The path we’re taking brings us far away from the village and tourists, and closer to the wild and pure nature. Arkhyz is a place in the North Caucasus, famous for its mild landscapes with lots of woods and colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow-white mountains surrounding all this. Hiking there is fantastic!
Our program begins in the afternoon with a city tour around Pyatigorsk. It’s a relatively small city so it will take us around 4 hours to see its most beautiful places. During the tour you’ll have a chance to taste the mineral waters that come to the surface or even bath in them. Feel truly local! The evening program is optional so either you can join the group for a walk or use it as your free time.
Say goodbye to civilization – we’re back in a week! The bus brings us to the village of Arkhyz from where our hike starts. Nothing difficult to expect from today’s hike, we just walk to our first camp, then set up the tents and enjoy the rest of the day wandering around.
To warm up and look around Sophia’s valley today we take an easy hike only with our daily backpacks. Swimming is possible too but it’s super-cold 😉
Although today the distance seems to be just like nothing, we will be going all the way up. Some parts of the path are very steep but you’ll make it there, seeing emerald-green and blue lakes on the way! This is so inspiring!
Crossing the first pass is always something special: higher altitudes, different views, different feelings. You’ll love it there! Moreover, today you learn not just how to breath and move your body but also the team work.
After the days of hard work today is quite relaxing. We only go downhill enjoying the views of the river, woods, and surely snowy peaks around us. Time for a cozy bonfire evening, funny stories, philosophical thoughts, and more.
Sad and happy are the mixing emotions of this day. It’s always a pity leaving such beautiful places and people. Promise, you’ll come back one day! On the other hand, it’s also relieving to know that in a couple of hours you’ll take a warm shower and have a delicious Caucasian food in a restaurant. Our farewell dinner is in the evening and you’re more than welcome to join it!
Duration [days]: 7
Region: Karachai-Cherkessia
Season: Summer
Region: a cool one