Day Trip to Kazbegi and Gudauri

Exploring the captivating Caucasus Mountains from Tbilisi offers a chance to take in the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. This full-day tour takes visitors on a journey through picturesque landscapes, uncovering the historic Ananuri fortress, experiencing the year-round activities at Gudauri ski resort, and marveling at the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. With the option to transfer by 4WD and enjoy a delicious local lunch, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the area. Whether seeking adventure or cultural enlightenment, this day trip promises to leave a lasting impression on those eager to delve deeper into the Caucasus wonders.

Just The Basics

• Explore the Ananuri fortress, a 16th-17th century castle complex with impressive stone towers, walls, and a church with intricate frescoes.
• Experience Gudauri ski resort, offering a range of winter and summer activities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.
• Visit the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, located atop a hill in Kazbegi, which offers breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains.
• The tour includes professional guide services, transportation, and bottled water, with an optional 4WD transfer to the Gergeti Trinity Church.
• The tour departs at 8:30 AM from the Avlabari metro station in Tbilisi, with a full refund available for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour takes visitors from Tbilisi to the stunning natural landscapes of Kazbegi and Gudauri in the Caucasus Mountains.

Highlights include exploring the ancient Ananuri fortress, experiencing the ski resort town of Gudauri, and visiting the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church in Kazbegi.

Along the way, guests will enjoy the region’s beautiful mountain scenery.

Lunch at a local restaurant is an optional extra.

The tour includes professional guide services, transportation, and bottled water.

While a 4WD transfer to the Gergeti church and gratuities for the guide are at an additional cost, this comprehensive excursion offers an excellent way to discover the natural wonders of this captivating part of Georgia.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes professional guide service, transportation service, and bottled water.

A 4WD car from Kazbegi to Gergeti church, gratuities for the tour guide, and food and drink are excluded.

The 4WD car from Kazbegi to Gergeti church costs an additional 20 GEL (6 USD) per person.

Gratuities for the tour guide aren’t included in the tour price, so guests are expected to tip the guide at their discretion.

Lunch at a local restaurant during the tour is also not covered, and guests will need to pay for their own food and drink.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour’s meeting point is at the Avlabari metro station in Tbilisi, and the pickup time is 8:30 AM. This location and timing allow for a smooth start to the day trip, ensuring everyone is ready to embark on the adventure.

Meeting Point	Pickup Time
Avlabari metro station, Tbilisi	8:30 AM
Convenient city center location	Early departure for full day tour
Easy to find and access	Punctuality ensures no delays
Allows for last-minute preparations	Maximizes time in Kazbegi and Gudauri
Tour guide will be present to greet guests	Departs on schedule for a seamless experience

This arrangement provides a hassle-free start to the tour, setting the stage for a memorable exploration of the Caucasus Mountains.

Additional Information

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, ensuring guests have all necessary details before their day trip.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so it’s important to dress accordingly.

For the visit to Gergeti Trinity Church, guests should note the dress code – no shorts and women must cover their heads.

Plus, there’s a possibility of snow-related traffic issues during winter, so extra caution is advised.

Guests are encouraged to bring cash for the optional 4WD car transfer from Kazbegi to the church, which costs 20 GEL (approximately 6 USD) per person.

Cancellation Policy

Guests can receive a full refund if they cancel their tour at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. However, no refunds are available for cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to the tour’s departure.

Plus, any changes requested within 24 hours of the start time won’t be accepted.

The tour operator’s cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility for travelers while also ensuring the efficient operation of the tour. By adhering to the 24-hour cancellation window, guests can plan their trip with confidence, knowing that they can receive a full refund if their plans change, as long as they provide adequate notice.

Exploring Ananuri Fortress

One of the first stops on the day trip is the ancient Ananuri fortress, a historic landmark situated along the picturesque Aragvi River in the Caucasus Mountains.

This 16th-17th century castle complex features:

• Imposing stone towers and walls
• A magnificent church with intricate frescoes
• Sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and river
• A chance to explore the rich history of the region

Visitors can wander through the fortress, admiring its impressive architecture and learning about its strategic importance in the past.

It’s a great opportunity to stretch your legs, take in the breathtaking scenery, and begin your journey into the heart of the Caucasus.

Experiencing Gudauri Ski Resort

After exploring the historic Ananuri fortress, the tour continues to the ski resort town of Gudauri, nestled high in the Caucasus Mountains. Visitors can wander through the charming village, admiring the dramatic mountain scenery that surrounds it.

Winter Activities	Summer Activities
Skiing	Hiking
Snowboarding	Mountain Biking
Sledding	Paragliding

The town boasts modern ski lifts, well-groomed slopes, and a range of winter sports equipment rentals. Those seeking a break from the slopes can explore the local shops and cafes or simply soak in the breathtaking views. With its stunning natural setting and array of recreational opportunities, Gudauri is a highlight of the Kazbegi day trip.

Visiting Gergeti Trinity Church

Continuing the journey, the tour reaches the picturesque village of Kazbegi, where the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church stands atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains.

Visitors can either hike the steep 2-hour trail or take a 4WD vehicle (20 GEL/6 USD per person) to reach the church’s hilltop perch.

The church, dating back to the 14th century, is a stunning example of Georgian architecture and a cultural landmark.

Visitors should note the dress code requirements:

• No shorts allowed
• Women must cover their heads

Exploring the church and its surroundings is a highlight of the Kazbegi experience, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Churches and Monasteries?

Photography is generally allowed inside churches and monasteries, but there may be some restrictions. Visitors should be respectful and follow any instructions from staff or posted signs.

It’s advisable to avoid using flash photography, which can damage sensitive historical artifacts. Some sites may prohibit photography altogether to preserve the sanctity of the space.

Checking with the tour guide or local authorities beforehand can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

What Kind of Food Is Typically Served for Lunch?

Typically, the lunch served during this tour features traditional Georgian cuisine. This may include dishes like khinkali (Georgian dumplings), khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), and mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers).

The lunch is usually held at a local restaurant, allowing participants to enjoy the region’s culinary culture.

While the specific menu can vary, the lunch provides an opportunity to savor the flavors of Georgian cuisine amidst the stunning Caucasus Mountain scenery.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though it may not be recommended for very young children or elderly individuals due to the moderately strenuous nature of the activities involved.

The tour operator advises that pregnant travelers should consult their doctor before booking.

Can We Stop for Souvenirs or Local Shopping Along the Way?

The tour doesn’t include any scheduled stops for souvenir shopping or local shopping along the way.

However, the guide may be able to accommodate brief stops if there’s interest and time allows. It’s best to discuss this with the guide at the start of the tour to see if it can be arranged.

Participants should keep in mind that any additional stops would need to fit within the overall tour schedule.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Attraction on the Itinerary?

The tour’s itinerary allocates specific time frames for each attraction.

At the Ananuri fortress, visitors can expect to spend around 45 minutes exploring the historic site.

In Gudauri, the stop lasts approximately 1 hour, allowing time to appreciate the scenic ski resort town.

The highlight, Gergeti Trinity Church in Kazbegi, is allocated 1-2 hours for visitors to take in the stunning Caucasus Mountain views.

The timing may vary slightly based on group size and pace, but the guide will ensure an enjoyable experience at each location.

Sum Up

This day trip from Tbilisi provides an immersive experience in the Caucasus Mountains.

Visitors can explore the historic Ananuri fortress, enjoy winter and summer activities at Gudauri ski resort, and marvel at the breathtaking views from Gergeti Trinity Church.

With the option of a 4WD transfer and a local lunch, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.