Mount Elbrus south route, 10 days

Client-to-guide ratio

Throughout the program, you will be accompanied by an experienced instructor-guide. On the summit day, additional guides will be provided, maintaining a ratio of one guide for every three participants (1:3).

Itinerary of 8-days Mt. Elbrus climb from south

Day 1: Arrival in Mineralnye Vody. Transfer to Cheget. Meet your guide

Please arrive in Mineralnye Vody by 14:00. For early or late arrivals, we can arrange an private transfer at a cost of approximately $80 for up to 3 people. A group transfer will take us to Cheget Glade, located at 2000 meters above sea level, at the foot of Elbrus. The journey covers 185 km and takes approximately 3 hours by car. Upon arrival we will check into the hotel where we will spend the night. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner and itinerary briefing.

Day 2: Walk  to the Terskol Waterfall (2100 m - 2800 m - 2100 m)

The first acclimatization walk takes us along the Terskol Gorge to one of the most impressive waterfalls in the North Caucasus, located at an altitude of 2800 m. The trail winds along a picturesque mountain river, offering a gradual and pleasant climb with stunning views of the Donguz-Orun mountain range, glaciers, and the Kogutai peaks. The highlight is the roaring waterfall, a powerful stream of pure glacial water. After enjoying the views, we return to Cheget.

Day 3: Acclimatization ascent to Cheget-2 Station (2100 m - 2750 m - 2100 m)

Today, we start our acclimatization trek to the Cheget-2 station at 2750 m. The program includes training in trekking techniques and high-altitude breathing. In the evening, the guide will conduct a theoretical session on the basics of mountaineering and mountain safety. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4: Climb to Peak Terskol  (2100 m- 3150 m - 2100 m)

The second acclimatization trek takes us to the Devochyi Kosy (Virgin's Braids) Waterfall at 2800 m, followed by a climb to the Terskol Peak Observatory at 3150 m. Built in 1980, the observatory is used for monitoring space activity, including asteroids and space debris. After taking in the breathtaking views, we return to the hotel in Cheget for a briefing, gear selection, and equipment check for the next stage of acclimatization.

Day 5: Move to Cheeper-Azau (3000 m). Acclimatisation hike to 3850 m.

In the morning, we pack the necessary equipment for the trek, with any unneeded items stored in the hotel’s luggage room. A short 3 km drive takes us to the Azau Glade, followed by a cable car ride to the Stary Krugozor station, where we check into our reserved rooms and have lunch. Afterward, we hike past the Sarykaya-Su waterfall to the Mir cable car station (3450 m) or a scenic glacial lake. Depending on weather conditions and group readiness, we may continue to the Gara-Bashi cable car station at 3847 m. Overnight at the Cheeper-Azau Hotel.

Spending the night at this altitude is critical for temporary acclimatization. Unlike many programs with rapid ascents from lowland hotels (2100–2300 m) to high-altitude shelters (3800–3900 m), our itinerary ensures gradual acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and associated health issues.

Spending the night at this altitude is a crucial part of the program, as it allows for effective acclimatization. Many climbing programs on Mt. Elbrus involve a rapid ascent from hotels in Cheget, Terskol, or Azau (located at 2100–2300 meters) directly to high-altitude accommodations at 3800–3900 meters. Such abrupt altitude changes often result in headaches, insomnia, and other serious physical issues caused by insufficient acclimatization. Our program, however, is designed to ensure a gradual and smooth acclimatization to higher altitudes. This approach significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and enhances overall safety and comfort during the climb.

Day 6: Climb to the Pastukhova Rocks (4800 m). Snow and ice activities.

The day begins with a cable car ride to Gara-Bashi (3847 m), near two high-altitude hotels: the Heart of Elbrus Hotel (3820 m) and the Leaprus Eco-Hotel (3910 m). After reviewing our climbing equipment, we start an acclimatization hike to the Pastukhova Rocks (4600–4800 m). The exact altitude reached will depend on weather conditions and group fitness levels. Training includes crampon use, self-belaying with an ice axe, and rope work. After the hike, we return to the Cheeper-Azau Hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 7: Rest day. Snow and ice training (3820m)

Rest is essential for a successful summit. After a late breakfast, we transfer to the high-altitude camp at either the Heart of Elbrus Hotel (3820 m) or the Leaprus Eco-Hotel (3910 m). The day includes snow and ice training (weather permitting) with knot-tying exercises. Leisure activities such as lunch, board games, and a discussion of summit plans help prepare for the next day. Overnight at high camp.

Day 8. Summit day on Elbrus (3820 m - 5642 m - 3820 m)

Summit day begins early with a light breakfast. Participants can ascend by snowcat to the Pastukhova Rocks (4800 m) or Kosaya Shelf (5100 m) for an additional fee. This decision must be made the day before.

The trekking group, consisting of at least 3 participants starts 3–4 hours earlier than the snowcat group, accompanied by "assistant guides" (1 guide for every 3 people). If a participant cannot continue due to illness or other reasons,  the remaining 1–2 participants and the guide will descend as a smaller group. If fewer than three people wish to ascend without the use of a snowcat, a personal guide must be hired at an additional cost.In the event of a forced descent from lower altitudes (up to 4500 m), a second attempt at the ascent on the same day is possible, provided the descent is made to the mountain hotel before the main group departs. The participant can then rejoin the main guide and the rest of the group for the ascent.

After crossing the Kosaya Shelf and reaching the Elbrus saddle at 5300 m, you will have time to rest, enjoy a snack, and warm up with hot tea. The final ascent to the West Summit of Elbrus (5642 m) typically takes place between 10:00 and 13:00, depending on the group’s pace. By 14:00, all group members must begin the descent, which generally takes 5–6 hours. Dinner and an overnight stay will follow at the high camp.

Day 9: Reserve day. Descent to the Cheget (3820 m - 3000 m)

The reserve day ensures flexibility for summit attempts during bad weather. If the summit is successful on Day 8, we descend to Cheget Glade, where you can enjoy local cuisine like khychin and shashlyk. Optional activities (extra cost) include fishing, horse riding, or visiting Kabardino-Balkaria's attractions, such as the Chegem Waterfalls, Lake Gizhgit, or the Geduko Thermal Complex. A festive dinner with climbing certificates concludes the day.

Day 10. Transfer to Mineralnye Vody Airport

A morning transfer will take you to Mineralnye Vody Airport, arriving by 10:00 am. To avoid any delays, we recommend scheduling your return flight for the afternoon. If your flight is scheduled earlier or significantly later, and you prefer not to wait at the airport, a private transfer can be arranged for $80.