Elbrus, the highest point in Europe, is a two-peaked giant crowning the panorama of the Central Caucasus. Its two peaks have two volcano craters, which make the Eastern peak a little lower than the other (5642 and 5621m), and both are covered by an ice-cap. Elbrus is surrounded by the most beautiful and famous peaks of the Caucasus.We will climb Elbrus starting from Baksan valley, on the southern slope – this is a classical itinerary. According to our statistics, 9 persons our of 10 reach the very peak in a favourable weather.Good acclimatization programme, experienced local guides and quality equipment will make this trip safe and successful.
ASCENT CONDITIONS
This climb is graded 2A and is not technically difficult, though requires crampons and ice axe (those unfamiliar with the techniques of moving on the snow and ice will get the necessary training). Mostly the weather factors – altitude, frequent winds, low visibility in bad weather, sulfurous vapours - make the climb challenging. But this is rather a test of stamina, and with proper acclimatization and good weather, you will reach the summit. Systematic acclimatization hikes are essential prior to making the ascent.
The climb itself may take between 6-10 hours; the descent another 4-6 hours. The main obstacles are high altitude, fog, wind and cold. Experienced Russian mountaineer/s are guiding the climb.
Day 1
Arrive in Min.Vody (Mineralnye Vody). An English-speaking representative of the company meets tour participants at the arrival hall. Group transfer* from the airport to Terskol settlement.* Most tour participants come by 11:20, 15:00 and 19:15 flights so our bus normally leaves the airport after the arrival of all these flights. If your flight arrives later than 19:15, you will have to order a private transfer from the airport to Terskol. If your flight arrives before 11:20 we do not guarantee our representative meet you from the flight - you probably has to wait until our bus comes to airport. If you do not like to wait at the air port you can order a private transport in advance or on the spot.
The representative will answer questions, brief you on the immediate arrangements, and escort you on the transfer to the Baksan valley (4-4,5h, with stops for WC and food shopping upon your request).
Check into a hotel in Terskol. Dinner is served either at the hotel right after the arrival or in the roadside café. If the bus leaves the air port late than 6.00 p.m. we provide tour participants with dinner-boxes.
Full board, night in the hotel (DBL- or triple-basis, WC/shower).
Day 2
Today we will have an acclimatization hike in the Terskol valley. The hike to Cheget peak (2900m) will take us about 5 hours. It will be nice to relax at the "Ai" cafe (2750m) where you can appreciate a panoramic view of the Baksan valley and the twin summits of Mt.Elbrus. Ascent of Mt.Cheget and then return to the hotel.Full board, night in the hotel (DBL-basis).
Day 3
We will have an acclimatization hike to Terskol peak (3100m, 5 hrs). There is a magnificent view of Mt.EIbrus. Return to the hotel.
Full board, night in the hotel (DBL-basis).
Day 4
We will start the day with a 15 minutes drive to the cable-car station Azau and take two cable cars up to the Mir lift station (3500m). An acclimatization hike to 4100m (where Priut 11 Refuge was situated), then return to the hotel.
Full board, night in the hotel (DBL-basis).
Day 5
After breakfast we'll have drive to the cable-car station Azau and, take two cable cars to Mir station (3500m) and further a chairlift* up to the Garabashi lift station (3750m). * The mountain lifting system might be switched off without a prior notice (the chair lift is out of operation in a windy weather), and in this case the tour participants shall be ready either trek up and carry their personal and communal equipment (incl food) as an excellent acclimatization exercise, or to hire a snowcat for luggage transportation for an extra fee and then trek without luggage. If the mountain lifts all work, you will need to carry your luggage and help the mountain guide only between the car cable stations.
Check into the Barrels Refuge (3750m). On this day we'll make also an acclimatization hike to 4600m to the Pastukhov Rocks (from everywhere on the slopes of Elbrus is a magnificent panorama of the Central Caucasus). Full board, overnight in the hut**.
** The Barrels Hut - it is situated on Elbrus slope close to the Garabashi lift station at 3750m. These are small houses shaped like barrels to stay in. There is a sleeping room with 6 beds and a small room with a wardrobe, and a table in every house. There is a canteen with kitchen in a separate hut. There is no shower, the toilets are in a separate hut.
Day 6
Rest day, preparations for Elbrus’ climb tomorrow. Full board, overnight in the hut.
Day 7
Today we will go for the main target of our trip - summit of Mt Elbrus (5642m). We have to start very early before dawn. Using headlamps we will make our way to the Pastukhov Rocks where we stop for a short rest and some drinks. The control time is 12.00 at the saddle (5300m). The more difficult parts are located up the Saddle, altitude 5350-5600m; then in the end of our way is a wide plateau where usually is very windy - and finally - the Summit! Descent to the Barrels Hut. Full board, overnight in the hut.
Day 8
Descend to Terskol. Full board, night in the hotel (DBL or triple-basis). Rest.
Day 9
After breakfast in the hotel, check out. Group transfer* to Mineralnye Vody.
* Most tour participants leave by flights at 12 from Min.Vody, so our bus normally leaves for Min.Vody at 7.30 a.m. If your flight is earlier than 10:30 you shall order a private transfer from Terskol to the airport.
If you do not like to wait at the airport, you can order a private transport in advance or on the spot.
