MT ELBRUS

5642 Meters | Russia | 10 Aug ’24

MT ELBRUS

5642 Meters | Russia

10 August 2023

DIFFICULTY

Moderate – Hard

DURATION

8 Days

BEST TIME

Jun – Sept

COST

₹ 1,60,000

Book Your Slot Today!

OVERVIEW

An expedition to Mount Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe and Russia, is a dream for many mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the Caucasus Mountains, the peak stands at 18,510 feet (5,642 meters) and is one of the Seven Summits, a group of the highest mountains on each continent. The mountain’s terrain is a mix of snow and ice, with glaciers, crevasses, and steep slopes that require technical climbing skills. Climbers typically approach the mountain from the south side, where the terrain is less steep and the ascent is more gradual.

The climb to the summit of Mount Elbrus typically takes between six to eight days and involves several acclimatization hikes to prepare the body for the altitude. The base camp is situated at around 8,200 feet (2,500 meters), and climbers will gradually move up to higher altitudes to allow their bodies to adjust to the decreased oxygen levels. The ascent to the summit is challenging, requiring careful route finding and the use of technical equipment such as crampons, ice axes, and ropes. However, the rewards of reaching the summit are unparalleled, with panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains and the surrounding landscape.

One of the most unique features of climbing Mount Elbrus is the opportunity to experience the local culture and hospitality. The area around the mountain is home to several ethnic groups, including the Balkars, Karachays, and Circassians, who have their own distinct traditions and way of life. The best time to climb Mount Elbrus is between June and September when the weather is most stable and the mountain is accessible. The peak can experience extreme weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, strong winds, and sudden temperature drops, so climbers must be prepared for any eventuality.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Mineralnye Vody airport. Bus ride (4-5hrs) to a mountain hotel at the foothills of Mt. Elbrus. We will be staying overnight at the hotel (2100 m).

Day 2: Thorough gear check by team leader, arranging rentals for the team if required. Later, we go on an acclimatization hike up to cable car station Cheget-3 (3000 m) on Mt. Cheget or Terskol Peak (3150 m), depending on physical condition of participants, and weather (the decision is made by the guide in coordination with participants).

Day 3: This is the day when you move to the mountain refuge at 3800 m. You can leave all not necessary stuff at hotel. It will not be necessary to carry your backpacks self because the group will reach the refuge using ski lifts. There will be only a short distance to walk from the cable cars last station to the hut. The cook will either ascend with you or already awaiting you at the hut preparing light lunch. After having tea or coffee with sandwiches and sweeties we put on all mountain equipment and go for acclimatization hike up to 4300 m/14107 ft. overnight at the refuge.

Day 4: Hike up to the Pastuckhov rocks and probably higher (4800 m/ 15,748 ft).

Day 5: On this day you will have ice and snow courses with your guide not far from the refuge. The guide will teach you how to put on the crampons and how to walk in it; he will show you techniques of self-arrest with an ice-axe and you will try to slide down the slope and then fix yourself on the snow using your ice axe and the crampons. Don’t worry when you’ve never tried it before. Overnight at the refuge.

Day 6: Summit day. We leave the refuge about 3 a.m. for the climb of Elbrus’ west summit, 5642 m (18,510 ft). Generally, for an average group, it takes about 9 hours to reach the top and 5 hours to come back to the hut. Generally we stay at the refuge this night. If all members of the group come back from the top before 3 p.m. we can discuss the possibility to descend to the valley and have overnight at the mountain hotel. However this will require additional payment for hotel, because this night is paid for the refuge.

Day 7: This is a reserve day in case of bad weather on the previous day. When the group takes an attempt of reaching the summit on this day, it is necessary to descend to the valley same evening by all means, though it may be hard because the ski lifts stop working at 4 p.m. Elbrus summit certificates will be given. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Group transportation to Mineralnye Vody airport and fly back to India.

INCLUSIONS

Local registration for foreigners according to the Russian law
Transportation. Group airport transfers Airport-Terskol-Airport
3-star hotel, shared twin or triple room in the foot of Elbrus, 3 nights
Luxury accommodation at Elbrus Base Camp, 4 nights
Cable car tickets to the Base Camp
Full board meals during the whole trip
Indian Team leaders
Good Guide-climber ratio on the summit day
One summit attempt
Climbing certificate
Park fee
Tips for guides & porters
Participants will get an exclusive discount on all Fast&Up products

NOTE: Climbers who need a single guide the prices will differ

EXCLUSIONS

Clothing & equipment
International flight tickets
Visa Processing and fee
Single occupancy supplement
Taking an additional attempt after the first attempt has been expended (this doesn’t include cases when the weather was bad from the beginning and the group hasn’t started the climb)
Cost of additional night at hotel when you decide to descend to the valley on the reserve days because this days are already paid for at the refuge
Mountaineering insurance. It is highly recommended for climbing Mount Elbrus

THINGS TO PACK

For Your Head:

Warmth and protection for your head are crucial. A shade hat keeps the sun at bay, while a balaclava and woolen warm cap shield against the cold winds of Elbrus.

Footsteps of an Explorer:

The journey is on your feet. Equip them with solid hiking boots for the rugged paths and climbing boots with crampons for the icy challenges ahead. Sandals offer a restful reprieve in the evenings.

Your socks—a critical ensemble of 2 pairs of synthetic warm trekking socks for mobility and 4 pairs of heavier synthetic/wool blend socks for warmth—keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the trek.

Hands That Conquer:

Your hands are indispensable on this journey. Arm them with a pair of warm gloves and an additional pair of waterproof gloves to ensure they remain warm, dry, and ready for any challenge.

Clothing: The Armor of the Adventurer:

Layer wisely with 2 synthetic under shirts and 3 long sleeve T-shirts, forming the base of your daily armor.

A fleece & a down jacket provides the warmth needed against the mountain chill, while a poncho stands by, your shield against unexpected downpours. Thermal sets (2 pairs) to trap warmth efficiently.

For your marches, 2-3 pairs of trekking pants adapt to the varying terrains, while waterproof breathable gaiters keep the elements at bay.

Navigational and Survival Gear:

Navigate the trails with your trekking poles, an extension of your will, aiding your stride.

The thermos and water purifier bottle ensure you stay hydrated, drawing from the pure mountain springs.

The 60-liter rucksack bag carries your essentials and discoveries, while a small size day-pack keeps your immediate necessities within reach.

Personal Care Compact:

Your personal care kit, with sunscreen cream and lip balm, shields you from the harsh UV rays and keeps your lips from chapping.

Your personal medication is a must, safeguarding your health as you embrace the heights.

Soul Nourishments:

Capture moments of breathtaking beauty with your camera, and let chikkis/snacks replenish your energy.

Your passport or a valid ID card is not just a document; it’s a ticket to new experiences, a reminder of the journey’s worth.

Illumination and Vision:

Illuminate your path with a headtorch, with extra batteries, ensuring you never lose your way under the starlit sky or the pre-dawn haze.

Don’t forget your sunglasses—polarized, Category 4 with 100% UV protection to guard against the intense glare, and a backup pair ensures you’re always covered.