Overnight Trip to Kazbegi with Visit to Gergeti Trinity Church
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable two-day adventure to the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, where stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks await. This overnight trip from Tbilisi to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) takes you along the scenic Georgian Military Highway, with a stopover in Gudauri for an overnight stay, including dinner. Discover the beauty of the Gergeti Trinity Church and enjoy the serene charm of Georgia’s mountain regions. For those seeking a bit more adventure, optional trekking opportunities are available to explore the area.Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Kazbegi – GudauriBegin your adventure with a scenic drive along the Georgian Military Highway, one of the most famous routes in the Caucasus, celebrated for its breathtaking views and historical significance. As you ascend into the mountains, the landscapes transform into a dramatic blend of rolling hills, steep cliffs, and lush valleys. The first stop is the Ananuri Fortress, a medieval architectural gem overlooking the tranquil turquoise waters of the Jinvali Reservoir. This well-preserved complex, with its stone towers and ornate churches, offers a glimpse into Georgia’s rich history and provides a perfect photo opportunity.
Continuing along the highway, the journey takes you to Gudauri, a renowned ski resort nestled high in the Caucasus Mountains. Here, you will pause at the Friendship Monument, a striking circular structure adorned with colourful murals that depict scenes of Soviet-Georgian unity. The vantage point offers unparalleled views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, creating a moment to appreciate the region's raw beauty and serene atmosphere.
The drive culminates in Kazbegi, also known as Stepantsminda, a charming mountain town embraced by towering peaks. From here, embark on an exhilarating jeep ride to the Gergeti Trinity Church, an iconic landmark perched at 2,170 metres above sea level. As you approach the church, the awe-inspiring panorama of Mount Kazbek and the surrounding majestic peaks unfolds before you. This sacred site, with its rich history and tranquil ambiance, invites you to explore its grounds and reflect on the incredible natural beauty surrounding it.
Optional trekking. For those seeking additional adventure, optional trekking experiences are available in the Kazbegi mountains. One popular option is a light hike from the village of Gveleti to the Gveleti Waterfall. After a short 6-kilometre (4-mile) drive from Stepantsminda, we arrive in the village of Gveleti, where the trek begins. This light hike leads to the picturesque Gveleti Waterfall, located near the edge of the Devdorakhi Glacier. The trail is approximately 4.5 kilometres (3 miles) round trip and takes about 3 hours to complete. With a gradual ascent of 190 metres and a maximum elevation of 1,646 metres, it offers a manageable yet rewarding experience. While the hike does not reach the glacier itself, it provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the glacier's edge, immersing you in the natural beauty of this rugged region. View a map.
Alternatively, hiking to the Gergeti Trinity Church is possible, but it is not recommended due to the heavy traffic of jeeps on the route, which detracts from the natural tranquility.
In the evening, journey back to Gudauri, where you will enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel. As night falls, unwind in the peaceful mountain setting, embraced by the tranquility and crisp air of the Caucasus. The serene surroundings provide the perfect end to an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery. On the following day, after a leisurely breakfast, return to Tbilisi with cherished memories of your journey through the majestic Kazbegi region.
Day 2: Gudauri – Tbilisi
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a leisurely morning soaking in the mountain atmosphere. Then, begin your drive back to Tbilisi, reliving the spectacular landscapes along the way.
Highlights
- Ananuri Fortress and Jinvali Reservoir. Discover historic architecture and natural beauty along the route.
- Gudauri ski resort and Friendship Monument. Explore this famous mountain retreat and marvel at its stunning vistas.
- Gergeti Trinity Church. Visit one of Georgia's most iconic landmarks with panoramic views of Mount Kazbek.
- Optional trekking. For those who want more adventure, enjoy a short 4.5-kilometre (3 miles) hike to the Gveleti Waterfall and the Devdorakhi Glacier viewpoint.
What’s Included
- Round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Jeep transfer to Gergeti Trinity Church and back.
- Overnight stay in Gudauri at a comfortable hotel.
- Dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2.
- Professional English-speaking guide (other languages available upon request).
- All entrance fees.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing (a rain jacket, fleece or warm layer).
- A water bottle and snacks for the journey.
- Sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket.
- A camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Additional Information
Please note that the Georgian Military Highway, which connects Georgia with Russia, can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak travel times. The total round-trip driving distance is around 300 kilometres (188 miles), with average driving times provided below:- Tbilisi - Stepantsminda: 150 kilometres (94 miles), 3 hours
- Stepantsminda - Gudauri: 30 kilometres (19 miles), 0.5 hours
- Gudauri - Tbilisi: 120 kilometres (75 miles), 2.5 hours