Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Caucasus Mountains, the Kazbegi region in Georgia is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural charm. For families looking to immerse themselves in nature while exploring one of Georgia’s most iconic regions, a day trip to Kazbegi offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re traveling with young children or teenagers, Kazbegi has something for everyone. Our family, along with a few others, recently embarked on a journey to this spectacular destination. In this post, I’ll share our experiences and offer tips to help other families make the most of their visit to Kazbegi.
Getting to Kazbegi: The Scenic Georgian Military Road
The journey to Kazbegi is an adventure in itself, as the region is accessed via the historic Georgian Military Road. This route, which stretches from Tbilisi to the Russian border, is one of the most picturesque drives in Georgia, offering a continuous panorama of majestic mountains, deep gorges, and ancient fortresses.
Are you looking for an affordable and budget friendly day trip option for the whole family? Read on to hear all about this trip that cost us just around $120 usd for all 4 of us including the trip, food, snacks and a bottle of wine to take home.
We took off in a tour van from Old Tbilisi around 9am. The road winds through several key points of interest that are worth exploring along the way:
Jinvali Reservoir: As you continue along the road, you’ll encounter the tranquil Jinvali Reservoir. The turquoise waters, framed by lush green hills, create a serene setting that is perfect for a quick photo stop. This is the first stop we made and the view from here is incredible. We were able to grab some photos, but be forewarned there are lots of other vans that stop here too and it can be quite crowded. There are vendors selling trinkets, snacks, juice and coffee. There are quite a few stops on the way to get coffee or a drink, but we did not stop on the way back. So, just be prepared for 3 hours in the van on the way back.
- Ananuri Fortress: Perched on the banks of the Aragvi River, Ananuri Fortress is a stunning medieval complex that dates back to the 13th century. This is an ideal spot to stretch your legs, take in the views, and explore the well-preserved towers and churches. This is another gorgeous spot. We had about 20 minutes to explore, so take your time and try to find the old prison and spread out to find some good spots for photos.
- Pasanauri Restaurant: This restaurant had some amazing open air seating that overlooked a river and some mountains. It is also the area that is to be believed where the modern Khinkali came from. We then of course, had to order some. They were delicious along with the khachapuri and lamb bbq we ordered. This is also where there is wine and chacha tasting. Be prepared to eat a full lunch to soak up that chacha.
- Friendship Monument: Further up the road, you’ll pass by the popular Gudauri Ski Resort, known for its winter sports and summer paragliding opportunities. Even if you’re visiting in the off-season, the area offers spectacular viewpoints, such as the Russia-Georgia Friendship Monument.This was possibly my favorite stop. There is plenty of space to spread out and hang out if you want. The monument itself has some lookouts, but can be somewhat crowded. We did the monument and then went down to the left and hung out on a flat grass area overlooking the dramatic cliff drops. If you get away from the crowd you might even be able to hear the waterfalls rushing down to the river.
As you drive closer to Kazbegi, the landscape becomes more dramatic, with the towering peaks of the Caucasus Mountains dominating the horizon. The road itself, though winding and sometimes challenging, is well worth the effort for the stunning vistas it offers.
Kazbegi: Arrival and First Impressions
Upon reaching the town of Stepantsminda, often referred to as Kazbegi, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Mount Kazbek, one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus. Standing at over 5,000 meters, this dormant stratovolcano is not only a stunning natural landmark but also steeped in local legend. We got lucky and had a decently clear sky and there was a recent snowfall on the peak.
Stepantsminda serves as the gateway to the Kazbegi region, offering a range of amenities for travelers, including guesthouses, restaurants, and shops. The town’s laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals make it an inviting base for exploring the surrounding areas. This is where we got out of the larger passenger van and split off into some smaller 4×4 vans that took us up to the church.
Exploring the Kazbegi Mountains
The Kazbegi region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous trails and activities that cater to all ages. One of the most iconic landmarks in the area is the Gergeti Trinity Church, a 14th-century church perched on a hilltop overlooking Stepantsminda. The hike to the church, though moderately challenging, rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Mount Kazbek and the surrounding valleys. The views were incredible from this location. This is one of the best places to be able to split off from the crowds and get pictures of the mountains and Kazbegi down below.
- Hiking to Gergeti Trinity Church: The hike to Gergeti Trinity Church is one of the highlights of any trip to Kazbegi. The trail begins in Stepantsminda and winds its way up through alpine meadows and pine forests. The hike is suitable for families, though younger children may need some assistance on steeper sections. I really wish we would have had time to do this hike. However, since we only did the day trip we could not..
- Dariali Gorge: Located just a short drive from Stepantsminda, the Dariali Gorge is another must-see in the Kazbegi region. This dramatic gorge marks the border between Georgia and Russia and is home to the Terek River, which cuts through the steep cliffs. The area is rich in history and natural beauty, making it an excellent spot for a family day out.
This is not on the itinerary but would be if we would have stayed for the night in the area. (Which I would highly recommend) - Gveleti Waterfalls: For families looking for a shorter, more accessible hike, the Gveleti Waterfalls are an ideal option. Located a few kilometers from Stepantsminda, the trail to the waterfalls is relatively easy and offers stunning views of the cascading water and surrounding greenery.
Picnic and Rest Stops
A day of exploring the Kazbegi Mountains wouldn’t be complete without a leisurely picnic surrounded by nature. The region offers numerous picturesque spots for a family picnic, whether it’s near the banks of the Terek River or in the alpine meadows overlooking Mount Kazbek.
- Ideal Picnic Spots: Some of the best spots for a family picnic include the area near the Gergeti Trinity Church, where you can enjoy panoramic views, or by the Terek River, where the sound of flowing water creates a peaceful ambiance.
- Local Delicacies: If you’re keen to try some local Georgian cuisine during your picnic, consider packing khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), churchkhela (a traditional Georgian snack made of nuts and fruit juice), and fresh fruits from the local markets.
We did try some fruit leather and churchkhela for the first time from one of the stops. I am not sold on them yet. I think we need to try it from another spot as these were quite touristy.
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Challenges and Tips for Families
Traveling to the Kazbegi region with a family can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s essential to be prepared for the unique challenges that come with mountain travel.
- Navigating the Terrain: The mountainous terrain can be challenging, especially for younger children or those unaccustomed to hiking. It’s important to wear appropriate footwear, bring plenty of water, and take breaks as needed.
- Motion and Altitude Sickness: We had just spent time in Rocky Mountain National Park and in Utah, so I do not think we struggled with this. It is just something to consider to hydrate and let yourself acclimatize as you go up. The biggest problem for us, was the ac was not that great in the van and the drivers that took us on this trip pushed their vehicles to the absolute limit when making the turns on the incredibly tight switchbacks. It got so bad that our daughter had to use a bag a few times for sickness. The driver and guide did not realize what was happening and it took a long time for them to stop to let us out for her to clean up.
- Packing Essentials: Be sure to pack layers, as the weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Sunscreen, hats,water and snacks are also must-haves for a day of exploring.
Wrapping Up the Day
After a full day of exploring, your family can head back to Stepantsminda for some well-deserved rest. Whether you choose to unwind with a warm meal at a local restaurant or simply enjoy the views from your accommodation, the memories made in Kazbegi will last a lifetime. We had to go back to Tbilisi and got back around 9pm. It was a whirlwind of a day. We could have spent so much more time at most of the major lookouts and I wish we made this trip a full 2-3 day weekend. It would have probably made the drive itself a lot more manageable. We were all wiped out for the next day or two. It probably didn’t help that we flew in from the US 36 hours beforehand and didn’t really sleep the night before.
Conclusion
A day trip to the Kazbegi Mountains is more than just a journey through breathtaking landscapes—it’s an opportunity for families to bond, explore, and create lasting memories together. The region’s natural beauty, combined with its rich cultural heritage, makes it a must-visit destination for families traveling in Georgia.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Kazbegi offers something for everyone. I highly recommend this trip to any family looking to experience the magic of the Caucasus Mountains. This day trip was extremely affordable. It was a total of around 15 usd per person for the transport and included an English speaking guide. There are other itineraries available, but here is the link to the exact trip we did below.
If you’ve been inspired by our family’s adventure in Kazbegi, why not start planning your own trip? Have any questions or need more tips? Comment below or reach out
