Overnight Trip to Kazbegi with Visit to Gergeti Trinity Church
Overview
Set out on a memorable two-day journey into the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, where breathtaking scenery and famous landmarks beckon. This overnight excursion from Tbilisi to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) follows the picturesque Georgian Military Highway, with an overnight stop in Gudauri, complete with a delightful dinner. Explore the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church and immerse yourself in the tranquil allure of Georgia’s mountain landscapes. For adventure enthusiasts, optional trekking routes offer an exciting way to delve deeper into the region’s natural beauty.Itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Ananuri - Gudauri - Kazbegi – GudauriBegin your journey along the legendary Georgian Military Highway, celebrated for its breathtaking vistas and rich historical significance. This iconic route through the Caucasus Mountains reveals a stunning tapestry of rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and verdant valleys as you ascend into higher altitudes. Your first stop is the Ananuri Fortress, a medieval architectural marvel perched above the shimmering turquoise waters of the Jinvali Reservoir. This well-preserved complex, with its imposing stone towers and intricately designed churches, offers a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s history and serves as an ideal spot for photographs.
As you continue along the highway, the landscapes grow more dramatic, leading to Gudauri, a famed ski resort nestled in the heart of the Caucasus. Here, take a moment to visit the Friendship Monument, a striking circular structure adorned with vibrant murals celebrating Soviet-Georgian unity. The monument's vantage point provides sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, allowing you to soak in the pristine beauty of this remarkable region.
The journey culminates in Kazbegi, or Stepantsminda, a quaint mountain town embraced by towering peaks. From here, hop into a jeep for an exhilarating ride to the Gergeti Trinity Church, an iconic landmark perched at an altitude of 2,170 meters. As you approach the church, the breathtaking panorama of Mount Kazbek and the surrounding majestic peaks unfolds, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. This sacred site, with its serene ambiance and historical significance, invites you to explore its grounds and reflect on the awe-inspiring nature that surrounds it.
Optional trekking. For those seeking an extra touch of adventure, optional trekking is available in the Kazbegi region. One popular option is a light hike from the village of Gveleti to the Gveleti Waterfall. After a short 6-kilometer (4-mile) drive from Stepantsminda, arrive at Gveleti, where the trek begins. This manageable hike leads to the picturesque Gveleti Waterfall, located near the edge of the Devdorakhi Glacier. The round-trip trail spans approximately 4.5 kilometers (3 miles) and takes around 3 hours to complete, featuring a gradual ascent of 190 meters to a maximum elevation of 1,646 meters. While the trek does not reach the glacier itself, it provides stunning views of the peaks and the glacier’s edge, immersing you in the region's rugged natural beauty. View a map.
Alternatively, while hiking to the Gergeti Trinity Church is an option, it is not recommended due to the frequent traffic of jeeps, which can detract from the tranquil mountain atmosphere.
In the evening, return to Gudauri, where a warm dinner awaits at your hotel. Relax in the peaceful mountain setting, surrounded by the crisp air and serene beauty of the Caucasus. This tranquil retreat provides the perfect conclusion to a day filled with discovery and adventure.
Day 2: Gudauri – Tbilisi
This morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before beginning the drive back to Tbilisi. As you descend from the mountains, take one last look at the majestic landscapes, leaving with cherished memories of your unforgettable journey through the Kazbegi region.
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-kilometer (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 kilometers (188 miles), with average driving times provided below:- Tbilisi - Stepantsminda: 150 kilometers (94 miles), 3 hours
- Stepantsminda - Gudauri: 30 kilometers (19 miles), 0.5 hours
- Gudauri - Tbilisi: 120 kilometers (75 miles), 2.5 hours