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Traffic incidents

The following traffic incidents and congestion for M5 have been reported by Highways England, Traffic Scotland, Traffic Wales or Transport for London (TfL) in the last two hours:

M5 Roadworks

The following roadworks have been reported by various highways agencies and official transport sources.Click on a roadworks item to view more details on the traffic map.

The M5 motorway in the UK is a motorway running from junction 8 of the M4 motorway near Maidenhead, Berkshire to Exeter in Devon and is approximately 200km (125 miles) long. It opened in sections between 1960 and 1975 and is part of the Intra-Urban Motorway Network.

The M5 motorway is considered to be a relatively safe motorway. According to the Department for Transport statistics, the M5 had the second-lowest rate in England of fatal and serious collisions between 201315. An Alliance of South West Road Safety Groups revealed an overall reduction in the number of deaths and serious injuries on the M5 between 201115.

Overall, the M5 has an average road safety rating in line with the majority of other UK motorways, with a lower overall rate of death and serious injury than average.

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Please remember that it is against the law to use your mobile phone, tablet or any electronic device without a hands-free kit whilst driving.If you're caught by the police using any device that can send or receive data whilst driving or riding a motorcyle you'll get an automatic fixed penalty notice, 6 points on your licence and a fine of £200.A court could also disqualify you from driving.

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Live: M5 lanes closed by crash in Gloucestershire with tailbacks building

There are long delays on the motorway after the crash

• Updated 15:05, 30 AUG 2024

There is slow traffic on the M5 following a crash near Cheltenham this afternoon , Friday, August 30. According to traffic monitoring site Inrix, two lanes are closed on the northbound side of the motorway. We will keep you updated on the situation in the live blog below.

The crash took place between junction 10 for Cheltenham and junction 9 for Tewkesbury . It was first reported at around 1pm and congestion is now building on the northbound carriageway.

Inrix says: "Slow traffic and two lanes closed due to accident on M5 northbound from J10 A4019 (Cheltenham) to J9 A46 (Tewkesbury)."

There are also delays following a crash on the M5 in the Bristol area with delays due to a collision between junctions 17 and 18 which has closed one lane on the southbound side of the motorway.

This is a live blog. Scroll down for updates.

M5 cleared in Gloucestershire

Inrix says: "Traffic easing, earlier accident on M5 Northbound from J10 A4019 (Cheltenham) to J9 A46 (Tewkesbury)."

Long delays

The latest update from Inrix says: "Long delays due to earlier accident on M5 Northbound from J10 A4019 (Cheltenham) to J9 A46 (Tewkesbury). Congestion to J11 (Gloucester / Golden Valley Bypass)."

Long delays after motorbike crash on M5

2 lanes (of 3 ) are closed on the #M5 north between J10 #Cheltenham and J9 #Tewkesbury . This is due to a collision involving a motorcyclist. There are 45 minute delays and 5 miles of congestion. Please plan your journey. pic.twitter.com/6dpOL9os5U — National Highways: South-West (@HighwaysSWEST) August 30, 2024

Inrix latest

Inrix says: "Inrix says: "Slow traffic and two lanes closed due to accident on M5 Northbound from J10 A4019 (Cheltenham) to J9 A46 (Tewkesbury).""

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HELP! Please sign our petition to reinstate the live CCTV traffic camera feeds for the M5

As most of you will have already seen, back in December, National Highways, the government body who control and operate the CCTV cameras on the M5 (and the rest of England) restricted access to their feeds, freezing the images on that date and not allowing third parties like us to give you the access to the latest traffic images you previously enjoyed.

We've been working hard to get this access restored but have unfortunately met with nothing but bureaucratic red tape and a response of "no, because we said so" from National Highways.

Road users in Scotland and Wales don't have this problem; their government bodies put the needs of the public first and have created ways for third-party providers to build fast, helpful services, now used by thousands of UK motorists daily.

The more people that sign, the quicker this can be resolved, so please share!

We have been told by National Highways that the camera feeds for the M5 will be reinstated shortly.

If the images are not updating, please check back later.

Enter a custom name for this camera if required, then click the route you wish to save it to.

Enter a custom name for this Bookmark, or just click save to keep it as it is.

Are you sure you wish to remove this camera from ALL routes? If you only wish to remove this camera from a specific route please Cancel, go to the Route in question and remove it from there.

Latest CCTV traffic image from camera #1648 on the M5 road.

Latest CCTV traffic image from camera #1649 on the M5 road.

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Latest CCTV traffic image from camera #1795 on the M5 road.

Latest CCTV traffic image from camera #1796 on the M5 road.

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M5 traffic chaos with 50-minute delays and six-mile tailbacks

There are long delays on the M5 due to a serious problem with the road surface this morning, Tuesday, August 27. According to National Highways, there are delays of 50 minutes with six miles of tailbacks on the northbound carriageway.

Two lanes of the M5 are closed between junction 19 and junction 18 with highways officers in attendance. Motorists should leave extra time for their journeys on the motorway while the closures remain in place.

National Highways: South West said in a post on X at 11.30am: "Lanes 1 and 2 are CLOSED on the #M5 northbound between J19 and J18 due to a road surface infrastructure defect.

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"The National Highways area team are en-route to scene. There are currently delays of approx. 50 mins and 6 miles of congestion."

For all of the latest traffic and travel updates from the M5, follow our live blog here.

Last updated by National Highways on 31/08/2024 00:30

M6 northbound between J27 (Gathurst) and J28 (Ryden Bridge) • Accident

M6 j28 southbound access (ryden bridge) • accident, m6 southbound between j28 (ryden bridge) and j27 (gathurst) • accident, m6 j27 northbound access (gathurst) • accident, m25 clockwise between j9 (leatherhead / epsom) and j10 (guildford / woking / esher) • accident, m49 southbound access from avonmouth • accident, m49 northbound between avonmouth junction and m4 • accident, m49 southbound between avonmouth junction and m5/a4 • accident.

M180 westbound within J4 • Congestion

Last updated by TWMC on 31/08/2024 00:30

No current traffic alerts for Wales

Last updated by TSCC on 31/08/2024 00:30

No current traffic alerts for Scotland

Traffic for england, scotland and wales.

Traffic alerts, news and travel information for all motorways and trunk roads are provided by National Highways, Traffic Wales Management Centre and Traffic Scotland Control Centre. They are updated every five minutes. The information detailed above is for unscheduled priority incidents only.

M5 traffic: live news updates

Live traffic updates for the m5 and m5 junctions, plus real-time reports on travel accidents, roadworks, snow and other delays.

The M5 is the primary motorway linking the Midlands to the West Country. On its route south-west, the M5 passes Bromwich, Birmingham and then through the Sandwell Valley. Bromsgrove, Droitwich Spa, Worcester, Bristol and Taunton are all on its 163-mile route, before it finally finishes up at Exeter.

For the majority of the time it is a standard three-lane motorway, but because it reduces to just two lanes in places it can be prone to congestion and other traffic issues. While it is not typically the busiest part of the UK road network, Friday afternoons, summer holidays and bank holidays can be particularly hectic times to hop on the M5.

• Smart motorways explained

Here you’ll find live updates on the latest traffic news for the M5 motorway including a Twitter feed from the Highways Agency and others, an interactive map showing the current traffic problems caused by road works or accidents and weather news. It’s the perfect place to check before you start your journey.

M5 traffic news: live twitter feed

Scroll down to find live tweets from the Highways Agency, official police accounts and other traffic news feeds.

M5 live traffic map

You would be pretty unlucky to get caught in major traffic jams on the M5 but just in case there is some disruption, you can keep up to date on any delays with our live and continuously updated M5 traffic map. 

• Best sat-navs to buy 2020

The map below shows live updates on the current disrupted areas of the M5 for roadworks, accidents or general congestion causing delays on the route…

The history of the M5 

The first 26 miles of the M5 motorway opened in 1962 and stretched from junction four at Lydiate Ash to the trumpet junction at Tewkesbury where it joins the M50. Despite Worcestershire County Council, the local police force and the County Surveyor of Worcestershire pushing for a three-lane route, the Ministry of Transport insisted that a two-lane motorway was to be built. Consequently, when the decision was made to widen the Worcester section of the M5 it cost £123 million to make the alteration.

•  Latest live A1 traffic news

From 1967 to 1970, the M5 was extended north of junction four, along with the addition of Frankely services. Much of the construction was built as an elevated three-lane motorway using concrete pillars as support. The M5 was also extended southwards, from 1967 to 1977, through Somerset and down to Exeter, using a three-lane motorway layout once again.

M5 junctions

Below are details of all the M5 junctions on northbound and southbound carriageways...

Going even further than the top of the M5? Then you best check our live updates page for the M6 .

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Live: M5 gridlock and long delays as motorists flock to South West

There are 45 minutes of queues on the M5

• Updated 13:10, 24 AUG 2024

There are long delays on the M5 today (Saturday, August 24) – with warnings having been issued that it will be "one of the worst days for delays".

The M5, which connects the Midlands with the South West, was expected to experience severe congestion, particularly southbound between J15 and J23. And those fears are proven accurate as they are long delays on the motorway.

One lane (of 3) is closed on the #M5 southbound between J19 (Portishead) and J20 (Clevedon). National Highways said this is due to a road surface defect that requires repairing

There are delays of approximately 45 minutes with three miles of congestion on approach. A witness said: “Traffic already building up heading southbound M5 from the split level near Clevedon and it’s like this all the way over the Avonmouth Bridge and beyond.”

Drivers have been told to avoid travelling between 12pm and 5pm on Saturday, and between 11am and 1pm on Sunday to dodge the worst of the traffic. On Friday, there were 21 miles of congestion on the M5.

For the latest updates, follow the live blog below.

Lanes have all reopened - but there are still long delays

Delays due to earlier emergency repairs and earlier incident on M5 Southbound from J19 A369 Martcombe Road (Portishead) to J20 B3133 Ettlingen Way (Clevedon). Travel time is 25 minutes.

A second lane has been closed

Long delays and two lanes closed due to medical emergency and earlier emergency repairs on M5 Southbound from J19 A369 Martcombe Road (Portishead) to J20 B3133 Ettlingen Way ( Clevedon ). Travel time is 45 minutes.

There are huge queues of traffic

M5 major delays Bank Holiday warning with specific time to avoid motorway

The M5 motorway is anticipated to be "one of the worst for delays" as millions embark on their Bank Holiday weekend travels. The RAC predicts that around 3.6 million car journeys will take place today (Saturday) alone, making it the second busiest Bank Holiday weekend since 2015.

The M5, which connects the Midlands with the South West, is expected to experience severe congestion, particularly southbound between J15 and J23, as well as northbound between J25 and J15 on Bank Holiday Monday due to returning traffic. Traffic analytics firm Inrix forecasts that two sections of the motorway - between Junction 4 and Junction 1 near Birmingham and Junction 22 to Junction 20 near Bristol - will see particularly lengthy delays.

A spokesperson advised drivers to avoid travelling between 12pm and 5pm on Saturday, and between 11am and 1pm on Sunday to dodge the worst of the traffic. Other motorways predicted to experience significant delays over the Bank Holiday weekend include the M1 in the East Midlands, the M25 around London, and the M8 in Glasgow.

There are long delays on the M5

• M5 motorway
• Traffic & Travel
• Most Recent

Live: M49 closed due to 'serious' multi-vehicle crash in Bristol causing long M5 and M4 queues

Expect long delays for the rest of the day

• Updated 21:59, 30 AUG 2024

A serious crash has closed the M49 in Bristol this afternoon, Friday, August 30, as long delays are caused by holiday traffic. The M49 is currently closed between the M5 at junction 18 and the M4 at junction 22.

Drivers have been warned of long delays as miles of tailbacks are building due to the crash closure and holiday traffic. National Highways has warned drivers the M49 is currently closed in both directions between the M5 and M4 due to a 'serious' crash.

It said: "The #M49 in #Gloucestershire is closed in both directions between #M5 J18 #Avonmouth Docks and #M4 J22 #Severn Road Bridge due to a serious collision. More information to follow, thank you for your patience."

Roads and traffic monitoring site Inrix said: "M49 in both directions closed, stationary traffic due to multi-vehicle accident from M5 J18 to M4 J22. Held around 16:35."

It also warned of delays on the M5 and M4 southbound due to holiday traffic. It said: "Long delays due to holiday traffic on M5 Avonmouth Bridge Southbound at J19 A369 (Portishead). Congestion to J15 (M4 interchange).Traffic in patches."

It also reports: "Long delays due to holiday traffic on M4 Westbound at J20 M5 J15 (Almondsbury Interchange). Congestion to before J19 (M32 / Bristol)."

There is also long delays and a lane closure on the M5 southbound at Exeter following a multi-vehicle crash. Traffic was held around 3.15pm, causing further delays.

This is a live blog. Updates will appear below.

Updates to continue from 6am

Updates will resume from 6am tomorrow morning.

Motorway completely closed

M49 - CITY OF BRISTOL - BOTH DIRECTIONS - BRISTOL M49 in both directions closed due to multi-vehicle accident from M5 J18 to M4 J22. Diversion - via the M5 and M4 in both directions.

M49 remains closed

M49 - CITY OF BRISTOL - BOTH DIRECTIONS - BRISTOL M49 in both directions closed, queueing traffic due to multi-vehicle accident from M5 J18 to M4 J22.Trapped traffic all released by 18:55. Diversion - via the M5 and M4 in both directions.

Three hospitalised

Three people are being taken to hospital as a result of the M49 crash. Police have said two lorries and a car were invovled.

Read the full story here.

"Two lorries and car" involved

M49 - CITY OF BRISTOL - BOTH DIRECTIONS - BRISTOL M49 in both directions closed, queueing traffic due to serious accident, two lorries and a car involved from M5 J18 to M4 J22. Camera shows southbound traffic is now being turned around since held around 16:35, camera shows northbound trapped traffic has been released. Diversion - via the M5 Northbound and Southbound.

Trapped traffic being turned around

M49 - CITY OF BRISTOL - BOTH DIRECTIONS - BRISTOL M49 in both directions closed, stationary traffic due to multi-vehicle accident from M5 J18 to M4 J22. Camera shows southbound traffic is now being turned around since held around 16:35, camera shows northbound trapped traffic has been released.

Holiday traffic on M4

M4 - GLOUCESTERSHIRE - WESTBOUND - BRISTOL Queueing traffic due to holiday traffic on M4 Westbound at J20 M5 J15 ( Almondsbury Interchange). Congestion to J19 (M32 / Bristol).

Southbound traffic stationary for almost 40 minutes

Camera shows northbound trapped traffic is being turned around, southbound remains held since around 16:35.

Traffic being turned around

M49 - CITY OF BRISTOL - BOTH DIRECTIONS - BRISTOL M49 in both directions closed, stationary traffic due to multi-vehicle accident from M5 J18 to M4 J22. Camera shows northbound trapped traffic is being turned around, southbound remains held since around 16:35.

Empty motorway

The M49 at junction 22 is empty as traffic is diverted away from the scene of a 'serious' crash.

Multi-vehicle crash on M49

M49 - CITY OF BRISTOL - BOTH DIRECTIONS - BRISTOL M49 in both directions closed, stationary traffic due to multi-vehicle accident from M5 J18 to M4 J22. Trapped traffic remains held since around 16:35 southbound.

M49 closed following crash

The #M49 in #Gloucestershire is closed in both directions between #M5 J18 #Avonmouth Docks and #M4 J22 #Severn Road Bridge due to a serious collision. More information to follow, thank you for your patience. pic.twitter.com/vcLYpXwXWo — National Highways: South-West (@HighwaysSWEST) August 30, 2024

'Serious' M49 crash

M49 - CITY OF BRISTOL - SOUTHBOUND - BRISTOL All traffic being temporarily held and stationary traffic due to accident on M49 Southbound around M5 J18. Held around 16:35.

M4 holiday traffic

M4 - GLOUCESTERSHIRE - WESTBOUND - BRISTOL Long delays due to holiday traffic on M4 Westbound at J20 M5 J15 (Almondsbury Interchange). Congestion to before J19 (M32 / Bristol).

Long delays

M5 AVONMOUTH BRIDGE - SOMERSET - SOUTHBOUND - BRISTOL Long delays due to holiday traffic on M5 Avonmouth Bridge Southbound at J19 A369 (Portishead). Congestion to before J15 (M4 interchange). Traffic in patches.

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Multi-vehicle crash

There is also heavy traffic on the M5 at junction 28 following a multi-vehicle crash

Long delays and one lane closed due to multi-vehicle accident on M5 Southbound from J28 A373 Honiton Road (Cullompton / Service Area) to J29 A3015 Honiton Road (Exeter / Honiton).Traffic was held briefly around 15:15.

Long delays caused by holiday traffic

M5 AVONMOUTH BRIDGE - SOMERSET - SOUTHBOUND - BRISTOL Long delays due to holiday traffic on M5 Avonmouth Bridge Southbound at J19 A369 (Portishead). Congestion to J15 (M4 interchange).Traffic in patches.

Miles of traffic

Queueing traffic in all three lanes of the M5.

• Traffic & Travel
• M5 motorway
• Most Recent

There are long delays on the M5 and other major routes in the West Country as the Bank Holiday weekend begins. Traffic queues have been building around the region since this morning as people go on a getaway over the next few days.

The M5, especially the southbound carriageway between junctions 15 an 23, is often very busy at this time of year as holidaymakers descend to Somerset, Devon and Cornwall. As of 4.30pm, there are delays between junctions 21 (Weston-super-Mare) and 18 (M49 interchange) on the motorway.

The busiest travel time is often Friday afternoon, with holiday travellers mixing with commuters from across the region. Drivers should also be prepared for extra delays throughout the weekend.

READ MORE: Police hunt for dangerous Yeovil lorry driver who caused chaos on A303

Traffic camera images from the M5 show queues across various bits of the motorway. There is also congestion on roads including the M4 around the Almondsbury Interchange.

This is a live blog. Scroll down for updates.

• M4 lane closed after crash 18:32
• 20 miles of tailbacks 12:24
• Congestion in Somerset 12:02

Sedgemoor Services reopen

An update from traffic monitoring website Inrix says: "Service area re-opened on M5 southbound at Strowland Lane (Sedgemoor Services). Sedgemoor Services is located between J21 and J22."

Earlier tyre change incident cleared

Road monitoring website Inrix says: "Traffic easing, vehicle needing a tyre to be changed earlier on M5 northbound from J11 A40 (Gloucester/Golden Valley Bypass) to J9 A46 (Tewkesbury)."

Crash closes lane on M5

A lane was closed between junctions 23 and 24 following a crash.

Traffic monitoring website Inrix says the lane has reopened, but delays remain.

Read more here .

Earlier holiday traffic on M5 easing

Road monitoring website Inrix says the holiday traffic queues between junctions 21 and 18 of the M5 have eased.

Sedgemoor Services area closed

Traffic monitoring website Inrix says: "Service area closed on M5 southbound at Strowland Lane (Sedgemoor Services). Sedgemoor Services is located between J21 and J22."

Holiday traffic clearing on M4

Updates from road monitoring website Inrix says: "Traffic easing, holiday traffic on M4 eastbound at J20 M5 J15 (Almondsbury Interchange)."

Broken down vehicle cleared

An update from traffic monitoring website Inrix says: "All lanes open and traffic easing, broken down vehicle removed on M5 northbound from J25 A358 (Taunton) to J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South)."

M5 lane closed for tyre change

Traffic monitoring site Inrix says: "One lane closed due to vehicle having a tyre changed on M5 northbound from J11 A40 (Gloucester/Golden Valley Bypass) to J9 A46 (Tewkesbury). Traffic is coping well."

Long delays on M4

Delays of 45 minutes have been reported on the M4 following the crash.

Lane 1 (of 3) is closed on the #M4 in #Gloucestershire westbound between J19 and J20 due to a collision. Delays of 45 minutes above normal travel times, please allow extra time for your journey. Thank you for your patience. pic.twitter.com/3jM0Vu2oN0 — National Highways: South-West (@HighwaysSWEST) August 25, 2023

M4 lane closed after crash

A lane is closed on the M4 in Bristol following a crash.

M4 lane closure

Inrix reports: "Queueing traffic and one lane closed due to accident on M4 Westbound from J19 M32 (Bristol) to J20 M5 J15 (Almondsbury Interchange)."

Train chaos expected at Reading Festival

Strikes being staged by the RMT union mean revellers going to Reading Festival will have plan ahead if they are looking to get the train there.

Reading Station will close at 7pm tomorrow (August 26) and not reopen until 7am on Sunday as a result of the strikes.

A limited service will also be operating to the station while the strikes take place.

M5 lane closed by breakdown

A post on traffic monitoring website Inrix says: "One lane closed and queueing traffic due to broken down vehicle on M5 northbound from J25 A358 (Taunton) to J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South)."

Latest traffic M5 camera images

Pictures from traffic camera on the M5 show queues forming along the motorway.

Lane closed near Taunton

One lane closed and queueing traffic due to broken down vehicle on M5 Northbound from J25 A358 (Taunton) to J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South).

'Long delays' on M5 between junctions 21 and 18

A post from road monitoring website Inrix says: "Long delays due to holiday traffic on M5 in both directions between J21 A370 (Weston-super-Mare) and J18 (M49 Interchange)."

Delays continue across region

M5 Somerset - northbound

Queueing traffic due to earlier broken down vehicle on M5 Northbound from J20 B3133 Ettlingen Way ( Clevedon ) to J19 A369 Martcombe Road (Portishead). All lanes have been re-opened.

Long delays due to holiday traffic on M5 Northbound from J25 A358 (Taunton) to J19 A369 Martcombe Road (Portishead).

M5 Somerset - Southbound

Queueing traffic due to earlier broken down vehicle on M5 Southbound at J20 B3133 Ettlingen Way ( Clevedon ). All lanes have been re-opened.

M4 Bristol - Eastbound

Queueing traffic due to holiday traffic on M4 Eastbound at J20 M5 J15 ( Almondsbury Interchange).

M4 Cardiff - Eastbound

Long delays due to holiday traffic on M4 Eastbound from J30 A4232 Pentwyn Link Road (Cardiff Gate) to J26 A4051 ( Malpas Road). Travel time is 30 minutes.

Holiday traffic at Taunton

"Long delays due to holiday traffic on M5 Northbound from J25 A358 (Taunton) to J21 A370 (Weston-super-mare)."

Delays on other side of bridge

"Long delays due to holiday traffic on M4 Eastbound from J30 A4232 Pentwyn Link Road (Cardiff Gate) to J26 A4051 (Malpas Road). Travel time is 35 minutes."

Holiday traffic causes delays on M4

"Queueing traffic due to holiday traffic on M4 Eastbound at J20 M5 J15 (Almondsbury Interchange)."

Lots of queuing traffic

"One lane closed and queueing traffic due to broken down vehicle on M5 Northbound from J20 B3133 Ettlingen Way ( Clevedon ) to J19 A369 Martcombe Road (Portishead). Congestion not helped by the holiday traffic in the area."

Very long delays

Second broken down vehicle closes M5 slip road lane

"M5 Southbound lane closed on exit slip road, heavy traffic due to broken down vehicle at J20 B3133 Ettlingen Way (Clevedon)."

Traffic cameras show long delays

Holiday traffic and broken down vehicle causing delays

"One lane closed and queueing traffic due to broken down vehicle on M5 Northbound from J20 B3133 Ettlingen Way (Clevedon) to J19 A369 Martcombe Road (Portishead). Congestion not helped by the holiday traffic in the area."

Heavy traffic through North Somerset and Bristol

Highways Englan shows areas of congestion through North Somerset and Bristol.

M32 blocked

Inrix says: "Usual slow traffic on M32 and Newfoundland Way Southbound in to Bristol city centre. Travel time is ten minutes."

M4 also heavily blocked

M4 - CARDIFF - EASTBOUND

Long delays due to holiday traffic on M4 Eastbound from J30 A4232 Pentwyn Link Road (Cardiff Gate) to J26 A4051 ( Malpas Road). Travel time is 40 minutes.

M4 - MONMOUTHSHIRE - WESTBOUND

Slow traffic due to holiday traffic on M4 Westbound from J23A A4810 ( Magor Services) to J26 A4051 ( Malpas Road).

Heavy congestion near Bristol

20 miles of tailbacks

Highways England is reporting severe delays on the M5 around Bristol. Drivers heading south face 20 miles of bumper-to-bumper traffic jams.

• Traffic & Travel
• Bank Holiday
• Most Recent

M5 traffic: Live updates for the South West as Easter bank holiday weekend getaway begins

• West Country
• Friday 7 April 2023 at 4:59pm

Drivers are being warned to expect long delays on the roads as the Easter bank holiday weekend gets underway.

The worst of the congestion is expected to hit roads in the South West on Good Friday, according to the RAC and traffic monitoring service Inrix.

An estimated 17 million trips are planned over the bank holiday weekend, with traffic already building at a number of congestion hotspots.

Easter Saturday and Monday are expected to be slightly less busy, with 2.3 trips expected on each day.

To help ease some of the pressure, National Highways has temporarily lifted around 1,400 miles of roadworks from Thursday 6 April to help alleviate the queues.

More than double the normal traffic levels are predicted for the M5 south between Bristol and Bridgwater.

The A303 westbound near Stonehenge is also predicted to be extremely busy, with drivers expected to face long delays.

16:30pm: Please be reminded that the M5 Somerset is experiencing severe delays southbound between J19 Portishead & J21 Weston-super-Mare due to an increased volume of traffic due to the Easter getaway. Average journey times are being delayed by at least 90 minutes. Allow extra time.

15:45pm: Somerset -This incident is now clear, and all lanes have re-opened on the M5 northbound in Somerset between J22 Burnham-on-Sea and J21 Weston-super-Mare. Long delays remain in the area but should now start to ease.

15:15pm: Somerset - One lane closed and queueing traffic due to traffic problems on M5 Northbound from J22 (Burnham-on-Sea) to J21 A370 (Weston-Super-Mare).

@ASPolice led incident. There's a 30-minute delay on approach with 5.5 miles of congestion.

14:30pm: A38 Westbound closed, queueing traffic due to an accident from B3271 (Trematon) to New Road Terrace (Landrake). Cornwall.

13:50pm: Traffic released and all lanes have reopened on the M5 Southbound between J21 Weston-super-Mare and J22 Highbridge and Burnham following an earlier collision. 13:45pm: The M5 Somerset is experiencing long delays southbound between J16 Thornbury Filton and J21 Weston-super-Mare due to an increased volume of traffic due to the Easter getaway. Average journey times are being delayed by at least 90 minutes.

12:20pm: Traffic is held on the M5 Southbound between Junction 21 at Weston-super-Mare and Junction 22 at Highbridge and Burnham.

National Highways say they are clearing debris and a fluid spill after a crash.

6:50am - A387 in Cornwall has reopened after being closed in in both directions closed due to accident.

7:20am - Reports of broken down vehicle on A38 at B3416 Deep Lane in Devon . Traffic is coping well.

8:30am - Heavy traffic on A386 in both directions at Golf Links Road, Devon .

11:40am - Very slow traffic on the A38 Eastbound before the Tamar Bridge heading into Devon. Travel time is 15 minutes.

10:45am - Slow traffic on A303 Westbound around and past Stonehenge in Wiltshire. Travel time is 30 minutes.

8.45am - A303 Westbound partially blocked, queueing traffic due to accident at A345 Countess Road (Countess roundabout). Travel time is around 10 minutes.

12:30pm - Long delays on the M5. One lane is closed due to an accident and a fuel spillage on the M5 Southbound near Sedgemoor Services. Travel time is 40 minutes.

11:50am - One lane closed and queueing traffic due to accident on M5 Southbound near Strowland Lane (Sedgemoor Services)

10:00am - Traffic heavier than normal on A371 in both directions near The Natterjack Inn pub in Somerset.

8:15am - One lane closed due to broken down vehicle on M4 Eastbound from J20 Almondsbury Interchange to J19 M32, Bristol . Traffic is coping well.

11:50am - M4 Westbound lane closed on entry slip road due to broken down vehicle at J19 M32 Bristol . Traffic is coping well.

When are the best and worst times to travel this bank holiday?

According to the RAC, major roads will be busiest between 10am and 4pm on Good Friday. Drivers are being urged to avoid these times if they want a smoother journey.

On Saturday 8 April, the busiest time to drive is estimated to be between 11am and 2pm.

Sunday is expected to see the least travel disruption with major roads particularly busy between 12pm and 2pm.

Come Monday 10 April, traffic will once again be at its worst between 12pm and 2pm.

RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “With many people keen to make the most of the double bank holiday this Easter weekend, we’re expecting the customary jams across parts of the road network to make this Good Friday a bad Friday for drivers, especially those who are planning on covering longer distances.

“Traffic volumes could be even higher if the sun chooses to make a welcome appearance.

“The South and West are the areas to watch as they’re home to some vital roads responsible for carrying vast numbers of people to the holiday destinations of the West Country.

“Our advice to anyone heading that way is to get on the road as early as possible on Good Friday, or travel on a different day entirely.”

Traffic and Travel

Devon Live brings you the latest traffic and travel updates every week. Tens of thousands of journeys are made each day in the Devon region as well as millions of journeys by public transport every year. Devon's road, rail, air and sea network is constantly evolving to keep up with the daily demand of travellers. Sign up for DevonLive's Traffic & Travel newsletter here .

Kabardino-Balkaria

• 2 Other destinations
• 3 Understand
• 5.1 By plane
• 5.2 By train
• 6 Get around
• 8.1 Mountain climbing
• 12 Stay safe
• 13.1 Mobile

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Kabardino-Balkaria\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Kabardino-Balkaria is a region in the Russian Caucasus bordering Karachay-Cherkessia to the west, Stavropol Krai to the north, North Ossetia to the east, and Georgia .

• 43.483333 43.616667 1 Nalchik — the capital and largest city, home to a large Soviet era health spa/sanatorium full of orchards, parks, and hot spring baths
• 43.7575 44.029722 3 Prokhladny — second largest city

Other destinations

• 43.24472 42.52139 4 Cheget ski resort (near Elbrus)

Kabardino-Balkaria, a republic named after its native Kabardin and Balkar people, is one of Russia's poorest regions. Two ethnic territories form Kabardino-Balkaria: one predominantly of Kabardin (who speak a Caucasian language) and the other predominantly Balkar (who speak a Turkic language). There is also a significant Russian population. The Kabardians and the Balkars are Sunni Muslims. In 1944, Stalin accused the Balkars of collaborating with Nazi Germany and deported the entire population, removing their name from the republic's title. They were allowed to return only in 1957.

In 1992, the region was born. The republic felt pray to the instability afflicting other parts of the region and to the contagion of conflict in nearby Chechnya. In 2005, militants attacked security forces in the capital; many people were killed in the incident.

Almost all of the population live on agriculture, the main industrial backbone for the Kabardian economy. The tourism sector is rapidly growing, due to proper capital investment, but has attracted few tourists so far.

The Kabardin speak Kabardian , a northwest Caucasian language of which "Cherkess" is a dialect; the Balkar speak Balkar, a Turkic language virtually identical to "Karachay." Fortunately for the visitor, all are fluent in Russian . No English is understood, and this is not likely to change for a good while.

Virtually all enter via Nalchik NAL   IATA , which is easily reached from the airport at Mineralnye Vody in Stavropol Krai .

Trains from Moscow leave every day.

Mountain climbing

Mountain climbing is the biggest attraction of Kabardino-Balkaria, and here it's a serious sport. The most popular climb is undoubtedly Mount Elbrus , as it is one of the Seven Summits , and is a fairly easy climb in technical terms (Russian Grade: 2B). But bear in mind it's one of the world's deadliest climbs in terms of fatalities per climber — it's a long climb to the top and the mountain often has dangerous and unpredictable weather. Dykhtau and Koshtan-Tau are considerably more technically challenging climbs. Two of Georgia's highest peaks, Shkhara and Ushba , are also climbable from the Russian side. Although these climbs are illegal, since you cross the Russian-Georgian border, border enforcement is lax at 17,000   ft (5,200   m) . The Shkhara climb is a lot easier and safer on the southern face.

Because dealing with Russian officialdom is hellish bordering on impossible, it's best to embark on a mountaineering expedition via guided tour (the tour agencies pick you up from Mineralnye Vody or Nalchik right at the airport and act as your intermediary with all Russian officials. Russia-based tour agencies are much cheaper than Western ones:

• Pilgrim Tours , ☏ +7 495 660-3501 , [email protected] . Pilgrim Tours is a reliable company which specializes in Mount Elbrus climbs.  

Kabardino-Balkarian State University

While not as involved in the general conflict across the North Caucasus, Kabardino-Balkaria, especially Nalchik, has been attacked repeatedly by rebel and terrorist forces. Expect very tight security, realize that this is an unstable and dangerous part of the world, and make your travel plans accordingly.

The North Caucasus is an unstable and potentially dangerous region. Short-term travel restrictions are sometimes applied in relation to ongoing security operations with little or no notice. The border crossings to Georgia and Azerbaijan are subject to frequent, sometimes lengthy closures.

In Kabardino-Balkaria there are three federal GSM operators (MTS, Beeline, Megafon) and they often have offers that give you a SIM card for free or at least very cheap. If you are planning to stay a while and to keep in touch with Kabardino-Balkarian or other North-Caucasus people, then you should consider buying a local SIM card instead of going on roaming. If you buy a SIM card from a shop you'll need your passport for identification. It only takes five minutes to do the paperwork and it will cost less than $10.

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Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria: More than Mt. Elbrus!

If you’ve traveled to the North Caucasus before, there is a good chance you’ve already been to Kabardino-Balkaria, and you didn’t even know it!  Kabardino-Balkaria lies in the center of the North Caucasus region, is home to Mt. Elbrus, but more than that is a treasure chest of travel possibilities.  Here is our guide to traveling through the republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, or 9 travel tips to this beautiful land:

1. How do I get there?

Kabardino-Balkaria hosts a large number of both foreign and Russian travelers every year, and has an improving infrastructure able to handle the incoming masses.  Let’s start with the obvious.  You might be a mountain climber or skier coming to enjoy the slopes of Mt. Elbrus.  That means you’re likely arriving on an airplane to Russia.  Here are your travel options:

A. Plane – We advise you fly into the Mineralni Vodi (MRV) airport in the Stavropol Region, which is about 45 minutes from the border of Kabardino-Balkaria.  MRV is the largest airport in the North Caucasus, and has daily direct flights to and from all 3 airpots in Moscow (SVO, DME, and VKO), direct flights from St. Petersburg, and several international flight routes as well, including from Istanbul, Dubai, Greece, Tel Aviv, and Bishkek.  The MRV airport has a growing infrastructure and is the most obvious choice to fly into if going to Elbrus.  From MRV, it’s a 2 hr. drive to Nalchik, and a 3.5 hr. drive to Mt. Elbrus.

That being said, the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, Nalchik (NAL), also has a small regional airport with a daily flight to/from Moscow as well as weekly flights to Istanbul. As is to be expected in most smaller, regional airports around Russia, the service standard at a small airport like this will be minimal.  As a result, we recommend you flying in and out of MRV if able.  It’s a 2 hr. drive to Elbrus from Nalchik.  You can also fly into other regional airports which are 2 hrs. from Nalchik, such as OGZ in North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz) or IGT in Ingushetia (Magas).

B.  Car/Public Transport – If you have a car, are using a taxi, or are hitch-hiking your way to Kabardino-Balkaria, the region is accessible by a variety of roads and vehicles.  A major Russian federal highway E50 runs through Pyatigorsk into Kabardino-Balkaria, and can take you towards Mt. Elbrus, Nalchik, and deeper into the North Caucasus.  There are daily mini-buses, or “marshrutkas”, that travel to Nalchik from Pyatigorsk, Vladikavkaz, Grozny, and Magas, if you’re coming from a neighboring republic.  From the main Nalchik bus station, there is a marshrutka that goes to Terskol (i.e. Mt. Elbrus) daily around 12:30 pm; for that matter,  marshrutkas run daily into every valley of this beautiful republic.  For the seasoned international traveler, you can drive from the country of Georgia up the famed “Georgian Military Highway” through the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, cross the border into Russia at the “Verkhni Lars” border stop, and be in Nalchik in about 2.5 hours as well. 

Anyone traveling on their own should download the “Yandex” taxi app, which is Russia’s version of Uber, and has a very user-friendly app with affordable prices.  In smaller villages/towns where Yandex’s service doesn’t reach, just ask a local and they’ll direct you to a friend or relative who can taxi you where you need to go!

C.  Train – Kabardino-Balkaria is also very accessible by the famous cross-country Russian train system if that’s your preferred method of travel.  Almost all trains to the North Caucasus pass through Mineralni Vodi in the Stavropol region to the north, so make sure wherever you are coming from, Mineralni Vodi is one of the stops.  Despite Nalchik having a train station, the city is about 45 minutes from the main railway route that runs diagonal through the North Caucasus, and as a result it’s a bit convoluted to get a train directly to Nalchik.  That being said, the town Prokhladni is a regular stop on trains going to/coming from Baku, Makhachkala, Grozny, Nazran, and Vladikavkaz, so you can always hop off there and find your way by public transport or taxi.

2.  What are the best places to stay?

This list could get exhaustive, fast. 🙂  Let’s first look at an overview of the republic’s geography, followed by hotel recommendations:

A. Nalchik – This is the capital city of Kabardino-Balkaria, with a population of around 250,000.  Nalchik is growing and new, modern hotels are being built regularly.  Here are some of our recommendations:

-Modern and comfortable:  Azimut , Butik Otel

-Budget with less frills:  Hotel Rossia , Korona

You could comfortably spend a week in Nalchik, while doing day trips into Kabardino-Balkaria’s beautiful mountain valleys.

B.  Baksan Valley – This is the most traveled road in Kabardino-Balkaria, the road to Mt. Elbrus.  If you have questions about its safety because of travel warnings, please see our detailed blog here of the drive to erase any doubts or fears.  Needless to say, because of the draw of Mt. Elbrus, there are a huge variety of lodging options at the end of this valley, from 4-star to mid-range to budget to hostel.  Here are just a few we’ll recommend from our experience:

-Modern and comfortable 4-star-ish:  Azau Star , Kristall 139

-Budget with less frills 3-star-ish:   Laguna , Povorot

If you’re a mountain climber with your sites set on the summit of Elbrus, you’ll have to spend at least 3-4 nights at Elbrus’s famous base camp at 13,000 feet.  The “barrel huts” are not easy to book directly with, and we highly recommend you do your climb (and hence, have your bookings handled) through a trusted climbing company.  Here are two shelters at base camp we recommend:

-Modern and comfortable:  Leaprus

-Budget with less frills:  Heart of Elbrus Lodge

If you’re interested in climbing Mt. Elbrus and staying in these barrel huts, click  here  to see our climbing itineraries, pricing, and group dates.

C.  Chegem Valley – Chegem Valley is the adjacent valley to Elbrus’s Baksan Valley, and is famous for its beautiful waterfalls as well as being Russia’s top paragliding location.  The “ Paradrome ” has modest accommodations for those wanting to get to know this beautiful valley for a longer period of time.

D.  Upper Balkaria, or Cherek Valley – This is another beautiful mountain gorge not too far from Nalchik.  There is an authentic lodging complex in Upper Balkaria called Tau-El, with amazing local food for meals as well.

E.  Border Zone lodging – Several of Kabardino-Balkaria’s mountain gorges run into the border zone with neighboring country Georgia, i.e. an area that foreigners cannot enter without a special permit from the local government (often taking 2 months to receive).  There is a famous mountaineering lodge in Bezengi Valley, where several generations of Russian mountain climbers have honed their craft in the Caucasus Mountains.  Perpendicular to Baksan Valley (about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus) is Adyr-Suu Valley, where there is a lodge for back-country skiers to stay, while trying their hands (and feet!) on the untouched snow of that valley.  Both these valleys require border permits for foreigners, but are possible to access for the more adventurous!

3.  Top cities to visit?

Most locals would agree that Nalchik is the main city of significance to visit in Kabardino-Balkaria, but let’s be honest, even more would say, “Just go to the mountains!”  Tirnauz is the capital of the Elbrus district, and is an interesting town to spend some time in, with its unique location in the mountains and place in Soviet history as a once-booming mining town.  The main thing to consider in visiting Nalchik and other cities in the lowlands, is the chance to experience Kabardian culture and food.  Whereas the deeper you go into the valleys, the more you’ll encounter Balkar culture and food.

4.  Best local foods to try?

There are 3 types of food that come to mind, when spending time in Kabardino-Balkaria:

A. Khychiny – This is one of the staple national dishes of the Balkar people, and what you’ll inevitably be served if guests of local Balkars.  It’s a thin buttery flat bread, sometimes cooked with fillings of cottage cheese, fresh greens, or potatoes.  It is often slathered in butter, but wow is that some tasty greasy goodness! 🙂

B.  Shashlik – Shashlik is a MUST for any visit anywhere in the North Caucasus!  Most people would agree that it’s the national food of the entire region.  Shashlik is meat shish kabobs; while pork and turkey can be found in some parts of the Caucasus, lamb or chicken are the preferred shashlik meats of choice in Kabardino-Balkaria. 

C.  Soup – No matter where you are in Russia, you’re sure to find a local soup that people love.  Kabardino-Balkaria is no different.  Especially in the winter months in the mountain valleys, there’s nothing better than to come inside from the cold weather and warm your body up to a bowl of hearty Caucasus soup.  Whether Georgian kharcho or local Balkar lakhman, make sure to try your hand at one of these soups with a side of fresh baked bread/lavash!

5.  Top Hole-In-The-Wall restaurants:

Of course, for a republic of this size, we’re bound to leave at least a few great local joints off our list, but here are a few to get you started. ***Note:  Restaurants in the North Caucasus are much better known for their food than their service, so prepare for tasty food, but manage your expectations about service:

-Elbrus – Kogutai Restaurant at Mt. Cheget – While this isn’t a hole-in-the-wall restaurant per se, it’s one of many to choose from in the Cheget tourist village, and we have found them to provide consistently good food and service.  Kogutai has a nice interior, and maybe most important, an English-language menu with good pictures. 🙂  There also is a nice outdoor patio with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.

-Nalchik #1 – Tameris Restaurant – This is a cafe with a relaxed atmosphere in the capital Nalchik.  Local tour company Elbrus Elevation has taken foreign groups there on multiple occasions and always had good experiences.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 3. 

-Nalchik #2 – Cafe-Bar Oasis – You have to know where this restaurant is to find it, but once inside, you won’t regret it!  There is a unique cafeteria-style ordering process, that includes several dishes being cooked on the spot once ordered.  You can sample local Kabardian dishes here.  The seating area is very modern and a pleasant atmosphere to have a meal in.  Address is ul. Kuliyeva 2. 

-Upper Balkaria – Tau-El Restaurant – This is the restaurant part of the Tau-El Tourist Complex in Upper Balkaria.  Whether spending the night or just passing through, make sure to stop here for a meal!

6.  Must-See Sites

This republic is so chock full of “must-see” destinations, it’s impossible to narrow the list down.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started: (***Mt. Elbrus is a no-brainer and we’re assuming that’s on your list)

A. El-Tyubu and Paradrome – This is an amazing area towards the end of Chegem Valley.  Many tourists visit the famous Chegem Waterfalls and don’t drive any further down this gorge, which really is a shame.  El-Tyubu is a picturesque Balkar village with several historical sites to see, including some ancient mausoleums.  The real gem of the area, though, is the Paradrome , which is Russia’s premier paragliding destination.  The combination of the scenic surrounding mountains and constant winds produces almost daily conditions to sail through the beautiful Caucasus sky.  Highly recommend!

B.  Upper Balkaria – Also known as Cherek Valley, the entire drive to the actual village of Upper Balkaria is one big destination.  First, you can spend time at the 3 consecutive “ Blue Lakes ”, one of which is one of Russia’s deepest lakes with an underground spring.  Then, the drive itself becomes an adventure, as you pass by steep rock walls with a huge drop-off on the other side.  If you’re able to walk this part of the road, that is a bonus!  Once you’ve made your way through the valley walls, the region opens up into a beautiful panoramic view.  Many years ago, there were multiple villages in this region, but they’ve since been condensed into one main village.  You can see some of the ancient Balkar towers that their ancestors used to live in as well.

C.  Djili-Suu – Although hard to pronounce and not easy to get to, Djili-Suu is one of those places in the North Caucasus that people rave about that you “have to” visit.  It’s actually on the North side of Mt. Elbrus, and more accessible from the Mineral Waters region (2 hrs. from Kislovodsk).  The base camp for Elbrus climbers summiting the mountain from the North side is at Djili-Suu.  This area is famous in Russia for its numerous natural healing springs, as well as unique climate conditions that make for beneficial, long holidays for seeking a respite from their daily grind.  There are wide swaths of land available for camping, with probably the most unrivaled views of Mt. Elbrus in the North Caucasus.  Make sure to check this out!

7.  Off-the-beaten path destinations

A. King’s Waterfalls (Tsarskie), or Gedmisht – Probably the valley in Kabardino-Balkaria with the least amount of hype is the Malka Valley, which is the northernmost valley and mainly runs through the Kabardian lowlands.  At the point where the villages end, though (Khabas), the asphalt turns into dirt and the hills start to rise, culminating with the incredible King’s Waterfalls, or as one friend put it, Avatar Waterfalls.  These stunning waterfalls are best visited in the early summer, when everything is lush green and the water flow is strong, with many streams of water flowing down the earth’s surface.  The different colors are incredible and it’s hard to look away.  Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, enjoy a meal of shashlik at one of the nearby lunch huts.  Having an off-road vehicle is ideal to visit these falls, but worth the time and effort!

B.  One-seater chair lift at Elbrus – As the infrastructure at Mt. Elbrus has modernized, some of the more “authentic” experiences have gone to the way-side.  This is one experience still available, though!  From the 2nd (11,000 ft.) to 3rd level (12,500 ft.) of Mt. Elbrus (whether skiing, going to base camp, or just touring), there is a single-seater chair lift for 100 rubles each way (less than $2).  This is an amazing experience if you have the time.  It’s 8-10 minutes each way, and a surreal experience of the majestic Caucasus mountain range surrounding you, skiers silently passing you by underneath, and in general enjoying the silent expanse of nature all around.  The chair lifts are from the Soviet times and so it feels like something from a different era.  For mountain climbers, the newer group cable car gives better access to most of base camp, but several huts are pretty close to this chair lift, so it still may be a good option for you.

C.  Abandoned Mines above Tirnauz – Tirnauz is about 1 hr. from Mt. Elbrus, and a town everyone drives through to and from the mountain.  Although today it looks old and half-abandoned, it was a booming mining town in the 20th century.  About a 45-minute drive above the city with an off-road vehicle, you can see the remains of the mining operations.  Learning about this history combined with the breath-taking views of the Baksan Valley and even into Georgia, you’ll wonder why more people aren’t visiting this place.  This is a great spot to see eagles soaring in the sky, as well as admire the Soviet city plan of Tirnauz from above.

8.  What do I need border zone passes to visit?

In Russia, any area within 5-10 km of a neighboring country, without a clearly delineated border (i.e. in the mountains) is considered a special border zone, and patrolled by Russian border guards.  This area IS accessible to all Russian citizens with their passports, but is NOT legally accessible to foreign citizens UNLESS you have a special permit from the FSB (Federal Security Bureau).  These permits are accessible, either through a tour operator or local friend, but require you to submit your application 45-60 days in advance.

Areas in Kabardino-Balkaria that are worth a visit if you have a border zone pass:

A.  Bezengi Wall – This is at the end of the Bezengi Valley, and holds a place of lore among Russian mountain climbers.  Many mountain guides go through training in this valley.  Five of the Caucasus Mountain’ range’s highest seven peaks are a part of the Bezengi Wall, so you can imagine the draw it has for climbers. There are great areas for trekking and camping in this area. 

B.  Adyr-Suu Gorge – This remote valley runs perpendicular to Baksan Valley and is about 25 minutes from the base of Mt. Elbrus.  It’s marked at the entrance by a relic of the past, a car lift from Soviet days that auto-cranks your car (and you) about 50 meters up the mountain.  After 45-60 minutes of driving on gravel road, the gorge opens up into a flat valley with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.  The Adyr-Suu Alpine Lodge is at the end of this valley and where back-country skiers base out of during the acclimatization phase of their Mt. Elbrus ski tours.  This is truly a place where you can experience untouched powder!

C.  Mt. Cheget (Elbrus) – Cheget is a neighboring mountain to Mt. Elbrus and where many climbers will acclimatize, both at its base and while doing some hikes.  It also is famous in Russia for its free-ride terrain for more experienced skiers.  Standard access to the chair lifts and mountain are available to all (i.e. mountain climbers don’t need to worry about accidentally crossing into the zone), but anyone wanting to summit the peak of Cheget OR visit the beautiful Cheget Lake needs a border permit. 

Foreigners violating the border zone areas is considered a serious offense in Russia; make sure to do your due diligence if wanting to visit one of these areas!  We highly recommend using a local tour operator and always traveling with a local person if visiting one of these areas.

9.  Any cultural “do’s” or “don’t’s” to be aware of

Kabardino-Balkaria is a fascinating republic with a combination of traditional and modern society.  The more you interact with local people, the more you’ll see a mixture of Muslim faith, post-Soviet mentality, and ancient local traditions all wrapped together.   

Kabardians mainly live in the lowlands (Nalchik, Baksan, and lowland villages), while Balkars primarily live in the mountain valleys (Elbrus, Chegem, Upper Balkaria, etc.).  There is a large population of Russians in the region as well.  Foreigners visit every area of the region regularly, and so local people are used to and will welcome your presence.

Come with an open mind to learn about these peoples, their traditions, and their land.  You won’t regret your trip to Kabardino-Balkaria!

***Want to learn more?  Here are several self-published resources from the podcast “ CaucasTalk ” related to Kabardino-Balkaria:

– Travel Tips to Kabardino-Balkaria (audio version of this blog)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 1)

– History of Mt. Elbrus (Part 2)

– Interview with Local Elbrus guide

– Climbing Elbrus: Interview with American guide

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 1)

– Who are the Kabardians? (Part 2)

– Skiing in the North Caucasus (Elbrus and more)

READY TO EXPERIENCE KABARDINO-BALKARIA FOR YOURSELF?

Where to find us.

• +1 704-810-4296
• [email protected]
• 1578 Pine Creek Rd., Gastonia, NC 28056

Travel Information

• We no longer offer travel services to Russia. See Caucasus Quest Tours for new destinations
• Is it Safe to Travel to the Caucasus in 2024?
• Climbing Kazbek & Kilimanjaro: Comparing two 5,000+ meter peaks
• How to Train to climb Mt. Kazbek in Georgia

Our Elbrus Climbing Tours

• Climb Elbrus South Route
• Climb Elbrus North Route
• Climb Elbrus & The Capitals
• Climb Elbrus & The Caucasus

Russia Cultural Tours

• Capitals of Russia
• Lake Baikal on Ice
• Delightful Dagestan
• Heart of the Caucasus

ALL Travel Services to Russia and Mt. Elbrus have been indefinitely suspended as of Feb. 2022.

Explore our new tour branch Caucasus Quest to climb Mt. Kazbek (5,054 meters) in Georgia or for immersive cultural touring experiences in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.