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Green Country Offroad

Best Ford Excursion Upgrades

Tuning has always been treated differently. It went through the era of unsuitable for civilian use racing cars, and then by the advent of decor and electronics and the most popular tuning became factory tuning. But the factory versions of cars are far from being the best, and on the contrary – for everyone and for no one. And to make the car comfortable, but not defiant, it is enough to pump a little electronics and appearance in it. So today I will tell you in detail how to improve your Ford!

Legal Improvements

Some want to make the car more powerful and passable, others improve it for external gloss. But not every modification can be legalized. Red headlights or tires that don’t match the car’s model will make the car inoperable. The automobile tuning rules, approved by the government, should simplify the registration and make it more understandable.

Changing the Original Head Unit

Replacement of the original head unit is the most obvious way to turn an aging car into a modern one. First of all, OEM head units are very sad in the number of functions and are far behind on the technical side from what we see in smartphones and tablets. Second, they usually don’t get updates as often, unlike third-party multimedia devices, which are updated “over the air.”

It’s not just a tablet that can play music/video or not play, run apps or not run – the system remembers your music preferences, the routes of your daily movements, can pave the way on the command “Let’s go home”, and also on the road tells the news that is interesting to you personally voice Alice if you ask her for it.

Music Instead of Alarms

We all know by heart the standard alarm sound. Technology is technology, but the sound of manipulating the car is still the most popular way to scare off car thieves. Today, instead of the standard sound you can put any melody or even record your own call or sounds that will accurately identify your car against the background of others. For this purpose, the alarm is paired with a siren, which allows you to replace the standard sound signal with any melody.

The car shock absorber or so-called “amort” – a special device in the suspension of the car, the purpose of which is, the reduction of mechanical vibrations (damping) in motion or complete absorption. Shocks for Ford Excursion provide a soft and smooth ride of the car, as well as protect elements of the running machine from loads arising from the movement on the uneven surface of the roadway. Automotive shock absorbers are used as part of the elastic elements in the vehicle suspension together with springs, torsions, and springs.

All-Around Visibility

What distinguishes an experienced driver from a novice driver? An experienced driver can park without problems, guided only by the mirrors. What distinguishes a professional from an experienced driver? A professional will be able to park in places that require perfect clarity and attention.

To practice parking skills, modern cars are equipped with rear-view cameras, but you can go further and install a third-party circular viewing system in the car, which will allow you to see the car in any projection, including from above while staying inside the cabin or even at home. The image is transmitted to your smartphone and allows you to see everything that is going on with the car at any time online.

Cold Air Intake is a part of the power supply system of vehicles with internal combustion engines; pipes of various shapes, cross-sections, and designs for air intake and its directed delivery to the air filter and further to the carburetor or throttle assembly.

The air intake has several functions:

• Atmospheric (cold) air intake to feed the engine;
• Warm air intake to power the engine during cold start and warm-up (mainly in cold weather);
• Directional air supply to the filter regardless of its location (this allows for convenient placement of the filter and other parts of the power system);
• Some types of air intakes – protecting the engine power system from water and dirt;
• In some cars and tuning – serving as a decorative element.

Automatic Tinting

It is also possible to improve the appearance of the car with the help of tinting. Modern tinting has nothing in common with films from the 1990s, moreover, its transparency can be controlled. The secret is that instead of regular glasses, you may install electrochromic double glasses, the external and internal surfaces of which are covered with athermal armor film, and there is a polymer inside the glasses.

It is the polymer that allows you to adjust the tinting and light transmission. Tinting is controlled by a button or regulator, allowing you to smoothly change the degree of tinting. Such glass is made to order, and installation and production are handled by special companies.

Wireless Disc Illumination

If you want to make your car a little more pretty, but not turn it into a glowing mountain like a truck from a Coca-Cola New Year commercial, there is a way out. Not everything is easy, of course, because some kinds of lights will attract not only the attention of pedestrians or other motorists but also the traffic police. And all because usually to install the lights you need to rearrange almost the entire body of the car, and such interference will no longer be particularly legal.

To help comes to the technology of wireless LED-lighting, which is easily mounted to the discs of the car. During the day it is charged by sunlight, and in the evening it glows in different colors – you can choose one-color or multi-color backlighting. The main thing is not to overdo it, so as not to spoil the appearance of the car.

Active Noise Reduction

Many motorists are quite satisfied with the sound of regular acoustic systems, but for a true audiophile, the replacement of car audio is one of the main ways to make your car personal and unique.

If you are not so enthusiastic about music in order to change the upholstery and add a layer of sound insulation, and then change the speakers, you can do with replacing the original sound system and using the technology of active noise reduction with the help of accelerometers and microphones. The first detects vibrations, and the second – sound waves, after which a special processor processes this information, and the system produces a compensating signal.

Suspension Lift

One of the best methods of improving the off-road qualities of any car is considered a Lift Kit for Ford Excursion. In this situation, not only the body is lifted above the ground, but also the frame and the units installed on it so that the geometric cross-country capability of the off-road vehicle is significantly improved.

Suspension lift comes in several ways. To a large extent, the suspension lift depends on the design of the vehicle, as well as how many centimeters or inches lifted the suspension. The basis of all these methods is the replacement of the elastic suspension components. Long springs are installed. If the suspension is a leaf spring, between the leaf spring and the frame is installed spacers or lengthened wishbones, or leaves are added to the leaf springs.

If the suspension lift is significant, the center of gravity increases significantly, which negatively affects the controllability of the car, resulting in an increased risk of overturning. Particular attention should be paid to how the driveshafts function. The fact is that driveshafts have their own limit angle at which they can operate, and the wear on the shafts will be the greater the closer the angle is to the limit. More often than not, the greatest wear is at the face joint of the driveshafts.

Thus, the average car produced by any well-known automobile company usually meets the needs of buyers. However, in some cases, vehicle owners want to give their “iron horse” a more individual character and stylish appearance. In such cases, craftsmen who can perform high-quality tuning of the vehicle come to the rescue. With the help of competent tuning can improve the aerodynamic properties of cars, create a more spectacular facade, improve the performance of the engine, and more. So, I also hope that this article was useful for you and you can easily improve your Ford Excursion.

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Ford Excursion Parts And Accessories

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Ford Excursion Coil Spring Conversion

Every off-roading enthusiast knows a vehicle's suspension system is crucial in providing a comfortable and safe ride, particularly when driving on rough terrain. The suspension system absorbs shocks and vibrations, reduces body roll, and keeps the wheels in contact with the ground while improving traction and stability.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the 2000-2005 Ford Excursion coil spring conversion process along with a detailed description and the benefits of doing so, as well as examples from one of our own projects involving a 2000 Ford Excursion Limited.

Why upgrade your Excursion to Coil Spring suspension?

The Ford Excursion is a heavy-duty SUV built to tow and haul heavy loads. However, its suspension system is designed for on-road use and requires more to be suitable for true off-road driving. Upgrading to a later model F250 coil spring suspension can significantly improve its capability and provide several benefits for daily driving, towing, and especially off-road performance. So, when it comes to the 2000-2005 model Excursion, you may want to consider upgrading your suspension to a more robust, battle-tested setup such as the popular later model F250 coil spring conversion, which uses critical components such as radius arm suspension to provide better ride quality, improved steering, and superior ground clearance capability. All that said, here are some of the benefits you get from this upgrade:

• Improved ride quality: With its advanced coil-spring system, the suspension setup of the F250 offers better control over bumps and vibrations, resulting in superior ride quality and comfort compared to the original suspension of the Excursion.
• Increased ground clearance: The F250 coil spring suspension provides increased ground clearance compared to the original Excursion suspension, allowing the vehicle to clear obstacles with greater ease and reducing the risk of getting hung up on rocks, roots, or other barriers.
• Better off-road performance: By utilizing more robust and durable components, the improved stability, traction, and handling of the coil spring system used in the F250 suspension setup provide better off-road performance through increased suspension articulation than the original leaf suspension of the Excursion.
• More customization options: Upgrading to the F250 coil spring setup provides more customization opportunities for Excursion owners. Also, many aftermarket upgrades are available for the F250 suspension that can improve performance and give greater adjustability.
• Improved towing capacity: Designed for heavy-duty use, the suspension setup of the F250 is an excellent upgrade for Excursion owners who need to tow heavy loads or trailers, as it can easily result in improved towing capability.
• Better Turning Radius: The later model F250 has an increased turning radius ability resulting in more agile off road performance and increased ability to fit in stubbornly tight parking spaces.

How to install Coil Springs on your Excursion

Converting a 2000-2005 Ford Excursion to a coil-spring suspension involves:

• Removing the original suspension.
• Preparing the frame.
• Installing the new coil-spring suspension components of the drivetrain and steering system.
• Aligning and testing the vehicle.

This process significantly improves the Excursion's off-road capabilities and overall on-road and off-road performance. However, it is complex, and we always recommend having the procedure done by a qualified off-road shop.

Here is a basic outline of the Coil conversion:

• Remove the old suspension system - The first step in upgrading your suspension is to remove the old system by removing the front axle assembly, leaf springs, track bar bracket, and shocks.
• Next, install a later model F250 coil spring and radius arm suspension system. This system is an improvement over the Excursion's original suspension system because it provides better ride quality and increases the ability of the suspension to articulate and increase traction when going over obstacles or rough terrain, making it more suitable for off-road driving.
• Upgrade steering components - Upgrading the steering components is also necessary when upgrading the suspension by installing later model f250 steering linkage or upgraded aftermarket linkage such as PMF Suspension or Synergy Suspension and or single/dual stabilizers based on desired usage and tire size. These upgrades improve steering response and reduce the risk of damage to the steering system during off-road driving.
• Replace the drivetrain components - When upgrading the suspension system, it's also a good idea to upgrade drivetrain components such as axles, differentials, and driveshaft to ensure the entire system is solid and reliable for driving off-road.
• Install aftermarket parts - Aftermarket parts can also be added to the suspension and steering system to improve performance. These can include longer shocks, adjustable sway bars, and upgraded control arms. Such upgrades can provide even better stability, suspension travel, and ground clearance.

Our very own Excursion Coil Spring Conversion

At Adrenaline Offroad Co., we recently had the opportunity to perform a complete coil spring conversion on a customer's 2000 Ford Excursion. This was an exciting project for us, as we love nothing more than taking on a challenge and seeing the transformation of a vehicle for optimal performance, especially the beloved Ford Excursion.

To begin the project, we started by searching for a donor chassis that would provide us with all the necessary components for the conversion. This makes the process much easier, as it can be time-consuming to source individual parts and, most importantly, save some downtime for our customer. Of course, after some searching, we found a 2007 F250 4wd bare rolling chassis that was a perfect fit for the job.

Once we had the new chassis, we disassembled the donor frame and sent the usable pieces out for blasting. Once everything was cleaned up, we refinished the axle housings and began rebuilding both front and rear differentials with Detroit Truetrac carriers, a new Motivegear master bearing kit, and a 3:73 ring and pinion for each to start fresh from any previous wear.

Next, we shifted focus to the front components and added Ford Motorcraft OEM ball joints to the suspension for optimal performance and a Timken wheel bearing/hub assembly with a set of Warn premium sleek black super-duty locking hubs to provide the extra grip. Of course, this also included replacing all seals and bearings as a precautionary measure, as always.

When it came to stopping power, we added a Power Stop Z-36 Truck and Tow performance brake kit to ensure that the Excursion would stop on a dime. This included drilled and slotted rotors, performance brake pads, and new red powder-coated caliper assemblies with a nice Russell stainless steel brake hose kit as a bonus.

For the actual coils and suspension, we chose to go with Icon dual rate 4.5" lift coils with new F250 05-07 Ford OEM spring retainers/buckets (because the PMF version looked too boxy) and a set of ATS leaf springs with Sulastic shackles in the back to increase rear suspension ride quality.

However, when it came to steering components, we utilized several PMF products (per customer request), including a 2004-16 F250/350 adjustable track bar, 4.5" drop bracket, 05-22 Superduty adjustable link arms, and 05-16 F250/250 heavy-duty (stock height) replacement radius arm mounts.

To assist with steering, we added a PMF 05-22 Superduty HD tie rod bar, PMF 05-22 Superduty single-piece drag link, and PSC Motorsports steering box (due to the variant in the sector shaft spline count and size required by the new suspension geometry and prevent bump steer). Lastly, we installed a PMF dual steering stabilizer bracket paired with Bilstein 5100 series stabilizers to dampen the road impact and smooth the steering.

Finally, when it came to altering the frame, we welded in a custom threaded bung we fabricated to accept the (new) later model PMF track bar bracket. This was necessary due to the curvature of the 99-04 frame configuration and the original track bar bracket mounting being different from the new track bar bracket requirements.

Overall, this project was exciting for both our team and our customer. The transformation of this Ford Excursion was impressive, and our customer was amazed at the increased ride quality and turning radius. At Adrenaline Offroad Co., we constantly strive to push boundaries and attain new levels of performance for our clients, and like on all projects, this project was no different.

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Best Ford Excursion Mods For Off-Road Capability

Once you get over that new truck joy, you start wanting to modify this or that to make your truck better for what you need it to do. For many people, that means making it more off-road capable, so it drives more like a mountaineering SUV that excels at mudding.

When you start drooling over potential mods or exterior accessories to modify your Ford Excursion, check local and state laws before you buy anything. Some locales make certain modifications illegal.

We’ve seen many mods and picked out our favorites that you can legally use. Here’s our list.

Bigger Wheels

You don’t have to keep the wheels your standard Ford Excursion wheels. Upgrade to beast mode with 31-, 33-, 35- or 37-inch wheels.

Nothing says off-road like mud tires. As cool as they look, if you work in construction, hauling, lawn maintenance, or any other of a number of commercial endeavors, these snazzy tires make a reasonable investment. You drive over mud regularly and this upgrade keeps you moving.

Body and Suspension Lift

Draw inspiration from these amazing Ford lifts on Pinterest. Every state has its own laws governing body and suspension lifts. Reference this list on Offroaders.com to find out the lift limitations in your locality. Typically, lift heights change either the vehicle’s body or the suspension’s lift by a 2-, 4-, 6-, or 8-inch margin. In some states, they allow the body lift, but not the suspension lift.

Add to the utility of your Excursion with a brush guard winch front bumper. Hammerhead makes one that so many Ford drivers love that it has its own Pinterest following.

Fender Flares and Mud Flaps

Keep your tires and wheelbase cleaner while you off-road by adding fender flares. The dirt, debris, and mud from off-roading can really muck up your wheelbase and affect your tire and wheel health if you don’t protect them. Pay attention to the rear of your tires, too, by adding mud flaps to help keep your Ford in great shape.

NP273 Diesel Upgrade

Add durability and support to your heavy-duty truck by modifying the NP273 transfer case in an Excursion featuring either a 6.0 or 7.3 diesel engine. The NP273 transfer case can be rebuilt to withstand enormous amounts of off-road abuse or you can install one that has already been rebuilt like these, https://reman-transmission.com/transfer-cases-code/NP273-NV273 . 

Lightbars offer another area of potential modification that could prove illegal in your state. Check the local laws and state laws before you purchase and mod your Ford Excursion. You might find that your state allows the use of a light bar during off-roading only or that it allows a specific configuration only. CJ Offroad offers a comprehensive list of laws by state.

Roof Racks and Cargo Baskets

Extend the use of your Ford Excursion with a roof rack, cargo box, or load bars. This lets you pack luggage on top of the vehicle and save interior space for seating. With camping gear on top, you can fit more friends inside your vehicle.

Although you might not be able to copy exactly a modification you spot around town or online, you can come close in most states. Your state laws determine what changes you can make and not land a ticket or lose license points. You can have fun modifying your Ford Excursion for off-roading.

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• Ford Excursion Parts

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• Buy With Confidence Delivering reliable auto parts service since 2008
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Ford produces highly popular vehicles such as the Excursion, and they are commonly spotted on the American highway. The Excursion has a reputation as an excellent vehicle but with wear the best-built cars and trucks can't function without mechanical service and new aftermarket or OEM parts. Use www.partsgeek.com whenever you want the best quality auto parts to be rewarded with our excellent customer service and a good price with every order. The reliability and solid performance that belong to a Ford Excursion argue for regularly buying replacement and aftermarket components with equal value; high-quality parts don't have to break the bank. It seems like the most annoying aspect about doing work on your car or truck is looking for a good source of quality parts. If your Ford needs maintenance, the sensible approach is buying a new top-quality replacement or OEM auto part to restore your car in optimum shape. On those occasions when you're going to need Ford Excursion parts, the best approach is to shop for the best quality parts and accessories on the market - and if you get parts from PartsGeek you also find the most affordable prices around all done with world class order fulfillment. Durable auto parts are what repair techs need to keep your Ford in running order however rough the roads.

Right - Passenger Side Action Crash Mirror - for 2000 Ford Excursion

Front Action Crash Grille Assembly - for 2000 Ford Excursion

Front and Rear Detroit Axle Brake Pad and Rotor Kit - for 2000 Ford Excursion Limited 4WD

• Kit Includes: (2) Front Drilled Slotted Brake Rotor + (2) Rear Drilled Slotted Brake Rotor + (2) Front Ceramic Brake Pad + (2) Rear Ceramic Brake Pad + (2) Brake Fluid & Cleaner
• Brake Kits are built to exceed OEM Specification and have the proper fit and finish required for superior stopping power
• Built under strict quality control standards; Tested for impact, wear and fatigue to ensure quality and durability; Manufactured in ISO9002 Certified facility

Front Pronto Brake Rotor - for 2000 Ford Excursion 4WD

• Kit Includes: (4) Front & Rear Disc Brake Rotor + (4) Front & Rear Ceramic Brake Pad + (2) Brake Cleaner & Fluid

Rear Bilstein Shock Absorber - for 2001 Ford Excursion 4WD 5.4L V8

• Bilstein 4600 Series
• Monotube Gas Pressure Construction
• Improved Ride And Handling
• Added Traction And Enhanced Stability
• Increased Performance Even When Towing Heavy Loads
• Vehicle Specific Ride Tuning

Front Timken Wheel Hub Assembly - for 2000 Ford Excursion 4WD

• Provides tight fit to the wheels
• Transmits power without slipping
• Made of high-quality material
• Increases product reliability and enhances performance
• Easy maintenance

Front Bilstein Shock Absorber - for 2001 Ford Excursion 4WD 5.4L V8

Anzo Headlight Set - for 2000 Ford Excursion

• D.O.T. Compliant To S.A.E. Standards
• Guaranteed To Improve Your Vehicles Appearance
• 1 Year Warranty Covering Any Manufacturers Defects
• Sold As A Pair
• Rigorously Tested For Fit And Function
• Easy Installation Using Common Hand Tools
• Simple Plug And Play
• Uses Stock Mounting Locations And Hardware
• No Modifications Required

DIY Solutions Ignition Coil and Spark Plug Kit - for 2000 Ford Excursion 6.8L V10

GPD A/C Compressor Kit - for 2000 Ford Excursion 7.3L V8

• All product needed to do the job right the first time
• Designed to meet or exceed OE fit, form, and function
• Direct fit replacement
• Durability tested on every new design
• gpd Compressor Kits include, Compressor, Accumulator, Expansion Device, and Rapid Seal Kits(unless otherwise noted). The compressor kit provides the components needed to complete the job right. All gpd Compressor kits are application specific.

Right - Passenger Side Action Crash Tail Light Assembly - for 2000 Ford Excursion

Catco Catalytic Converter - for 2000 Ford Excursion 5.4L V8

Front Lower Moog Ball Joint - for 2000 Ford Excursion 4WD

• Greaseable for smoother steering
• Dust boots included
• Designed as stock replacement

Ford Excursion

Introduced in 1999, the Ford Excursion went out of production in 2005 for the North American market and in 2006 for Mexico. It was an extended SUV based on the Ford F-250 Super Duty line of trucks. It was a direct competitor for the 2500-series of the Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon XL. In 2007, Ford launched the Expedition EL, or the Expedition Max in Canada and Mexico. The Ford Excursion was not only based on the Ford F-250 Super Duty but it also shared most of its chassis components. The wheelbase, width and front and rear tracks, front and rear suspensions as well as the steering gear were the same as The Super Duty. The four wheel drive models were offered with an NV273 transfer case. Its fuel economy was reported at 12 to 15 miles per gallon. From a safety perspective, Ford included a blocker beam which was a tubular steel fixture mounted below and behind the front bumper - this was designed to prevent the Excursion from driving up the windscreen of another vehicle in the event of a head-on collision. Similarly, a Class IV trailer hitch was made a standard equipment in order to avoid under-riding, should a smaller vehicle crash into the Excursion from the rear. With three-row seating, the Ford Excursion could accommodate nine passengers. By 2004, the Ford Excursion was offered in four trim levels - base XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer and the Limited. The Ford Triton V8, a 5.4 L producing 190 kW power would be the standard engine on both the XLT and the Limited. The Ford Triton V10, 6.8 L engine generating 231 kW and the Ford Power Stroke 7.3 L turbodiesel engine, producing 175 kW were also available as options. The latter was upgraded to generate 186 kW in 2001. It was subsequently de-commissioned in 2004 and was eventually replaced by a Ford Power Stroke 6.0 L engine which could crank up a power of 242 kW. The 6.0 L had a five-speed automatic transmission and was adjudged the best suited to lifting and hauling of heavy loads. The rest had four-speed automatic transmission. It was initially received very well and sales peaked in the model year 2000. Its sheer mass attracted many customers. Rising petrol prices and low fuel-economy caused its sales to dip thereafter though. Parking, too, was a big challenge. However, if you are still owning a Ford Excursion and want your vehicle to be comprised of nothing less than authentic Ford Excursion aftermarket parts and Ford Excursion interior parts, please log on to PartsGeek.com for more details. Whether you are on the lookout for Ford Excursion performance parts or hunting for Ford Excursion parts catalog, PartsGeek.com should have you covered.

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Great price on a hose that fit perfect. The real story isn't the price and quality of the part (which is great)... It is the awesome customer service at Parts Geek. Quick response help me order the right one! Thanks!!! - G-Man

Parts Geek is professional, fast and best bang for your buck. Puts all local auto stores to shame. - mejia

Great fit and price. Fast shipping, definitely buy from again. - michele

right side passenger mirror - Hugo Estrada

Part fit great, very easy to install. - Brian

Gasket was a bit off sized from original part, but worked fine. Easy install. - Brian

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)

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Visiting Russia - Nalchik, Capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

By Koryo Tours

Nalchik, capital of Kabardino-Balkaria

Visiting Russia – Nalchik

Yoshkar-ola | cheboksary  |  astrakhan | elista | stalingrad (volograd)  | abakan  |  nalchik  | validkavkaz  | makhachkala  |  grozny.

Nalchik is a small city of around 240,000 people and serves as the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, one of the lesser-known republics spread across the beautiful North Caucasus area of Russia, the mountain range that separates the former soviet states of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan from the Russian Federation.

This region has incredible diversity in ethnic groups and is a melting pot at the edge of empire. While there have been civilisations in the Caucasus for millennia Nalchik as a city is only a century old, having been a Russian fort since 1724. Today’s Nalchik is a mostly peaceful and relaxing place, being in the foothills of the mountains it has many areas of great beauty and multiple sanatoria for people looking to take the waters, over the last century it has certainly had its share of turbulence though, being occupied by Romanian troops fighting on the side of the Nazis, who embarked on an effort to exterminate the ancient community of Mountain Jews in the area (unsuccessfully), plus a 2005 Islamic militant attack on Russian security forces.

These days Nalchik is known as a clean city, a place for relaxing, and the starting point of expeditions to summit Mt. Elbrus, the tallest mountain in Europe, which lies within Kabardino-Balkaria.

Kabardians make up the largest ethnic group at just under 50% of the city’s population, followed by Russians, Balkars, other Caucasian nationalities as well as Ukrainians, Mountain Jews still live in the area but in very small numbers now, most having emigrated to Israel.

Arriving/Departing

Nalchik Airport (NAL) is a small one but is fully functional for getting in and out, usually the foreigners arriving here will be mountaineers heading for Elbrus.

The Airport is only 3km from the city centre so you could even walk into town from here, otherwise, there are taxis and marshrutkas waiting for arrivals. Flights arrive only from Moscow and St. Petersburg usually, the Caucasus has other larger airports for other international flights (such as those to Sochi). Nalchik has a railway station, dating from 1915, with links to Moscow and across the Caucasus. A good option for travelling around the region in a relaxing manner (usually slower than taking a marshrutka between cities though) For getting around inside Nalchik there are public buses all over the place, easy to use and very cheap. Otherwise most of the centre is very walkable, the main ‘high street’ is Lenin Avenue, which runs for several km through the centre of the city.

Concord Square

The centre of Nalchik and a good place to start a walking tour of the city, with the Kabardino-Balkaria parliament building on one side and Lenin stands at the other, fountains in the middle and Lenin Avenue cutting through the square

Religious Buildings

The central buildings of the main religions practised in Nalchik are both fine examples of their respective architectural styles; the Central Mosque and the Cathedral of Mary Magdalene are both worth visiting. Dress codes apply.

Not actually in Nalchik, but only 50km or so away so the city is the ideal base for starting an expedition. This is Europe’s highest mountain and a dormant volcano. There are cable car/chairlift options to get t the top for those who don’t wish to do it the hard way. It is possible to get up and down this mountain n a single day, making it certainly the simplest of the 7 continental highest peaks to climb.

Museum of the Kabardino-Balkar Republic

Great for explaining where you are and the history of the area. Mostly in Russian only though and does tend to assume some knowledge in advance. Still a good stop to get some intro into the complex history of this city and area in general.

Atazhukin Garden

A large park complex running for more than 2km along the eastern side of the city, alongside the Nalchik River. A very pleasant place with so much to see and do. The basic Nalchik Zoo is here, walking trails, restaurants and cafes, theatres, a very retro funfair, and a rickety but reliable cable car running up to a lovely viewpoint to see over the city and out to Mt. Elbrus.

Topped by a restaurant building built in the shape of a Kabardian warrior. An excellent few hours can be spent exploring this park and mingling with the locals of all ages who do their relaxing here.

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