Detailed Route
Departure at 09:00 from your Tbilisi hotel. On Day 2, the first stop is Ananuri Fortress (16th–17th c.) above the Zhinvali Reservoir. The turquoise lake reflecting the snow-capped mountains is one of the finest panoramas in Georgia — especially in autumn when the peaks are already white and the water still blue-green.
Gudauri (2196m) — a short stop at the Friendship of Nations Arch viewpoint. The road then descends along the Terek River towards Stepantsminda. Timur will explain why it was here, in 1858, that Imam Shamil surrendered to Russian forces.
Ascent to Gergeti Trinity Church (2170m): a 40–50 minute hike along the trail or a ride in a local 4WD (₾20/person each way). The 14th-century church stands directly above the clouds — on a clear day Mount Kazbek (5047m) is visible in full height. Back in Stepantsminda, lunch at a local café — khinkali with mountain meat and fresh suluguni cheese. About ₾25–30 per person.
Practical Tips
Before heading out on any day of the tour, a few things will make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Good footwear matters most — you will be walking on cobblestones in Tbilisi and on mountain trails at Kazbegi.
- Dress in layers. Depending on the time of year, temperatures in the mountains can differ dramatically from Tbilisi. Even in summer, the Jvari Pass can be 10–15°C cooler — always bring a light jacket or fleece.
- Carry water and a snack. The Kazbegi day is long — pack a bottle of water and a light snack to keep your energy up during the hike to Gergeti Church.
- Bring your camera. The views at Ananuri, the Gudauri viewpoint, and Gergeti Trinity Church with Mount Kazbek behind it are genuinely extraordinary. Don't rely on a phone alone.
- Follow Timur's lead on the hike. If you have any concerns about the Gergeti ascent — fitness, altitude, footwear — just let Timur know. The 4WD taxi option is always available and costs ₾20 per person each way.
Why Choose This Tour
In three years of guiding in Georgia I have led more than 500 tours and I know what travellers value most: punctuality, specific knowledge rather than vague generalities, and the flexibility to adapt the day as it unfolds. This is never a bus tour with 40 strangers — a maximum of 7 guests means you can ask every question, stop wherever you want, and spend as long as you like at each location.
A 4.9 out of 5 rating on Google Maps (90+ reviews) is not an accident. I reply on WhatsApp within 10–15 minutes, send a detailed plan before departure, and remain available afterwards. Many guests come back for a second and third tour — that is the best feedback I could ask for.
How Booking Works
Message me on WhatsApp: +995 511 272 623. I will confirm the date, group size, and any preferences, then send a full itinerary with timings and the exact price. Full prepayment (100%) before the tour starts — your dates are confirmed once paid. Cancellation: 14+ days before — full refund minus non-refundable costs (hotels, tickets); 7–13 days — 30% is withheld; 3–6 days — 50%; less than 3 days — non-refundable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 3-day Georgia tour include?
Day 1: Tbilisi city tour — Old Town, Narikala, sulphur baths, Rustaveli Avenue. Day 2: Kazbegi via Georgian Military Highway — Ananuri Fortress, Gudauri viewpoint, Gergeti Trinity Church at 2170m. Day 3: Kakheti — Sighnaghi (city of love), Bodbe Monastery, two wineries with tasting. Accommodation for the 2 nights is not included — Timur will recommend hotels for your budget.
Is the Kazbegi hike difficult?
The hike to Gergeti Trinity Church takes about 1–1.5 hours each way with roughly 600m of elevation gain. It is a moderate hike on a clear, well-marked path. In summer a local 4WD taxi can drive you up for ₾20 per person each way if you prefer not to hike.
When is the best time for this 3-day tour?
May–June and September–October are ideal: mild temperatures, green landscapes, clear mountain views. July–August is the busiest season but all roads are open. In winter Kazbegi is snowbound and stunning, though Gergeti Church may occasionally be inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.
Can we change the itinerary?
Yes — the programme is flexible. Kakheti can be swapped for Mtskheta plus Gori, or a cooking class or pottery workshop can be added. Just let Timur know your preferences when booking.
Where do we stay?
Timur will recommend hotels to match your budget: from ₾80 (guesthouse) to ₾300 (boutique hotel) per night. You can also choose your own accommodation and Timur will work around it.
Book This Tour
Timur · Sakhva Travel · licensed guide No. 8247109128 · rating 4.9 · 500+ guests