You can well imagine there is no single answer to this question! It depends, of course, on the destination, the potential difficulties of the route, the logistics required or not… In some cases, setting off alone and without support will be a realistic option, while in others it will be a risk and a potential source of serious headaches. Here is a review of the parameters that will help you answer this question before heading out on a trek!
Going on a trek: the influence of your destination
The destination and your choice of trek route is the first parameter that will influence the decision to organise your trip independently or use an agency. It is indeed fairly straightforward to plan and carry out a trek in France or in many European countries (though not all) on your own. You will find plenty of information through hiking federations or various associations. You will also find an abundance of literature and guidebooks that are often very well put together. And you will be in countries with broadly equivalent legislation to France, or with a similar emergency rescue infrastructure. Finally, and above all in France and some neighbouring countries, the language barrier is not a major obstacle.
On other continents, by contrast, you may encounter specific regulations (for example, some countries require treks to be done through agencies). You may also find differing infrastructure in terms of emergency services or access conditions. The language barrier can be a real communication issue. And finally, certain regions and remote areas have their own particular challenges (climate, access, general security) that may call for the support of an agency.
These rules are not set in stone. There are treks in France that are better done with company, and others in remote regions of the world that can be organised solo. Each time, this criterion must be weighed carefully, trying to gather as much information as possible in order to make your choice.
Logistics
Setting off on a fully self-sufficient trek is a personal choice. But depending on the type of route, you may need equipment portage, bivouacs, and food management depending on how remote the areas you are crossing are. This can also tip the balance. The heavier the logistics, the more an agency can prove its worth in planning supply points or specific transport.
Your experience
It naturally plays a part in the decision to use an agency or go solo. If you have never organised a single trek before, it is more appropriate not to head straight into the unknown in exotic terrain on the other side of the world.
It goes without saying that it is better to gain some experience in areas where you have a better grasp of things. Start, for example, by organising your own treks in France — particularly in massifs or regions you know well.
The skills required to set off on a trek under your own organisation are essentially of two kinds. First, there is your physical fitness and your experience of this type of route. Then there are your technical abilities: organisation and preparation, map reading and navigation, cooking at a bivvy, and being comfortable in English or the local language.
Going on a trek: the social side of the adventure
Organising your own trek has its appeal, but you will most likely be embarking on this adventure with family, a group of friends, or on your own. Agency-organised trips offer the opportunity to meet new people and make discoveries about yourself and others. This factor depends on your personality and whether or not you want to mix with other people.
Finally, do not underestimate the work involved in organising a trek. It is of course proportional to its duration and difficulty, but it is a genuinely time-consuming task that generally needs to be started months in advance. Agencies offer the freedom of arriving with just your pack and your boots and getting straight into the action. Today there are also hybrid options or "freedom trips" where the agency handles the essentials but allows you some autonomy and lets you walk at your own pace. These are a good compromise for those who still want to avoid the "group tour" format. Make your choice based on these parameters — but above all, never forget that going on a trek should remain a pleasure and must never come at the expense of your safety!
