Karaugom: The Path to the Ice Giant

Excursion "Karaugom Gorge": To the Icy Heart of Ossetia
Karaugom Gorge is one of the most remote yet most impressive places in North Ossetia, located in the Digorsky district. It is called the "icy heart" of the region. This is a choice for those ready for a full-fledged trek to encounter the majestic Karaugom Glacier — one of the largest in the Caucasus.

What you will see during the excursion.
The journey to the Karaugom Glacier is a true adventure along the protected trails of the "Alania" National Park.

• Karaugom Glacier: a grand glacier tongue descending to an altitude of about 1830 meters above sea level. Its length exceeds 12 kilometers. This is an opportunity to see powerful ice fields, icefalls, and unique natural formations like ice "tables" and "mushrooms".
• Wild Nature: pristine and untamed nature. Here you can breathe the purest mountain air and enjoy the silence far from civilization.
• Panoramic Views: picturesque mountain peaks, such as Gebe, Bartuy, and the five-thousand-meter peaks Dykhtau and Shkhara, which open up from the Shtulu Pass.
• "Paradise Glade": a rest stop offering a stunning view of the glacier and the surrounding nature.

What awaits you:

• Start of the Journey: the route starts from the "Dzinaga" tourist base. We hike 6 km to the glacier one way with an elevation gain of 350m.
• Comfortable Transport: we use our vehicles to reach the starting point of the route.
• Caring Guides: our guides are experts in the local area who will share not only facts but also captivating legends of Ossetia with you.
• Stops for Photos and Rest: restroom stops and time for lunch in national cafes and restaurants with mountain views (additional payment on-site) are provided.

Tour Duration: from 7 to 8 hours.
Excursion Format: combined (vehicle and hiking).
Difficulty Level: Beginner Trekking (good physical fitness required).
Food and Drinks: you can bring snacks and water; if desired, it's possible to stop at a cafe along the way (payment on-site).
Equipment: weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, a charged phone/camera, Power bank, a charging cable for mobile devices, passport + copy for the glacier pass permit.

Karaugom Gorge and its glacier are a choice for those seeking solitude with the powerful, sometimes harsh nature of the Caucasus and ready for an active adventure.