Take on Europe's Highest Mountain in the Beautiful Caucasus Range of Southern Russia
Take on Europe's Highest Mountain in the Beautiful Caucasus Range of Southern
Russia
Europe's highest summit lies just north of the Russian border with Georgia in
the Caucasus Mountain range that dominate the landscape between the Black and
Caspian Sea. At 5642m/18510 ft, Elbrus is a high altitude challenge, but a peak
suitable for beginner climbers. Elbrus, known in the local language as Mangitau,
has been the training ground for some of world's best climbers. The extinct
volcano's summit is 900m/2980 ft higher than the surrounding peaks, giving a
fantastic view of the surroundings. We take camping treks to acclimatize and
explore the Baksan and Adylsu Valleys to train for the ascent.
Highlights:
" View from the highest point in Europe (5642m/18513ft)
" Acclimatization hikes in fields of wildflowers and through poplar and
pine forests
" Expert training in use of crampons and ice axe for less-experienced climbers
Day 1 Fly to Mineralnyie Vody, the site of mineral water springs. Weather
permitting; you'll get a view of Elbrus's twin peaks from the place. Transfer
by bus to Hotel in Baksan Valley where we start our acclimatization hikes. (B.L.D)
Day 2 Fly to Mineralnyie Vody, the site of mineral water springs. Weather
permitting, you'll get a view of Elbrus's twin peaks from the place. Transfer
by bus to Hotel in Baksan Valley where we start our acclimatization hikes. (B.L.D)
Day 3-6 We spend several days exploring the valleys and small peaks of
the Baksan Valley. We start off hiking in the valley to get accustomed to the
altitude and enhance our physical fitness. We will also go to a nearby glacier
for some instruction and practice in the use of ice axe and crampons. We will
make certain that everyone is comfortable with equipment and technique before
going higher on the mountain.
Day 7 Move up the mountain by cable car to shelters where we advance
our acclimatization and stay in "barrel" shelters. (B,L,D)
Day 8 Hike up to the Pastuhov Rocks 5000m/16,404ft where we get a view
of the Ushba peak, known as the Matterhorn of the Caucasus (B,L,D)
Day 9 Rest day. Depending on the team and weather conditions, we could
make a summit attempt on this day. (B,L,D)
Day 10 Summit attempt. Pre-dawn start for a long steady climb up the
Sedlowina Saddle leading up between the two peaks, and make the final steep
climb up the crater to the roof of Europe! Descend to barrel camp. (B,L,D)
Day 11 Head down to Hotel in the Baksan Valley. (B,L,D)
Day 12 Fly to Moscow. Celebrate. (B,L,D)
Day 13 Departure (B)
Summary:
Days: 13 days/12 nights
Originates: Mineralnyie Vody
Activities: Trekking & Climbing
Group: 5-12 people
Level: Very Challenging
Departure: July 9 - July 21, 2002
July 8 - July 20, 2003
Price: $2595 per person (5-9 people)
$2375 per person (10-12 people)
Flight Muenchen- Mineralvody $ 400.-
To learn more please enquire hobo.partner@t-online.de