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Tough
Russia

Mt Elbrus – South Route

Ascend Mount Elbrus' South Route with the highest quality guides and top-end mountain huts, whilst enjoying stunning vistas on this well-supported journey.

ALL INCLUSIVE PRICE

3990
14650

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the summit of Mount Elbrus, Europe's highest peak, via its scenic South Route. This iconic climb attracts adventurers from around the world, offering a challenging yet accessible journey through the stunning landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains. The South Route is favored for its well-established base camps and the use of cable cars, which assist climbers in reaching higher altitudes more comfortably. The journey is not just about reaching the summit; it's also about embracing the rich culture and pristine natural beauty of the region.

 

As you ascend Mount Elbrus via the South Route, you will experience a variety of terrains, from lush meadows to sweeping glaciers. The route provides a progressive climb, allowing for proper acclimatization with nights spent in comfortable huts. This tour is designed for both novice and experienced climbers seeking the thrill of conquering one of the Seven Summits. With expert guides to lead the way and all logistical details handled, you can focus on the climb, the camaraderie, and the spectacular vistas that unfold with each step towards the summit.

TRIP ACTIVITY

Expedition

ACTIVITY RATING

Tough

SKILL RATING

Basic Skills

DURATION

8 Days

DESTINATION

Russia

GROUP SIZE

12

Tour Highlights

Ascend Europe's highest peak via the accessible South Route.
Experience diverse terrains from lush meadows to icy glaciers.
Stay in cozy huts for optimal acclimatization, rest and recovery.

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Mineralnye Vody airport, you will be greeted by the Summit Expeditions’ representative. A three-hour bus journey will take you to a comfortable mountain hotel in the Baksan Valley, nestled at the base of Mt. Elbrus. The hotel caters to all preferences with single rooms available for solo travelers and luxury double rooms for couples, each equipped with private toilet and shower facilities. Overnight stay at the hotel at an altitude of 2100 meters, preparing you for the adventure ahead.
Begin your day with an acclimatization hike to either Mt. Cheget (3000m) or Terskol Peak (3150m), depending on the group’s physical condition and the weather. This essential activity helps your body adjust to higher altitudes. After the hike, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a local equipment store to rent any necessary gear, with guidance from your guide to ensure you select the appropriate equipment. Spend another night at the hotel as you enjoy your last evening in the valley.
Today, you’ll relocate to the mountain hotel, positioned near the Old Horizon cable car station at an altitude of 3,000 meters. This strategic move is critical for acclimatizing to higher elevations gradually. After settling in, enjoy a light hike to either Gara-Bashi station (3847m) or Mir station (3455m), depending on conditions. This day includes a visit to the picturesque Sarykaya-Su waterfall.
Ascend by cable car to Gara-Bashi station, where you’ll don climbing gear for an acclimatization hike up to the Pastukhov rocks (4,800m). This high-altitude hike is crucial for preparing your body for the summit attempt. Return to and overnight at the mountain hotel, resting for the challenges ahead.
Utilize this day for rest and recovery. After several intense days, take it easy with a late breakfast and leisurely activities at the “Leaprus” eco-hotel. Engage in light snow activities if weather permits, enjoy meals, play board games, and participate in a comprehensive briefing to discuss the summit day plan. Early bedtime to ensure ample rest before the ascent.
Summit day begins long before dawn to take full advantage of the clear morning conditions typical at higher altitudes. Departing from the eco-hotel Leaprus, you and your group will board a snowcat that is included in our package, which will transport you to a height of between 4,700-5,000 meters. This strategic start saves significant energy and time, providing a critical advantage as you face the final ascent to the summit of Mount Elbrus. Climbing Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe, presents a formidable challenge yet is achievable with steady, paced effort. The climb from the snowcat drop-off to the summit will take approximately 7-9 hours, depending on the group’s pace and weather conditions. As the sun rises, you’ll witness the vast Caucasus range unfold around you, offering spectacular views and a sense of isolation from the bustling world below. Reaching the summit is an exhilarating experience, with time to celebrate your accomplishment, take photographs, and enjoy brief moments at the highest point of Europe. After the summit, the descent begins, retracing your steps down to the snowcat waiting point. The descent is usually faster but requires caution as the slopes can be slippery and fatiguing. Back at the eco-hotel Leaprus, the group will have dinner together, celebrating the day’s success and sharing experiences.
This day serves as a buffer in case of adverse weather on the previous day or as a day to descend back to the valley. If weather delays the summit attempt, the group will try again but must descend to the valley by evening due to ski lift operational hours. Overnight at the hotel.
After an incredible journey together, it’s time to say our goodbyes. We’ll organize your transfer back to Mineralnye Vody Airport, ensuring you have a smooth departure. As we part ways, take with you not just photos but memories of the highs, the challenges overcome, and the friendships forged on the slopes of Mount Elbrus. Safe travels, and we hope to see you on another adventure soon!

Tour Package Details

What’s Included?

Not Included

  • Summit Expeditions Team Liaison Pre-Trek
  • Qualified and Experienced English-Speaking Mountain Guides
  • Full Board Expedition with Three Meals Daily, Including a Celebration Dinner Post-Summit
  • Unlimited Filtered Water, Hot Drinks (Tea, Coffee, and Hot Chocolate)
  • Comfortable Accommodations Pre/Post Trek
  • Overnight Stays at Leaprus Eco-Lodge
  • Use of Snowcat for Summit Day Included in the Package
  • Transfers to/from Mineralnye Vody Airport
  • All Road Transport Within the Itinerary
  • All Entrance Fees and Trekking Permits
  • First Aid Equipment for Mountain Emergencies
  • Comprehensive Pre-Trip Support
  • Training Advice to Prepare for the Physical Challenge of Mount Elbrus

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP

  • Airfare to Mineralnye Vody Airport.
  • Personal travel insurance.
  • Purchase or rental of personal gear.
  • Tips for porters (budget $100).
  • Drinks and snacks not included in the package.
  • General spending money.

Upcoming Group Departures

Start Date - End Date

Price

Tour Operator

Availability

Action

[event_list_show]

Upcoming Group Departures

Start Date - End Date

Tour Operator

Availability

Action

Price

05-Jul-2025 - 12-Jul-2025
Summit Expeditions

Spaces Available

3990
14650

Private group Tours

Arrange a private group tour and have the flexibility to customise the itinerary based on your interests, schedule and budget. Contact us today!

ALL INCLUSIVE PRICE

3990
14650

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ACTIVITY RATING

Relaxed

Designed for those seeking a leisurely and relaxed pace, these trips are perfect for all fitness levels. Activities may include light walking, cultural tours, or wildlife observation with minimal physical exertion. An example could be an easygoing cultural tour that involves gentle walks through historic sites and immersive experiences without strenuous activities.

Moderate

Ideal for participants with a moderate level of fitness, moderate adventures include activities that may require a bit more exertion. This could involve trekking on well-defined trails, moderate cycling, or wildlife safaris that include some walking. For example, a moderate-level trek might include longer distances or varied terrain, requiring participants to be comfortable with more physical activity.

Tough

Suited for those with a high fitness level, tough adventures involve challenging activities such as trekking in rugged terrain, technical climbs, or extended cycling expeditions. An example could be a tough trek that includes long daily distances, varied terrain, and challenging conditions, requiring participants to be physically prepared for sustained effort.

Challenging

Geared towards experienced adventurers seeking a high level of physical challenge, these trips involve demanding activities. This could include advanced trekking, technical climbing, or extended periods of kayaking in challenging waters. For example, a challenging trek might involve high-altitude ascents, difficult terrain, and long hours of walking, requiring participants to be in excellent physical condition.

Extreme

Reserved for the most seasoned and physically fit adventurers, extreme intensity trips involve highly demanding activities. This could include extreme trekking in remote and challenging environments, technical climbing at advanced levels, or intense multi-day endurance events. An example might be an extreme trek that includes challenging terrain, high-altitude passes, and long days of strenuous activity, demanding participants to be in peak physical and mental condition.

SKILL RATING

No Experience

Perfect for beginners, these trips require no prior experience in the specific activity. Whether it’s trekking, safaris, or cultural explorations, these adventures cater to those seeking a first-time, accessible introduction to the chosen activity. For example, a beginner-level trek might involve well-maintained trails with moderate elevation gain, ensuring participants with no prior trekking experience can comfortably enjoy the journey.

Basic Skills

Geared towards participants with a basic understanding of the chosen activity, these trips may involve moderate physical challenges or elements that benefit from some prior knowledge. For instance, a basic-level rock climbing expedition might include climbs with straightforward routes, where participants are expected to have a foundational grasp of climbing techniques. This level is designed for individuals who have dabbled in the activity or have some relevant skills.

Intermediate Expertise

Tailored for those with intermediate skills, these trips demand a more substantial level of expertise in the chosen activity. Whether it’s backcountry trekking, wildlife tracking, or kayaking, participants are expected to possess a solid understanding of the fundamentals. An example could be an intermediate-level mountaineering expedition that involves more challenging terrain, requiring participants to have experience with ice and snow conditions and advanced navigation skills.

Technical Proficiency

Reserved for seasoned adventurers with advanced skills, these trips involve highly technical aspects of the chosen activity. This might include technical climbing, advanced diving, or specialized wildlife tracking. For instance, a highly technical climbing expedition could require participants to navigate complex routes, use advanced gear, and possess a comprehensive understanding of the specific challenges associated with the climb. Participants at this level are expected to have a high degree of proficiency and experience in the activity.

TOUR OPERATOR

Summit Expeditions

Every aspect, from pre-booking to saying farewell at the airport after the trip, is managed by us. This ensures a seamless and high-quality adventure experience. Our dedicated team is with you every step of the way, providing support and guidance throughout your journey. We meticulously plan each detail to offer you a hassle-free and unforgettable adventure, tailored to your preferences and needs.

Collaboration

In collaboration with other respected entities, these tours offer a unique blend of expertise and local knowledge. You’ll benefit from the best of both worlds, with our team working closely alongside our partners to deliver exceptional adventures. Together, we ensure that every detail is taken care of, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience. Our collaborative approach allows us to offer diverse and enriching adventures that showcase the best of each partner’s expertise and local insights.

Local Partner

We carefully select and collaborate with partners who share our commitment to excellence, ensuring that your experience is nothing short of exceptional. Our partners excel in providing outstanding trip management and logistics, maintaining our high standards of quality and service. While the tour is managed by our trusted local partners, we still provide the same incredible and 5-star support pre-trip. Rest assured, your adventure is in good hands from start to finish. 

Explorers Club

These exclusive tours are meticulously organized, managed, and operated by the dedicated Explorers Club team. With a focus on our members, these adventures guarantee a truly unique experience.

While local partners and specialists may be involved, it’s the Explorers Club that takes the lead in every aspect of the journey. Explore the world with fellow Club members and embark on extraordinary expeditions.

Collaboration

Our collaborative tours are a blend of expertise and passion. The Explorers partner with various entities, including other travel operators, local experts, community groups, and influencers, to bring you
joint adventures.

These tours offer a mix of Explorers Club members and non-members, uniting diverse perspectives for unforgettable experiences. Expect well-coordinated, shared journeys that combine the best of both worlds.

Local Partner

For trips that offer a deep dive into specific regions, our trusted local partners take the lead. These adventures are exclusively managed by our carefully selected local experts, renowned for their professionalism and in-depth knowledge of the area.

While the tour may include both Explorers Club members and non-members, you can trust that every aspect of the journey is handled by seasoned local professionals, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience.

Status

Guaranteed

This trip has met the minimum number of joiners and is guaranteed to go ahead.

CONTACT US

We’re passionate about guiding you to epic adventures and beyond. If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to hear from you.

Status

Standby

This trip is filling up but hasn’t met the minimum number of joiners to be guaranteed yet. Once you book your place, please ensure you purchase flexible flight tickets or wait for us to reach out informing you that your trip is now guaranteed. In the unlikely event that your trip is not guaranteed by 60 days prior to the trip start date, then it may be cancelled. You will be provided with the option to change dates or have your deposit refunded.