Caucasus
Elbrus 11-day Tour
Elbrus Ski Tour
Customised Elbrus Tours
Lite Package
Peak Lenin Tour
Equipment List
Equipment for Rent |
The Caucasus Mountains, which mark one of the points where Europe and
Asia meet, stretch about 1,127 kilometers (about 700 miles) between the Black and Caspian
seas. Nearly equal in size and height to the Alps, the Caucasus range includes several
peaks that rise more than 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). |
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The main watershed of the Caucasus
is considered to be the boundary between Europe and Asia. It is divided into the Great
Caucasus and Trans-Caucasus. From the point of view of mountain climbing, of the most
interest is the system of the Great Caucasus, with both its central and side parts having
peaks over 5000 m (16,500 feet). |
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The pride of the Caucasus is the beautiful double-headed Elbrus. The
local people call Elbrus "Ash-Gamakho", which means "Happiness-bringing
mountain". This gentle-sloped volcano in the center of the Caucasus Mountains marks
the highest point of Europe: East summit - 5621 m (18,442 feet), West summit - 5642 m (18,510
feet). |
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Caucasus is a land of high grasslands, wildflowers, and rolling mountains,
crowned with spectacular views of Mt. Elbrus. This area is very popular among
tourists. |
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Climate in summer: warm, sunny, occasional rains in
the valleys. Day temperatures - up to +25 C ( 77 F ). The weather in the
mountains is very changeable. At the altitude above 3000 m (9,840 feet), snowfalls and
strong wind are possible. Day temperatures are about +15 C ( 59 F), and
night temperatures go down to -15 C ( 5 F).
Climate in winter: dry, afternoon temperatures in the valleys: 0 to -10 C ( 32
to -14 F); at the height of 3000 m ( 9,840 feet ): -5 to -15 C ( 23 to 5
F); night temperatures in the valleys: -5 to -15 C. (23 to 5F). |
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The weather on Mt. Elbrus is changeable, and conditions can deteriorate rapidly in case
of a storm. Be prepared for temperatures between -7 and +15 C ( 19 and 59 F)
with a chance of snow. Temperatures could fall to -25 C (-13 F) higher up
on the mountain and you may encounter severe winds. Like any large mountain, Mt. Elbrus
creates its own weather. There can be serious storms on the mountain, while the next
valley over is in bright sunshine. |
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The best time to climb Mt. Elbrus is July and August. The weather is not so
changeable.
Usually at this time there is practically no ice and it is rather soft. In September it's
icier.
Also see: Equipment
and Clothing List.
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