé: faire le tour du Mont-Blanc. En 2023, j'ai rejoint un groupe pour effectuer ce TMB sur une semaine. Une expérience inoubliable avec la meilleure des guides car Laura connaît parfaitement le terrain et nous fait découvrir la faune et la flore tout en apportant des éléments géologiques très enrichissants, ce qui est rare de nos jours! Enchantée, j'ai renouvelé cette expérience collective en 2025 pour parcourir en Suisse l'Oberland et la région de Zermatt, sur une semaine, avec la sensation que Laura nous guide non seulement sur le chemin de la randonnée mais aussi sur celui de la vie partagée entre amis avec beaucoup d'émotions. Vivement la prochaine aventure!Publié sur Google![]()
Tara smithTrustindex vérifie que la source originale de l'avis est Google.
We had an incredible tour of Glacier Mer de Glace with Laura! She was extremely knowledgeable and shared fascinating insights about the glacier, its history, and the surrounding alpine landscape throughout the tour. Her passion and expertise made the experience both educational and engaging. From the breathtaking views of Glacier Mer de Glace to the unforgettable experience of exploring it up close, everything exceeded our expectations. Laura made sure everyone felt comfortable, answered all our questions, and helped us truly appreciate the beauty and significance of this incredible glacier and the surrounding region. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the Chamonix area and looking for an unforgettable adventure. If you have the opportunity to tour Glacier Mer de Glace with Laura, you’re in for an amazing experience!Certifié par: TrustindexLe badge vérifié de Trustindex est le symbole universel de confiance. Seules les meilleures entreprises peuvent obtenir le badge vérifié, avec une note supérieure à 4.5, basée sur les avis des clients au cours des derniers 12 mois. En savoir plus
Why my customers keep coming back
Professionalism
Your safety is my top priority. I renew my first aid certification every year. Whether on an active volcano or in the high mountains, I leave nothing to chance.
Experience
With 8 years of experience guiding you, I know the routes, the pitfalls, and the hidden gems that the standard tours offered by major travel agencies won’t show you.
Calm
Unpredictable weather, unexpected challenges on the ground, fatigue within the group... I’ve got it under control. Always calmly, always with solutions. Just let me guide you.
Joy of life
It's hard not to be in a good mood when my job is to hike in extraordinary places with people who are happy to be there. That energy is contagious.
Share
My passion: making Earth Sciences accessible to everyone by explaining complex concepts in simple terms while remaining accurate. My goal: to help you appreciate the natural world that fascinates me.
Human Connection
Being in the mountains forges unique bonds. Some participants arrive alone and leave with new friends. That’s one of the things that makes me happiest.
Now that you know me better,
let's go together.
Check out the activities we offer, or send me a message to plan the adventure of your dreams.
It all starts right here !
Response within 24 hours
Free initial meeting
Full-service arrangements included with all stays