kazbegi georgia tour

Wander-Lush

21 Things to Know Before You Visit Kazbegi, Georgia’s Easiest Mountain Getaway

A must-read for anyone who’s planning to visit Kazbegi. This comprehensive travel guide to Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) is up-to-date and accurate for 2024. It includes the best things to do in Kazbegi, top restaurants and accommodations, a 3-day Kazbegi itinerary and map, plus essential tips to help you plan your trip.

I’ll never forget the first time I rolled into Kazbegi on board a clunky marshrutka van. My jaw had been on the floor for the entire drive up from Tbilisi.

Just when I thought the scenery couldn’t get any more picture-perfect on that crisp May day, Mount Kazbegi – ‘The Bride’ as she’s known to locals – cast off her veil of fog, and… Wow.

The Georgian Military Highway, Georgia’s most spectacular road . Gergeti Trinity Church, the country’s most iconic place of worship. The Greater Caucasus, Europe’s most impressive mountain range. And the snow-capped crest of Georgia’s third-highest peak. These are the things that make Kazbegi a one-of-a-kind destination.

I’m no mountain climber, but the easy hike up to Gergeti is easily one of my top 5 experiences in the Caucasus and reason enough to visit Kazbegi. Beyond the trekking opportunities, this is a good place to unwind, drink in mountain views, fresh air, and indulge in hearty mountain cuisine.

And the best thing? Kazbegi is the closest mountainous area to Tbilisi, relatively fast and easy to reach in under 4 hours by road. If you’re planning a quick Georgia itinerary that starts in the capital, a side trip to Kazbegi is a must-do. If you’re designing a longer journey around the region , Kazbegi is a welcome addition.

I’ve been back to Kazbegi countless times since my first visit. Living in Tbilisi, I’ve had a chance to see the landscape in every season. My Mega Kazbegi Travel Guide brings together all my knowledge about the area to answer commonly asked questions and offer you insider travel tips.

I’ll show you the best things to do in Kazbegi and the surrounding area, where to sleep and eat, and offer my recommended 3-day Kazbegi itinerary with a map you can save for later.

Note: This guide focuses on the town of Kazbegi plus the surrounding area – that is the mountainous zone north of Jvari Pass to the Russian border, west to Truso Valley and east to Sno Valley. It does not include places further south along the Georgian Military Highway such as Ananuri or Gudauri. For detailed information about where to stop on the way to Kazbegi from Tbilisi, refer to my Guide to the Georgian Military Highway .

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Kazbegi Travel Guide contents – 21 things to know before you go

Where is kazbegi.

Kazbegi is located in the far-northern part of the country of Georgia , around 12 kilometres shy of the Russian border and almost directly due north of the capital city, Tbilisi .

It lies within the historical Khevi province, which is now part of Mtskheta-Mtianeti region .

The distance from Tbilisi to Kazbegi is 155 kilometres or 96 miles.

Tbilisi and Kazbegi are linked by a single road, with the famous Georgian Military Highway bridging the most scenic, high-altitude stretch. On average it takes 3-4 hours to travel between Tbilisi and Kazbegi by road depending on the vehicle you take, traffic and weather conditions.

Wait a minute – is it Stepantsminda or Kazbegi!?

This certainly confused me on my first visit to Georgia! The names ‘Stepantsminda’ and ‘Kazbegi’ seem to be used interchangeably. The official name of the municipality is Stepantsminda , and this is how you’ll see it referred to on maps. In practice, however, most people refer to the townlet (and the surrounding area) as Kazbegi .

The original name, Stepantsminda, means ‘Saint Stephan’ and comes from the Orthodox monk who constructed a hermitage at this location in medieval times. When Georgia was part of Imperialist Russia, the settlement was given its new moniker as a tribute to the local lawmaker. In 1925, the Soviets officially changed the name to Kazbegi.

In 2006, the name was reverted back to Stepantsminda. Despite the Soviet overtones, many people continued referring to the area as Kazbegi. For simplicity’s sake, I use the same name most Georgians do.

The mountain peak that looms above the town also goes by two names: Mount Kazbek and Mount Kazbegi. In Georgian, the mountain is called Mkinvartsveri , which means ‘Glacier Peak’. Among locals, it’s nicknamed The Bride because the mountain ‘face’ is often hidden behind a veil of fog!

Is Kazbegi worth visiting?

Whatever name you call it by, I think we can all agree that this is one of Georgia’s most picturesque destinations . Dare I say it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire region – maybe in all of Europe. As an Australian who had never seen ‘real’ mountains before coming to Georgia, this landscape left a huge impression on me. In some ways it’s even more impressive than Svaneti.

Kazbegi is an extremely popular destination both among foreign tourists and for Tbilisians who come up from the city for the weekend and for holidays. As a result, infrastructure is pretty good – but the downside is that the town does have a bit of a ‘touristy’ feel that some people might not like.

In my opinion, the pros far outweigh the cons. Here are just a couple of reasons why I recommend you visit Kazbegi.

It’s very easy to get to from Tbilisi , especially compared to the more remote mountain regions that require a full day of driving. You can easily get up to Kazbegi from Tbilisi in a couple of hours, making this a great option if you’re on a tight schedule.

It’s accessible year-round . Unlike Tusheti and parts of Upper Svaneti that close off and empty out during winter, Kazbegi is an all-season destination. The Georgian Military Highway is one of the region’s main freight routes and currently the only land link with Russia. So to keep the trucks rolling, the road is maintained year-round. The stretch of highway between Gudauri and Kazbegi is prone to avalanches in winter so road closures do happen occasionally, but this rarely lasts for more than a day.

Last but not least, Kazbegi is home to the majestic Gergeti Trinity Church (pictured above), which is reason enough to book a trip! No matter your travel style or interests, this is a must-see in Georgia.

If you’re looking for well-trod hiking trails, spectacular mountain views and a breath of fresh air all within close proximity of Tbilisi, then there’s no better option than Kazbegi. If you’re looking for solitude, an off-the-beaten-track feel and more remote trekking routes, then another of the mountain regions (such as Racha ) might be more your style.

Being a responsible traveller in Kazbegi, Georgia

Kazbegi is a small municipality of less than 4,000 people. As with many rural areas in Georgia, poverty and unemployment are issues that many people face .

It only takes a short walk around Kazbegi to understand that this is a modest community where many people rely on agriculture to get by. The European Union and Czech Development Agency currently have a project in Kazbegi to alleviate poverty and help families start their own small businesses. You’ll notice NGO or embassy logos on the front of some shops and restaurants that have received a grant.

I don’t say this to put a downer on your trip, only to remind you that beyond the fancy restaurants and chic lodges, Kazbegi is a real community with real issues. Tourism has undoubtedly been a helping hand for many families, but it’s not without its downsides.

Support small and locally owned businesses, and spread your money around. Be respectful when interacting with people, especially when taking photos. And be equally cognisant of the pristine environment – don’t litter, and avoid single-use plastics.

When is the best time to visit Kazbegi?

There is no bad time to visit Kazbegi, apart from the rare occasion in winter when the roads are closed and the town is unreachable. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Kazbegi in every season and it’s amazing how much the landscape and the feel of the place changes throughout the year.

Generally speaking, I think the best time to visit Kazbegi is in late spring (late May/early June) or in late summer (late August/early September) . Here is a very broad overview of what to expect from the different seasons.

Kazbegi in spring

Kazbegi sits at an elevation of 1,740 metres, thus spring arrives a little later than it does in Tbilisi . Snow often continues to fall into April and even May, while average daytime temperatures hover around 10-15 degrees Celsius. Some days bring brilliant sunshine, others gusting winds and thick fog. So come prepared for anything!

When I recently visited in late March, there were still traces of snow and ice on the trail up to Gergeti Trinity Church. The landscape was quite dry and brown. On both my recent visits in late May, the weather was near perfect – crisp and clear, with a green tinge to the hills and the first wildflowers budding. But May is the wettest month on average in Kazbegi so I might have just got lucky (twice!).

As with most places, the warmer weather and sunshine brings good vibes to Kazbegi and the town has an upbeat feel. Some smaller restaurants and cafes that close over winter might not re-open until summer so always have a backup plan. (The restaurant at Rooms Hotel, for example, is open year-round.)

Hiking trails in Juta and Truso are normally not accessible until the first week of June.

Important safety note: Some of the roads around Kazbegi including the roads to Juta Valley and Truso Valley were damaged by heavy rain and snow in 2023. There is a serious risk of landslide. Do your research and approach with caution. It might be best to skip Juta altogether until the road is repaired.

Kazbegi in summer

Summer (especially July/August) is peak tourist season in Kazbegi. Temperatures are still relatively mild, with average highs during the day of 22 degrees Celsius. These months are far less rainy and the days are longer, which makes summer the best time for trekking. Nights are cool even in the middle of July so always pack a jacket.

In summer, the landscape is green and some of the hills are covered with wildflowers. The highest peaks remain snow-capped so you still get those iconic mountain vistas.

The downside of Kazbegi in summer is that it does get crowded, especially on weekends. Accommodation prices at some hotels go up with the increased demand, and it can be hard to get a seat in the van to/from Kazbegi (although drivers do put on extra services). Don’t even think about showing up for lunch at Rooms on a summer weekend without a reservation.

Visit Kazbegi in fall

Temperatures start to drop around September and by late October, it’s decidedly chilly. I visited Kazbegi in mid-September and thought the temperature was near perfect. However, the air was quite thick and visibility was limited.

Kazbegi doesn’t have the typical autumn foliage you see in Racha , so it’s not the best destination for fall colours.

Kazbegi in winter

Winter is low season in Kazbegi so you’ll find the town is a lot quieter than at other times of year. Some businesses close, but the majority of guesthouses and restaurants remain open for tourists.

In Stepantsminda, daytime temperatures hover around 0-5 degrees from December through to March. Nights are bitterly cold in January especially. The further out (and up) you go, the colder it gets.

Snow is common throughout the winter months and hiking is not recommended. The access points to Truso Valley and Sno Valley are usually off-limits until May/June. Generally speaking, winter is better suited to relaxing indoors. You can still get up to Gergeti Trinity.

Keep in mind that mid-December through to April is ski season in nearby Gudauri so the road is busier at this time. Christmas/New Years events and celebrations take place in both Kazbegi and Gudauri, making this a nice area to spend the holidays (remember that Orthodox Christmas falls a week later in Georgia).

Every winter, the highway between Gudauri and Kazbegi closes a handful of times due to heavy snow and avalanche risk. It usually gets cleared pretty quickly but in winter 2020/21, Kazbegi was cut off for several days on a couple of occasions. In winter 2021/22, the road closed a dozen times, including on Christmas Eve (I got stuck in Gudauri!). The same thing happened during the next two winters.

When this happens, it might be possible to bypass the closed section of road using the cable car to travel between Gudauri and Kobi .

How many days in Kazbegi?

I recommend spending at least two nights in Kazbegi so that you have one full day to hike up to Gergeti Trinity Church. Remember that Kazbegi is often foggy and overcast so if you want to hedge your bets against the weather, add an extra day to your itinerary just in case.

Kazbegi itself is quite small but there is quite a lot to see and do in the area. You could easily stay for longer – especially if you’re into hiking. Sno Valley and Juta, the Truso Valley and Dariali Gorge can all be visited from Kazbegi, so you could plausibly make this your base for a 4-5 day stay in the mountains.

Later I’ll share my recommended 3-day itinerary for Kazbegi.

Can you visit Kazbegi as a day trip?

Yes, it’s possible to visit Kazbegi as a day trip from Tbilisi. I highly recommend you stay overnight – but if a day is all you have, then a day is better than nothing! It’s not viable to hike up to Gergeti Trinity on a day trip, so you will have to visit the church by car.

There are two ways to do this: Either by joining a private or group tour, or by booking a round-trip transfer with GoTrip.ge .

Best Kazbegi day tours

There are a range of day tour itineraries available from Tbilisi for different budgets and interests. I recommend using a reputable platform such as Get Your Guide or Viator to book your tour – companies are vetted and reviewed, online booking and payment systems are secure, and both have a generous refund policy if plans change.

Here are a couple of my favourite Tbilisi Kazbegi itineraries:

Kazbegi Full-Day Group Tour: 12 hours duration, includes several stops on the highway & Kazbegi. Does not include the SUV to Gergeti Trinity or lunch. This is a good option for budget travellers. The operator, Gamarjoba Georgia, is one of my top recommended tour companies in Georgia. Book here →

Full Day Mtskheta & Kazbegi with Gourmet Lunch: 10 hours duration, includes hotel transfers, a guide, stops at Jvari & along the highway, visit to Gergeti Trinity by SUV & lunch at Rooms Hotel. This is a great option if you want to combine Mtskheta & Kazbegi into one day. Book here →

Full Day Hiking Tour to Gveleti and Juta village: 14 hours duration, this small group tour with Gamarjoba Georgia makes a few stops on the Military Road and includes a lunch stop at Rooms before guided hikes to the Gveleti Waterfalls and Juta Valley. Perfect if you want experience the area’s landscapes. Book here →

Tour to Ananuri, Truso Valley & Stepantsminda with Off-roading : Adventurous budget-friendly group tour with Friendly.ge, from $48 per person. Book direct and use the code wanderlush at checkout to get 10% off or book here via Viator →

Day trip to Kazbegi with GoTrip.ge

This option involves travelling with a private car and driver, not a guide, and is thus better suited to independent travellers. Just as you can book a one-way transfer to Kazbegi from Tbilisi with GoTrip, you can also organise a round-trip itinerary.

I love GoTrip and I use it on a monthly basis in Georgia. Think of it as a long-distance Uber. Drivers and cars are vetted, prices are fair (and fixed – so you never have to negotiate), and you can stop whenever and wherever you want as long as you finish your trip within a 24-hour window (multi-day trips are also available). Child car seats are available and in winter, drivers use proper winter tyres.

You can either go straight to Kazbegi , or you can make the most of it and add in stops along the way. As an example, this itinerary I designed for Tbilisi – Ananuri – Pasanauri – Gudauri – Dariali – Kazbegi – Tbilisi starts from just $70 per car .

Visit the GoTrip.ge website and use their itinerary planner to create your own day trip itinerary →

Is Kazbegi expensive?

Because of its popularity, accommodations are a touch more expensive in Kazbegi than in some other parts of Georgia (although not nearly as pricey as Gudauri). On the flip-side because there is so much competition, you can find very good prices if you know where to look (I will run through my suggestions later).

The price of food and alcohol is very high at some restaurants in the centre of town.

Prices go up slightly in summer and on weekends/holidays, while you can find some great deals during shoulder season.

Example travel costs for Kazbegi for 2 people

• Private transfer to Kazbegi with GoTrip: 180 GEL
• Taxi to Gergeti Trinity: 30 GEL (15 GEL pp.)
• Transfer to Juta or Truso with Mountain Freaks (2-way): 90 GEL (45 GEL pp.)
• Marshrutka to/from Tbilisi: 30 GEL (15 GEL pp.)
• Room in a mid-range hotel or guesthouse: 120 GEL
• Cheap bakery breakfast: 4 GEL
• Coffee & cake at a cafe: 20 GEL
• Lunch at Rooms: 70-90 GEL
• Dinner at a local restaurant: 40-60 GEL

Total budget for 3 nights in Kazbegi: Approx. 950 GEL (365 USD) for 2 people.

This includes accommodation in a mid-range hotel, a one-way transfer from Tbilisi with GoTrip and a marshrutka back, plus 3 meals a day. You could easily save some cash by staying at a guesthouse that provides breakfast, eating at local restaurants, and using marshrutka vans to travel both ways.

Is there an ATM in Kazbegi?

Yes, there are several ATMs in Kazbegi plus a Liberty Bank branch on the main street (just north of the police station). I usually use the Liberty Bank ATM opposite Ska supermarket. There is a currency exchange office near Hotel Stancia opposite the bus station – but I highly recommend withdrawing GEL directly rather than changing money.

Some guesthouses and many of the smaller restaurants in Kazbegi do not accept credit or debit cards . Make sure you have enough cash on you to cover your accommodation, marshrutka tickets and other incendiary purchases.

Is there WIFI in Kazbegi?

Yes, all guesthouses and hotels (and most restaurants/cafes) in Kazbegi have free WIFI for guests. The quality of the connection varies from place to place. In general, the further you are from the centre of town, the spottier the coverage.

If you’re a visitor looking to use maps, access your email and social media, the hotel connection will suffice. If you’re a remote worker and you need stable internet, you should stay somewhere central and purchase a mobile data package just in case.

Magti has great coverage in Kazbegi town and as far afield as Gergeti Trinity. I recommend their 7 GEL unlimited weekly data package. Even if you’re visiting Georgia for a short period, I still recommend buying a local sim – it’s cheap and easy to set up.

There is no Magti office in Kazbegi so make sure you get yourself sorted before you leave Tbilisi. Use the Magti app to top up when you’re on the road.

If you’re trekking further into the mountains or to Sno or Truso, you will need to download maps for offline use through Maps.Me or similar.

Other useful services in Kazbegi

Here are a few other services that might come in handy (you can find the exact locations on my Kazbegi Map, linked below).

• As mentioned, there are several ATMs in Kazbegi. I usually use the Liberty Bank ATM on the main street.
• There are several grocery stores in town including a Spar and a Nikora. Nikora has better prices. I usually visit the local Market Ska on the main street.
• Next door to Ska, you’ll find a popular local bakery that sells fresh shoti bread and delicious khachapuri and lobiani. Perfect for an early morning or pre-bus snack (they open at 8am).
• There is a small pharmacy located inside a row of shops set back from the road near Ska, and a second larger pharmacy opposite the same supermarket next to the ATM. Both carry essentials (bandaids, ibuprofen, etc.) but for any prescription medications or specialty products, make sure you bring your own from Tbilisi.
• In case of emergency, there is a 24-hour medical clinic at the southern end of the main street, opposite the police station .
• You can get a PCR test in Kazbegi at Synevo Lab on the main street.

Staying safe in Kazbegi

Like the rest of Georgia , Kazbegi is a very safe destination for tourists overall, provided you exercise common sense. There are a couple of specific things to be aware of.

Dogs in Kazbegi

Kazbegi has lots of dogs. Lots and lots and lots of dogs. Majority of the pups in town are either indifferent or affectionate towards humans . If you go hiking up to Gergeti Trinity, especially in the early morning, you will surely pick up a friendly trail dog to accompany you. Just be aware that when these street or family dogs start to wander into other dogs’ territory, brawls often ensue.

Shepherd dogs are another story. If you encounter a large dog guarding animals or protecting a property in the hills above Kazbegi, exercise extreme caution and call out for help if you feel threatened.

Traffic & road safety

The Georgian Military Highway runs right through the centre of Kazbegi. It’s often very busy with large freight trucks . Be extremely careful when crossing the main road as trucks often hurtle through at high speed. I really hate the heavy traffic in Kazbegi and the noise pollution and dust it brings. I can’t imagine what it’s like to live so close to such a busy road.

The backstreets are a lot quieter, but you should still exercise caution around traffic. When travelling to and from Kazbegi, I highly recommend you avoid being on the road after dark .

Staying safe when hiking in Kazbegi

Exercise common sense when it comes to hiking – pack the proper gear, bring plenty of water and snacks (although you can usually find a natural water spring to fill up your bottle), make sure you have a map, and let someone such as your guesthouse host know where you’re going and when you’re expecting to return.

This article provides more information about Kazbegi’s mountain rescue service, which is active during trekking season.

What to pack for Kazbegi

This being a rural area, I recommend dressing a bit more conservatively in Kazbegi. There are no hard and fast rules, but personally I would not feel comfortable wearing a short skirt (the weather doesn’t really lend itself to short skirts anyway). Even if you’re visiting in summer, remember to bring something warm for the evenings. A lightweight jacket is ideal.

Gergeti Trinity is an active place of worship with a strict dress code. Both men and women need to wear long pants/a skirt and have their shoulders covered. Women also need to cover their hair. There are apron skirts and scarves available to borrow at the entrance, but for ease and hygiene, I recommend dressing in appropriate attire and carrying your own lightweight scarf if you’re a woman.

For the Gergeti Trinity Church hike, good joggers will suffice. Sun protection gear (a hat and sunscreen) is a must, as is a reusable water bottle .

If you plan on trekking through Truso Valley, remember to bring your passport/ID card and carry it with you at all times. Georgian guards are present in this area and may ask you for ID.

If you’re thinking of skiing or snowboarding in nearby Gudauri, you can hire gear (skiis, poles, helmets and boots) from a shop when you arrive. I recommend AviatorSki – they carry good-quality equipment and staff are very friendly.

For more tips, see my Georgia Packing Guide →

How to get to Kazbegi from Tbilisi

There are several ways to travel between Tbilisi and Kazbegi. When deciding on your transport method, keep in mind that the Georgian Military Highway is considered to be one of the most dangerous roads in Georgia.

Everyone has a different appetite for risk. Personally, I have done this trip by marshrutka, by shared taxi, by private car and on a tour bus – and I have come to the conclusion that I would much prefer to avoid marshrutka vans whenever possible , especially on the way down.

If you’re trying to get to Kazbegi from a different place in Georgia, it’s usually necessary to transit through Tbilisi first. The exception is if you’re coming from Kakheti/ Pankisi Valley , in which case you can take a shortcut if travelling by private car. I’ll explain this in more detail in the onward transportation section.

Private transfer with GoTrip

If you want to experience all the glory of the Georgian Military Highway and feel safe and at ease while doing it, then I highly, highly recommend you pay a bit extra and get a driver for at least one leg of the trip.

GoTrip is a Georgian service that allows you to book a car and driver for a full day. The price is fixed in advance, and you can stop whenever and wherever you want. Drivers have proper winter tyres and child car seats are available for no extra cost.

This example itinerary I designed for Tbilisi – Ananuri – Pasanauri – Gudauri – Dariali – Kazbegi – Tbilisi starts from just $70 per car .

Visit the GoTrip.ge website to book a car →

Marshrutka from Tbilisi to Kazbegi

If you’re on a budget, there are regular marshrutka vans , ‘tourist’ vans that make a few short photo stops on the GMH, and shared taxis to Kazbegi. These all depart from Didube Station . For up-to-date travel times, fares and other travel tips, see my full guide to travelling from Tbilisi to Kazbegi .

A word of caution: Marshrutka vans tend to take the road very fast and it can be quite scary. Regular marshrutkas make a single pitstop on the way up and down at this rest stop .

Self-driving to Kazbegi

I do not recommend driving your own car to Kazbegi. The road is dangerous, the trucks are constant, the overtaking is next-level, and weather conditions can change on a dime. You’re much better off going with an experienced driver who understands the roads.

Having said that, if you’re a confident driver with experience on mountain roads, it can be done. Read up on my tips for driving in Georgia here . Be sure to check for any updates on road/weather conditions before you set off, either by asking a local in Kazbegi or by contacting Georgian Roads via their Facebook page or hotline.

What is the road like?

The road up to Kazbegi is long and winding in parts. If you suffer from motion sickness, have your medication on hand.

As mentioned, some drivers take the bends really fast and it can be nail-biting, especially when you’re squished into the back of a crowded marshrutka.

Because this is a freight route, there are often trucks banked up on the road side waiting to cross the border into Russia. Oftentimes they block almost an entire lane, forcing traffic into one lane (despite being one of the most important roads in the country, the Military Highway only has two lanes!).

Currently (as of spring 2024) this road is undergoing a major upgrade. The border checkpoint is expanding, and a new tunnel is being built from Kvelani to Kobi. Once finished, this should hopefully relieve some of the traffic on the road to Kazbegi.

Where to stop on the way to Kazbegi

The Georgian Military Highway is a destination in itself. It might be dangerous but it’s also incredibly beautiful – maybe even more beautiful than Kazbegi itself! This is another reason I recommend hiring a driver and taking the trip at a slow pace .

There are a dozen or so places to stop along the highway, including the popular Ananuri Fortress, the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument, and Gudauri. There are plenty of offbeat attractions too, such as the Giant Stone Heads near Sno village .

Read my full guide to the Georgian Military Highway and 9 must-see places to visit between Tbilisi and Kazbegi →

Leaving Kazbegi

To get back to Tbilisi from Kazbegi, you can either pre-book a GoTrip car to pick you up from your hotel or take a marshrutka/shared taxi. The latter depart from the small bus station on Kazbegi’s main street (see the exact location here ).

Tickets cannot be purchased in advance. If you’re travelling during summer, you can try asking your guesthouse to phone ahead and save you a seat – but this might not be possible. I recommend aiming for one of the earlier vans at either 7am or 8am as these tend to be less crowded. Avoid the later vans that arrive back in Tbilisi after dark.

For fares and travel tips, see my Kazbegi-Tbilisi transport guide →

Where to stay in Kazbegi

Majority of accommodations in the Kazbegi area are located in town. Kazbegi is set over a valley and two steep hills, each with different views, and its own pros and cons.

If you’re keen on sampling Kazbegi’s best restaurants and you want to be close to transport then I recommend staying in town on the eastern bank of the river. If mountain views are a priority (and you don’t mind a short hike at the end of each day), go for a place on the hill above Stepantsminda.

And if you plan on trekking and you want to be close to the church/glacier trailhead, stay in Gergeti village on the upper western side of the river. This will cut a good 30 minutes off your hike time.

Here is a shortlist of my top accommodations in Kazbegi.

Where to stay for the best mountain views

Guest House Tamta (guesthouse): One of the best value-for-money guesthouses in the entire country – really! I recently stayed here with my dad and we both agree that it was the best accommodation of the trip. Private rooms are spacious (with ensuite bathrooms) and there is a shared kitchen with a washing machine. The views towards Gergeti Trinity from the rooms and front balcony are picture-perfect. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Rooms Hotel Kazbegi (boutique hotel): One of Georgia’s best hotels, featuring boutique rooms, stylish lounges, a terrific restaurant & postcard-perfect views of Gergeti Trinity. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Kazbegi View (cabins): Self-contained A-frame cabins with a kitchen & private deck. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Hilltop Kazbegi (mid-range hotel): Modern lodge-style hotel with comfortable doubles and triples, modern bathrooms & cosy common areas. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Where to stay in town

Intourist Kazbegi (boutique hotel): Gorgeous boutique rooms decorated with retro posters, a beautiful lounge and restaurant & a huge mountain-facing deck. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Hotel Stancia (mid-range hotel): Scandi-chic suites & an excellent onsite restaurant that overlooks the river. The location opposite the bus station is very convenient. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Ketino’s Home (guesthouse): Clean, modern rooms with en suites and private balconies, great views & an excellent onsite restaurant. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Camp at Kuro (campground): Budget-friendly rooms & camping facilities close to town (summer season only). → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Where to stay if you’re hiking

Red Stone (guesthouse): Comfortable family-style guesthouse with large rooms, spectacular views across the valley & one of the best breakfasts in Kazbegi. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Kazbegi Cabins (cabin): Designer chalet with a loft-style sleeping area & floor-to-ceiling windows for breathtaking mountain vistas. The onsite cafe-restaurant-coworking-space, Maisi, is a terrific place to grab a coffee or light meal. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Where to stay outside Kazbegi

Fifth Season Cabin (Juta): Private rooms set in a classic mountain lodge near the village of Juta, 20km from Kazbegi. → Check rates & availability here on Booking.com .

Zeta Camping (Juta): Budget friendly campground and hostel-style guesthouse close to hiking trails around Juta and Sno Valley. → Book via Facebook .

For more recommendations, view my full Kazbegi accommodation guide →

How to get around Kazbegi

The centre of Kazbegi town is quite walkable provided you have the right footwear to tackle the steep and uneven streets. Taxi apps such as Bolt do work in Kazbegi, but the fleet of drivers is a lot smaller. It might be easier to use local taxis for longer distances. Remember to always settle the fare before you get in.

To get up to Gergeti Trinity Church by road, you can charter a Delica taxi. See the next section for more details.

To travel beyond Kazbegi/Gergeti, I recommend using the transfer service provided by travel agency Mountain Freaks . They operate daily buses to Juta, Dariali and Truso Valley during the summer season (April 15 to October 31). Return tickets cost 45 GEL per person . See the full schedule and make a reservation here .

How to visit Gergeti Trinity Church

When you arrive in Kazbegi, your first priority should be getting up to visit the church. There are a couple of different ways to reach Gergeti Trinity, the most popular being by road (around 20 minutes one-way) or by hiking (2-3 hours return).

The best part of Gergeti Trinity in my opinion is not the church at all – although it is very cute – but rather the views of Kazbegi from the yard and the views of the church itself from afar.

One of the main advantages of hiking is getting to see the church and mountains from different perspectives on your approach. If you go by foot, you can spend as long as you like at the top without having to worry about getting back to your driver.

Tip: If you’re visiting Kazbegi on a day trip from Tbilisi, transfers to and from Gergeti will often be included in your itinerary. Some operators charge extra so be sure to check before you book.

Delica taxi to Gergeti Trinity

In Kazbegi there is a fleet of white Delica SUV taxis that exist for the sole purpose of ferrying people to and from Gergeti. You can find them all around town, but the easiest place to flag one down is near the bus stop, in front of Hotel Stancia.

The standard price to go up and back (including around 30 minutes wait time at the top) is around 15 GEL per person . The more people you have, the cheaper it is, so it pays to pair up with other travellers. If you want to hire the whole car, prices range from 50-70 GEL on average. Approximate travel time is 20 minutes each way .

Update for 2024: In recent years, significant improvements have been made to the road up to the church. It is now fully asphalted so that even a sedan can manage it without any issues. The road is smooth (aside from a few short gravel patches where last year’s landslips occurred) and easy to navigate. I last drove this road in May 2023.

Hiking to Gergeti Trinity

This is far and away my favourite easy hike in Georgia. But – it’s crucial to follow the correct trail , otherwise you’ll end up on a steep shale path that’s extremely unpleasant!

The trail I found follows a gentle incline and approaches the church from the back, so you get fantastic views all the way up. View my full instructions for finding the trailhead and navigating the path here .

Tip: The church gets crowded in the late morning and afternoon so I recommend visiting as early as possible. Whenever I hike up I leave Kazbegi at 7 or 8am to reach the church before the SUVs start running. In the morning in summer, the sun will still be behind the mountains so you can get great photos of the church and Mount Kazbegi.

Other things to do in Kazbegi

There are a few other Kazbegi attractions aside from Gergeti Trinity Church that I recommend you check out while you’re in town. These places can all be reached by foot.

Hike to Gergeti Glacier

I have never been further than Gergeti Trinity Church, but – if you want to keep hiking, you can quite easily continue along the same route past the church to Gergeti Glacier. The glacier trek takes 8-9 hours in total so it’s best to get an early start from Kazbegi. Bring plenty of drinking water, download a map, and make sure you have the appropriate gear. See more here .

Eat lunch (or breakfast) on the terrace at Rooms

Now this is more my style. I mentioned Rooms earlier as an accommodation option – even if you’re not staying here, it’s still worth coming up for a meal so that you can enjoy the mountain-facing, sun-drenched terrace.

The lunch menu features light salads, burgers and sandwiches plus Georgian fare. It’s definitely on the pricier side but hey, you’re paying for the view! Breakfast is served from 8am.

The views are incredible and the interior of the hotel lounge is gorgeous too. Pop in for a gander, staff don’t mind. Just note that the walk up the hill from town is a bit of a hard slog!

Hike to Ioane Natlismcemeli (Prophet Elijah Fathers Monastery)

For more spectacular mountain views, the petite St Elia’s Monastery is located on a hill behind Rooms. It looks directly over the town and onto Gergeti Trinity on the opposite side of the valley.

It takes around 45 minutes to reach the church by foot from the centre of Kazbegi. Be prepared for a short but sharp incline.

Behind the church there is a spectacular gorge and glacier that you can view from the top of the ridge. Once in a while during spring, there is a torrential downpour and the river swells massively.

Wander around Kazbegi town

As mentioned, Kazbegi is a small town you can easily explore on foot. There isn’t a whole lot to see but you will come across some charming architecture, ruins of old stone houses and water wells.

There is a great piece of street art in the centre of town – it was painted by local artist Dante Mdante in 2019 for Niko Project .

The Archangel Gabriel Church is worth stopping off at. It has interesting carvings around the door (note the two lions chained together) and a little stone model of the church on the front fence. It was undergoing restoration work at the time of my last visit, but hopefully it’s finished by now.

Right behind the church, there is an abandoned Soviet-era cable car station building . The double-arms design is very typical of cable car stations in Georgia – it’s almost identical to the one in Samgori in Tbilisi, and very similar to some of the stations in Chiatura .

Incredibly, this cable car was built to connect the town of Stepantsminda with Gergeti Trinity Church. But the project was a huge failure: Locals prefer to walk to the church as a symbol of their devotion, so the cable car was frowned upon. Apparently it was dismantled shortly after it opened (but I am not sure of the exact dates).

These days the lower station building is covered with graffiti art.

Right in the centre of Kazbegi there is a rather lovely lion’s head fountain with a plate decorated with Shota Rustaveli.

There are also a few interesting Soviet-era bas reliefs scattered around town, including several on the bus station and one very impressive music-themed sculptural wall behind the fountain.

There is a small Museum of History in Stepantsminda , but it has been ‘temporarily closed’ for as long as I can remember. If you’re walking past, it might be worth stopping to see if it has reopened (please let me know!).

I recommend going for a walk around town in the evening when the shepherds bring their flocks home for the night and the narrow streets fill up with sheep.

Things to do around Kazbegi – hiking trails, mineral pools & more

The valleys and mountains around Kazbegi hold plenty of other treasures. Here are more places to visit further afield.

See this list of Kazbegi side trips and day hikes for even more ideas.

Pansheti Mineral Pool & stone towers

Located 2.5km south of Kazbegi centre on the western side of the river, this open-air ‘swimming pool’ is fed by natural mineral springs . The water is cold, crystal clear and very clean, while the mountain backdrop is simply stunning.

There isn’t much infrastructure in the area at the moment, so no toilets or change rooms. A Tbilisi-based firm is working on a new Pansheti pool, which was supposed to be completed in 2023 (as far as I can tell, work hasn’t started yet). The architect’s plans are pretty neat.

The pools are a 30-40 minute walk from the centre of Kazbegi via a flat path that follows the river. Alternatively, you can take a taxi and get there in 5 minutes.

Tip: If you’re a fan of sulfur pools, make sure you check out the sulfur geyser in Vani (south of Kutaisi).

Beyond the pool, there are some old tower ruins in Pansheti that are worth visiting. Do take care as there are aggressive dogs in the area.

Dariali Gorge & Archangel Monastery Complex

In the opposite direction, further towards Russia, Dariali Gorge is a steep mountain cleft that runs for almost 20km between Kazbegi and the border. This is one of the most visually impressive landscapes in the area. The jagged rock is a total contrast to the lush green Jvari Pass you cross to get into Kazbegi from the opposite direction.

There are various trails and lookout points in the area. Dariali Monastery Complex (AKA the Archangel Monastery Complex) is nestled beneath the mountains on the eastern side of the river gorge and is absolutely magnificent.

Mountain Freaks runs a daily bus to Dariali departing at midday and returning to Kazbegi at 3.30pm. If you’re coming up to Kazbegi in a car, I recommend overshooting the town and visiting Dariali first. Make a pit stop at this viewpoint along the way for a vista of the Terek Valley.

Gveleti waterfalls & lakes

The Gveleti waterfalls are located in Dariali Gorge, before the monastery. There are two falls – one big, one small – that can both be reached via an easy one-hour-ish hike from the highway.

The small waterfall is a bit more hidden and so less busy, but you’ll usually find lots of tourists here in the warmer months. On the way you’ll pass by the ruins of a church and the old Gveleti Tower.

Further up the Terek River, a pair of tiny lakes known as the Gveleti Lakes are located just off the highway.

Zakagori Fortress (Truso Valley)

Zakagori Fortress is located in the Truso Valley, roughly 75 minutes from Kazbegi by car. You can either hike to the fortress from the main highway or take a 4WD all the way up. Mountain Freaks runs two daily cars to Truso in summer. More information and reservations on the website .

Note that that fortress is very close to the South Ossetia (Tskhinvali/Samachablo) demarcation. Border guards are present and it’s a requirement to carry photo ID (your passport) with you at all times.

Sno village Giant Stone Heads

This quirky ‘open-air sculpture museum’ is located at the entrance to Sno village on the way to Juta, south-east of Kazbegi. Half a dozen gigantic stone heads dot the landscape, each one carved in the image of a great Georgian writer, poet or leader.

The sculptures are a 9-minute drive from Kazbegi. Entry is by 5 GEL donation.

This village in the Sno valley is a popular base for trekking, including the Chaukhi Pass route. As well as providing accommodation to multi-day hikers, Fifth Season Cabin also serves lunch to day visitors.

Fifth Season is around 35 minutes by road from Kazbegi. Mountain Freaks runs two vans to Juta at 9am and 11am daily. Visit the Caucasus Trekking website for in-depth information about the various trails in and around Juta.

Where to eat in Kazbegi: Best Kazbegi restaurants

Note that some of these venues close during the low season and reopen in May. I highly recommend checking their Facebook page before you go. A quick reminder that you can find all these locations pinned on my Kazbegi Map below .

Kazbegi Good Food: My favourite restaurant in Kazbegi, this is a no-frills family run place set in a tiny kitchen off the main road (just up from the bus station). The khinkali, mtsvadi BBQ and salads are all spot-on. The owners, an elderly couple, are super sweet. (Unfortunately this restaurant closes from time to time without notice – if you find it closed, try again the next day.)

Restaurant Stancia: Located on the ground floor of Hotel Stancia, this restaurant serves contemporary Georgian fare in an airy dining room overlooking the river. The pkhlovani (khachapuri stuffed with beetroot leaves) is a favourite of mine.

Maisi: Run by the same crew as Kazbegi Cabins and Kazbegi Hut, this is probably the trendiest cafe in Kazbegi. The menu features healthy breakfasts, specialty coffee and gourmet meals (think warm peach salad with Racha ham). If you need to get some work done, Maisi doubles as a coworking space.

Cozy Corner: This popular restaurant by the river is usually full in the evenings – and for good reason. Classic Georgian meals are served in huge portions for a low price, and everything is extremely tasty. Outdoor seating is available in the warmer months. Don’t let the big sign reading ‘karaoke’ put you off!

BeBa Bar: Wait times at this small restaurant are a little longer because the kitchen is only big enough for one. The menu features Khachapuri Adjaruli, khinkali and a range of Georgian stews plus pizza. Home cooking at its best.

Lunch at Maia: The outdoor area at this small family run restaurant is very pleasant in summer. Expect typical Georgian fare and homemade wine.

Ketino’s Home: The best khinkali in Kazbegi! This restaurant has a beautiful dining room overlooking the valley. Find it on the ground floor of the guesthouse by the same name.

Panorama Restaurant: Quality Georgian fare, beer on tap, and wonderful views from the upper outdoor terrace.

Restaurant Tiba: This is a new restaurant in Kazbegi – I haven’t had a chance to eat here yet but I wanted to mention it because it has such excellent reviews. The food looks wonderful and I love the interior design.

Best restaurants near Kazbegi

Tsanareti (Arsha): A 6-minute drive from Kazbegi, this locals’ favourite in Arsha village specialises in Kubdari ‘beef pie’ and Mtsvadi BBQ. Expect large portions for a good price.

Restaurant Korbuda (Pasanauri): My favourite Khinkali in Georgia – and a damn good Khachapuri Imereti too. Pasanauri village (1.5 hours south of Kazbegi) is the spiritual home of Georgia’s soup dumplings. Make sure you stop here for lunch on the drive up.

Suggested 3-day Kazbegi itinerary

Day one: Leave Tbilisi early to tackle the Georgian Military Highway, stopping off at all the points of interest along the way, including in Pasanauri for an early lunch. Bypass Kazbegi and continue to Dariali Gorge to visit the monastery and viewpoint. Once in Kazbegi, stretch your legs with a walk around town and a short hike up to Ioane Natlismcemeli for a view. Dinner at Kazbegi Good Food.

Day two: Eat a calorie-heavy guesthouse breakfast then trek up to Gergeti Trinity Church. Back in town, grab a well-deserved lunch on the deck at Rooms Hotel. In the afternoon, head to the Pansheti Mineral Pools for a swim. Dinner at Panorama.

Day three: Spend the full day hiking around Kazbegi, either in the Truso Valley or in Juta. Use Mountain Freaks transfers to get to the trailheads or organise a taxi. If you choose Juta, stop in Sno to see the giant sculptures, in Karkucha village for a view of the glacier, and in Arsha for lunch. Dinner in Kazbegi at a restaurant of your choosing.

Map of Kazbegi

Click here to open my interactive Kazbegi Map on Google Maps. To save the map for later, hit the star icon under the title.

Where to go after Kazbegi

Pankisi valley.

Pankisi Valley lies in the upper part of the Alazani Valley in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus. Home to the Kists whose ancestors came to Kakheti from Chechnya, this is one of the most culturally unique places to visit in Georgia .

To get to Pankisi from Kazbegi without doubling back through Tbilisi, you can take a shortcut from Tianeti to Akhmeta. Part of this road remains unpaved (work is currently underway on this road) so it’s recommended to use a vehicle with high clearance.

Once in Pankisi, use Nazy’s Guest House in Jokolo as a base for exploring the area’s cultural landmarks and hiking routes.

Kakheti wine region

Telavi, the biggest city in Kakheti wine region , is just south of Akhmeta and can also be reached using the Tianeti-Akhmeta road from Kazbegi. From here, you can continue to Sighnaghi and explore all the wonderful monasteries, churches and vineyards Kakheti Wine Region has to offer .

Tip: You can avoid doubling back through Tbilisi by turning off the Military Highway and cutting across to Telavi via Tianeti. This is a lovely drive (via a newly sealed road) with some interesting stops on the way.

To get to the more-remote mountain region of Tusheti from Kazbegi, you should first travel to Telavi or Zemo Alvani. Experienced drivers wait here to take visitors up to Omalo. The journey takes the better part of a day. See here for a detailed Tusheti transport guide .

Crossing the Russian border at Verkhny Lars

The Russian border checkpoint lies just beyond Dariali Gorge and can be reached by continuing along the Georgian Military Highway north from Kazbegi. It’s only possible to cross by vehicle (not by foot), so if you don’t have your own vehicle you will need to hitch a ride. It may also be possible to cross on a bicycle.

Depending on your nationality, a valid visa for Russia may be required. Find more information about the border crossing and visa requirements here .

Are you planning a trip to Kazbegi? Is there something I forgot to cover that you need help with? Feel free to leave your comments or questions below.

Georgia essentials

Here are the websites and services I personally use and recommend for Georgia. Check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Search for affordable flights to Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance (get 5% off when you book with my link).

SIM CARD: Magti is my preferred provider, with prices starting from 9 GEL/week for unlimited data. See this guide for all the details about buying a Georgian SIM card .

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Most flights into Georgia arrive in the early hours. For ease, pre-book a private transfer from Tbilisi Airport to your hotel (from $17) or from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi (from $90) with my partners at GoTrip.ge.

ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is the most widely used platform in Georgia. Use it to find family guesthouses, private apartments, hostels and hotels around the country.

CAR HIRE: Find a great deal on a rental car in Georgia – use the Local Rent website to book through a local agent (prices start from $20/day).

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Use Viator or Get Your Guide to browse a range of day trips and city tours. For off-beat programs, I recommend Friendly.ge (use the promocode wanderlush for 10% off). For in-depth day trips to Georgia’s wine regions, I recommend Eat This! Tours (use the promo code wanderlush for 5% off).

PRIVATE TRANSFERS: GoTrip.ge is a terrific service for booking a private professional driver and car for the day. Use it for A-to-B transfers, a customised round-trip itinerary, or a multi-day trip. You can stop wherever you like for as long as you like without the fixed price going up.

NEED SOME HELP?: Need feedback on your itinerary or personalised travel tips? I offer a one-on-one consultation call service for Tbilisi and Georgia. More information and bookings here .

You might also be interested in…

• The ultimate Georgia itinerary : Four detailed & custom-designed itineraries
• Georgia Travel Guide : All of my 200+ posts plus my top travel tips
• Georgia travel tips : 25 essential things to know before you go
• Places to visit in Georgia : 50+ unique & underrated destinations around the country
• The best things to do in Tbilisi : Favourites, hidden gems & local picks
• 35+ best restaurants in Tbilisi : Where to eat Georgian food
• 15 best day trips from Tbilisi : With detailed transport instructions
• The best time to visit Georgia : Month-by-month guide to weather, festivals & events

34 Comments

To hike to the waterfalls you mention, “can both be reached via an easy one-hour-ish hike from the highway” how do you recommend we get to the highway? Should we do it as part of a ge.transfer, walk from town, or are there taxis there to drop/pick you up? Thanks for your help!

Hi Gabrielle – you could do either. I would probably just use a local taxi or you can try booking via Bolt.

Hi Emily, thank you for these detailed guides. I have a query about Gotrip bookings. How much in advance does one need to book for a one-way trip to Kazbegi from Tbilisi with GoTrip.ge?

Hoping you can help. I’m planing to visit Georgia in May 2024.

Hi Michelle, you can book a month, a week or a day in advance – it’s totally up to you. There are always drivers available and you will be able to find someone even the night before in May with no issues. Have a wonderful trip!

Having just done this trip, my advice would be to go to gotrip website and have a look first at how the site works. The site gives you a range of drivers you can choose from, check their reviews, and also gives the prices for each driver which will vary, sometimes quite significantly. You choose the driver you want and the itinerary you want and that is the price you will pay on the day in cash.

As one of the gotrip drivers I used pointed out, the earlier you book the more options you have with prices and choice of drivers. You could probably book up until the day before but your options of drivers might be more limited in May as it gets busier, and you might also end up paying more as a result.

My advice would be to book as early as you can, and read the reviews about the drivers (I almost booked one driver, but after reading a couple of reviews where his driving style was mentioned, I chose someone else as a result. Georgian driving style matters!).

Great tips, thank you Gareth for sharing!

Hi Emily, we are going to Georgia this month and are going to rent a car. Thanks for all the tips you shared on this platform, it was really helpful to plan everything. We are planning to visit Kasbegi and Juta. We found out via instagram that the road to Juta has recently been closed to cars. Do you maybe have more information about this? I cannot find anywhere why it is closed and whether it is possible to take a taxi/walk to Juta from the stop. Kind regards, Dannii

Hi Dannii – yes, I heard that the Juta road is closed now due to bad conditions. There were landslides and damage to the road, which made it unsafe for cars. I would recommend avoiding this area for now and perhaps trying Truso instead. Do note that there was some snow and ice up in this area over the weekend.

Hello Emily,

I am planning to reach Kazbegi using a private rent car. Do you know how it the parking situation there? I am travelling on a budget so if I can avoid paying for a paid parking spot, the better for me.

Thank you so much in advance!

Hi Rob – there is plenty of free street parking in town, and you can find free parking up at the church, too. So you will have no issues at all. Have a fun trip!

Is it possible to get a cab from Kazbegi to Truso Valley around 8 am, hike for the day, then have the same cab take me back to Tbilisi around 4 pm?

Hi Adam, I don’t see why not. You would just have to tee this up with a driver. I doubt they would wait for you so you might have to set the time or call them at the end of the day. Did you see the Mountain Freaks transfer service? Safe travels!

Just booked for a day in Truso via Mtn Freaks, will be a lot less complicated that way.

Hello, we are due in Georgia this week and plan to spend 2 nights in Kazbegi. The weather looks awful all week including thunderstorms. Is there a chance the road will be closed? Thank you

Hi Stacy – hope you still made it! I just came back from Kazbegi this morning and the weather was lovely.

You never know what the weather will do!!

Safe travels!

Emily, great write-up. Is there a group trekking option to the top of the mountains. One of my friends was telling me about 7-8 day trek to the peak. Can you suggest any reliable and good group options. Small groups preferred.

Hi Uttam, there are several options for group treks. Caucasus Quest are very professional and experienced, you might want to try them first: https://caucasusquest.com/tours/climb-kazbek-challenge/

Hi Emily. A great blog, so much useful information! I’m planning trip to Georgia and Kazbegi for my birthday in mid April this year. I was wondering what hiking is like around that time. Do you know if many of the higher areas are still inaccessible such as the Gergeti glacier?

Hi Andy, thanks for your comment. Normally the hiking season doesn’t start until late May in Kazbegi. The snow has been late this year, so I’m not sure what the weather will do. I don’t think you will be able to access that trail in April unfortunately. Here is some more information: https://www.caucasus-trekking.com/regions/kazbegi#whentovisit

Emily this is really helpful, thank you. I think I might have to push my Kazbegi trip into later in the year!

We’re arriving in Georgia at the end of March/start of April (2024)

Is it worth heading up to Kazbegi at all during that time? Just happy to see it and do gentle hikes… Dont need to go too far up.

Hi Sam – it’s always worth it in my opinion! Juta/Truso will be closed, but the church trail should be open. I did the hike once in late March. If you take a look at my trail guide, there is a video and photos to give you an idea of the weather and terrain conditions. Enjoy!

Thank you so much for your brilliant blog – has been my go to for an upcoming trip to Georgia!

Thank you Shani! Hope you have a terrific trip!

This is so helpful, thanks! One thing I didn’t catch in your article but would love to hear about (considering an outdoorsy vacation, something very important) — what is the bug situation like there? Where I live, summer means hordes of mosquitos, gadflies, and blackflies… is the Kazbegi region similarly subject to the scourge?

Hi Katie – great question. I attract mosquitoes and get bitten a lot, but it’s never been an issue for me in Kazbegi. Maybe bring your spray just in case, but it’s nothing to be concerned about!

You have helped me sooooo much with your writing! Thank you! I’m coming for a visit next month! One question…..you say to wear a long skirt at Gergeti Trinity Church. Will you please clarify if this means covering knees or to the ground long? Thanks,

Hello Jan, so glad to hear that!

You just need to cover your knees but the longer the better – there are definitely aprons you can borrow at this church though, so no worries if you wear shorts up then wrap one around your waist before you head in.

Wishing you a wonderful trip!

Hi Emily, I’m taking a trip to Georgia on my own in a couple of weeks. I would like to stay in guesthouses that are a bit more busy/social. Are there any in kazbegi that you would recommend for this? Thanks!

Hi Jack – that’s a tricky one, Kazbegi is a pretty quiet town and because there are so many guesthouses, it’s normally pretty subdued. Nothing springs to mind for Kazbegi but I will drop back if I think of anything.

I hear that Zeta Camping nearby in Juta has a social atmosphere and a big garden for summer – you might want to look at spending a few nights there.

You have to try Panorama when you are back in Kazbegi! It’s off season so we had a smaller selection of options but the food at Panorama was diverse and exquisite (even for two vegetarians we had different delicious meals each night)! Kazbegi Good Food was also tasty and thank you for all your tips!

Thanks for the tip Ami, Panorama is indeed on my list! Great to hear you had some delicious meals in Kazbegi. Safe travels!

The link for the iVisa is linked to the Azerbaijan page? Different country, no?

Love your blogs. Thanks so much. Helped me plan my trip so well – can’t wait to get there now!

Thanks very much for spotting that Liam, updated it.

Great to hear you’re planning a trip!

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Adventure travel blog

The Complete Guide to Visiting Kazbegi in Georgia

//  by  Kristin

The fantastic mountain view is the main reason to come to Kazbegi. Georgia has many mountain areas to visit but if you are after jaw dropping scenery, Mount Kazbek at 5,054 metres will not disappoint. It is the third highest peak in Georgia and being a dormant stratovolcano it rises up impressively by 3,000 metres from the village below.

Being the most accessible of the Caucasus mountain villages from Tbilisi , Kazbegi can get busy in the Summer. However, it means that there is a good variety of accommodation from the very basic to high-end hotels such as Rooms Hotel Kazbegi .

This post will cover everything you need to know to plan your visit. You can climb to the top of Mount Kazbek but it requires a good level of fitness and acclimatisation. This trek is not covered since it is best arranged through a trekking company.

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Is It Worth Going?

When I start planning a trip the first thing I do is list the places and sights that I don’t want to miss. What convinced me that Kazbegi was worth including on our Georgia itinerary were the photos of the village with the mountain in the background (see below). For me Svaneti and Kazbegi were the highlights of the holiday. If you are at the stage of planning your itinerary then I say include them both.

Is It Stepantsminda or Kazbegi?

It is the same place! I found one area having two names very confusing when I first started researching our trip. Kazbegi is the old name of this town but it is commonly used today – so commonly used in fact that I used it for the name of this post.

Originally the village was called Stepantsminda which means “Saint Stephan”. The name was that of a Georgian Orthodox monk. He is believed to be one of the first to have constructed a shelter here.  

During the Russian Empire back in the 19 th Century, a local lord was in charge of what was then Stepantsminda. In return for suppressing revolutions he was promoted to an officer and took the surname Kaz Begi. The village under his control was often referred to by the same name.

Shortly after Georgia became part of the Soviet Union the town was officially named Kazbegi. However, it was named after the famous writer called Alexander Kazbegi rather than the army officer (although they were in fact related).

In 2006 the town went back to using the name Stepantsminda and today you will hear people using both names.  

Which Caucasus Mountain Area Is Best to Visit?

Kazbegi – for uninterrupted views of 5,000 metre high mountains coupled with high end accommodation at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi, this is the place to go. There are some good day hikes and it is possible to climb Mt Kazbek (this must be arranged in advance and should not be taken lightly). However, I think the two areas below are more focused on trekking than Kazbegi.

Svaneti – this might be controversial but in my view most villages in Georgia are not that pretty or interesting to explore. This area is one of the few exceptions. You can sense the history of local blood feuds as you walk around the villages dotted with stone defense towers. Svaneti National Park has the most famous multi-day hike in Georgia, the four-day Mestia to Ushguli hike .

Tusheti – we did not go here but were told by other hikers that the scenery is as good as in Kazbegi and Svaneti. Tusheti is less developed so on multi-day hikes you need to carry your own gear. As a result the area is best suited to more experienced hikers.

For me the mountains were the highlight of our trip and I recommend going to Kazbegi and Svaneti. They are different enough so that both are worth visiting. 

How Many Days to Stay in Kazbegi Georgia

You need a minimum of two nights in my view. Three is even better and will allow you to explore more of the surrounding area. Many people go on day trips from Tbilisi but this leaves you with very little time in Kazbegi. Therefore you are unlikely to see the mountain which is often covered in clouds during the day (see below).

We loved our stay at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi. If we had an extra day in Georgia this is where I would spend it. 

Kazbegi Weather – Best Time to Visit

Unless you have plans to climb Mt Kazbek a visit to Kazbegi is possible at any time of year. For dry weather, July- October is your best bet. In my view September is the best month to travel to Georgia . October is also a good option unless you want to go to go hiking in Svaneti during your trip.  

Temperatures are higher during the summer months giving you a slightly better chance of seeing the mountain. As discussed below, the key is getting up early and being lucky.

The road is rarely closed by snow as the Military Highway is a key import/ export route with Russia. Driving here you can see that downhill skiing is becoming increasingly popular from the amount of construction taking place.

January and February have the highest chances of snow and the coldest weather. In these months you should be prepared for sub-zero temperatures.  March is a better time to go to get views and photos of the surrounding mountains covered in snow.

From April it starts to warm up. April to June can be wet and have significantly higher precipitation than other months with a nearly 50% of chance of rain.

This period gives you the best chance of seeing Mt Kazbek. Warmer weather results in fewer clouds, except for June which is still rainy. July and August, together with October, have the lowest precipitation.

The downside of the summer months is the school holiday period in Europe and the Caucasus. As a result tourists numbers and hotel prices increase.

I think September is the best month to travel to Kazbegi and Georgia in general . The Summer holidays in Europe and Georgia are over so there are fewer crowds and the weather is still warm. You can go hiking in Svaneti and the grapes are becoming ripe in Kakheti.

October is another good month to go unless you want to do any of the longer or higher altitude treks. The days are getting shorter and temperatures are falling so higher mountain passes might have snow. October is the month with the lowest rainfall.

Where to Stay

As a result of becoming a popular tourist destination Kazbegi Georgia is full of guesthouses at various price levels. The best place to stay is Rooms Hotel Kazbegi.

Originally a Soviet era sanatorium, it continues to be a spa hotel but has had a complete renovation. Today it is of a standard where it would not look out of place in a European or North American high-end mountain resort.

The pool and saunas are free to use for hotel guests. The spa area is designed with the spectacular mountain views in mind which are visible from all angles through large folding glass doors. Treatments are on offer but we didn’t try any so I cannot comment on the quality.  

I believe the terrace has the best panoramic views in the village with Mt Kazbek in the background (that is where the photo at the top of this post was taken). Even if you are not staying here you should make sure you go for a drink, lunch or breakfast. I recommend visiting while it is light so you can see the fabulous view.

It is a poplar dinner spot so go early as the best tables get taken first. Arriving late you might either have to wait or share one of the larger tables with other guests. It was unclear when we were there weather you could reserve or not.

Alpine Lounge Hotel and Restaurant located next door will probably have similar views but the price is not much lower. Have a look at both options before you book but if the price is similar, I would recommend booking Rooms Hotel Kazbegi.  If it is within your budget, stay in a mountain view room.

For further information on Rooms Hotel Kazbegi read my review here .

What to Pack

The village is at an altitude of 1,750 metres so mornings and evenings are cold. In early September it was warm enough for trousers and a t-shirt in the middle of the day but the rest of the time I wore my fleece.

Bring non-hiking clothes as well as your walking gear. There are many restaurants around town and you should go for at least a drink or dinner at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi.

Since you can leave your suitcase in the hotel or guesthouse you do not need to think as carefully about what you pack as if doing the 4-day Mestia Ushguli trek in Svaneti National Park. There are some multi-day hikes in the area but most visitors do day hikes.

For the climb to the monastery you need little more than water and an extra fleece or waterproof, depending on the weather.

On longer hikes be prepared for rain as well as lower temperatures. The hike to the Gergeti glacier is a popular day hike but it is a long day. As you ascend the temperature drops and weather can change quickly so make sure you are prepared and bring both rain gear and warm clothing.

Best Viewpoints and Best Time for Photos

Mt Kazbek : In general the best time for photos is before noon since the sun shines on the mountain during this period. The question is whether you will be able to see the top. My experience was that it was only visible first thing in the morning (read more about my top tips for seeing the mountain below).

The Monastery : The two best views of the Gergeti Trinity church are:

• Viewpoint 1 : First thing in the morning from high up on the opposite side of the village to the mountain you can see the yellow glow reflected from the snow cap with the black outline of the monastery in front. At Rooms Hotel Kazbegi the above photo can be taken from the terrace or your balcony when staying in a mountain view room.
• Viewpoint 2 : The photo of Gergeti Trinity church with the towering mountains in the background is taken from the opposite side of the valley to the photo described in Viewpoint 1. The best view is from the hill behind the church. Continue walking towards Mt Kazbek and you cannot miss it. Photos are best taken in the afternoon when the sun is shining on the church. The later you go the fewer cars there are likely to be. This matters since unfortunately the parking lot is right next to the church and can be seen in all photos.

Top Tips for Seeing Mt Kazbek

Before visiting Kazbegi we spoke to many other travelers who had not seen the top of the mountain when they visited. Arriving in the early afternoon we found the same and the top was covered in clouds.

Waking up early the next morning the first thing I did was open the curtains. And there was the mountain and a bright blue sky! However, it did not take long before it was covered in cloud again. By the time we were halfway through breakfast all you could see were clouds above Gergeti Trinity Church.

During the two nights we stayed I found that early morning was the only time you could see the mountain in its full glory. So to have the best chance of seeing it I would highly recommend staying at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi. And yes, it is worth paying for a mountain view room. This means that in the early morning all you need to do is open the curtains to (hopefully) see the mountain.

How to Visit Gergeti Trinity Church

This is the one place you must visit! I suggest a few other half and full-day trips below but in my view you cannot come all this way and not see this church.

The photo of Gergeti has become synonymous with Georgia and its location is spectacular. There are two ways of getting here – hiking or by car.

How to Visit by Hiking

I think this is the best way to get to the church. It allows you to spend as long as you want, both at the church and the different viewpoints described below.

The hike is steep. It takes 1-2 hours to climb the 420 metres up to the church. Walking down is faster, taking only 1 hour. I would recommend setting aside half a day for this trip.

The path is easy to find but maps.me is a very good app for all the hiking trails in the area. It is easy to use, just remember to download the Georgia map before leaving your hotel. The app uses the GPS on your phone for directions so there is no charge for data (its free to download the app and maps).

Hiking Directions

From the town square continue on the main road (there is only one running through town) in the direction of the Russian border. This is the same direction as taking a right when facing the mountain. After a couple of hundred metres, cross the river and walk up the hill. This is where your climbing will start and it will continue until you get to the monastery.

Walk uphill for 5 – 10 minutes and take the first left past Gergeti café. At the end of the road you get onto a dirt path. It climbs steeply up to the church, which falls in and out of view during the hike. 

The church is small and although atmospheric, as with most monasteries in the region, it is best viewed from a distance. Whether you hike or get a car you should take the time to climb a little further up. The best views of the church are from a small hill behind the church. The hill is clearly visible when you stand at the church looking towards Mt Kazbek.

This is where the photos are taken of the panoramic views of the church with the soaring mountains in the background.

How to Visit by Car

The road up to the church twists and turns, climbing steeply up through the forest. It is paved so there is no longer a need for a 4×4. You can drive up in your own car or you can hire one of the taxis from the town square which are waiting to ferry tourists up to the church.

The cost of the trip depends on how good you are at bargaining but expect to pay 40-50 GEL. This price will include the 20 minute drive each way and time at the church to take some photos.

If you take this option I recommend negotiating with the driver to stop at the first parking lot on your right just after the final bend before the church. From here you see the road stretching out and the church in front of you. There is a small hill behind the parking lot which is where you can take the photos often seen of the church perched on the cliff side (shown in the photo above).

Kazbegi Hiking Trips and Other Activities

Most of what there is to do in Kazbegi is outdoors, meaning that your stay is weather dependant. When we visited we really enjoyed spending time at a nice hotel with a pool (staying at Rooms Hotel Kazbegi), having spent a few days in more basic accommodation. As a result we only made it to Gergeti Trinity church. As mentioned above, this is the one half-day trip you should not miss. If you have more time, here are a few other options for either half-day or full-day excursions:

Half-Day Hikes and Activities

Gveleti waterfall.

• The walk is about one hour and is easy. When the path splits look for a stone with a red arrow pointing to the right. This takes you to the larger of the two waterfalls. It is best to come in the morning when the sun shines on the waterfall
• A taxi from the road to where the trail starts will cost 60 GEL return including waiting time
• Tsdo village and Dariali Gorge are potential stops to add to the trip.

Hang Gliding in Gudauri

• Located 30 – 40 minutes before you arrive in Kazbegi, this is the best place to go hang gliding. Stop at the Treaty of Georgievsk Monument on your way from Tbilisi and you will be approached by people wanting to sell you a hang gliding trips every few metres
• The price is 250-300 GEL for a 25 – 30 minute flight
• We didn’t do this but were told that this is the best place to do so. Limited regulation means that anyone can sell a trip. Therefore make sure you pick a reputable agency. You would not want to do this with someone who does not know what they are doing!

Full-Day Hikes and Activities

Hike to the gergeti glacier.

If the weather is on your side the one hike I would recommend is the Gergeti glacier hike . Our plan was to do this trek but when we looked at the weather forecast we changed our minds. We did not want to do a difficult full day hike in the rain and with limited visibility.

The hike is described as hard by everyone who has done it. In one day you will walk up and down 1,600 metres! People report taking 7-12 hours and you should make sure:

• You are acclimatised since you will climb to over 3,000 metres
• The temperature drops as you ascend so bring enough warm clothes. Weather can change quickly so be prepared. We always bring some pain killers and plasters to deal with blisters
• Bring enough food and water. You can fill water at the hut by the glacier. They do not sell food but you can buy a very expensive cup of tea or coffee

Truso Valley

• The attraction in Truso valley is the scenery with colourful mineral water springs and Abano village
• The village is small but the area does have a couple of the famous stone defense towers. Svaneti and Tusheti are by far the best places to see these towers but some can also be found in Khada Gorge. This valley has the most in the area around Kazbegi and can be added as a side trip on your drive to or from Tbilisi
• When hiking here it is recommended to bring your passport. Being on the border with South Ossetia you might meet a Georgian soldier on border patrol
• A taxi which will cost 100 GEL return or 60 GEL one way, or
• Get the bus from Mountain Freak (described below)
• The reasons to come here are the green hills and the hiking. This is the starting point for both the Chauki pass and Sno valley hike
• The Chauki pass hike can be completed over one or two days. The one-day version takes 8-9 hours. You can use the Mountain Freak transportation detailed below to get to Juta. For the return a taxi can be organised in Rocha
• A taxi which will cost 100 GEL return or 50 GEL one way, or

Mountain Freak Transportation

From April 15 th to October 31 st a bus service is provided to Dariali Gorge, Truso Valley and Juta. Services run every day as long as there is a minimum of three passengers.

Tickets cost 30 GEL per person return and need to be bought in person at the Mountain Freak office. The office location is 44 Alexander Kazbegi Street. This is the main road through Kazbegi and the office is in a very colourful building located a little before the bus station (coming from Tbilisi).

Tickets cannot be booked online. It is best to buy your seat at least one day in advance, especially during the busy summer months.

The timetable for the buses are shown in the table below:

How to Get From Tbilisi to Kazbegi or Kazbegi to Tbilisi

Although the distance is only 149km (93 miles) the drive takes 3 – 4 hours depending on weather and mode of transport.

The road twists and turns as you climb up the mountain. If you easily get car sick keep this in mind when choosing whether to get a taxi or your seat in a minibus.

There are three alternative ways of getting here:

Taxi or Private Car

• I think this is the best way to get here. It enables you to stop at all the places of interest along the way (described below)
• The drive time is 3 – 4 hours. When we were leaving it was so foggy you could only see a few metres in front of you. This added nearly an hour to the journey. The taxi driver had to drive very slow and it was difficult to pass the lorries driving from Russia to Georgia along the Military Highway
• Taxis will cost around 150-250 GEL to/from either Tbilisi or Gori. Ending in Kakheti will cost an additional 50-100 GEL depending on your final destination
• We relied on taxis whilst in Georgia since we were travelling on to Kakheti and Azerbaijan
• Renting a car is a good option for trips that start and end in Tbilisi. However, the road is steep and winding. Being a key import/ export route between Georgia and Russia there are many trucks on the road. Locals seem less concerned about overtaking on blind bends so drive defensively. If you are considering renting a car read our post on driving in the Caucasus

Shared Taxi

• If a private taxi is not within your budget a shared one is a good alternative to a matrushka. It gives you more leg room and better views, which is beneficial if car sickness is something you suffer from
• Shared taxis are aimed at tourists so stop at both Ananuri Fortress and the Gudauri viewpoint. Should you not want to stop here make sure you check with the driver whether a direct journey is possible
• A seat in a shared taxi costs 25 GEL per person and they leave from Didube bus station

Marshrutka / Buses From Tbilisi to Kazbegi

• Marshrutkas leave from Didube bus station which is located next to the metro station of the same name. When you exit the metro walk down the stairs and through the underpass on the right
• This is a big, hectic bus station but if you mention where you are going to anyone you meet they will point you in the right direction. Most buses have a sign in the window showing their destination in both English and Georgian
• The schedule for the Marshrutka is 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm, 5pm, 6pm and 7pm every day. However, they leave when they are full so make sure you arrive no later than 30 minutes before departure. Since minibuses leave when they are full they do not really stick to the schedule
• The ticket is bought from the driver and can only be purchased in cash
• Avoid going when it is dark since the risk of an accident is much higher
• All rides have one bathroom stop. However, sometimes it is early on, sometimes quite late, so don’t drink too much
• The cost is 10 GEL per person

Marshrutka / Buses From Kazbegi to Tbilisi

• The marshrutkas to Tbilisi leave from the same place you get dropped off in Kazbegi
• There is meant to be a set timetable but I would not rely on it. There is roughly one per hour but this will depend on how many are coming from Tbilisi. Their departure times seemed to depend more on when they left Tbilisi rather than the schedule
• The return price is the same, 10 GEL per person

Group Tours

• In Tbilisi there seems to be someone selling group day trips on every corner so finding one is easy. I would not recommend this option. With a 3-4 hour drive each way you are left with very little time in Kazbegi
• Stay at least one night. In my view you should stay for two or three nights to give yourself a good chance of seeing the mountain

Stops Worth Making Along the Military Highway

20km north of Tbilisi is Mtskhet which was once the ancient capital of the Eastern Georgian Kingdom. The motorway bypasses the town but a stop here can easily be added when travelling in a taxi or driving yourself.

The two main sites in the town are:

• Jvari Monastery (which means the Monastery of the Cross) – Located on a mountain top the church is visible from miles around. The photo you often see of a monastery with a river running either side is taken here. The main reason to come is for the view since there is little to see inside the church. Opening hours are 8am – 10pm every day and entry is free
• Svetitskhoveli Cathedral – The current structure dates back to the 11 th Century. Legend has it that the robe of Christ is concealed within the cathedral and several monarchs are buried here. The cathedral is still in use adding to the atmosphere. Opening hours are from 8am – 10pm every day. However, there is no entry from 5pm – 8pm on Saturday and 8am – 1pm on Sunday since the church is only open for worshipers at these times. Entry is free.

I felt like I had seen enough churches by this time so we did not stop. According to the locals we spoke to the cathedral is meant to be one of the most impressive in Georgia. Mtskhet can also be combined with a day trip to Gori from Tbilisi.

Ananuri Fortress Complex

There is only one road to Kazbegi, the Georgian Military Highway, which passes this monastery. It makes a nice break on the 3 – 4 hours drive from Tbilisi or Gori. The location by the Zhinvali Reservoir gives this place a different feel to most of the other churches you will visit, with the green lake glistening in the background.

The imposing stone walls date from the 17 th Century and protected the buildings from plenty of battles, revolts and even fires. Two fortress towers remain, one round and one squared. You can climb the squared tower for good views over the reservoir. 

After entering the fortress walls there are two churches. It is worth a look but like most churches in the Caucasus the interior is bare. The main attraction is the location and views from a distance.

Gudauri Viewpoint

After driving through what is Georgia’s largest ski resort you get to a viewpoint on your left with a large concrete structure containing a tile mural. This is the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument from 1983. It was built to celebrate their friendship which is slightly ironic given the war that followed in the early 2000s.

The views over Devil’s Valley and South Ossetia make this a worthwhile stop on a clear day. On our way there we had good views but on our way back it was so foggy we could not even see the concrete structure from the road.

You might also be interested in

Rooms Hotel Kazbegi – Should You Stay Here?

Mestia Ushguli Trek – Everything I Wish I had Known Before Going

The 5 Most Instagrammable Views in Tbilisi

Inspiration.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did”

Kazbegi Adventure – One Day Tour

Tour overview.

Our driver will meet you at your hotel and lead you to your car to begin the Kazbegi tour.

We begin the day by visiting Zhinvali water reservoir. Zhinvali dam was built in 1980’s because Tbilisi was growing rapidly and needed a new water supply. As a result we have a beautiful lake, where we stop to enjoy the stunning views of the water and surrounding colorful forests.

Afterwards, we’ll continue to explore the famous 17th century Ananuri Fortress , known for its haunting history. Attacked many times throughout the centuries, it still stands strong and attracts each and every guest. Then we’ll head up the breathtaking military highway of Georgia to Gudauri , where we’ll see the Friendship Monument . Here you’ll also have a chance to have an unforgettable experience of paragliding over the Caucasus mountains.

Finally we’ll head to  Stepantsminda  also known as  Kazbegi , here you’ll switch to a 4WD off-road car to go up to the stunning  Gergeti monastery  under the 5047 meter mountain of  Kazbegi . Which was Built in 14th century. Gergeti used to be a secluded monastery. Ever since, there have been monks living here throughout the year, even through the freezing temperatures of -35 Celsius!

Enjoy a home cooked dinner and try to make your own Khinkali during the cooking masterclass in the village of Gergeti.

Finally, we’ll return to Tbilisi and our driver will leave you at your hotel.

10:00 - Zhinvali Lake

10:45 - ananuri fortress, 12:45 - stop for snacks, 13:15 - gudauri friendship monument, 15:00 - gergeti monastery, 16:00 - lunch in a local family & cooking masteclass, 20:00 - back to tbilisi, what's included, inclusions for the all inclusive tour.

• English Speaking Guide Service
• Authentic Lunch & Cooking Masterclass
• Comfortable Transport
• All Entrance Fees
• Pickup & Drop off at your hotel

Prices given above are for private tours. All of the private tours include a free hotel pickup and drop off in the city of departure/arrival. You can specify the pickup and drop off points during the booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from tbilisi to kazbegi, what should i wear in kazbegi, what type of food is served during the lunch in the local family, what if i have dietary requirements, how long is the kazbegi tour.

Travelling with Family

hey offered the perfect blend of emotions for travellers on their own as well as a family. Nika was an amazing guide who took us to exclusive locations apart from the ones offered. Not to mention, the driver was really friendly and we felt more like a family. We had opted for additional services like paragliding and airport transfers in which they proved themselves to be systematic (on time arrivals) as well as concerned (offered to stop by for food and other services). Kazbegi Adventure was the best option offered among the other competitors (food with a local family and paragliding). Loved it!! Thank you Irakhli :). A must go for all those who seek what its like to be truly Georgian 🙂

Travelling with friends

Two pieces of advice. Firstly, if you’re thinking of visiting Georgia – do. It’s a great place for an enjoyable hassle free holiday with good food and wine, great scenery, historic places and friendly people. Secondly when you do visit look up Irakli at Kartveli Tours for trips out of the capital. My nephew and I went with him on a day trip to Kazbegi and were impressed, not just with the mountain scenery and ancient buildings but with Irakli’s knowledge and enthusiasm which brought the small group (8) together and made the trip a success. The stop at a family home where we were able to sample a variety of traditional Georgian dishes we very much enjoyed. If I were to visit Georgia again I would certainly want to use Irakli’s services as a guide and would recommend him to friends.

Highly recommend this tour. An all-day experience (in our case, the Kazbegi region and others) that you won’t want to miss out on. Definitely must-see attractions, and won’t be nearly as insightful or enjoyable without a quality guide like we had from this company.

Bernadette M.

We had an enjoyable, memorable trip today to the Ananuri Fortress, the Gudauri Friendship Monument and more. We toured with Beka. He was kind, knowledgeable about the history and he was on time. We are foodies and lunch was magnificent, the wine was nice and the cha cha was authentic. We had an amazing day! I definitely recommend Kartveli Tours!

Travelling with family

rakli is so knowledgeable and a genuine guide who made us feel like family members. He was a phenomenal tour guide for our group! Spoke very good English and were easy to understand. It was an unforgettable experience to an extraordinarily beautiful country. It was like being introduced to these fabulous places by an old friend/family. Many thanks for such a wonderful Georgia trip that has left us with amazing memories. Please pass on our thanks to the drivers who pick us up at the airport (forgot their names, sorry!) , To Hodor *wink* and Mat they are an absolute credit to your company. Thank you very much for everything and hope to travel with you again. I will strongly recommend your company to anyone planning a trip to Georgia and I hope that we can travel with you again in the near future ourselves, we left feeling that we had made a new friend in Georgia. We were extremely happy with the tour that you arranged for us, it was certainly one of the best holidays that we have had. My favorite part is when we had lunch at the local family aside from the food ofcourse haha! But the feeling of eating together is just so personal. Madloba, Irakli! Keep going.

Travelling with Delegation

1) We had 2 hour tour in old Tbilisi and Irakli made our day. Very explanatory tour with a very friendly and experienced guide. I can highly recommend it.

2) We had a full day tour to Kazbegi and despite the weather had a wonderful experienced thanks to Marta who is very friendly , knowledgeable and fun pretty young lady made our day a lot of fun. Especially we enjoyed local family late lunch which gave us unique experience which we will never forget. Highlight of the trip though Gergeti Trinity Church which has a bumpy road but view worth it all.

3) Another day we had Cradle of Wine tour which basically takes you to east to see ancient wineries and taste different wines with another local family lunch. Along the way there are different stops which you enjoy the view and learn more about culture and history thanks to Beka which answered all our questions about politics, history and basically anything and never complained!

Overall: Small, yet experienced company provides fine tuned professional tours with excellent value of money. I cannot recommend them enough!

Travelling with a friend

A friend and I traveled for our spring break. We signed up for one tour and ended up having such an amazing time on our day trip to Armenia that we decided to sign up for the Kazbegi tour as well two days later. Kartveli tours is super accommodating! We were a few minutes late with an extra person and they fluctuated the group into a bigger van only losing 10 minutes from the planned exit time. They plan the activities perfectly (i.e. not too long in the car, amazing local cuisine, beautiful scenery, knowledgable guides, etc.). I highly recommend Kartveli Tours!!!

Travelling with group

joined small group day tour to Kazbegi and loved it! Beka, our guide (now our friend!), was excellent; very friendly, relaxed and could answer all the questions we’d saved up from our travels. The car was new and comfortable and Beka’s father was the most relaxing driver we had in Georgia.

We stopped at several cool places along the way (Ananuri, a panarama in the mountains etc), had enough time in each place, got some great photos and had an amazing lunch (with lots of Cha Cha!).

Highly recommended!

Group Traveller

Despite I’ve been to so many countries and have had many tours in different places. This one will of course be on the top of my list. The guide was very nice and knowledgeable of all the places and their history and more importantly, to me, speaks very FLUENT English.

Been to many spots with astonishing views of Georgia. Also had lunch with a local family who were very kind, lovely and more importantly cooked very delicious food haha (included in the tour price).

Moreover, the price is inexpensive, looking at all the fun you get !

Travelling solo

Really good tour.. Picked up at 9.30 at our request, we were tired as we got in late but Saba, our tour guide, and the driver didn’t hurry us at all which was ideal.

Stopped at so many wonderful locations and at every point where we thought we’d get a good selfie! They were so relaxed and this made the trip really enjoyable.

Eating with the Georgian family was an amazing experience, the house looked rough and ready but inside the food was so tasty and they even let u take part in the cooking!

I wont go into all the details because I don’t want to ruin any surprises but I’d definitely recommend these guys to anyone going to Georgia, having Saba was like bringing a friend of ours on tour who just happened to know a lot about Georgia!

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Kazbegi in georgia: full travel guide.

One of the absolute must-visit places in Georgia, Kazbegi has to be a key part of any itinerary to this country.

Even if you only come to Georgia for a few days, you seriously need to make sure you get to Kazbegi.

Prioritise it people! You will not regret it!

An area in the high Caucasus mountains, Kazbegi is actually named after the largest mountain here – Mount Kazbegi – and the gorgeous highland scenery of this area’s namesake can’t fail to move you.

Trust me, this is Georgia at its most impressive, its most charming and its most accessible – just 3 reasons why you NEED to visit this country and this region.

Want to know more?

Then keep reading to discover my full travel guide with all you need to know about visiting this amazing part of the Caucasus…

Related Posts

• Top 25 Things to Do in the Caucasus Region
• 9 Best Places to Visit in Georgia
• How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Georgia?

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Why Visit Kazbegi?

Kazbegi offers travellers some of Georgia’s most beautiful scenery, so if you’re interested in landscape, hiking, mountains, or all of the above, then heading to this area is a must.

And the star in the crown is the famous Gergeti Trinity Church, which sits on top of a hill directly in front of the great Mount Kazbeg itself.

This is the postcard emblem of Georgia and seeing it in real life, or even better, walking up to it, is a truly amazing experience.

In addition to this, tons of other accessible walking trails, stunning valleys and horse riding opportunities also make Kazbegi a traveller favourite.

Add to this the traditional village life, sense of isolation, as well as peace and quiet that can be found here, and Kazbegi makes the perfect place to relax and unwind.

There’s no question that visiting Kazbegi is one of my top things to do in Georgia and should not be missed during your time in this country either!

Where is Kazbegi?

Kazbegi is located in Georgia – a country that sits on the fringes of both Europe and Asia, in an area known as the Caucasus.

Kazbegi is situated in the north of Georgia, at a high elevation in the so-called Caucasus Mountains.

The height of this range varies from 1500m above sea level to 5000m at its peak… so, as you can imagine, the climate alters wildly depending on where in the Caucasus Mountain you are!

Kazbegi is a municipality, which in turn is part of the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region, and renowned for its stunning mountainous landscapes, rich grazing lands and rural feel.

The main town in the region is Stepantsminda, which is where most of the accommodation and tourist facilities are.

This town is also near to the famous Gergeti Church – essentially the icon of Kazbegi and the image you’re likely to have seen in any photos!

Stepantsminda is around a 3 hour drive from the capital of Georgia, Tbilisi in one direction and is only about an hour from the Russian border in the other.

It’s also worth knowing that the drive to get to Kazbegi from Tbilisi takes you along the Georgian Military Highway, which is one of the most stunning roads in the whole of Georgia –  quite a claim for this country I can tell you!

As such, enjoying the scenery on the way to and from Kazbegi is also a huge part of the travel experience here.

How to Get to Kazbegi?

Most people will be travelling to Kazbegi from Tbilisi via public transport.

In the capital, shared minivans (called marshrutkas ) for Kazbegi leave from Didube bus station and this is the easiest, cheapest and quickest way to get there.

You can easily get to the Didube Station via the metro system in Tbilisi as it’s on the main red line.

Simply come out of the metro station and you’re likely to hear people yelling “Kazbegi” and trying to fill up their vehicles, so follow those cries!

In general, a marshrutka to Kazbegi from Tbilisi takes anywhere between 3.5 – 5.5 hours when travelling on the main road.

Otherwise, tourist shuttles sometimes operate on an ad-hoc basis from Didube station too.

These are exactly the same as shared minivans, except they take less passengers and stop at some of the beautiful sights and views along the way.

As a result, they cost a little bit more, but do allow you to explore some lovely spots enroute such as Zhinvali Reservoir, Ananuri Fort, Jvari Pass and the town of Gudauri.

I went for this sort of make-shift tour option because, in my opinion, getting to see these places and being able to stop, walk around and take some snaps was well worth the extra few Lari!

Especially as the journey from Tbilisi to Kazbegi covers one of the most scenic roads in the whole country.

Shared minivans then arrive into the centre of Stepantsminda, in Kazbegi.

This is a tiny town and thankfully almost all accommodation here is within easy walking distance.

Unless you’ve got really heavy bags therefore, ignore the taxi touts when you arrive in Stepantsminda and simply use Google Maps or Maps.me to find your bed for the night.

On the way back from Kazbegi to Tbilisi, shared minivans leave from the same central area and cost 10 Lari.

Again, they depart when they are full, so do factor this in when planning your schedule i.e. they can take a while to fill you so do allow extra time for this!

Best Time of Year to Visit Kazbegi?

Winters in Georgia can be fiercely cold with snow and freezing temperatures not uncommon across the country, especially in mountainous areas such as Kazbegi.

At this time, even many of the paved roads become impassable, travelling is difficult and hiking, quite frankly, impossible!

As such, I would not advise visiting at this time… unless you want to ski that is!

This is because the Gudauri ski resort is close by the town of Kazbegi and at only 3 hours from Tbilisi is one of Georgia’s most accessible mountain sport destinations in the winter months.

Alternatively, I would definitely visit Georgia during the country’s summer months, when the climate is wonderfully warm and the skies are almost always blue.

The summer season here runs roughly from May to September, when the whole area becomes a sea of alpine meadows filled with god day hikes.

While July and August can be super hot in low-lying areas such as Tbilisi (like 40 degrees hot – you have been warned), up in Kazbegi, where the elevation starts at 1500m, things can be wonderfully fresh, making travel at any time during the warmer months possible and pleasant.

I visited Kazbegi in June and the weather was perfect – very warm and clear days, with loads of wildflowers around and perfect hiking conditions.

Indeed, I would suggest the shoulder season months of May, June and September as the ideal times to visit Kazbegi, just remember that other tourists will have similar thoughts!

As such, visiting at all during the summer season can involve seeing a lot more other travellers than perhaps you’d bargained for!

And I’d advise booking your accommodation in advance to make sure you can stay somewhere decent – recommendations coming up later in this article.

How Long to Spend in Kazbegi?

If you are the sort of person who loves spending time in nature, away from the hustle and bustle, or you like mountains, or you like hiking, or you like all of the above, then you are going to love Kazbegi.

As such, the amount of time you spend there will largely be capped by how long you have in Georgia full stop, rather than because you feel it’s time to move on!

As a starter, I’d allow at least 2-3 nights up in Kazbegi, because the journey to get here is quite long and because there’s so many beautiful areas to see around you’ll probably not want to leave!

If you just stay 1 night, you’ll basically make your way there, rush a hike and then return the next day, which really doesn’t do the area justice.

As such, 2-4 nights will allow you to enjoy at least a couple of different hikes and to explore the villages and valleys around.

For more ideas, check out the Kazbegi itinerary I’ve compiled in the penultimate section of this article.

Otherwise, if you’re on a really tight timeframe, it is possible to enjoy a day trip from Tbilisi to Kazbegi .

Needless to say, this will be a long day, but if it’s all you have time for, I still recommend it.

All Kazbegi day trips follow similar patterns as follows: early departure from accommodation in the capital, private tour transfer to Stepantsminda, hike to Gergeti Church, hike down again, eat lunch and set off back to Tbilisi.

While you get to tick off the most famous site this way, you can’t explore beyond this and so, if possible, I do advise you stay longer in Kazbegi.

Get more information about how to divide up your Georgian itinerary with my best 2 week guide to this country , which is perfect for planning your adventure here!

Best Accommodation in Kazbegi?

If you do get the opportunity to spend the night in Kazbegi, then look no further than Camp Kuro , definitely the best place to stay out here on a budget.

Located just a short walk out of Stepantsminda’s centre, this place is a winner for its location, views and vibe.

Very relaxed dorms and camping are available here, as well as one private cabin, that sits on a slightly raised area and has direct views over to the Gergeti Church and Mount Kazbek.

Honestly, I could go on and on about how mind-blowing this view is, considering what you pay, but I won’t!

Instead, I’ll just say that if you want to enjoy a relaxed, social and very chilled place to stay and don’t mind a bit of rough around the edges in exchange for an amazing view and a local Georgian experience, Camp Kuro is the spot for you!

To get here, it’s just a 10 minute walk from the centre of town and, where the road forks, take the uphill path until you see the pretty gate, fire pit and colourful Tibetan-style flags.

For other more comfortable accommodation options in Kazbegi, check out this list .

Top Things to Do in Kazbegi

So as I’ve already conveyed, the main things to do in Kazbegi are relax, chill and enjoy the mountain air and view!

Hiking and horse riding are both popular here too, as are seeing the historic churches and soaking in the rural Georgian villages vibes.

If you’re looking for things to do in a particular area of Kazbegi, check out my top picks below…

In and Around Stepantsminda

Top of many people’s list is seeing the 14th-century church of Gergeti and this can be combined with a longer, steep hike up to the Ortsveri Glacier, also well known as the Gergeti Glacier.

Both walks start from the main Stepantsminda village where you’re likely to be staying.

You can see the mountain (home to the glacier) and the famous Orthodox church from just about anywhere in town, so it’s hard to get lost and if you have maps.me downloaded there’s no need to take a guide.

Try to set out early to avoid the coach / day trip crowd if you can and so you have enough time to make the full hike before the risk of any afternoon storms blow in, as they often do.

Gergeti Church dates back to the 14th century and glaciers aren’t everything you see every day, so this is a pretty remarkable thing to do in Kazbegi!

Even if you only make it as far as the church, it’s still worth it for the beautiful views.

Take warm clothing and waterproof layers, plus water and snacks as there are no facilities up here.

Oh and tell people of your plans please!

In and Around Truso & Juto Valley

Truso and or Juto Valley also provide more gorgeous hiking and scenery and are located to the southwest and southeast of Stepantsminda respectively.

The traditional life that persists in Juto village especially is clearly visible in both these locations and Truso Valley is also home to the interesting mineral, small lake of Abano.

As you will be close to the South Ossetia border in Truso, you should bring your passport as you may be stopped by military officials.

Otherwise, Juto Valley is possibly better for a short, albeit uphill, hike as you can simply head to the Fifth Season café, which takes around 40 mins, grab a cup of something and enjoy the stellar view.

If you’re feeling more energetic, then a hike onto the Chaukhi Pass can also be made from here, although you’ll have to be properly prepared and plan to camp out for the night if you want to go this far.

The wonderful Zeta Camp is a great place to stay in Juta if the much more touristy town of Stepantsminda gets too much.

In and Around Dariali Gorge

You can also head north from Stepantsminda to the Kazbegi National Park and Dariali Gorge.

This is getting very near the Russian territory, so do bring passports if you plan to head out this far too.

Private transfer, rented vehicles or organised tours can take you out to the gorge and provide a day of more relaxed sightseeing, including stops at some other waterfalls and monasteries.

I sadly didn’t get the time to make this trip, but would absolutely have loved to, so def recommend it if you have the time and / or are looking for a more sedate activity than a huge hike!

Ideal 3 Day Kazbegi Itinerary

I’m basing this itinerary on 3 days in Kazbegi as that is a reasonable amount of time most travellers seem to be able to give to this area.

It’s also a decent enough amount of time to get a feel for the place and enjoy a couple of different areas there.

So let’s get stuck in…

Leave Tbilisi in the morning and grab a shared minivan up to Kazbegi – preferably one of the tourist services that leave from Didube Station, so you can enjoy the sights of the stunning Georgian Military Road on the way.

Allow 4-5 hours for this journey and you should arrive into Stepantsminda early afternoon and be able to check into your accommodation.

Either chill in and around town, taking in the view and preparing for a big hike tomorrow or grab a taxi out to Juta Valley and enjoy a short walk up to the Fifth Season where you can enjoy some food / drink with an epic view.

If you want a taxi driver to take you to Juta, wait 2 hours and then bring you back, the price should be around 100 Lari from Stepantsminda.

On day 2 in Kazbegi, it’s all about tackling the famous Gergeti Church and Glacier.

I suggest starting this hike early to avoid the day-tripper crowds and so you have enough time to hike as far as you want and return before an afternoon storm swings in, as they regularly do.

From Stepantsminda, take the left, lower path as the road forks on the way north out of town and then head to Geghadri Village.

Once in the village, take the left at the Arcade Sign, which leads to a rough track.

This track makes for a nicer walk up to the church compared to the road path (which you can always walk on the way back down to save time).

After a stone monument, which has an impressive river lookout, take the trail that veers off to the right and heads onto the famous Church.

It’s not far, but it is steep and will likely take you around 1.5 hours.

I’d then allow an hour to explore the church and take in the view.

You must be properly dressed to enter this place of worship, but requisite items of clothing, such as headscarves, are available at the door free of charge if you need them.

Once you’ve caught your breath, it’s then time to continue.

Make your way up the ridge behind the church towards the pass.

Again climbing steeply uphill, it will take you around 3 hours to reach the pass from where you can see the Ortsveri Glacier.

Along the way are stunning, interrupted views.

If you want to continue on further, it’s then around another 1.5 hours to the glacier itself, although do remember you’ll need to get back down to Stepantsminda in time before the weather changes or dark comes in.

Once you reach the pass, you’re at an elevation of over 3000m, so come prepared with suitable clothing too.

Also you will need to carry all water and food with you for the entire day, plus sunscreen etc.

If you do get stuck, there is a camp near the glacier where you can spend the night, otherwise retrace your steps back to Stepantsminda.

On day 3, it’s likely you may want a more sedate day after all that uphill work, in which case, trekking to Truso Valley is a gentle and flat 22km return excursion.

If you go for this, just beware of the dogs which protect the sheep out here, and bring your passport as this valley is near the disputed South Ossetia region.

Mountain Freaks – a great company based in Stepantsminda – provide daily transport buses to both Truso and Juta Valley, which leave twice daily from their office in the centre of town.

The first bus leaves around 8:45am and returns around 4:15pm, while the second bus leaves at 11:15am and returns at 6:30pm.

Places must be booked at least a day in advance as they quickly sell out in high season.

The shuttle transport drops you at the respective trailhead of either Truso or Jute Valley and you must then be back at the same place to catch your return journey at the stated time.

It’s likely after trekking Truso Valley, you’ll have to / want to stay another night in Kazbegi before hopping on a marshrutka back to Tbilisi early the next day.

Otherwise, if you want something even more sedate, Mountain Freaks also run a daily tour to Dariali Gorge.

This is more of a sightseeing tour, rather than a hiking trip, and leaves daily at 12:30pm, returning at 3:30pm, from their offices.

This tour takes you close to the Russian border (so bring your passport) and takes in waterfalls and monasteries as well as the gorge.

If you have to get back to Tbilisi on day 3, this might be the option for you as you can then catch a marshrutka at around 4pm, getting to the city around 8pm

Things to Know about Travel in Kazbegi

And finally, this section is all about the practicalities of visiting Kazbegi in terms of services and supplies.

As I’ve said before, Stepantsminda is the main town in Kazbegi region and has the greatest range of services including accommodation, cafes, restaurants, bars, supermarkets, bakeries etc.

You can easily buy picnic food here, as well as groceries and some toiletries – otherwise, bakeries provide cheap eats and there’s several cafes  / coffee carts around town where you can get your caffeine fix in the morning.

You’ll be pleased to know there are some ATM facilities in Stepantsminda, but they are limited, so I do advise bringing all the cash you may need with you.

Equally, you may be able to pay on card in some places here, but not everywhere.

Like most places in Georgia, Kazbegi tap water is drinkable as it comes straight from the mountain streams – it is likely to be freezing cold though – so bring your refillable water bottle.

You may also want to bring some warm clothing for the evening and night in Kazbegi (especially if you are camping, along with a travel cutlery set for picnics and a headlamp and portable charger in case of power failure.

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Mini Travel Guide to Georgia

When to Visit Georgia?

I would definitely visit Georgia during the summer months, from May to September, when the climate is wonderfully warm and the skies are almost always blue.

I’ve also visited Georgia in winter – ideal for snowy mountain scenes and skiing adventures.

Learn more in the post about the 21 things you need to know before you travel Georgia .

How Long to Spend There?

I’d suggest at least 2 weeks in Georgia to ensure you have the chance to tick all the major sights off your list.

How to Travel to Georgia?

The capital of Georgia, Tbilisi has a small, but well-appointed international airport that is an easy taxi or bus ride from the city centre.

The cheapest flights generally arrive here from across Europe including Paris, Istanbul & Latvia, otherwise, many people take a budget flight to Kataisi in Georgia, and from there head to Tbilisi via a local bus.

Check out Skyscanner for the best flight deals.

Recommended Tours in Georgia

Check out these fantastic tours of Georgia , which will help you see the best of this country.

5 Packing Essentials for Georgia

#1 Caucasus Lonely Planet – Still my go-to when it comes to guidebooks, the Caucasus Lonely Planet packs in a huge amount of information about travelling in Georgia and will likely save you the cost of a guide in many of this country’s fabulous historical attractions.

#2 Good Camera – From the mountain landscapes to the village life, you’ll want a good travel camera to capture the best of Georgia and the Sony A6000 mirrorless ticks my box every time!

#3 Headscarf – If you’re heading to see any monasteries in Georgia, ladies will need to come prepared with a headscarf to enter, as well as a long skirt or pair of pants and a long-sleeved top.

#4 Hiking Shoes – No trip to Georgia would be complete without spending at least a day or two hiking in this country’s untouched rural landscape. Coming prepared with a pair of good walking shoes is essential therefore and Keen Targhee’s II always get my vote!

#5 Rain Jacket – I visited Georgia in June, technically the start of summer and the high season, but was amazed how storms suddenly blew in across this high altitude country. Having my North Face lightweight, windproof and waterproof jacket therefore saved my life!

Learn more in this complete packing guide to Georgia I wrote.

Travel Insurance for Georgia

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

eSIM for Georgia

I highly recommend aloSIM who I used during my second trip to Georgia and thought were fantastic.

Travel Money in Georgia

The currency in Georgia is the Lari (GEL).

When it comes to paying for things here, it’s great to know that accommodation and tours can generally be paid for by card.

ATMs are also available in most major towns.

Whether you use ATMs or pay by card however, you’ll want to ensure you’re not being charged overseas transaction fees or getting poor exchange rates, which is why I always take my Wise card away with me wherever I travel.

The easy way to spend abroad with real exchange rates, no markups and no sneaky transaction fees, you can use your Wise card just like a debit card here, and it links easily with Google and Apple pay. Get yours here .

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, why you should visit Kazbegi in Georgia.

Is this place on your list yet?

Are you thinking of travelling to Georgia soon?

Don’t hesitate to let me know any questions you may have in the comments below and I’ll do my best to answer!

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Mount Kazbek

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Mount Elbrus

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Home » Tours » Mount Kazbek

Fixed dates tour

Private tour, economy tour, kazbek in 3 days, dress | equipment, weather forecast.

If mountain climbing and trekking is not just a physical challenge for you and you enjoy breathtaking views, mythology and romantic adventures, Kazbek is a mountain you definitely should climb. Mount Kazbek is one of the most beautiful and most climbed mountains on the Caucasian ridge. Technically Kazbek is less difficult than other 5000+ m Caucasus summits – another fact making Mount Kazbek so attractive.

Mount Kazbek name

Georgians call the Kazbek mountain Mkinvartsveri (მყინვარწვერი) which means a peak covered with ice, or frozen top.

Mt Kazbek height

Different sources claimed Mount Kazbek altitude to be 5047 m or 5033 m. In 2019 though the summit height was re-measured using latest technologies and a 5054 m altitude was defined, which has been mount Kazbek’s official altitude since then.

Mount Kazbek climbing routes

Kazbek mountain has five climbing routes including the classical path which is technically least difficult. The most difficult path (grade 5A) goes through Dragon rocks. Out of these five Kazbek routes we offer the classical and the South-East route . Summiting the Kazbek peak is not easy. The main difficulties include altitude, crevasses and steep sections. Climbing in unguided groups without a proper preparation and equipment often results in rescue operations and in some cases, fatalities. However, climbing the Kazbek summit with an experienced and qualified Kazbek guide will be an unforgettable experience that will forever stay with you as one of the happiest and brightest life memories!

Necessary equipment for mount Kazbek

A list of equipment and clothes needed for climbing mount Kazbek can be seen in the Dress and Equipment tab. Also, if you do not have any piece of equipment, you can hire   it in our office.

The best time to climb Mount Kazbek

The best time to climb mount Kazbek is between the June and end of September. Mount Kazbek season for summiting peak is July and August. However, we offer climbs at any time of the year. The main difference between summer and winter climbing conditions is a daylight length and air temperature.

Kazbek Facts and legends

• According to historical sources, Mount Kazbek was first summited by a local priest. After that, a few travellers attempted to reach the peak with no success. Officially, Englishmen Douglas Freshfield, Adolf Moore and Charles Tucker accompanied by guides from the local Gergeti village made the first ascent of Mount Kazbek in 1868.
• There is a former meteorological station at 3650 m altitude on the south-eastern slope of Kazbek built during World War II. Nowadays it serves as a mountain hut.

• The Betlemi cave located nearby has an interesting legend: in the old times it wasn’t accessible by ordinary people, so monks would use it to safely store Royal treasures during wars. It used to be forbidden for women to visit this place, but, excitingly, the Betlemi cave was re-discovered in the 20 th century the Georgian alpinist lady Alexandra Japharidze.
• And of course, the Gergeti Trinity church built in the 14 th century at an elevation of 2200 m on the Kazbek’s south-eastern slope is one of the most iconic and magnificent places to visit in Georgia.

Fixed dates program

The package is for those who would like to join a group of travellers from different parts of the globe and enjoy a friendly and adventurous expedition atmosphere. Group trips are run on fixed dates. These tours are guaranteed and will take place even for a single participant. Please note that unlike a private package Mount Kazbek climbing program does not include a night in Tbilisi.

Mt Kazbek 2024 season timetable

12 ⇔ 18 | 19 ⇔ 25 | 26 ⇔ 1 June

2 ⇔8 | 9 ⇔15 | 16 ⇔22 | 23 ⇔ 29

30 June  ⇔ 6 | 7 ⇔13 | 14 ⇔20 | 21 ⇔27

28 Jul ⇔ 3 Aug | 4 ⇔ 10 | 11 ⇔17 | 18 ⇔24 | 25 ⇔31

1 ⇔ 7 | 8 ⇔ 14 | 15 ⇔21 | 22 ⇔28

29 Sept  ⇔ 5  | 6 ⇔ 12 | 13 ⇔19

Fixed Dates Tour Itinerary

Tbilisi – Stephantsminda Meet at 10:00 am in Tbilisi ( We will meet in the center of Tbilisi on Rose Revolution Square, in front of the Giant Bicycle Monument) From there, our journey will take us to Stepantsminda, also known as Kazbegi. Along the way, we’ll have the opportunity to explore some historical gems. First on our itinerary is the ancient capital of Georgia, Mtskheta. Here, we will pay a visit to the renowned Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the impressive Ananuri Fortress. The drive to our destination should take approximately 5-6 hours. Check in to Hote in Stephantsminda – 1700 m.

Stephantsminda – Mountain hut “Deka” –  at 3020 m

Following breakfast at 8:00 a.m., we will embark on a drive to the Sameba Trinity Church, situated at an elevation of 2200 meters. It is from this point that our hiking adventure to the Alpine Refuge will commence. The hike is expected to take approximately 3 hours and will encompass a challenging ascent of 840 vertical meters. Rest assured that all the necessary equipment you require can be obtained at the mountain hut. For details on the equipment available for rental, please follow this link: Equipment hire

Alpine Hut “Deka” at 3020 m  – Base camp (Betlemi hut) 3650 m. After breakfast at about 9:00 am, we will start hiking to the Mount Kazbek base camp (3650 m). Hiking time is approximately 3 hours / 630 vertical meters. After lunch, we will have training in front of the camp. We will practice how to walk with crampons,  use an ice axe, walk with a rope,  and all the things that can be necessary to know during the climbing.

Acclimatization walk. After breakfast hike to 4000 meters.

Mount Kazbek Summit Climbing: At about 01:00 we will have an early breakfast. At about 02:00 am we will start hiking to the Mount Kazbek plateau on 4500 m – approximately 4 hours. After that, we will continue walking from the plateau to the Mount Kazbek saddle (4900 m at 30 degrees) and then to the summit at 40-45 degrees using ice axes and fixed ropes. Due to a glacier terrain and abundant crevasses, the group will walk using a rope on a route above 3900 m. Total climbing time and distance: 12 -14 hours. From Summit we will descend to the base camp at 3650m. Also, it is possible to descent to the Alpine Hut at 3020 m.

Alpine hut “Deka“ 3020m – Sameba church 2200m – Tbilisi. After breakfast, we will descend to the church (2 hours / 5 km). We will visit the church and then drive to Tbilisi (150 km / 3 hours). On the way from Gergeti to Tbilisi, we will drive through the Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) town, stop at the Ananuri Fortress in Ananuri village, and then at the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital. Then drive to Tbilisi.

Reserve the day in case of bad weather.

Price – 990 €  per person

Mountain Kazbek price include

• Transfer Tbilisi – Stepantsminda – Gergeti Trinity church and back, 150 km /3 hours drive each way.
• One night in the hotel in Stephantsminda
• Two nights accommodation in the Kazbek mountain camp 1 at 3020 meters in the Mountain Hut “Deka” (It is a completely new 35-place wooden Alpine Hut, with a restaurant, accommodation etc., built in the 2023 summer and will start working from 2024 Spring. It  is one of the “Climbing Georgia’s” projects)
• Two nights’ accommodation in the Kazbek mountain Base camp at 3650 m in Tents (Also mats are included)
• English-speaking IFMGA/GMGA mountain guide for the duration of the expedition. The guide/client ratio is 1:3. (For 3 tourists one Guide)
• Meals – full board, except for   *** Day 1 – breakfast and lunch, Last day Lunch and Dinner, and Snuck during the Mount Kazbek climbing day. Day 1 – Dinner; Day 2 –  Breakfast in Stephansminda / Lunch and dinner in the Hut  restaurant  at 3020; Day 3: Breakfast  in the Hut restaurant / Lunch and Dinner in Cafe Mkinvartsvery; Day 4, 5, and 7 (If day 7 will be needed) Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner in Cafe Mkinvartsvery; Day 6: Breakfast in Cafe Mkinvartsvery; Menu
• Water. There is spring drinkable water and we drink it and of course, it is free for anyone. Also, it is possible to buy bottled water in Cafe “Mkinvartsveri”
• Electricity 220 V.
• Visiting the following sites on the drive from Gergeti to Tbilisi: Gergeti Sameba monastery, Stepantsminda town, Ananuri Fortress, Svetitskhoveli cathedral.
• Kazbek summit ascent Certificate

*** In case do not use reserve day you will come back to Tbilisi a day earlier and the tour will be finished on day 6 instead of day 7.

Price does not Include:

• Alcohol drinks
• Breakfast and Lunch on Day 1, lunch and dinner on the last day, and snuck during Kazbek climbing day.
• Horse for personal bags (we do not include it in service, because except for your things you do not need to bring anything. Tents, food camping staff, etc. are included in the price and we will organize it ourselves)
• Single accommodation
• Private equipment (Ice axes; harness; carabiners; Crampons; helmet)

Private program

The  private program is our best-selling package. It’s designed for you/your individual group and according to your individual needs/preferences also it includes all services from the airport to the airport. You can choose any dates for this package. The guide ratio for the private package is 1:4 – 1 guide per 4 tourists.

Airport pick-up and then transfer to the Hotel *** (Tbilisi Center, 10 min walking distance from old town).

Tbilisi – Stephantsminda – MountainHut “DEKA” – 3020 m.

Meet at 08:00 am in Tbilisi in the hotel and drive to the Stepantsminda (aka Kazbegi). The drive takes about 3 hours. In Stephantsmionda we will change transport with an SUV car and continue to Smaeba Trinity Church (Driving from Stephantsminda to Sameba takes 15 minutes).

From the Sameba Trinity church, we will start hiking to the hut. Hiking time is approximately 3 hours and 840 vertical meters.

All the stuff that you are going to rent, you will get in the hut at 3020 meters.

Things that you will be able to rent from us are follow the link: Equipment hire

AlpineHut “Deka” 3020m  – Base camp (Betlemi hut) 3650 m.

After breakfast at about 9:00 am, we will start hiking to the Mount Kazbek base camp (3650 m). Hiking time is approximately 3 hours / 630 vertical meters.

After lunch, we will have training in front of the camp. We will practice how to walk with crampons,  use an ice axe, walk with a rope,  and all the things that can be necessary to know during the climbing.

Acclimatization walk.

After breakfast hike to 4000 meters.

Mount Kazbek Summit Climbing: At about 01:00 we will have an early breakfast. At about 02:00 am we will start hiking to the Mount Kazbek plateau on 4500 m – approximately 4 hours. After that, we will continue walking from the plateau to the Mount Kazbek saddle (4900 m at 30 degrees) and then to the summit at 40-45 degrees using ice axes and fixed ropes. Due to a glacier terrain and abundant crevasses, the group will walk using a rope on a route above 3900 m. Total climbing time and distance: 12 -14 hours. From Summit we will descend to the camp at 3650m or in the hut at 3020 m.

MountainHut “Deka“ 3020m – Sameba church 2200m – Tbilisi.

After breakfast, we will descend to the church (2 hours / 5 km). We will visit the church and then drive to Tbilisi (150 km / 3 hours). On the way from Gergeti to Tbilisi, we will drive through the Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) town, stop at the Ananuri Fortress in Ananuri village, and then at the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital. Then drive to Tbilisi.

Transfer to the airport after breakfast in the hotel.

Private program price:

Group of 1  – €1690 Group of 2 – €1190 Group of 3-4  – €1085 Group of 5 and more – €995

Private program price includes:

• Transfer from and to the airport
• Two nights in a Hotel *** in Tbilisi on a twin/triple share basis.  An extra payment of 15 Euro/night is required for a single room.
• Transfer Tbilisi – Stepantsminda – Gergeti Trinity church and back, 150 km
• Two nights accommodation in the Kazbek mountain camp 1 at 3030 meters in the  Mountain Hut “Deka”  (It is a completely new mountain hut built in the 2023 summer and will start working in 2024 Winter. It is one of the “Climbing Georgia’s” projects)
• English-speaking IFMGA/GMGA mountain guide for the duration of the expedition. The guide/client ratio is 1:4. (For 4 tourists one Guide)
• Meals – full board, except for   *** Day 1 – breakfast and lunch, Day 2 Lunch , Last day Lunch and Dinner, and Snuck during the Mount Kazbek climbing day.
• Water. There is spring drinkable water and we drink it and of course, it is free for anyone. Also, it is possible to buy bottled water in  Cafe “Mkinvartsveri”

***  In case do not use reserve day you will come back to Tbilisi a day earlier.

***  Price may change depending on your flight schedule.

• Bottled water
• Breakfast and Lunch on Day 1, lunch on Day 2 , lunch and dinner on the last day, and snuck during Kazbek climbing day.

Economy tour program

The  Economy program is designed for you/your individual group and according to your individual needs/preferences. The tour starts From Kazbegi and finishes in Kazbegi. Note: This package does not include a Meal. Participants should buy products, gas cartridges atc., themself, bring in the camp and prepare themself. Also possible to buy food at 3020 meters in the mountain hut “Deka” and also at 3650 meters in Cafe “Mkinvartsveri”

13 ⇔ 18 | 20 ⇔ 25 | 27 ⇔ 1 July

3 ⇔8 | 10 ⇔15 | 17 ⇔22 | 24 ⇔ 29

1  ⇔ 6 | 8 ⇔ 13 | 15 ⇔ 20 | 22  ⇔27

29 Jul ⇔ 3 Aug | 5 ⇔ 10 | 12 ⇔17 | 19 ⇔24 | 26 ⇔31

2 ⇔ 7 | 9 ⇔ 14 | 16 ⇔ 21 | 23 ⇔28

30 Sept  ⇔ 5  | 7 ⇔ 12 | 14 ⇔19

Economy tour Itinerary

Stephntsminda  – Kazbek mountain Camp 1   at 3020 m altitude. After breakfast at about 8 am, we will drive to Sameba trinity church (20 min) and start hiking to the Mount Kazbek Camp 1  camp (3030 m). Hiking time is approximately 3-4 hours / 850 vertical meters

Camp 1  – Kazbek mountain base camp  3650 m altitude. After breakfast at about 8 am, we will start hiking to the Mount Kazbek base camp (3650 m). Hiking time is approximately 3-4 hours / 600 vertical meters.

Acclimatization Day. After breakfast hike to 4100-4200 m and train/practice skills necessary to climb the summit – rope work, ice axes arrest, etc.

Mount Kazbek Summit Climbing: We will start at 2:00 am and hike to the Mount Kazbek plateau on 4500 m – approximately 4 hours. After that, from the plateau, we will continue walking to the Mount Kazbek saddle (4900 m at 30 degrees) and then to the summit at 40-45 degrees using ice axes and fixed ropes. Due to a glacier terrain and an abundance of crevasses, the group will walk using a rope on a route above 3900 m. Total climbing time and distance: 10 – 14 hours. From Summit we will descend to “Deka “ on 3020 m.

Camp 1 – Sameba church – Stephantsminda

Economy package price:    790 Euro – per person

The economy program price includes:

• Transfer Kazbegi  – Gergeti Trinity church – Kazbegi.
• Two nights’ accommodation in the Kazbek mountain camp 1 at 3020 m in  tent
• Three  nights accommodation in BC at 3650 m (front of Bethlemi Hut) – 2 people per tent
• English-speaking IFMGA/GMGA mountain guide for the duration of the expedition.
• Common use equipment (rope, ice pitons, etc.).
• Electricity 220 V, 50 Hz
• Alcohol drinks during the tour
• Meal during the tour
• Personal equipment (ice axes, harness, carabiners, helmet)

This tour is for tourists who already have some acclimatization and are in good physical condition. For example, a few days ago, you were on some mountain or were on a trekking or hiking tour, etc. We often request this type of tour and organize such climbing at Kazbek every year a few times. Finally, we decided to offer three day Kazbek climbing tour through our website. Unlike the standard program, this offer does not include acclimatization and backup days. However, we have a different acclimatization plan on this tour which has been tested many times. After climbing to the base camp, we will have a little rest and lunch. After lunch, go to the acclimatization at an altitude of 4000 – 4100 meters and return to the camp. Also, to make climbing more comfortable, we include horses for personal bags every day. It means you will have only water, a snack, and a jacket in your small bag. Other things will carry the horse. Of course, while climbing the summit, we will not have horses. On day 3, after climbing the Kazbek mountain, we will go directly to Gergeti Sameba church and return to Tbilisi by car.

We are meeting in Tbilisi and depart to Kazbegi. After a 3 -4 hour drive, we drive to Gergeti Trinity Monastery. We will start hiking to 1 camp located at an altitude of 3020 m on Sabers Pass in Mountain Hut “Deka”. We will need 3 hours to walk to the camp. 

after breakfast hiking to the Mount Kazbek base camp. It’s located at an altitude of 3650 meters in front of the Bethlehem hut. It takes 2-3 hours to get to the camp. Our backpacks will transport horses. After lunch and rest, we will go to the acclimatization at about 4000 – 4100 meters and return to the camp. It takes approximately 1.5 hours. We will have dinner in the evening and prepare for the day of climbing.   Overnight is possible both in tents and in Bethlehem hut. However, the hut rooms are designed for 6-8-10 -12 people, where rest and sleep are often a problem. So if you have a wish, you can spend the night in a tent. In case of good weather, spending the night in a tent is much more comfortable.

On the day of the climb, we wake up at 1 am and after breakfast at two start to the summit. We have to walk in the dark for about 3 hours, and good headlamps will be necessary.   From the camp to the summit of Kazbek, we will need about 7-8 hours. From the summit of Kazbek to the camp( Betlemi hut) for about 4 hours. So total climbing and descending time are approximately 12 hours.  After Descent to the camp of Kazbek at 3650 meters, we will have lunch and some rest. After rest, we will continue walking to Sameba church. Our backpacks from 3650 to 2200 meters (till the car) will transport horses. It will take about 3 hours. 

  880 Euro – per person in case 3 members in the group

Price includes:

• Transfer: Tbilisi – Gergeti Sameba Monastery – Tbilisi
• One night in camp 1 at 3020 meters in Mountain Hut “Deka”
• One night in camp at 3650 meters in the Betlemi hut
• English-speaking IFMGA/GMGA mountain guide (Ratio 1:3)
• Meal: Day 1 – Dinner; Day 2 – Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner; Day 3 Breakfast / Lunch (Forsummit climbing you should have the same snack as lunch we will have only after coming back from the summit)
• Electricity
• Certificate

Mount Kazbek location

Mount Kazbek is located in northern Georgia, in the eastern part of the Caucasus, near Stepantsminda (aka Kazbegi). The summit of Mount Kazbek is situated on the border between Georgia and the Russian Federation.

Kazbek weather

The air temperature in July and August in the Mount Kazbek base camp varies between 0 …+10 °C. However, it may as well fall to -5…-8 °C. At the Kazbek summit, the temperature during the summer is around -10…- 20 °C, but in the winter temperature may drop down to -40 °C. The main weather challenges are associated with occasional strong winds and low visibility caused by clouds and heavy snowing.

Weather forecast for Mt. Kazbek

• 3500 Meter  Mount Kazbek BC
• 4500 Meter  Kazbek Mountain Plateau
• 5054 Meter   Mt Kazbek Summit

What to dress

List of dress for mount Kazbek you can found in tab Dress and Equipment

What equipment is necessary for mount Kazbek

List of equipment you can found in the tab Dress and equipment

What size backpack do I need?

We suggest having for Kazbek about a 50 – 60 Liter backpack

Can I hair equipment and dress in Georgia

Yes, you can rent all the necessary things in Our office. List dress and equipment that you can hire you can see at the page Equipment Hire

Is there a signal for mobile Phones in the mountains?

Yes, there is Signal, and best to have a sim card from “Magticom”

Sim card you can buy it at the airport or in the offices of Magticom

Why choose summiting Mt. Kazbek with Climbing Georgia?

Other than the high safety standards and the professionalism of our guides, there are two more very important things which are offered ONLY by us and make our tour UNIQUE:

·         Kitchen-cooked meals at 3020 Meters and the base camp at 3650 meters  ( included in price ) : we, the Climbing Georgia company, founded and own the Mkinvartsveri café at the Kazbek base camp (3650m) and Mountain Lodge “DEKA” at 3020 meters, where our guests enjoy a well-balanced selection of proper, cooked warm food. The Deka is a new mountain hut that we built in the summer of 2023 and in 2024 we will have our first guests. The Mkinvartsveri café is the only café in the entire Caucasus base camp with no cable car access, which serves kitchen-cooked food.

This makes a huge difference to the physical and mental well-being of our guests , since :

• They don’t have to carry food up to the base camp – which means NO extra weight in your backpack.
• As they can rent equipment in the hut at 3020, they do not need to carry equipment till this altitude.
• They don’t have to deal with food preparation and related logistics (washing dishes, etc.) in harsh outdoor conditions in the base camp.
• They enjoy delicious well-balanced food cooked for them, which is so important to maintain a necessary state for managing challenging physical activities.
• Our guests ONLY carry their personal belongings in their backpacks – NO need to carry common-use equipment/items, such as tents, ropes, food, cooking facilities, etc. Transportation of these will be pre-arranged for you by us (included in the price). This takes several extra kilograms off your shoulders, which, again, makes a huge difference in how you feel during a challenging hike toward the base camp.

Select tour Fixed dates tour Private tour Economy tour Kazbek in 3 days

Mount Kazbek and Ararat

+995-593-300599

+995-599-290366

[email protected]

8a Kazbegi Ave, 0116, Tbilisi, Georgia

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KAZBEGI TRAVEL GUIDE

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TRAVEL GUIDE

In this guide we outline the best things to see and do around Kazbegi. We also provide practical travel info, including the best places to stay, where to eat and how to get there. Additionally, we’ve created a detailed map which can be used online, or downloaded for offline use. We recommend a minimum of 4 days for all of the main activities outlined in this guide, plus extra time if you want to tackle some of the region’s multi-day hikes. If you’re planning a shorter trip, we hope this guide will help you choose something that suits your own interests and timeframe.

Easily accessible from Tbilisi, Kazbegi is home to the magnificent Mt. Kazbek and is one of Georgia’s most popular mountain retreats. The term ‘Kazbegi’ commonly refers to both the town of Stepantsminda (formerly Kazbegi and still called this by many), and the greater Kazbegi Municipality within the Khevi province. Roughly speaking, this area extends northwards from Jvari Pass to the Russian border at Dariali Gorge, westwards up Truso Valley, and eastwards up the Snostskali Valley to Juta.

Bisecting this area is the Georgian Military Highway, a vital road connecting Georgia and Russia on either side of the Caucasus Mountains. A long established trade route, it has led to increased development over the years; trucks constantly ply the main road, and shops, guesthouses, and restaurants are plentiful. This infrastructure, along with the area’s proximity to the capital just three hours away, is what makes it so accessible for many. On the other hand, Kazbegi’s popularity can undoubtedly be attributed to the glorious mountain vistas, natural attractions, and iconic sites found across the region.

WATCH OUR FILM

Watch the behind the scenes version of our kazbegi adventures on our instagram stories highlights, watch the behind the scenes version of our kazbegi trip on our instagram stories highlights .

Kazbegi Stories

WHAT TO DO IN KAZBEGI

GERGETI TRINITY CHURCH GERGETI GLACIER HIKE GVELETI WATERFALL TSDO MOUNTAIN VILLAGE DARIALI MONASTERY TRUSO VALLEY AREA JUTA VALLEY AREA

KAZBEGI PRACTICALITIES

KAZBEGI MAP HOW TO GET THERE WHERE TO EAT WHERE TO STAY (STEPANTSMINDA) WHERE TO STAY (JUTA)

*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links – if you purchase a product or service via these links, we may earn a small commission  at no extra cost to you . This helps offset the cost of running this blog and keeps us travelling so that we can continue to produce great content for you. We greatly appreciate your support!*

KAZBEGI MAP

Use the map below to help lead you around Kazbegi to all the places mentioned in this guide. You can also download an offline version to Maps.me ( iOS / Android ). Tap the menu button at the top left for more details, to toggle layers on and off, and switch between satellite and terrain view.

HOW TO SAVE THIS MAP (ONLINE VERSION)

To save this map to use online on desktop or mobile just tap the star symbol at the top. When you open Google Maps on your phone, navigate to ‘Saved’ at the bottom, then swipe along to ‘Maps’ at the top. You’ll find this map in your list of maps.

On desktop, click the three lines at the top left, select ‘Your Places’, then ‘Maps’. Click the map, then scroll down and select ‘Open in My Maps’ to access the interactive version .

Alternatively, just tap the rectangle symbol at the top right of the map in this blog post to view the My Maps version larger on desktop.

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to view this version of the map offline, but we’ve created a similar version for offline use as per below.

HOW TO SAVE THIS MAP (OFFLINE VERSION)

Maps.me is our go-to offline mapping app. We find it straightforward to use for planning routes in advance, as well as navigating on the trail. It doesn’t drain our phone battery, and it’s quick and easy to save and organise ‘bookmarks’. There are many trails already marked on Maps.me, plus you can download and import a KML track of your route to the app. 

To use Maps.me, first download the app ( iOS / Android ). Hover over the region or country that you want to visit and the app will prompt you to download this map. Once downloaded, it can be viewed offline. 

You can tap anywhere and save it as a ‘bookmark’ by tapping the star symbol at the bottom. Hit ‘Edit Bookmark’ to personalise the bookmark colour, organise your bookmarks into different folders, and rename them. 

You can navigate easily or plan routes in advance by tapping your start point and selecting ‘route from’, then tapping your end point and selecting ‘route to’. Tap the car, walking, or cycling symbol at the top of the screen to indicate your mode of travel. If you want to plot a different route to the one suggested by Maps.me, just tap a third (or fourth, fifth, etc.) bookmark between the start and end points and select ‘add stop’. 

Maps.me shows the distance and travel time, plus elevation profiles for hiking trails . Note that the estimated time isn’t always reliable, but we’ve always found the distance and elevation gain/loss to be largely accurate. It only shows very basic contour lines.

You can track your progress on the trail using GPS . The arrow shows your direction of travel. Tap the compass at the top right of the screen to keep the map in a fixed position (the arrow will rotate). Alternatively, tap the arrow at the bottom right of the screen to rotate the map in the direction of travel (the arrow will stay in a fixed position).

Gaia ( iOS / Android ) is another offline mapping app that is very useful. It shows the contours in much more detail than Maps.me, as long as you have previously viewed the section of map online . With a paid membership you can download various maps in advance for offline use. The app has existing OpenStreetMap trails marked and you can import GPX tracks and view them offline. You can also create new routes online yourself and export them as GPX or KML files. You can navigate easily on the trail using the arrow that shows your GPS location. Unlike with Maps.me, it isn’t possible to quickly check distances between two points (or at least we haven’t figured out a way to do it). There are a lot of useful features in the free version and even more benefits if you have a paid annual membership, so if you spend a lot of time outdoors it is worthwhile learning how to use the app to its full advantage. 

In our experience, Gaia drains your phone battery much quicker than Maps.me, even in flight mode, so it’s best to shut down the app completely each time you finish using it. 

OSMAND MAPS

OsmAnd Maps ( iOS / Android ) is another great offline mapping app with lots of useful features. In our opinion, it’s not as intuitive as Maps.me, and it has so many features that it can be a bit overwhelming at first. Like Gaia, we recommend checking out the written and video tutorials on the OsmAnd website to learn how to fully use the app. The benefits of the app include being able to plot routes in advance and save them as GPX tracks , and to view detailed elevation and terrain information, including surface types . You can also import GPX tracks. One downside is that the free version does not include contour lines, but these can be added via a paid plugin .

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN KAZBEGI

There’s plenty to keep outdoor lovers busy in Kazbegi, with everything from easy scenic strolls to challenging multi-day hikes. It should be noted though that most places and activities in this guide are spread out across the municipality and require transport to get to. The exceptions are Gergeti Trinity Church and Gergeti Glacier, both of which can be reached on foot from Kazbegi town (Stepantsminda).

ON FOOT FROM KAZBEGI TOWN (STEPANTSMINDA)

Mt. Kazbek, or Mqinvartsveri in Georgian, watches over Kazbegi from the lofty height of 5054 m. The third tallest mountain in Georgia, it is among the most iconic peaks of the Greater Caucasus Range. The peak is visible from most spots around town (weather permitting of course), and admiring its majesty from a cafe terrace or guesthouse balcony is a worthwhile activity in itself. But for those looking to stretch the legs and get a closer view, we highly recommend hiking up to Gergeti Trinity Church , or Gergeti Glacier beyond.

GERGETI TRINITY CHURCH

One of the most recognisable churches in all of Georgia, Gergeti Trinity Church is perched picturesquely atop a grassy peak, with Mt Kazbek rising behind and Kazbegi town stretched out below. While the 14th century church is as pretty as any in Georgia, it’s this epic location that really makes it shine.

A view of Gergeti Trinity Church from the northwest, facing away from Mt. Kazbek

HOW TO GET TO THE CHURCH

These days a tarmac road winds up the hillside to the church, making it easily accessible by car . Expect to pay 40 GEL+ for a taxi from town (1740 m) to church (2170 m) and back, including waiting time at the top.

If you prefer more of a challenge, hiking to the church is a great option. There are a few approaches you can take, including a forest trail that criss-crosses the road, and an incredibly steep climb straight up the hillside. However, the best route curves around the southern side of the church and climbs up through a grassy valley past a crumbling watchtower.

We’ve marked this route on our map . Allow around 1.5 hours to get to the church from the main square in Kazbegi town, and a bit less time coming back.

CHURCH VIEWPOINTS

Once at the top it’s worth following the trail around the eastern (Kazbegi town) side of the church to reach a viewpoint ( 42.6613, 44.6214 ). From here you’ll have a view of the church in the foreground with Mt. Kazbek rising behind. There is another fantastic viewpoint about 30 minutes’ walk up the hillside to the northwest of the church, on the way towards Sabertse Pass and Gergeti Glacier. To get to it, follow the road and turn left onto a trail leading up the grassy hillside just after the large car park. From the viewpoint ( 42.66482, 44.6112 ) Mt. Kazbek will be at your back, and you’ll be looking down towards the church and dramatic wall of mountains behind.

The great viewpoint about 30 minutes up the trail from Gergeti Trinity Church

TIPS FOR VISITING GERGETI TRINITY CHURCH

If you want to go inside the church, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Women also have to cover their hair. There are aprons at the entrance to borrow if necessary. The church is open daily from 9am – 5pm.

There are public toilets and a water tap near the church.

GERGETI GLACIER DAY HIKE

Beyond Gergeti Trinity Church, a hiking trail continues all the way to Gergeti Glacier at the foot of Mt. Kazbek. This is considerably more challenging than the hike to the church itself . You have to ascend more than 1600 metres to an altitude of 3300 m, and it takes an average of 9-12 hours for the return hike. The reward is fantastic views of Kazbek and the surrounding mountains, and getting up close to the glacier!

A view through the mist of Gergeti Glacier and the mountains behind

It’s best to get an early start from Kazbegi to tackle this 21 km hike, ensuring you have appropriate all weather clothing and are loaded with enough food and water to see you through the day. The trail is mostly straightforward to follow although it isn’t waymarked in any way, so make sure you have a map of your route and a power bank to keep your phone/GPS charged. If you fancy splitting the hike over two or more days, it’s possible to stay at swish Altihut , or camp at the informal campsite nearby.

For a full breakdown of the hike, check out our dedicated Gergeti Glacier Hiking Guide .

DID YOU KNOW WE OFFER CONSULTATIONS & CUSTOM GEORGIA ITINERARY PLANNING?

> One Hour Video Consultation £100

we can answer questions, give advice, review your existing itinerary, or use the time to talk about anything else trip related, plus we’ll send a follow up email with links and notes about what we discuss

> Custom Itinerary Planning from £220

includes a video consultation, plus detailed day-by-day pdf itinerary, accommodation and/or camping suggestions, and an accompanying digital route map

Whether you’re planning a Georgia trek, road trip, or backpacking adventure, just get in touch via our contact page to let us know your rough plans and the kind of support you would like and we’ll get back to you with options and detailed pricing

NORTH OF KAZBEGI TOWN (STEPANTSMINDA)

The Georgian Military Highway continues north of Kazbegi town for 11 km before reaching the Russian border at Dariali. The road winds its way through an increasingly narrow gorge, with the landscape differing markedly from the wider valley to the south of Kazbegi. Gveleti Waterfall and the hilltop village of Tsdo are two scenic spots to visit in this area, and Dariali Monastery Complex which overlooks the border is a popular place to visit.

There is no public transport available, but it’s possible to arrange a driver and car to take you to all three places and wait while you explore. Expect to pay up to 80 GEL for a half day trip in a 4×4 Delica (seats 6-7 people). Alternatively, this half day Gveleti Falls and Juta Valley trip is a good option for seeing two of the main highlights around Kazbegi if you’re short on time.

GVELETI WATERFALL

 West of the small settlement of Gveleti, the lovely Big Gveleti Waterfall is hidden up a narrow, steep sided gorge. The hike to reach it is short and relatively easy, with the trail passing various smaller falls and pools of water surrounded by greenery. You can get all the way to the bottom, where the water thunders down and forms a natural pool before rushing down the valley.

Big Gveleti Waterfall thunders down at the end of a dramatic steep-sided gorge

The impressive Big Gveleti Waterfall 

With a good 4×4 you can drive all the way to the end of the track. This leaves you with a distance of just 600 metres to hike and about 170 metres to climb. Otherwise, you can start the hike from the main road, although this adds on an extra 1 km to the distance and another 130 metres to climb. Either way, to get to the Big Waterfall you should take the right fork at the end of the track (shortly after a couple of basic shelters). The left fork leads to the less impressive Small Waterfall. Cross the river on the footbridge, then follow the trail up the right side of the river. There are some sections where you need to climb over or around rocks, but the trail isn’t too difficult.

The river spilling down over rocks next to the Big Gveleti Waterfall trail

It takes around 20-30 minutes to hike to the waterfall from the fork at the end of the 4×4 track, and around 10-15 minutes to walk back. Allow around 1.5 hours, including time at the waterfall itself. And of course, you’ll need more time if you start walking from the main road.

TSDO VILLAGE

Tsdo is one of the Kazbegi region’s most unique villages, perched on a rocky outcrop high above a bend in the Terek River. A number of houses are built along the edge of the hilltop, seemingly clinging on in perilous fashion. On the crest of the hill you can see an altar where a ritual slaughter of lambs takes place once a year. From here the views back towards Kazbegi town and down into Dariali Gorge are impressive, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot some lammergeier (bearded vultures).

Houses close to the rocky edge in the village of Tsdo

Houses close to the edge in the village of Tsdo

A dirt road switchbacks up the hillside from the Georgian Military Highway to Tsdo. Once you reach the village, a short walking trail leads past the houses and up the grassy hillside to the best viewpoints near the ram statue.

DARIALI MONASTERY COMPLEX

The imposing pink-hued monastery complex overlooking the Georgia-Russia border at Dariali is very modern by Georgian standards, having only opened in 2011. It marks the furthest point in the Dariali Gorge that most tourists will travel, before turning around and heading back to Kazbegi town. It’s a nice spot for a wander around the grounds, with the huge monastery backed by even more impressive cliffs. You can climb a short distance up the path behind the monastery for a good view to the south; the view to the north is dominated by trucks waiting to pass through border control.

Dariali Monastery and its impressive backdrop

TRUSO VALLEY AREA

Truso Valley lies in the southwest corner of Kazbegi municipality, closer to Jvari Pass than Kazbegi town itself. It is home to some fantastically colourful travertine mineral springs, the ruins of an impressive hilltop fortress, a few largely abandoned settlements, and a couple of old monasteries. The surrounding mountain scenery is gorgeous, and Truso Valley makes for an excellent day hike that is long, but not too tough. For experienced and self-sufficient hikers, the three day Kelitsadi Lake camping trek offers something a little more challenging. This demanding route climbs to the remote Kelitsadi volcanic plateau, before descending steeply to emerge at the western end of Truso Valley.

TRUSO VALLEY DAY HIKE

Truso Valley is a great choice for anyone looking for an easy day hike with maximum scenic reward. It’s a long one at around 21 km, but the route is mostly flat and straightforward to follow. The hike starts at the village of Kvemo Okrokana, 30-40 minutes’ drive south of Kazbegi town. From here you follow a dirt road most of the way, first through a steep sided canyon, then up the wide Truso Valley itself. The furthest point is the ruined Zakagori Fortress, where you turn around and retrace your steps.

The settlement of Abano in Truso Valley, with the old monastery on the right and Zakagori Fortress seen behind

Allow around 6 – 8 hours to complete the hike, including stops along the way. Be sure to have plenty of food and water with you as there are no facilities, shops or services in the valley (besides the small seasonal cafe and cabins at Truso Camping ). There isn’t much shade in Truso Valley, and being in the mountains the weather can change quickly, so pack appropriate all weather clothing and be prepared for sun and rain.

For a detailed breakdown of the hike and practical tips, check out our Truso Valley Hiking Guide .

KELITSADI LAKE 3 DAY TREK

Kelitsadi Lake sits just below 3100 m, nestled among shale covered and boulder strewn mountains on a barren volcanic plateau. The scenery is otherworldly. A trek in this remote region is challenging and best suited to experienced and self-sufficient hikers. The rocky terrain at higher altitude means that there is little trail to follow, and water sources are in very short supply. You need to be fully prepared for these conditions before embarking on the 3 Day Kelitsadi Lake trek.

The route starts near the Truso Valley trailhead and climbs to the Keli Plateau, close to the de-facto border with South Ossetia/Tskhinvali Region. The first night is usually spent camping on a grassy plateau, before crossing the Khorisar Pass (3428 m) and descending to camp at Kelitsadi Lake on Day 2. Day 3 starts with a climb to High Esi Pass (3426 m), followed by a long descent through the Esikomi River valley, emerging near Abano and Ketrisi villages in Truso Valley.

For practical tips and a detailed breakdown of the trek, look out for our Kelitsadi Lake Trekking Guide .

Looking down on Kelitsadi Lake from the climb to High Esi Pass

Climbing from Kelitsadi Lake to High Esi Pass

HOW TO GET TO TRUSO VALLEY FROM KAZBEGI (STEPANTSMINDA)

The starting point for either the Truso Valley hike or the Kelitsadi Lake trek is the small settlement of Kvemo Okrokana ( 42.5809, 44.4646 ) . It lies at the end of a bumpy dirt track about 5.5 km west of Kobi, a village on the Georgian Military Highway. Kvemo Okrokana is a total of 22 km from Kazbegi town (Stepantsminda), and the quickest and easiest way to get there is by car, taxi, or shuttle bus. If you are on a budget, it is also possible to get there via a combination of marshrutka/hitchhiking and walking.

 Note that the road extends all the way up Truso Valley, but it is only suitable for proper 4×4 vehicles. This means that if you don’t want to walk, it is possible to visit Truso Valley on a ‘Delica’ tour (the ubiquitous 4×4 Mitsubishi vans that seat 6-7 people). Ask at your accommodation about tour prices and booking. A regular car can make it (slowly) along the bumpy road/track to Kvemo Okrokana.

The canyon road to Truso Valley, suitable for hiking or a good 4×4 vehicle

The road through Kasari Canyon to Truso Valley, suitable for hiking or a good 4×4

Unless you have your own car, the easiest way to get from Kazbegi to Kvemo Okrokana is by taxi. It takes about 30-40 minutes and should cost around 80 GEL for the return trip. Taxi drivers are usually happy to wait at Kvemo Okrokana while you hike, just be sure to agree on a timeframe in advance.

SHUTTLE BUS

From April 15th to October 31st, Mountain Freaks operate a daily bus to Kvemo Okrokana. This service departs from Kazbegi at 9am and 11am, returning at 4pm and 6pm. It costs 30 GEL return per person, and you should confirm your seat at least one day in advance as they can fill up fast. There’s a minimum of 3 passengers required to operate, and a maximum of 7.

HITCHHIKE AND WALK

If you’re on a budget, the cheapest way to get to the trailhead is to hitchhike along the Georgian Military Highway and get dropped off at Kobi. From here, walk up the valley to the west, past the new cable car station which goes to Gudauri. It’s a 3.6 km walk to the trailhead from the main road.

MARSHRUTKA AND WALK

Alternatively, you can take the Tbilisi bound marshrutka from Kazbegi town, get off at Kobi, then walk. They depart every hour, on the hour between 7am – 12pm, with another 5 departures at various times in the afternoon, up until 6pm. You may well have to pay the full Tbilisi fare (10 GEL).

KOBI-GUDAURI CABLE CAR

It’s also possible to get to Kobi via the Kobi-Gudauri cable car/ropeway , which usually operates in summer as well as the winter ski season. This connects Gudauri on the southern side of Jvari Pass with Kobi on the northern side and takes about 15 minutes. In summer it operates from 1000 – 1800 and costs 30 GEL return.

PLAN YOUR TRUSO VALLEY HIKE

JUTA VALLEY AREA

The village of Juta lies about 20 km southeast of Kazbegi town (Stepantsminda), close to the spectacular jagged peaks of the Chaukhi Massif (the so-called ‘Dolomites of Georgia’). Unlike Truso Valley, Juta has a number of accommodation options, so you can choose to visit for the day or stay longer. The main day hike in the area leads up Juta Valley , to the foot of the Chaukhi Massif and back. Multi-day hikes are also possible, crossing Chaukhi Pass to end up at Roshka village in the Khevsureti region, or looping back to Juta via Sadzele Pass . Finally, the large stone-carved heads near Sno make an interesting stop on the way to Juta.

The village of Sno lies about 8 km south of Kazbegi town, near the start of the Snostskali Valley, and is home to some remarkable stone carvings. Local artist Merab Piranishvili has sculpted numerous stone heads depicting prominent figures from Georgian history. He has been creating the statues since 1984, and the huge granite carvings are scattered across a grassy hillside just outside the village. It’s free to visit at any time, although there is a donation box.

The stone heads at Sno are a remarkable sight

JUTA VALLEY DAY HIKE

You can get all the way to Juta village by road. From here, a hiking trail leads up the valley towards the pointed peaks of the Chaukhi Massif. The initial climb from the village is quite steep, but the trail levels out at Zeta Camping and then continues gently uphill towards Fifth Season . It takes about 20 – 30 minutes to reach this swish mountain hut, where hammocks, beanbags, and outdoor seating are perfectly situated to soak up the mountain views. You can order food and drinks here (all reasonably priced given the location). It makes a great spot to chill out before or after a hike up the valley.

The trail continues beyond Fifth Season and climbs gently alongside the Chaukhi River. After 3 km or so, you reach a small lake at the upper part of the valley where there’s an A-Frame hut cafe. It takes about 1 hour to get here from Fifth Season and this makes a good turnaround point for day hikers. Note that there are two trails, both of which are marked on our map . One sticks to the left side of the valley and crosses the river higher up, below a waterfall (where it is narrow, but there is no bridge). The other trail takes you to the right side of the valley, crossing the river earlier at an obvious bend (where it’s wider, but there is a makeshift sandbag causeway which may or may not be submerged). Either way, be prepared to get your feet wet.

Allow at least 2.5 hours for the return walk, plus extra time if you want to hang out at Fifth Season or the A-Frame cafe. 

The view of Juta Valley and the Chaukhi Massif from Fifth Season Mountain Hut

1 – 2 DAY JUTA TO ROSHKA HIKE VIA CHAUKHI PASS

It’s possible to hike all the way up Juta Valley and over Chaukhi Pass (3340 m) to Abudelauri Lakes and Roshka village in Khevsureti. This is best tackled over 2 days with a night camping at the beautiful Abudelauri Lakes. However, if you don’t have camping gear then you can hike from Juta to Roshka in one long day if you’re a fit and fast hiker. There are lots of accommodation options in Juta and a couple in Roshka – try Guesthouse Roshka or Mindia Guesthouse .

The total route from village to village is around 17 km, with a 1200 metre ascent to the pass from Juta, followed by a 1300 metre descent to Roshka. The mountain views are spectacular, and the trio of colourful lakes at Abudelauri are just as special. Roshka Valley is full of glacial erratics, the huge stones lying scattered across the valley. Note that the descent from Chaukhi Pass to the lakes is relentlessly steep with sections of loose shale, and the hike is best tackled when the pass is snow-free, usually between July and September.

For a detailed route description and planning info, check out our Juta to Roshka Trekking Guide .

The trail from Juta to Roshka leads beneath the distinctive form of the Chaukhi Massif

2 DAY JUTA TO ROSHKA LOOP HIKE VIA CHAUKHI PASS AND SADZELE PASS

It’s only 17 km on foot between Juta and Roshka, however it’s a whopping 170 km journey by road. Therefore, depending on your plans it may be more convenient to return to Juta on foot rather than end your hike at Roshka. To save you retracing your steps (and having to tackle the steep climb on the eastern side of Chaukhi Pass) the best option is to loop back to Juta via the Sadzele Pass (3068 m).

If you have camping gear it’s possible to skip Roshka all together. After camping at Abudelauri Lakes, head back towards the climb to Chaukhi Pass and turn east, following the base of the hill on the northern side of Roshka Valley. A trail is marked on the Geoland paper map #3, although only partly on apps such as Maps.me and Gaia. We’ve marked the approximate route on our map. Note that you’ll need to cross at least one river/stream and as far as we know there is no bridge. Around 4 km from the lakes you should meet the track coming from Roshka. Turn northwest here and continue to Sadzele Pass. If you are staying in Roshka at the end of Day 1, simply follow the dirt road westwards for about 4 km before branching off onto the trail towards the Sadzele Pass.

For more Sadzele Pass route details, check out Jozef’s guide over on Caucasus Trekking .

Abudelauri Lakes with the Chaukhi Massif rising behind

 The Chaukhi Massif rising behind Abudelauri Lakes

HOW TO GET TO JUTA FROM KAZBEGI (STEPANTSMINDA)

There is no public transport to Juta, so you need to drive your own car , or take a taxi or shuttle bus . Renting a mountain bike in Kazbegi is another option. The turn off for Juta is at Achkhoti on the Georgian Military Highway, about 5 km south of Kazbegi (Stepantsminda). From here it is a further 15 km to Juta village, with about 400 metres to climb over the last 4-5 km. It takes around 40 minutes to drive from Kazbegi to Juta. This can be done in a regular car, although a 4×4 is more comfortable as the road is mostly unpaved.

A taxi should cost around 40 GEL for a one way journey, or 80 GEL for a return trip. This will include a photo stop at the Sno heads and waiting time at Juta while you hike up the valley and back. Be sure to agree on a timeframe with your driver in advance.

From April 15th to October 31st, Mountain Freaks operate a daily shuttle bus to Juta. This service departs from Kazbegi at 9am and 11am, returning at 4pm and 6pm. It costs 30 GEL return per person, and you should confirm your seat at least one day in advance as they can fill up fast. There’s a minimum of 3 passengers required to operate, and a maximum of 7.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

There are numerous bike rental shops around Kazbegi (for example MTA – Mountain Travel Agency ), and of all the places mentioned in this guide, the Snostskali Valley is probably the best suited to biking. You will only have to ride 5 km on the busy Georgian Military Highway before turning off up the valley. Just remember that 400 metre climb towards the end!

HITCHHIKING AND WALKING

You could try hitchhiking or walk all the way up the valley to Juta, but with over 15 km on road it’s a bit of a slog. 

See More From Georgia

9 Things To Know About Trekking In Georgia

7 Day Western Georgia Road Trip Itinerary: Canyons, Coast And Waterfalls

Lesser Caucasus Mountains 4×4 Road Trip (4 Day Kutaisi Loop Itinerary)

13 Things To Do In Martvili

Tbilisi to Batumi Road Trip Itinerary (The Fun Way)

Kvemo Kartli & Javakheti Offbeat Georgia 4×4 Road Trip Itinerary

Vashlovani and David Gareja Itinerary: 7 Day 4×4 Georgia Road Trip

Udziro Lake Hiking Guide

A Guide to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Borjomi-Kharagauli NP: Panorama Trail Hiking Guide

Hiking From Ushguli To Chvelpi Via Latpari Pass

Mestia to Ushguli: Svaneti Transcaucasian Trail Hiking Guide

Chuberi to Mestia: Svaneti Transcaucasian Trail Hiking Guide

A Guide To The Kelitsadi Lake Trek

Black Rock Lake Trek in Lagodekhi National Park

Trekking from Tusheti to Pankisi Valley

Trekking from Shatili to Omalo via Atsunta Pass

Hiking from Juta to Roshka via Chaukhi Pass

Kazbegi Travel Guide, Georgia

Truso Valley Hiking Guide

Hiking To Gergeti Glacier And Gergeti Trinity Church From Kazbegi

Kojori To Tbilisi Day Hike

A Guide To Javakheti, Georgia’s Volcanic Plateau

Vashlovani National Park Travel Guide

Adventures In Racha With Family Hotel Gallery, Oni

Where to eat in kazbegi (stepantsminda), where to eat in kazbegi.

(STEPANTSMINDA)

For cheap and delicious food, with excellent service in a no-frills (mostly outdoor) setting, Kazbegi Good Food is the best option. The owner is super friendly and speaks perfect English. Cafe 5047m has a great outdoor terrace with Kazbek views. The food is decent, if a bit pricey. Inside is cosy in colder months, with vintage furniture and a relaxed corner couch area. Across the road, Shorena’s has friendly service, good prices, and tasty food, served in an alpine lodge/bar style atmosphere that is usually pretty lively. Rooms Kazbegi has the best views in town, and their restaurant, cafe, and enormous terrace are open to non-residents. The menu is pricey by local standards, but the views alone are worth splashing out on (or at the very least come here for a drink).

For cheap and delicious food, with excellent service in a no-frills (mostly outdoor) setting, Kazbegi Good Food is the best option. The owner is super friendly and speaks perfect English.

Cafe 5047m has a great outdoor terrace with Kazbek views. The food is decent, if a bit pricey. Inside is cosy in colder months, with vintage furniture and a relaxed corner couch area.

Across the road, Shorena’s has friendly service, good prices, and tasty food, served in an alpine lodge/bar style atmosphere that is usually pretty lively.

Rooms Kazbegi has the best views in town, and their restaurant, cafe, and enormous terrace are open to non-residents. The menu is pricey by local standards, but the views alone are worth splashing out on (or at the very least come here for a drink).

Cracking views from the lounge in Rooms Kazbegi

Cracking views from Rooms Kazbegi

For a quick snack on the go, the bakery next to the supermarket does excellent khachapuri, as well as other delicious piping hot bread.  For self-catering food, this supermarket is probably the best stocked in town.

WHERE TO STAY IN KAZBEGI (STEPANTSMINDA)

Where to stay in kazbegi.

Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) makes a good base for visiting the region. There are numerous accommodation options ranging from homely guesthouses to swish hotels, and even a funky campsite. It also has the best transport links and tourist services, like restaurants, bars, and travel agencies.

BEST MT. KAZBEK VIEWS

If you’re looking for the best Mt. Kazbek views , opt for somewhere a little north of the town square such as North Kazbegi , or somewhere up the hillside on the east of town, for example Guesthouse Elia , Wooden Hotel Kazbegi , Sabuka Qushashvili or   Kazbegi View . Stunning design hotel Rooms Kazbegi arguably has the best view of all, and an enormous terrace from which to enjoy it. Elia Loft has three gorgeous A-Frame houses in a lovely forest setting.

Sunrise view of Mt. Kazbek and Gergeti Holy Trinity Church from Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)

ON THE MAIN ROAD

If you want to avoid walking up hills, choose somewhere along the main road such as Wooden Guesthouse or Traveler Kazbegi Guesthouse . Both are very conveniently located close to the Tbilisi marshrutka stand, shops, restaurants, travel agencies, and so on.

GERGETI VILLAGE

There are also plenty of accommodation options in Gergeti Village, which is across the river from Kazbegi and close to the trailhead for the Gergeti Trinity Church and Gergeti Glacier hike . Views from here overlook Kazbegi town and the mountains rising behind (not Mt Kazbek and Gergeti Trinity Church). Options include Guesthouse Ketino Sujashvili , Home of Bella & Tamo , Red Stone Guesthouse , and Kazbegi Cabins .

For camping, check out Camp at Kuro , a little north of the town.

FIND MORE KAZBEGI ACCOMMODATION HERE

Where to stay in juta.

If you plan to spend a few days in the Kazbegi area, it’s worth splitting your time between Kazbegi town (Stepantsminda) and Juta for two quite different experiences. Staying in Juta also makes sense if you plan to hike from Juta to Roshka, as you won’t need transport to get to the trailhead and can start earlier in the morning. There are guesthouses and hotels in the village itself, as well as Zeta Camping and Fifth Season 20-30 minutes’ walk up the valley.

JUTA VILLAGE ACCOMMODATION

A few good options are MetiTsa , a modern place with nice balconies to hang out on, Hotel Shibi , another modern build with nice balcony areas, and homely Levan & Megi’s Guesthouse .

UNIQUE STAYS IN JUTA

Zeta Camping is a funky option with good views of Chaukhi Massif. They offer accommodation in tents and cottages, with a cafe bar on site, a climbing wall, and plenty of space to hang out. Reach it on foot by climbing the hill from Juta village.

A short walk beyond Zeta Camping is Fifth Season mountain hut. They have the best location in the valley, with exceptional views of Chaukhi Massif and loads of outdoor seating spread around the grass and pond areas. They offer budget rooms with shared bathrooms in the main building, or luxury en-suite double rooms with epic mountain views in two cleverly designed buildings tucked into the nearby hillside. They also have a cafe bar, a cosy indoor fire, and plenty of books and games to borrow.

Enjoying the sunshine and mountain views at Fifth Season Mountain Hut

HOW TO GET TO KAZBEGI (STEPANTSMINDA)

How to get to kazbegi.

Kazbegi is about 150 km north of Tbilisi, along the Georgian Military Highway. The road is generally open year-round, but can close at times in winter if there is heavy snow. It takes about 3 hours to drive. Check Holiday Autos or Tbiliso Car Rental for car hire options if you want to self drive the route.

You can take a marshrutka to Kazbegi from Didube Station in Tbilisi (10 GEL, approx. every hour from 0800 – 1900). It takes around 3.5 hours, usually with one toilet stop en route. You’ll be dropped at the bus station (more of a stand really) in the centre of Kazbegi. Return marshrutkas from Kazbegi to Tbilisi leave hourly on the hour between 0700 and 1200, then at 1330, 1400, 1530, 1700 and 1800, departing from the same place.

There are also shared taxis departing from Didube Station. These cost about 20-25 GEL per seat. Alternatively, book a private car and driver with gotrip.ge and make as many scenic stops as you like along the way. This will likely cost around 140 GEL, with door to door service.

In Kazbegi, the best place to find a taxi is in the main square near the bus station. Your accommodation owner or staff will likely also know a driver and be able to arrange a taxi for you.

THANKS FOR READING!

If you’ve found this guide helpful, please consider leaving us a small tip. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps cover the costs of running this blog.

Kim and Del Hogg

If you’ve found this guide helpful, please consider leaving us a small tip.

Your support is greatly appreciated and helps cover the costs of running this blog.

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That’s it for our guide. If you have any useful info to add or stories to share, get in touch through the comments section below. Equally, if you have any questions, let us know and we’ll do our best to answer them. And if you’re planning your own trip to Kazbegi, good luck and enjoy!

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Visit Kazbegi, Georgia: The Ultimate Travel Guide (Family Friendly)

Are you planning to visit Kazbegi, Georgia, and looking for an ultimate travel guide? This post covers everything you need to know to plan your visit to one of the most beautiful parts of Georgia.

Kazbegi it is an exciting adventure with stunning natural scenery, delicious local cuisine, and a unique cultural experience. When visiting Georgia (Country), you must plan a visit to Kazbegi.

Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, Kazbegi is a small town that attracts hikers, mountaineers, and adventure seekers worldwide.

Many, including myself, claim that it is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Whether you’re looking for a challenging trek or a leisurely getaway from busy Georgia cities, Kazbegi has something for everyone. It is only a 3-4 hour drive from Tbilisi (Georgia’s capital), which is not too bad.

My husband and I both grew up in Tbilisi, Georgia . We met in the USA, and only after a few years of marriage and two kids did we have the pleasure of visiting Georgia this summer (2023). Seeing Kazbegi was our must-do in the Georgian Itinerary, and I can safely say it did not disappoint.

In this travel guide, I am breaking down all you need to know about Kazbegi to plan your perfect getaway to Georgia’s one of the most picturesque parts. This guide will include how to get to Kazbegi, where to stay, what to eat, and what activities to do there.

Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. For any sales made through such links, I will earn a small commission that helps me run this blog—at no cost to you.

Is it Named Kazbegi or Stepanwminda?

Kazbegi and Stepantsminda refer to the same place. People use both interchangeably, so do not get confused about this. The town’s official name is Stepantsminda. It was originally renamed Kazbegi in 1925 and changed to Stepantsminda in 2006; this is how it’s referred to on maps.

In practice, however, most people refer to the townlet (and the surrounding area) as Kazbegi . And you will also see me refer to it, Kazbegi , in the article.

Why Visit Kazbegi, Georgia?

Kazbegi is a must-visit destination for those seeking a true Georgian outdoor adventure. The Kazbegi National Park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks, all with stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Additionally, Kazbegi is a great place to experience Georgian culture, with traditional architecture, local crafts, and delicious cuisine.

Here are some of the main highlights why you should visit Kazbegi :

Stunning Mountain Scenery

Kazbegi is known for its jaw-dropping scenery.

Mountains, including Mount Kazbek, the third-highest peak in Georgia, surround the town.

The Gergeti Trinity Church, located on a hill overlooking the town, is another highlight of the region’s stunning scenery. (discussed in detail below)

Outdoor Activities

Kazbegi is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The region offers a range of activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

The Kazbegi National Park, located near the town, is a popular destination for hiking and camping. The park is home to various wildlife, including bears, wolves, and lynx.

Rich Culture

Kazbegi is also rich in culture. The town is home to the Khevi people, who have unique traditions and customs and are known for their hospitality and friendliness.

The best way to experience their culture is by visiting a local guesthouse or attending a traditional Georgian feast.

Delicious Food

Georgia is known for its delicious cuisine, and Kazbegi is no exception. The region is famous for its khinkali , a type of dumpling filled with minced seasoned meat (lamb or beef and pork mixed), or you may choose filled with cheeses or potatoes.

Another local specialty is khachapuri , a cheese-filled bread staple of Georgian cuisine. Visitors to Kazbegi can also sample local wines known for their unique flavors and high quality.

Besides Khinkali or Khachapuri, you will find other Georgian specialty foods in Kazbegi restaurants and hotels.

Best Things to Do in Kazbegi, Georgia

If you are planning a trip to Kazbegi, there are some must-visit places that you shouldn’t miss. In this section, we will highlight the top three areas that you must add to your Itinerary.

Visit Gergeti Trinity Church

Gergeti Trinity Church is a 14th-century church located on top of a hill overlooking the town of Kazbegi. The church is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area and is a must-visit place for anyone visiting Kazbegi.

You have two options for getting here: hiking up the mountain or driving to the church. Once you reach the church, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

While we would have preferred to hike for the best experience, we drove instead because we were traveling with kids. We left our hotel (Rooms Hotel Kazbegi) early and were by the church in about 15 minutes.

I cannot speak of what it looked like later in the day, but it felt like we had this paradise to ourselves in the morning.

When you visit this place, please respect nature, the church, and the people working there.

Visit Mount Kazbek

Mount Kazbeg is one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus Mountains, with an elevation of 16,581 ft . It is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers and offers some of the region’s most spectacular views.

If you are an experienced hiker, you can climb to the mountain’s summit, but to ensure safety, you can always sign up for a guided tour to Mount Kazbeg. If you are not up for the challenge, you can still enjoy the views from the base of the hill—like we did!

Explore Gveleti Waterfalls

Gveleti Waterfalls are located in the Gveleti village, about 7 kilometers from Kazbegi. Lush green forests surround the waterfalls, making them popular destinations for hiking and picnicking.

The waterfall is approximately 98 feet high and cascades into a tranquil pool below. Visitors can enjoy a short hike to reach the waterfall from the village of Gveleti, which takes less than 1 km. The path to the waterfall is relatively easy, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Take a Day Trip to Juta Village

Juta is a small mountain village only a 30-minute hike from Kazbegi. If you have one full day to devote to Juta, it will be well worth it. Due to its stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains and the Gergeti Glacier, it is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

For your day trip, you can plan a hike up to Fifth Season, where you can arrange a stay or grab some refreshments and food with stunning views. The walk is short, but you must go uphill, and the high altitude and elevation can make it a little challenging.

You can arrange horseback riding to go up, but if you are hiking alone, make sure to travel lightly.

Best Juta Hikes

• Abudelauri Lakes is a group of three stunning lakes with crystal clear water.
• Gergeti Trinity Church – Mentioned above
• Gergeti Glacier is a beautiful glacier located at the foot of Mount Kazbek.
• Truso Valley is a picturesque valley with hot springs, waterfalls, and abandoned villages.
• Gveleti Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall located close to Juta village.

Best Time to Visit Kazbegi

One of the most important considerations when planning a visit to Kazbegi is the time of year. The weather can vary greatly, and choosing the right time is essential to ensure an enjoyable experience.

The best time to visit Kazbegi is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is mild and pleasant .

During his time, the average temperature is around 68-77°F, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing.

The weather in Kazbegi can be harsh and unpredictable during the winter months of December to February, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.

This can make traveling and exploring the region challenging, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time unless you are specifically interested in winter sports.

Kazbegi Tourism

The peak tourist season in Kazbegi is during the summer months, with many visitors flocking to the region to enjoy the mild weather and stunning scenery. As a result, prices for accommodation and tours can be higher, and popular attractions can be more crowded.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, consider visiting Kazbegi during the shoulder seasons of May and October. The weather is still pleasant during these months, and fewer tourists make exploring the region at your own pace easier.

Safety & Tips

When planning a trip to Kazbegi, consider the region’s safety. While the area is generally safe for tourists, there are some things to remember.

The roads in and around Kazbegi can be treacherous during the winter, with heavy snowfall and icy conditions. If you’re planning to travel during this time, ensuring that your vehicle is equipped for winter driving and has experience driving in these conditions is essential.

Additionally, if you plan to hike or explore the mountains in Kazbegi, you must be aware of the risks associated with high-altitude trekking. Take appropriate precautions and always follow the advice of experienced guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

How to Get From Tbilisi to Kazbegi?

Kazbegi is located in the northeast region of Georgia, about 153 km from the capital city of Tbilisi. The town is easily accessible, and several transportation options are available.

Visit Kazbegi By Car

One of the most popular ways to get to Kazbegi is by car. If driving from Tbilisi, you must take the Georgian Military Highway , a scenic route that passes through the Caucasus Mountains.

The journey takes around 3.5 hours, and there are several stops along the way where you can take in the stunning views.

One of my favorite stops was the Ananuri Fortress. It is very convenient and does not take much time if you are traveling with kids. But there are other breathtaking stops that you should consider during your drive to Kazbegi.

Visit Kazbegi By Marshrutka

If you prefer not to drive, you can take a marshrutka from Tbilisi to Kazbegi. Marshrutkas are shared minibusses that operate on a fixed route and are a popular mode of transportation in Georgia.

The journey takes around 3.5 hours, and marshrutkas depart from the Didube bus station in Tbilisi.

Another option is to take a taxi from Tbilisi to Kazbegi. Cabs are more expensive than marshrutkas but offer a more comfortable and convenient option. The journey takes around 3 hours, and you can negotiate the price with the driver before you start.

Visit Kazbegi By Group or Private Tour

If you prefer a more organized trip, you can join a tour group that will take you to Kazbegi or choose a private tour . Tours typically include transportation, accommodation, and guided tours of the area. This is an excellent option for seeing the sights without worrying about planning your itinerary.

No matter your transportation option, the journey to Kazbegi is scenic, and you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains. Below are some of my top recommended tours in Kazbegi.

Where to Stay in Kazbegi?

When planning a trip to Kazbegi, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. Fortunately, plenty of options are available to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best accommodation options in Kazbegi:

Luxury Stay

There are several high-end hotels if you want a luxurious stay in Kazbegi. Some of the best luxury hotels in Kazbegi include:

Rooms Hotel Kazbegi : This stylish boutique hotel is located in the heart of Kazbegi and offers stunning views of Gergeti Trinity Church. The hotel features modern rooms, an indoor pool, and a vast sun deck. We stayed here, and it was worth every penny. I would highly recommend staying here if you want to combine luxury with scenic natural views.

The owners also have multiple properties in Tbilisi if you would like to check those out.

Budget & Local Homestays

While I loved staying at the Rooms Hotel in Kazbegi, it is a pricey option, and if you are looking for more budget-friendly stays, there are some great hotel and guesthouse options, too. I could recommend checking a few:

• Chemodann Kazbegi
• Hilltop Kazbegi
• Step-Inn Kazbegi

For a truly authentic experience in Kazbegi, consider staying in Kazbegi guesthouses. Local families run these homestays and offer a unique insight into Georgian culture and hospitality.

No matter what your budget or preferences, there is an accommodation option in Kazbegi that is perfect for you.

Where to Eat in Kazbegi?

We ate our food at the Rooms Hotel Kazbegi. Their menu was too good, and the terrace seats were too comfortable to bother going somewhere else. My favorites were cheese-filled khinkali, khachapuri, and Mchadi (cornbread) with beans! Not to mention, their all-inclusive breakfast buffet had everything possible to satisfy hunger in the mountains.

However, if you are staying somewhere other than this hotel, there is no shortage of good food in Kazbegi. You will find many local places offering delicious food. Here are some of the recommendations:

• Maisi Kazbegi Restaurant – Maisi is a show kitchen restaurant in Kazbegi, Georgia. They specialize in local Georgian cuisine with a contemporary fusion, and their menu changes every two months. The restaurant was born in August 2021 in the backyard of Kazbegi hut/cabins, and it makes the most of the products of local farmers.
• The Cozy Corner – The restaurant offers brunch, lunch, and dinner and is on the bank of the Tergi River, surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape. It is in front of the road leading to the Gergeti Trinity Church and Mountain Kazbek.

Local Cuisine of Kazbegi, Georgia

Khinkali is a Georgian dumpling typically filled with spiced meat, such as beef, lamb, or pork, and sometimes mixed with herbs or vegetables. The dumplings are boiled and served hot, and you eat them by holding the stem and biting into the top of the dumpling, being careful not to let the juices spill out. Khinkal is a must-try dish in Georgia; you can find it at most restaurants in Kazbegi.

Mtsvadi is a Georgian shish kebab made with marinated chunks of meat, typically pork or beef, skewered and grilled over an open flame. The heart is seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes onions or other spices. Mtsvadi is a popular street food in Georgia, and you can find it sold by vendors in Kazbegi.

Khachapuri is a traditional Georgian cheese bread often served as a snack or appetizer. The bread is filled with cheese, eggs, and butter and baked until golden brown. There are many variations of khachapuri, but the most common one is the Adjarian khachapuri, which is boat-shaped and has a raw egg cracked on top of the cheese mixture before baking.

Georgian Wine

Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, and Georgian wine is known for its unique flavor and production method. Georgia wine is made using clay vessels called qvevri, which are buried in the ground and used to ferment and age the wine. There are many different varieties of Georgian wine, including red, white, and amber wines, and you can find them at most restaurants and shops in Kazbegi.

We enjoyed our delicious Georgian wine on the hotel terrace, which tasted divine with those views.

Cultural Tours

Kazbegi is also rich in culture and history, with many ancient landmarks and traditional villages. One of the most popular cultural tours in Kazbegi is the tour of the Ananuri Fortress and the Zhinvali Reservoir. The tour takes you through the ancient fortress and offers stunning reservoir views. Another popular cultural tour is the tour of the Dariali Gorge. The tour takes you through the beautiful gorge and offers stunning monument views.

In conclusion, Kazbegi offers a wide range of activities for travelers of all interests. Whether you want to hike through the mountains, capture stunning photographs, or learn about the region’s culture and history, Kazbegi has something for everyone.

Kazbegi Packing Essentials

When packing for your trip to Kazbegi, it’s essential to keep in mind the weather and activities you’ll be participating in. Here are some critical items to consider bringing with you:

• Comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good traction
• Warm layers such as a fleece jacket or sweater
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• Hat and gloves for colder weather
• Lightweight, quick-drying pants and shirts for hiking

Overall, Kazbegi is a stunning destination well worth the effort to visit. With its breathtaking natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, it’s sure to be a trip you’ll never forget. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your adventure today!

FAQs: Visiting Kazbegi Georgia

What are the top-rated hotels in kazbegi.

Kazbegi offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury. Some top-rated hotels in Kazbegi are Rooms Hotel Kazbegi , Hotel Porta Caucasia Kazbegi , and Intourist Kazbegi . These hotels offer excellent amenities and services to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

How many days should I plan for a trip to Kazbegi?

To fully explore Kazbegi and its surrounding areas, we recommend planning a trip for at least 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to visit the must-see attractions, hike in the national park, and experience the local culture and cuisine. We only had two nights and three days. While we would have enjoyed a few more days to explore more, I think it was still a reasonable amount of time.

Is Kazbegi a safe place to visit?

Kazbegi is a safe place to visit, and the crime rate is relatively low. However, taking necessary precautions and being aware of your surroundings is always a good idea, especially when traveling alone at night.

What is the weather like in Kazbegi?

Kazbegi has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Kazbegi is during the summer (June to September) when the weather is pleasant and the hiking trails are open. However, be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and carry warm clothing even during summer.

What are the must-visit places in Kazbegi National Park?

Kazbegi National Park is home to several stunning natural attractions worth visiting. Some must-visit places in the park include Gergeti Trinity Church, Gveleti Waterfall, and the Dariali Gorge. You can also go hiking on the many trails in the park to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

What is the Best Way to Get Around Kazbegi?

Hiring a car or taxi is the best way to get around Kazbegi. If you are on a budget, you can also use public transportation like marshrutkas (minibusses). However, be prepared for long waiting times and crowded buses during peak season.

When do you plan to visit Kazbegi? What is something from this guide you will put in your must-thing to do while there? Please comment and share this article with anyone interested in visiting Kazbegi, Georgia.

Conclusion: Visiting Kazbegi Georgia

In conclusion, Kazbegi is a breathtaking mountainous destination in Georgia. It was the highlight of our trip, so it speaks enough.

Kazbegi promises an unforgettable mix of natural adventure and cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely family getaway to unwind and relax or are up for more adventures, Kazbegi is a place to be.

If you explore more of Georgia, you may also like our 3-Day Tbilisi Itinerary .

Mariam is a full-time working mom based in New Jersey who loves adventuring outside office hours with her husband and two little boys. She started this family travel blog to share family-friendly travel guides, itineraries, and tips to help busy families with kids keep exploring outside their 9-5.

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Guided Small Group Tour- Offered in: English

• Discover Kazbegi in a three-day guided small group tour tour
• See Gergeti Glacier, Juta Valley, and Truso Valley
• Accommodations, entrance fees, and meals are included
• Convenient round-trip transport with private guide and driver

There is no better way to discover the natural beauty of Georgia than on foot. Our 3-day Hiking in Kazbegi includes the alpine meadows, mountainous rivers, waterfalls, glacier-capped mountains, and dramatic forests. This tour – Hiking in Kazbegi – offers the perfect opportunity to witness and experience the Caucasus Mountains in their purest form. Keep your camera at the ready to capture the fascinating sights of the Caucasus Mountains.

Day 1 – Tbilisi-Ananuri- Juta Valley-Kazbegi 

HB, Hiking Distance 16 km, starting elevation: 2100m, maximum elevation 3338m

This day covers one of the most scenic and stunning sections of the Great Caucasus Mountains.  We travel along the famous military highway and explore 16-17cc Ananuri Castle Complex. Then we drive to Juta Valley. Here we explore the scenic beauty and majestic charm of the Juta valley and Chaukhi mountainous massif. We will hike deep into the Greater Caucasus Mountains through crossing small mountainous rivers, hills, and rocks. After 8 km of hiking, we reach Chaukhi pass (3338m.) from where fascinating views open for you. You can enjoy panoramic views of another mountainous region – Khevsureti. In good weather, you also can see three Abudelaurebi colorful lakes. In the evening, we drive for Kazbegi town and overnight there.  Overnight at guesthouse in Kazbegi (Double/Twin rooms with private bathroom)

Day 2– Kazbegi-Gergeti Trinity Church-Gergeti Glacier-Kazbegi  

HB, Hiking Distance 16 km, starting elevation: 1,740m, maximum elevation 3200m

The hardest but probably the most beautiful part of your trip to Georgia is for this day.  Our final destination is Gergeti Glacier (at 3200m), Its width is 6 km², length- 8.92 km. First, we hike to the famous Gergeti Trinity church which is located on the 2167 meters from sea level, right below the summit of Mt Kazbegi and above the small town of Stepantsminda. The church was built in the XIV century and is a must-see place in Georgia. After the church, we follow the mountains range and narrow gorges, passing the Sabertse pass and reaching to the Gergeti glacier. This day offers you a glistening mountain landscape with colliding glaciers, lush alpine meadows, roaring rivers and marvelous panorama views over the Great Caucasus Mountains. Overnight at guesthouse in Kazbegi (Double/Twin rooms with private bathroom)

Day 3 – Kazbegi-Truso Valley – Tbilisi

Hiking Distance 20 km, starting elevation: 2050m, maximum elevation 2200m

In the morning, we travel to Truso Valley which is located near Kazbegi. Truso valley suggests an absolutely different experience. A vast plain area surrounded by the high mountains, mineral waters, travertines, a lake with geysers and abandoned houses are just some reasons why you should visit this valley. We will take an easy hike around 6 hours (both way 20 km).

In the later afternoon, we will travel to Tbilisi.

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Accommodation

We overnight at the guesthouses. Guesthouses in  Kazbegi have rooms with private bathrooms. The typical guesthouses in Kazbegi looks like:

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✅ Breakfast, Lunch boxes, and Dinner for 2 Days

✅ 2 overnight at a guesthouse in Kazbegi

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✘ Dinner for the third day

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Full Day Tour to Mount Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church

- Full Day Kazbegi Tour - Full Day Wine Tour - Full Day Tbilisi and Mtskheta Tour - Full Day David Gareja and Sighnaghi Tour - Full Day Gori and Uplistsikhe Tour

Duration 8-10 hours.

All Year Around

Mount Kazbegi, 5.047 m is third highest mountain in Georgia on the Great Caucasus Range. Located 160 km North East from Tbilisi. Mount Kazbek is associated in Georgian folklore with Amirani, the Georgian version of Prometheus, who was chained on the mountain in punishment for having stolen fire from the gods and having given it to mortals On the slope of mount Kazbegi is located Gergeti Trinity Church (XIV c) at the altitude 2.175 m. This amazing small church attracts travelers for its wonderful location and amazing view on the top of mount Kazbegi and river Dariali gorge.

Highlights:

• Mount Kazbegi (5.047 m)
• Georgian Military Road
• Jinvali Lake
• Ananuri Complex
• Gudauri Ski Resort
• Gergeti Trinity Church

Kazbegi tour departs from Tbilisi early in the morning, at the direction of Kazbegi.(160km) through the Georgian Military Road, it runs between Tbilisi (Georgia) and Vladikavkaz (Russia), 208 km. On the way there are very interesting places to visit.   Ananuri fortress, which is a XVI century castle complex on the Aragvi River. The Ananuri fortress stands beside the famous Georgian Military Highway overlooking a large Jinvali lake. Its high, turreted stone walls protect two churches, a watch tower and a reservoir. The main church facade is beautifully carved with animal, floral and Celtic style patterns.   In Kazbegi tour, next stop on the way is Gudauri – remarkable ski resort in Georgia. Resort is located at the altitude 2200 meters above the sea level. The first, lower lift station is at 1,990 m above sea level and the last, top station is at 3,306 m, called summit Sadzele. The resort offers high quality skiing opportunities. The ski season lasts from December till April.   From Gudauri continue your trip to Gergeti trinity church (XII-XIV) century’s monument erected on the southern slopes of Mkinvarcveri is located at an altitude of 2170 meters. Gergeti Trinity church is an important temple and remarkable for its beautiful scenery. The Gergeti Trinity church is set poignantly on a hill directly below the towering white massif of Mount Kazbek ( 5033 meters). Built six hundred years ago its stones have weathered repeated blizzards, rain and invasion to stand as a proud symbol of Georgian resilience in the face of adversity. It is the photographer’s perfect shot.   After visiting Gergeti church we will arrive to Dariali Gorge. It is the gorge on the border between Russia and Georgia. Darial was historically important as the only available passage across the Caucasus and has been long fortified – at least since 150 BC. There is Tamari’s Fortress called Dariali castle which was built many years ago and is situated on the right side of the river Tergi. To the left of the river Tergi there is a new monastery complex on the cliff which is about 70 meters high.    

Duration: 8-10 hours Driving distance: 350 km Season: All year around Itinerary: Kazbegi Tour on Google Maps    

What's Included: • Hotel pick-up and drop-off; • Transportation In modern, air-conditioned coach; • Petrol Costs; • Qualified Guiding service (English, German, Italian, Russian); • A bottle of water per traveler.   What's Not Included: •Travel insurance; • Meals and drinks; • Hiring of 4WD car for Gergeti Trinity church (extra cost 25,- Euro); • Tips for the guide and driver.      

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Kazbegi day tour

Georgia kazbegi tour.

Georgia Kazbegi tour – Svetickhoveli Cathedral – Jvari Monastery. trip to Military road – Ananuri Castle – Gudauri View Point – Gergeti Trinity Church – Tbilisi

Jvari monastery – Translated as “The Monastery of the Cross”, Jvari is a 6th Century Monastery that is, coincidentally, in the shape of a cross. It is located on a mountaintop with a great view of the meeting between the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers as well as the entire city of Mtkskheta. Jvari Monastery listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, along with other historic structures in Mtshketa. Jvari is the perfect place for those looking to travel back in time and enjoy the architecture of the Middle Ages. Note that the place is windy throughout the entire year, so be prepared.

Georgia and Russian military road trip

Gergeti Trinity Church among world’s most beautiful churches

Georgia kazbegi tour

All day tours

Airport transfers

• Included Kazbegi day tour Transportation Entry fees ( on agreement ) Tour guide Car with driver
• Not Included Traditional restaurant Fly Tickets Breakfast Accommodation in economy / premium class hotel Transfer from the airport Transfer to the airport

8 Things To Do In Kazbegi, Georgia

Kazbegi is a municipality within the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of Georgia and a popular tourist destination. Kazbegi also refers to a small mountain town in the region, which sits in the shadow of Mt Kazbek. This mountain town is split across a valley with the Terek River running through the middle.

Top things to do in Kazbegi include visiting the Gergeti Trinity Church, walking to the Gveleti Waterfalls, seeing the carved heads at Sno and hiking the Truso and Juta Valleys.

On my trips to Georgia I always include a journey along the Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi and have seen the region in all seasons. In this guide I outline everything you need to know for your trip to Kazbegi in 2022.

Disclaimer:  Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps cover the cost of running this blog. Thanks for your support!

Kazbegi or Stepantsminda?

Stepantsminda is a small mountain village in the Kazbegi region of Georgia. Originally known as Kazbegi, the village was re-named Stepantsminda in 2006 in honour of Saint Stephen. Stepantsminda is the name you will see written on maps and the name used for booking hotels, however locals still refer to the village as Kazbegi.

So be prepared to use both!

The name Kazbegi is thought to derive from Mount Kazbek, which is the dormant Stratovolcano that looms over the town. At over 5000m, it is the third highest peak in Georgia. According to Greek mythology, Titan Prometheus was chained to the side of a mountain in the Caucasus for all eternity as punishment for teaching mankind how to make fire.

According to the Georgians, that mountain was Mount Kazbek.

How to get to Kazbegi, Georgia

Wherever you’re travelling from in Georgia, you will likely need to pass through Tbilisi in order to get to Kazbegi.

How to get to Kazbegi from Tbilisi

The Georgian Military Highway is the main road that leads from Tbilisi to Kazbegi and beyond to the Russian border. This important road was originally constructed in the 17th century. The distance from Tbilisi to Kazbegi is 154km

The cheapest way to get to Kazbegi from Tbilisi is by Marshrutka (mini bus). Marshrutkas depart from Didube Bus Station every hour or every half hour in high season. It costs 13 GEL per person and will take around 2.5-3 hours. Book your bus through Busbud here .

Private taxis are available for day trips to Kazbegi. You can get a taxi from Tbilisi’s old town and the price is negotiable. Expect to pay around 190 GEL / $60. If you prefer to use a private car and driver without the need to haggle, try GoTrip.  With GoTrip you can organise your own private itinerary.

3. Self Drive

If you’re happy to drive in Georgia it’s also possible to rent a car and self drive to Kazbegi. The road is often busy with trucks driving to the Russian border and Georgian drivers are impatient to pass. Like seriously impatient! Along the way there are hairpin corners and extremely dark tunnels (in Winter) so be sure you’re comfortable driving in these conditions.

Car rental starts from around $35 per day. In winter you might want to consider a 4 wheel drive car and definitely check the Jvari Pass is open, as this can sometimes close with heavy snow. Check car rental deals here .

There are also many tours and day trips that visit Kazbegi and the cost depends on what is included. On a walk around Tbilisi’s old town you will undoubtedly be offered these tours on multiple occasions. If you don’t want the hassle of negotiating prices, book your tour with reliable companies here.

Where to Stay in Stepantsminda, Georgia

If you want the best hotel in town with incredible mountain views, modern rooms and a beautiful outdoor terrace, check yourself into Rooms Hotel.

Check availability here .

The Veranda Guesthouse is near the town centre and offers comfortable rooms with a balcony. The shared living spaces also offer beautiful views of Mt Kazbek and the hearty breakfast will certainly fuel your hiking needs.

Check availability here.

For a budget friendly option close to the town centre try Sunny Mountain House. The rooms come with their own kitchen and there is a shared lounge, terrace and BBQ facilities.

Check out todays best deals in Stepantsminda below.

The Best Time to Visit Kazbegi

Summer is the best time for trekking in the region so if that’s your main aim then definitely go for that option. This is of course the busiest season though so be prepared for crowds.

In Spring the valleys burst into colour with wildflowers and in Autumn the trees turn magical tones of orange and yellow. These seasons will be less busy than Summer. Having been to Kazbegi several times, my favourite season to visit is during Autumn. Perhaps that’s the photographer in me.

An equally impressive time of year to visit though is during Winter. During Winter, Mount Kazbek is covered in snow and the waterfalls become playgrounds for ice climbers. The valleys are closed for hiking and the Jvari Pass may temporarily close with heavy snowfall. However, nearby Gudauri Ski Resort comes to life as a winter Mecca for powder hounds. It’s also a good hill for beginners!

If you want to learn more about skiing in Gudauri, take a look at this guide.

The Best Things to do in Kazbegi

Here is a map of Kazbegi with all the top things to do, places to see, hotels and restaurants that I talk about in this guide. For hiking I actually prefer using Maps.me as it has offline maps and topographical layers.

If you plan on doing hikes around Kazbegi, I strongly recommend picking up a physical map of the Caucasus .

1. Visit Gergeti Trinity Church

The most famous and popular thing to do in Kazbegi is to hike to Gergeti Trinity Church. This church perches on the edge of a cliff with the mighty Mt Kazbek looming behind. The church sits at 2170m and is still an active Georgian Orthodox Church.

A hike from Stepantsminda to the church, through a picturesque valley takes around two hours to complete. The trail is marked by red and white trail markers and is around 3.5km one way. This hike approaches the church from the west through a picturesque gorge. Along the hike you will be able to appreciate the church and the mountains from various different angles and is well worth the effort.

If hiking is not for you, it’s now possible to take a jeep ride to the top. These cost from 15 GEL per person or around 60 GEL per car, but again be sure to negotiate if you have a group of people. The drive takes around 20 minutes one way. Taxi drivers offering their services can be found all around town and at carpark after the turn off for Gergeti from the Highway.

Admission to the church is free.

Kazbegi Travel Tip : The Gergeti Trinity Church is a popular destination on day trips from Tbilisi, so if you want to avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning.

2. Hike to Gergeti Glacier

If hiking to the church is only a warm up for you, you might want to consider hiking another 3.5 hours on to the Gergeti Glacier. From the church walk in the direction of Mount Kazbek At the car park take the path that heads uphill. Eventually the path will fork into two. Both trails merge at Cross Memorial so you can take either trail.

From Stepantsminda to the foot of the Glacier is almost 10km one way so this will be a full day hike. (8-9 hours). There’s also a lot of “up” involved in this hike as the base of the glacier is at 3200m above sea level. From Stepantsminda that’s a total of 1600m so be prepared and come armed with plenty of water and snacks.

For a packing list of everything I take on a hike like this one, take a look at this complete guide

3. Have Lunch at Rooms Hotel to Enjoy Views of Mt Kazbek

For arguably the best view of Mount Kazbek with Trinity Church just in front, take a walk up to Rooms Hotel . Sit back and enjoy a relaxed lunch on the outdoor terrace whilst you soak up the incredible views.

Alternatively you could opt to spend the night here. Splash out on a room with a mountain view and enjoy views of Mount Kazbek, directly from your bed . Be sure to rise early and catch sunrise over the Caucasus – I promise, you won’t regret it! (Check the weather forecast first though as it can often be cloudy in the mountains!)

Check availability of Room Hotel here .

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4. Walk to Gveleti Waterfalls

Not long after driving north out of Kazbegi, the landscape changes yet again. The Dariali Gorge runs the length of the drive from Kazbegi to the Russian border. The road clings impressively to the side of the gorge and offers spectacular views as you travel.

After 8km there is a left turn for the small hamlet of Gveleti. Just after the road turns back on itself, there is a small car park on the right hand side. You can park your car here for 3 GEL and walk the rest of the way. If you have a driver with 4WD he will likely drive further up to the start of the trailheads.

From the car park it’s 850m to the start of the trailheads. The trail to the left is around 300m and leads to the smaller and less busy waterfall. The trail to the right is around 600m and leads to the larger, more impressive waterfall. If you want an easy hike in Kazbegi, then I’d definitely recommend these waterfalls.

Try and time your hike here for late morning when the sun lights up the valley. There are several campsites in this valley which would make an amazing place to stay if you prefer nature over hotels and guesthouses.

In winter these waterfalls freeze over and are possibly even more impressive. However, the trails can be quite dicy when they’re covered in snow and ice, so come prepared with good footwear!

Discover more things to see in Georgia in this guide

5. Visit Dariali Monastery Complex (Archangel Monastery Complex)

Further along the highway, almost at the border with Russia you will find Dariali Monastery Complex. This impressive complex unites several churches but the main church is dedicated to Archangels St Michael and St Gabriel.

Entrance to the complex is free and a respectful dress code is required. Carry your passport for this trip as it’s located close to the border. Mountain Freaks offer a daily bus to Dariali for 45 GEL return. Find their timetable here .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance!

For the best deals on travel insurance, check out Safety Wing.

6. See the Sno Stone Heads and Castle

Around 4km south of Kazbegi, just off the Military Highway is the village of Sno. Just before entering the village, on the right hand side, you can find a collection of carved stone heads. Each of these heads is a sculpture of an important person from Georgian history, such as poets and kings.

There is no official entrance fee but there is a donation box in the car park with a suggested donation for the sculptor, Merab Piranishvili, of 5 GEL.

Each head is carved from a single block of locally sourced stone. His goal is to carve 500 heads in total, so he’s still got a lot of work to do! This is certainly the most quirky things to see in Kazbegi.

Continue into Sno, turning left at the roundabout. Cross the river and you will arrive at the remains of Sno Castle. This 16th century castle sits atop a rocky outcrop which you can scramble up for closer inspection.

7. Hike Juta and Sno Valley

Trekking in Kazbegi will be at the top of the list for many who visit the area. Billed as the Dolomites of Georgia, Juta is a spectacular valley to enjoy a hike. Juta village sits at 2150m above sea level and is the starting location for several hikes. The Fifth Season Cabin offers food and accommodation to day trippers and multi-day hikers alike.

One of the popular hikes heads up Chaukhi Valley towards Chaukhi Pass at 3338m. Another option is to hike to Artkhmo Gorge. Mountain Freaks offer twice-daily transport to Juta in the Summer months for 45 GEL and a private taxi will cost around 60 GEL.

8. Explore Truso Valley and Zakagori Fortress

Truso Valley is another gorge with stunning wild landscapes and colourful springs. One option is to hike from Kvemo Okrokano village to the impressive Zakagori Fortress, which sits on the border with Ossetia. Whilst not big in elevation gain it’s a long hike at 22km round trip.

Another option would be a slightly shorter hike to visit the small hamlet of Abano which has ancient Georgian towers. On this Kazbegi trek, you will pass a couple of colourful travertines along the route.

Mountain Freaks run daily cars to Truso in the summer months. These take you to Kvemo Okrokana village. The return trip costs 45 GEL. Another option would be to hire a private car in Stepantsminda and negotiate a price. If the vehicle is 4WD they could drive further up into the Truso Valley and shorten the hike to Zakagori Fortress.

Carry your passports for this one as it’s close to the South Ossetia demarcation.

Kazbegi Travel Tip : Access to both Truso Valley and Juta Valley is not possible in the Winter months and they generally don’t open up until June/July.

Where to Eat in Kazbegi

• The terrace at the Rooms Hotel offers food with the best views in town so be sure to wander up here on your visit to Kazbegi.
• For delicious baked goods such as Khachapuri to take away on hike, try Lunch Time which is located on Alexander Kazbegi Street, just opposite the Visitor Centre.
• For classic Georgian meals at low prices try Cozy Corner, located on the west side of the river.

Kazbegi Travel Guide Summary

Kazbegi is a region in north Georgia near the Russian border. Along the Georgian Military highway there is a town called Stepantsminda which was also formerly known as Kazbegi. This town is nestled in the  Caucasus mountains and was originally named after Mount Kazbek, which is volcano over 5000m high.

Kazbegi or Stepantsminda is a popular tourist destination in Georgia and is only a 3 hour drive from the capital of Tbilisi. There are many things to do in Kazbegi, with the most popular attraction being Gergeti Trinity Church.

Day trips to Kazbegi from Tbilisi are available, although I would recommend spending several days there to fully explore the area. With more time in Kazbegi you can explore the Dariali Gorge, visiting the Archangel Monastery Complex and Gevelti Waterfalls. You could also hike the beautiful Juta Valley and see the colourful travertines of Truso Valley.

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Louise is an Adventure Tour Guide & Mountain Leader from South Wales. Through working as a tour guide and snowboard instructor, she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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