Lago-Naki Plateau

Lago-Naki is a limestone plateau at around two thousand metres on the northern edge of the Caucasian reserve, cut off by cliffs on several sides, with alpine meadow that flowers heavily in June and July, snow patches lasting into summer, and karst everywhere - sinkholes, disappearing streams and a large cave system beneath, including some of the deepest shafts in Russia at Absolyutnaya and Paryashchaya Ptitsa. Around it rise Fisht, Oshten and Pshekha-Su, the westernmost peaks in the Caucasus carrying glaciers. A paved road runs from Maykop to the plateau rim, where there are viewpoints, a small ski operation in winter and the start of walking routes; beyond a certain point the reserve begins and permits are required, including for Route 30 which crosses the plateau. Grazing was excluded to protect the meadows, and development proposals on the plateau are contested.

What you actually see

• The meadows - alpine flowering across a plateau at around two thousand metres.
• The karst - sinkholes and some of the deepest cave shafts in Russia beneath.
• Fisht and Oshten - the westernmost glaciated peaks of the Caucasus above.
• The rim road - a paved approach from Maykop to viewpoints and trailheads.

When to go

June to September, with peak flowering in late June and July; December to March for skiing. A day for the rim, several for routes into the reserve.

Honest expectations

Permits are needed beyond the rim and are checked. Snow lies late and the meadows are wet into June. Weather changes violently at this altitude. Caving here is technical and for equipped parties. Development plans for the plateau are a live dispute.

Nearby

Guzeripl and the reserve office are below; Rufabgo and Guamka are north.