Set out on the adventure of a lifetime to the summit of Mount Elbrus, Europe’s highest peak, via the stunning South Route. This iconic climb draws adventurers from across the globe, offering a thrilling yet accessible journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains. The South Route is renowned for its well-established base camps and the convenient use of cable cars, which make it easier to reach higher altitudes while still feeling the exhilaration of the climb.
But this adventure isn’t just about reaching the summit—it’s about immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and pristine beauty of the region. As you ascend, you'll traverse diverse terrains, from lush meadows to dramatic glaciers, with the route designed for a steady and progressive climb to help you acclimatize. Nights spent in cozy huts provide a comfortable resting point, giving you the perfect balance of challenge and rest.
Whether you're a novice climber or an experienced mountaineer, this tour offers the thrill of conquering one of the Seven Summits, all while surrounded by some of the most stunning vistas in the world. With expert guides leading the way and all logistics taken care of, you can focus on the climb, the camaraderie, and the awe-inspiring views that grow more spectacular with every step toward the top.
TRIP ACTIVITY
Expedition
ACTIVITY RATING
Moderate
SKILL RATING
Basic Skills
DURATION
9 Days
DESTINATION
Seven Summits, Volcanic Seven Summits
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
DAY 1: ARRIVAL AND TRANSFER TO BAKSAN VALLEY
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. After arrival we will enjoy a lovely breakfast at the hotel. In the afternoon we will do a small hike of the surrounding area and a kit check to ensure that everyone has the right equipment for the expedition. This is your opportunity to hire any last minute items.
Overnight stay at the hotel at an altitude of 2100 meters, preparing you for the adventure ahead.
Accomodation: Hotel Baskan Valley
Meals: Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch (Mountain) Dinner (Hotel)
* Optional to dine in a restaurant in the Baskin Valley (not included)
DAY 2: ACCLIMATIZATION HIKE MT CHEGET
Today we begin with an acclimatisation hike to Mt. Cheget (3000m) depending on the group’s physical condition and the weather. Once we arrive at the summit of Cheget we will take the cable car back down to the hotel. 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.
Accomodation: Hotel Baskan Valley
Meals: Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch (Mountain) Dinner (Hotel)
* Optional to dine in a restaurant in the Baskin Valley (not included)
DAY 3: MOVE TO MOUNTAIN HOTEL
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 acclimatising to higher elevations gradually.
We will take the cable car up to 3,000m check into the hotel and then prepare for a lovely hike to the frozen lake or Gara-Bashi station (3847m) or Mir station (3455m), depending on conditions.
Once we return to the hotel we will enjoy a delicious lunch. The remainder of the day is there to enjoy the facilities, play cards and allow your body to acclimatise to the elevation.
Accomodation: Ski Resort (shared accommodation)
Meals: Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch (Mountain) Dinner (Ski Lodge)
DAY 4: FURTHER ACCLIMATIZATION AT GARA-BASHI
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.
Accomodation: Ski Resort (shared accommodation)
Meals: Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch (Mountain) Dinner (Leaprus Huts)
DAY 5: RELAXATION AND PREPARATION FOR SUMMIT DAY
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.
Accomodation: Ski Resort (shared accommodation)
Meals: Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch (Mountain) Dinner (Leaprus Huts)
DAY 6: SUMMIT DAY
Summit day begins long before dawn approximately 3-4am 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.
Accomodation: Ski Resort (shared accommodation)
Meals: Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch (Mountain) Dinner (Leaprus/ Hotel Huts)
DAY 7: RESERVE DAY OR RETURN TO VALLEY
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.
Accomodation: Ski Resort (shared accommodation)
Meals: Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch (Mountain) Dinner (Leaprus/ Hotel Huts)
DAY 8: RESERVE DAY OR RETURN TO VALLEY
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.
Meals: Breakfast (Hotel), Lunch (Mountain) Dinner
*NO ACCOMMODATION DEPART FOR AIRPORT AT 10PM
3HR BUS JOURNEY BACK TO THE AIRPORT IN TIME FOR FLIGHT
DAY 9: DEPARTURE TO MINERALNYE VODY AIRPORT
Recommended flight: July 13th 03:25am to DXB
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
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Upcoming Group Departures
Start Date - End Date
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05-Jul-2025
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13-Jul-2025
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14650
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