Standing tall in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains is Mount Kazbek, also known as Mkinvartsveri, or “Glacier Peak.”
This beautiful stratovolcano, located on the border between Georgia and Russia, rises to 5,047 meters, making it the second tallest volcanic peak in the Caucasus after Mount Elbrus in Russia, which is also on my list of mountains to explore. Kazbek is the only mountain that has completely occupied my attention in such an intense way throughout the entire ascent.
For the first time in my life, there was no mental distraction; I wasn’t thinking about being tired or weak, nor was I questioning why I was doing this. My total focus was on Kazbek. I was completely merged with the mountain, watching every step, and thinking about each move. Kazbek demands your full attention, and along the way, there are plenty of challenges that will test you.
My experience was extraordinary. I should have been here years ago, but the pandemic got in the way. Last night (25.06.), I finally had my long-overdue date with Kazbek. With tears of happiness, I experienced his kindness: no winds, silence, peacefulness, the moon, stars, a beautiful sunrise, and a cloudless blue sky. Mkinvartsveri welcomed me at his peak with open arms.
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