About this experience
During the trip, you will visit places that leave an indelible impression of the beauty and grandeur of the local nature. Our program includes the turquoise Lake Gizhgita, wonderful views of the Rocky Ridge from Aktoprak Pass, and Chegem Waterfalls. You will get acquainted with the mysterious history of the ancient village Eltyubyu. You will also taste national dishes at a trusted establishment and have the opportunity to paraglide.
What to expect
Picturesque Kabardino-Balkaria
You will appreciate the landscapes of Baksan Gorge, one of the most beautiful in the North Caucasus. You will take vivid photos of Bylymskoye Lake or Gizhgita Lake - an artificial reservoir of azure color. The journey over Aktoprak Pass will offer stunning panoramas of the Rocky Ridge and its surroundings. In the City of the Dead, located on the outskirts of Eltyubyu village, you will explore a complex of medieval crypts and hear mysterious stories about them. In the Chegem Gorge, you will visit the namesake waterfalls, which burst straight out of the rocks and are a bright hallmark of Kabardino-Balkaria.
Travel plan
- We will depart from Pyatigorsk (or another city in the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic) and make a short stop after about an hour to stretch our legs.
- Further along the way, based on the group's decision, we will stop for breakfast at a cafe serving traditional Kabardian dishes (usually everyone votes in favor).
- After driving for another hour, we will reach Gizhgita and soon arrive at Aktoprak, where we will stop at two or three locations for photo sessions.
- Ahead of us is a descent into the Chegem Gorge and a visit to Eltyubyu.
- In the summer, the program can include a visit to Abai-su Waterfall.
- Afterwards, on our way back, we will stop at the Chegem Waterfalls and have dinner before returning to the hotel.
Organizational Details
How the trip goes
- In a comfortable UAZ Patriot SUV in a group of up to 7 people
- You will be accompanied by me or another guide-driver from our team
- We will pick you up from your place of stay and drop you off after the tour
- You can start and end the tour in other cities of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic: from Kislovodsk - 3500 rubles/person, from Essentuki - 3300 rubles/person.
- Stops depend on weather conditions. The tour may also be canceled due to weather (this happens rarely) - in this case, we will offer you another day or refund your money.
- Children aged 5 and above are allowed
- The excursion may be canceled or rescheduled due to weather conditions
Additional expenses (optional)
- Lunch and dinner
- Visits to additional locations (by group's desire): in summer, a visit to Abai-su Waterfall and paragliding in the Chegem Gorge
