Mt. Elbrus is a stunning volcanic peak located in the Caucasus Mountains of Russia and at 18,510 feet it is Russia’s, as well as Europe’s, highest peak. Situated between the Black Sea to the west and the Caspian Sea to the east, Mt. Elbrus rises majestically from the high green plains that stretch northward into the heartland of Russia. Just to the south of the peak lies the main body of the Caucasus Mountains, a range that rivals the Alps with their stark rugged beauty.

In our commitment to continually set the standard in mountain guiding excellence, we are pleased to now offer a climb of Mt. Elbrus’ seldom visited North Side. This is a unique opportunity to climb one of the mountain's still undiscovered routes. While the standard route on the South side sees several thousand climbers a year only a few hundred venture to Elbrus’ North side. Not only having the chance to climb one of the world’s fabled ‘Seven Summits’ but also being almost alone on a pristine alpine route is a rarity, making this climb truly a one of a kind adventure.

Our adventures begin several thousand miles to the North of Mt. Elbrus in Moscow—the political, economic, and cultural heart of Russia. We will walk across the cobblestones of Red Square, in the shadows of St. Basil’s onion-shaped domes; cross beneath the thick walls of the Kremlin and visit the seat of Russian power; and visit many of the city’s other famous sites like the Pushkin Museum and Tverskoy Boulevard.

We then fly south to the town of Mineralnye Vody, known for its abundant mineral springs, and drive to the neighboring town of Kislovodsk, which marks the transition from the fertile high plains of Russia to the lush green foothills of the Caucuses. After spending a night in Kislovodsk, we drive south into the heart of the of the wild and barely inhabited Caucuses steppe to reach our Basecamp, where our climb begins.

Upon returning from our climb we fly to St. Petersburg. Situated far to the North of the country on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, St. Petersburg is a true Russian gem, often described as the “Venice of the North”. We spend a full day exploring St. Petersburg’s stunning architecture, amazing works of art, and many canals. The city tour includes; The Hermitage, which has over three million works of art, and some of the most beautiful interiors of any building the in the world, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, one of the world’s largest cathedrals and has been fully restored inside and out, and the Church of the Savior on the Spilled Blood which is still one of the city's most beautiful landmarks. Our time in St. Petersburg is the ideal way to end our adventures in Russia.

As you prepare for your upcoming adventure please feel free to contact our office and speak directly to one of our experienced guides regarding equipment, conditioning, the route, or any other questions you may have about our programs. We are available Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at (888) 89-CLIMB or info@rmiguides.com.