Day 1
Arrive in Min.Vody. A member of Lenalptours staff will meet you at the airport. This representative will answer questions, brief you on the immediate arrangements, and escort you to the Baksan valley (4,5h.). Check into a hotel.
A hotel is situated in the village of Terskol. The rooms are comfortable and cosy, with a toilet and a shower.
Day 2
Today we will have acclimatization hikes in the Terskol valley. There is a magnificent view of MtEIbrus. Ascent along the Terskol river through meadows (5 hours). Return to the hotel. Afternoon is free.
Day 3
Acclimatization hike to Cheget peak (3050m) will take us about 5 hours. It is so nice to relax at the "Ai" cafe (2750m.) where you can appreciate a panoramic view of the Baksan valley and the twin summits of Mt.Elbrus. Ascent of the Mt.Cheget top and then return to the hotel.
Day 4
After breakfast we'll have 15 minutes drive to the cable-car station Azau and, take two trams up to the Mir lift station (3750m). An acclimatization hike to 4200m. (where Priutt 11 Refuge was situated). Then return to the hotel.
Day 5
After breakfast we'll have drive to the cable-car station Azau and, take two trams and a chairlift up to the Garabashi lift station (3750m). Check into the Barrels Refuge. The same day we'll do an acclimatization hike to 4600m to the Pastukhov Rocks.(From everywhere on the slopes of Elbrus a panorama of the Central Caucasus spreads out). Overnight in the Barrels hut.
The Barrels Hut - it is situated on Elbrus slope close to the Garabashi lift station at 3750m. These are small houses shaped like barrels to stay in. There is a sleeping room with 6 beds and a small room with a wardrobe, a table and chairs in every house. There is a canteen with kitchen in a separate hut. There is no shower, the toilets are in a separate hut.
Day 6
Rest day. Overnight in the Barrels hut.
Day 7
Today we will make an attempt to reach the main target of the trip - summit of Mt Elbrus(5642m). We have to start very early before dawn. Using headlamps we make our way to Pastukhov Rocks where we stop for a short rest and some drinks. After the saddle (5300m) is reached, the summit climb itself will start The reward is to stand on top of the highest mountain in Europe. Descent to the Barrels Refuge. Overnight there.
Day 8
Descend to the hotel. Accommodation at the hotel. Rest.
Day 9
Drive to Mineralnye Vody. Departure.