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Wild Frontiers of North Caucasus
Russia, Abkhazia, Kabardino Balkaria, North & South Ossetia, Ingushetia, Chechnya & Dagestan
May 01 to 19, 2022
Led by Tour Manager Nancy Weber
Northern Caucasus is located in the northern part of the Caucasus region between the Black and Caspian Seas and within European Russia. Historically, it is one of the hottest spots in the world - a land of famous warriors and strange archaic traditions that is turning to peace now. Explore it during the most beautiful time of the year, when spring turns to summer. This is the time of weddings, red-yellow-green forests, and tables abundant with delicious traditional meals. The journey starts from Abkhazia, a partially recognized country and once the pearl of Georgia during the Soviet period, to other North Caucasian Autonomous Republics including Kabardino-Balkaria, North & South Ossetia, Ingushetia, Chechnya, and many more. Move from the developed West to the wild East - from subtropical and friendly Abkhazia, all the way to Dagestan where we’ll explore its ethnicity and history - from the Stone Age to the Soviet era. We will witness daily life of the highlanders up in the high mountains with centuries-old forests filled with oak and fir trees and wild blueberries. The highlight of this adventure will be the exploration of the most visually striking and culturally different villages. So, join us on this fascinating journey marveling historical monuments, isolated settlements, towers, orthodox monasteries, majestic landscapes, and cultures that have survived centuries without outside influences.
Can be combined with South Caucasus tour (April 14 -May 01, 2022)
Tour cost (Land ONLY): $7,350.00
per person sharing in double occupancy
Single Supplement: $650.00
Price based on group size minimum of 4 participants and maximum of 12 participants
Tour Includes
Internal flight - Makhachkala to Moscow.
All transfers and transportation by A/C minibus and 4x4 vehicles on some days.
All accommodations in combination of 3 & 4-star hotels & 1 night at a homestay.
English-speaking local guides throughout the trip.
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary(B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner).
Mineral water during touring days on vehicle.
All entrance fees to the museums and historical sites mentioned in the itinerary.
Porterage of luggage (except at border crossings).
Gratuities to local guides, drivers, and restaurant staff for included meals.
Tour Does Not Include
International air into Sochi and out of Moscow.
Required Russia visa (multiple entry).
Alcoholic beverages or soft drinks.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
Transfers if not arriving/departing on scheduled dates.
Dayroom or overnights necessitated by airline flight schedule changes or misconnections.
Items of a personal nature, i.e. souvenirs, camera fees, laundry, phone calls, emails, etc.
Travel insurance.
Trip Grade:
II Active - Some hikes, slightly more demanding walks at or to sites, few elevations, comfortable but busy schedule and some long rides and extensive drives.
LODGING Level:
***Superior - Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined service and comfort level acceptable to western standards. (3 or 4 stars)
**** Luxury: Regular style- usually large- hotels, typical western standard with ample venues, and full amenities. (4 or 5 stars)
Special Trip Remarks:
This is a very off-the-beaten track journey to an area of the world that is least visited by any foreigners or travelers. Joining this tour will require a high level of flexibility and tolerance and willingness to go with the flow when things change, or if the itinerary or hotels used, or sequence or visits change due to any unforeseen conditions. Also, the standard of the local guides as far as their English language abilities are concerned is rather moderate though their in-depth knowledge of the region and its culture as well as their connection to the local population and to the many special people who we will meet is phenomenal. Anyone joining this trip must understand that in many places the tourist infrastructure is very primitive. Some days are long, and the level of services will not match those offered in more tourist locations. Some roads are in poor state. By signing up for this tour, participants are acknowledging their full understanding and acceptance of all terms and conditions and are admitting that they are in good physical and mental health and are equipped with open mind, a sense of adventure, and a tolerant and patient spirit to cope with the tour.
