CXA9. Mount Elbrus Climb - 9 days

The Caucasus is a mighty chain of high alpine mountains, separating Europe from Asia. Just north of the main range, several kilometres into Europe, lies the highest European peak - Mount Elbrus, 5642 m. Such a high altitude, redoubled with damp air from the Black Sea, demands several days for acclimatization. We spend them in climbing lower nearby peaks.

The climb of Mt. Elbrus is long and strenuous. It is not technically difficult but usually requires use of crampons, alpenstocks and occasionally - ice axes. Experienced skilled guides always do their best to ensure that each participant would have his/her best chance to reach the summit. Among many available routes we are choosing the most popular one.

The 8-days itinerary CXA8 is for lucky people who believe in proper weather on the day of climbing the summit. In case of improper weather there is a chance for the second and last attempt next day with a long descent straight to the hotel in the valley. A group with good previous acclimatization may skip the day 2 of the itinerary to get one more day for climbing the summit.

The 9-days itinerary CXA9 grants excellent acclimatization for the most of people and the best chance to climb the summit of Europe.

Type: Extreme
Tour duration: 9 days
Season: June - September
Recommended group size: 2-16
Mode of travel: minibus, ski lift, on foot

ITINERARY

Day 1. Arrival in Mineralnye Vody. Transfer (4 hours of bus ride) to Terskol village (2050 m) in the Baksan valley near the foothills of Mt. Elbrus. Accommodation in a hotel. (D)

Day 2. Acclimatization hike toTerskol Valley (about 5 hours). Return to the hotel. (BLD)

Day 3. Acclimatization ascent of Mt.Cheget (3461 m, about 5 hours). Return to the hotel. (BLD)

Day 4. Transfer to Azau cable-car station. Lift Azau (2100 m) - Garabashi (3750 m). Acclimatization hike to 4200 m. Descent to the Valley. Overnight in the hotel (BLD)

Day 5. Transfer to Azau cable-car station. Lift Azau (2100 m) - Garabashi (3750 m).Check-in into Barrels Hut. Acclimatization hike to the Pastukhov Rocks (4800 m). Return. 4-5 hours. Overnight in the Barrels. (BLD)

Day 6. Rest in Barrels. (BLD)

Day 7. Summit day. Leave the base camp about 03 a.m. Climb of Elbrus western summit (5642 m). Return. 12-14 hours. Overnight in the Barrels. (BLD)

Day 8. Descend to Terskol. Overnight in a hotel. Map | Map for printing