Abkhazia Classic Heliskiing Day
Heliskiing Powder Tour in the Western Caucasus from Sochi
Overview
Located just east of Sochi, mountainous Abkhazia is one of the best places for heliskiing in Europe: a huge territory, varied terrain & great snow! Here you will find everything from wide, endless powder fields to excellent tree skiing or steep narrow couloirs. Are you ready to explore the amazing untouched mountains of the western Caucasus!
Ski Terrain & Vertical
The skiing area includes the Tele-Bashe ridge, Mt Ah-Ag & Mt Arabica. These ridges & peaks are nearest to the Black Sea so receive the greatest amount of precipitation (snow!) to provide the best powder ski opportunities. The Day Tour includes 4 descents, but additional descents (or refund for unused runs) can be included for an additional €135 per person (for a full group). Average vertical drop on the tour for a single descent is about 800m (approx. 3200m for the day). The helicopter usually lands at an altitude of 2200-2700m & picks up at 1300-1800m elevation.
Location & Transfers
The helipad is located in Abkhazia, a 10-minute drive from the Russian border. All ground transport from Krasnaya Polyana (Rosa Khutor) & Adler (Sochi) are included in the tour. Pick-ups will be from 7.30am. The drive to the launch pad in neighbouring Abkhazia is one hour (or 30min from Adler). All guests will need the appropriate visa documentation with them. Sochi Heliski will assist with the preparation of the appropriate documents prior to arrival.
Helicopter & Guides
The helicopter is a 6-seat Eurocopter which operates with groups of 4 guests & 1 guide. One helicopter can simultaneously serve two guided groups. All guides are certified RMGA ski guides with heliski experience since 2007 or UIFGM guides.
Ski Ability & Equipment
The Abkhazia Classic Heliskiing Day can be 'demanding' & is only suitable for fit, strong intermediate or better skiers with previous powder & mixed snow conditions experience.
Small Groups
The Abkhazia Classic Heliskiing Day is restricted to a maximum of 4 guests per group. Maximum guide/guest ration is 1:4. You can join a mixed group for the day or have your own group of 4 skiers or snowboarders.
Visas & Entry
Passing through the Abkhazia border usually takes 30-40 minutes. Foreigners, depending on their citizenship, may need a dual or multi-visa from the Russian Federation, as well as a visa to Abkhazia (issued upon entry). Please contact us in advance to prepare all the necessary documents.