Mount Elbrus Circuit

Well known for decades by Russian mountain walkers, the route came in full view as a trekking gem only when in the early nineties foreign tourist saw it and compared with the famous classics. Shorter and easier than Himalayan circuits (around Annapurna, for instance), it is not much less scenic and wild, and, being comparable in scale with European ones (say Mont Blanc circuit), it is far above them in terms of seclusion and wilderness..

GRADE AND QUALIFICATIONS
Practically all the trek is on paths and rough roads. However on some section, especially on grassy slopes, you will not find good path making these sections physically demanding. There are a few stream crossings on the trek and snow may be encountered on the highest passes. Lightweight snow gaiters would be helpful to save your boots from snow as well as fine scree.
The formers are not always low graded, well trodden and wide. In the upper valleys they can be rather steep and rough.
To enjoy this trek you should be an experienced hiker with excellent health and good physical condition. Each day of the trek is challenge. But probably the hardest and longest day (8-9 hours walking) is crossing of Kebek Pass. Walking on the glacier does not require crampons as the ice is normally covered with stones and is not steep. The only technical part is the descent from the Irikchat pass, a snow slope of 30 degrees with two or three crevasses, normally showing only late in the season.
The average day involves some 6-7 hours of walking but will vary from day to day. Elbrus circuit is provided with supported portage, i.e. porters carry only food, cooking and camping equipment. Personal equipment and clothes must be carried including your sleeping bag and mat. A limited number of porters can be hired at an extra charge to carry personal equipment.

ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD
From the very first day when you arrive in Moscow and up to the end of the trip all accommodation and all your meals are included in the trip cost. Accommodation in Moscow is at 3-stars hotel based on double occupancy. We can offer hotels of the higher quality upon special request. In Baksan Valley we use good quality hotel with private baths. Accommodation on trek is in double-skinned three-man tents, which are used for two people only - you will be expected to assist with the erection of your tent.
Food on trek is prepared by our own cooks out of fresh foods supplemented by supplies. On some places we can use local food from shepherds (cheese, milk, and meat). We try to cater for vegetarians but we cannot provide the same standard as expected in the West. We suggest that vegetarians take their own protein supplement if this is likely to cause a problem. Whatever your diet we recommend that you bring with you a small selection of "goodies" - chocolates, nuts etc. which you are particularly fond of for the occasions when you need extra energy.

WEATHER, EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING
You can meet different weather conditions during the trip. In the valleys day temperatures may rise over 25°C. at the highest campsites, nights will be cooler and frosts are likely. An extra fleece jacket is recommended for the evenings after the sunsets. Rain and summer storms and snowfall on the passes could be encountered any time. Good waterproofs and warm clothes are necessary. A ski stick can be useful throughout the trek so we recommend that you take one. A telescopic one is particularly good. Major items are good, waterproof 2/3 season walking boots and a three-season sleeping bag and mat. A 60 L rucksack should be adequate. If you are already a hiker or backpacker you will probably have much of the clothing and the equipment required.
You will not need to carry all of your belongings on the trek but will be able to leave some items at the hotel in the Baksan Valley.