Hi, myself and my climbing partner are planning the ascent of Elbrus in June. Obviously there are safety concerns regarding travelling to the region. I am British and our Foreign Office does not advise we travel to the area. I was wondering if anyone had any advice with regards to confidence with travel plans, companies to travel with or any other information about the region, the local mountain area and anything you feel we should be aware of.

Any information or advice would be appreciated.
Thank you

I've been there three times now - May 2010, September 2010, and August 2012. I am American, so not sure if it makes a difference. In 2011 there were some terrorist activities that caused the government to close the area to tourists. It's open now.

If you go with a European or American guide company you should be fine. If you want to go with a local company, and possibly save money, there's topsport travel, pilgrim tours, and 7 summits club. They're all fine and I or my friends have used all of these for their trips there.

I think the government offices (State Dept. etc) are a bit nervous in case terrorists strike again. If you have any other questions I can point you toward links to my blogs or my friends blogs if you want more info or pictures or travel details.

Have you read this? http://www.pilgrim-tours.com/?news

It seems to imply getting a border-zone permit may take up to 2 months.

Fortunately border permits aren't required for Elbrus, though they are for areas south of there.

I had no problems at all during my visit to the area early May 2012.

JimS

Thanks for the advice guys. One other issue I'd appreciate info on is the water/ cooking situation. We will likely take our own cooking equipment but does the barrels have any cooking facility? Also, what is the situation with water? Obviously snow if available higher up but in and around the huts?
Thank you
J

There is water at the huts, but I am not sure if it is for general consumption or paid guests only. There is a permanent cooking facility at the Barrels where the food is cooked for you. Again, I am unfortunately not sure how you go about it if travelling unguided.

Pilgrim Tours offers a variety of options, and you may be able to purchase a food type package at the Barrels through them.