Private full day trip Stepantsminda, Kazbegi Mountains & Sno

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ID: GYG546564-942848
Category:
Country: Georgia

Duration: 11:00 hours


Description

Private full-day tour on the Military road will bring you to the Great Caucase montains at 2200m passing by fortress, rivers and pass. From the Gergeti church you will get a huge panoramic view.
The Kazbegi mountains are over 150 km from Tbilisi, so we'll be leaving early to make the most of it. We meet at 9.00 am at your hotel. After an hour's drive and some great photos of the Zhinvali reservoir, we'll arrive at the Ananuri fortress. This fortified complex dates back to the 13th century, when the rulers decided to protect the capital upstream.

If you're hungry, we can stop off in Pasanauri at one of the many cafés. However, I recommend taking a small picnic and stopping here on the way back to try the best Khinkali in Georgia. That way, you'll get the most out of the day. We now attack the climb via the Gudauri ski resort. On reaching the Monument of Friendship between Georgia and Russia, we'll pause to contemplate one of the region's most beautiful panoramas.

Crossing the Jvari pass, we plunge into the valley towards Kazbegi / Stepantsminda. On the way, the Travertine mineral spring will invigorate us. The Trinity Church of Gergeti is just around the corner. We're almost there.

Once we reach Stephantsminda, we can take a break at the opposite mountain, next to the Ioane Natlismcemeli church. There's no one there, and you can gaze at the landscape and the valley for long minutes. It could be a spot for picnic if you wish.

Now it's time to tackle the final stage, the ascent of Gergeti. At the summit, you'll have time to appreciate the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus range and breathe in the pure mountain air.

Slowly coming back to Tbilisi, we'll make a detour to the village of Sno, which hides gigantic outdoor sculptures. Now that we've had our fill of oxygen. The road back is long, so it's worth stopping off in Pasanauri at this point to sample the local specialities.

Note that there are many "tourist traps" along the military road. Alongside the picturesque viewpoints, mass-produced souvenir markets have sprung up. Shopkeepers offer to pay to have your photo taken with a papakha hat. I personally try to avoid these places and have not included them in my list.

Highlights

  • Discover the Ananuri fortress situated on the banks of the Aragvi River
  • Take a deep breath at Gergeti Trinity Church in Stepantsminda
  • Get a panoramic view on the Kazbegi Mountains and the great Caucasus
  • Have a look on the gigantic outdoor sculptures in Sno

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The tour follows curved mountain roads which may provoke vertigo in people sensitive to altitude
In the churches, legs must be covered and women should cover their head.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

Cancellation is not possible. If you cancel it anyway or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity and the money you paid will not be refunded.