2-Day Kazbegi & Gudauri Mountain Tour from Tbilisi

Jinvali Reservoir and the Aragvi valley

Soon after leaving Tbilisi the Georgian Military Road follows the Aragvi river north, and the first stop is the Jinvali Reservoir, a long turquoise lake created by a dam in the 1980s. Surrounded by green hills, it is one of the most photographed views on the road to Kazbegi, and on calm days the mountains are reflected in the water.

The group pauses here for about 15 minutes for photos before continuing to Ananuri, which stands on the shore of the same lake. Earlier in the morning there is also a short stop for coffee or a quick breakfast, so you can relax and enjoy the drive. This first part of the route already shows why a Kazbegi tour from Tbilisi is one of the most popular trips in Georgia.

Ananuri Fortress

Ananuri Fortress was the seat of the dukes of Aragvi, a powerful noble family who controlled this valley for centuries. Its stone walls and towers enclose two churches; the larger, the Church of the Assumption built in 1689, is covered with fine stone carvings, including a large cross and vine motifs on its facade. Inside are remains of frescoes and a quiet, candlelit atmosphere.

You spend about 40 to 60 minutes at Ananuri with your guide, enough to walk the walls, visit the churches and climb the tower for views over the reservoir. It is one of the best-preserved fortresses in Georgia and a highlight of any trip along the Georgian Military Road. Modest clothing is appreciated inside the churches, and women may cover their hair.

Gudauri and the Friendship Monument

Gudauri is Georgia's best-known ski resort, set at around 2,200 metres on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus. In winter it is busy with skiing, snowmobiling and paragliding; in summer the meadows turn green and visitors come for paragliding, hiking and off-road rides. You spend about two hours here, with time for activities at your own cost.

Just beyond the resort stands the Friendship Monument, a large semicircular viewpoint built in 1983 and decorated with colourful tile mosaics about Georgian history. It hangs over a deep valley with breathtaking views of gorges and peaks, and it is one of the most famous photo spots in the country. After Gudauri the road crosses the Jvari Pass towards Kazbegi when the weather allows.

Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) and Gergeti Trinity Church

Stepantsminda, still widely known as Kazbegi, is a mountain town at about 1,700 metres below the snow-covered summit of Mount Kazbek, one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus. In summer the group stays here overnight, and day 2 is free to explore the town, walk in the valleys or simply enjoy the mountain air.

High on a ridge above the town stands Gergeti Trinity Church, a 14th-century stone church that has become the symbol of Georgia. You can reach it by an optional 4WD ride, often at sunset on day 1, paid on site in cash, or on foot on day 2. If you are asking how to get to Gergeti Trinity Church from Tbilisi, this two-day format is one of the most relaxed ways, as you are already in Kazbegi.

Gveleti Waterfall and horseback riding (options)

Two options add guided activities to the free day. The hiking option includes a walk to Gveleti Waterfall on day 2 from 12:00 to 15:00, through a side valley near the Dariali Gorge where a stream drops over rocky cliffs. It is a rewarding mountain walk and a quieter alternative to the busier paths.

The fullest option adds a horseback ride at 10:00 before the waterfall hike, a classic way to see the meadows around Kazbegi. Both options run only from May to December, when the trails are clear of snow. Whichever version you choose, the return transfer leaves Kazbegi at 17:00 and arrives in Tbilisi in the evening. Wear sturdy shoes and bring layers, as mountain weather changes quickly.

The Georgian Military Road and the way back

The historic Georgian Military Road has linked Tbilisi with the North Caucasus for centuries and is one of the most scenic mountain roads in the world. Along the way you pass river valleys, villages, watchtowers and high passes, and the guide shares stories about the people and history of the region.

On the way back the group may stop for honey tasting and, in summer, there is optional rafting at extra cost. In winter heavy snow can close the road to Kazbegi; then the group spends more time in Gudauri instead. Expect to be back in central Tbilisi between about 20:00 and 23:00 depending on traffic, with drop-off in the centre of the city.