In reply to D.Andrew:
There's very little accom in Azau and only a small shop for products, good bar though. Terskol or even further down the valley are better bets, easy enough to catch taxi/bus up the road to the lifts if walking takes to long/heavy load etc. Just make sure what ever accommodation you go with that they can register your visa, otherwise you'll be fined at the airport on the way out. Often this means booking at least part of your trip with one of the many providers to ensure registration and support. Can't give you to much more advice than this as leading for one of these companies I suspect I would have a conflict of interest in helping out an independent traveler.
