Trekking in Georgia - Kazbegi Region - 8 days (GE-06)

Today you’ll arrive in Tbilisi, the Georgian capital, where you’ll be met by our driver for your transfer to a centrally located hotel. Settle in and enjoy a leisurely evening. Overnight in Tbilisi. (D)

Today we’ll set off by road and drive to the ancient capital and religious hub of Mtskheta. There, you’ll find two impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Djvari Church, which dates from the 6th century and the later Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, constructed in the 11th century. From there, we pick up the Georgian Military Highway which leads us to Gudauri, one of Georgia’s premier ski resorts. The scenery is dramatic here, with snow-capped peaks rising from lush green valleys. This is the Great Caucasus and it’s undoubtedly one of the country’s most beautiful areas. Overnight in Stepantsminda. (B, D)

Today the walking starts in earnest. To reach the incredible hilltop Gergeti Trinity Church we warm up with a leisurely stroll through woodland and open meadows. There’s a bit of an altitude gain to reach the church, but the views from the top are worth the climb. It’s situated at 2170 m above sea level - its jaw-dropping setting has a backdrop of Mt Kazbegi and its glacier. This peak stands at 5047m above sea level, making that glacier one of the highest in the Caucasus. We’ll descend and drive by road to Dariali Gorge to begin our hike to Gveleti Waterfall. Afterwards we’ll enjoy a dinner and also khinkali making (traditional Georgian dumplings) with a local host family. Overnight in Stepantsminda. (B, D) Hiking notes: Gergeti Trinity Church - Distance: 4 km; ↑↓435m (walking time: 3-4 hours). Gveleti - Distance: 4 km; ↑↓300m (walking time: 1-2 hours).

We set off this morning for the village of Juta, located at 2165 m above sea level in the spectacular Sno valley. Time stands still in these parts. In summer, sheep graze the surrounding meadows and things are done pretty much as they’ve always been done. This is the starting point for our hike to Mt Chaukhebi, through flower-strewn Alpine pastures. Returning to Juta on foot we’ll then hop in our vehicle to return to Kazbegi in time for dinner. Overnight in Stepantsminda. (B, D) Hiking notes: Mt Chaukhebi - ↑↓500m (walking time 5 hours).

After a short drive we reach the trailhead for our walk along the scenic Truso Gorge. The route takes us through remote villages and past ancient towers built in the Middle Ages. The area is known for its Alpine lakes, mineral water springs and travertines, the limestone deposits left by hot springs. Rarely will you find so few people in such a picturesque location. At the end of the afternoon we’ll drive back to Gudauri in time for the evening meal. Overnight in Gudauri. (B, D) Hiking notes: Truso Valley - ↑↓400m (walking time 5 hours).

Another day, another incredible gorge: today we set off for a hike along the delightful Khada Gorge. Our walk will take us to the Khada Fortress, once a stronghold defending the road that linked the Northern and Southern Caucasus. Today, it’s a remote and peaceful place, littered with towers, graves, waterfalls and mineral springs. Near Bedoni, one has a high concentration of iron, making it a little sour on the palate. When we reach the village of Quesheti, our driver will take us back to Tbilisi. Overnight in Tbilisi. (B, D) Hiking notes: Khada Gorge - ↑150m ↓850m (walking time 5 hours).

Round off what we hope has been an incredible trip with a sightseeing tour of charming Tbilisi. The old town has a host of historic sites and we’ll work our way round, taking in the 13th century Methekhi Church, Antchiskhati Church dating from the 6th century and the 12th century Sioni Cathedral as well as an ancient synagogue. From Narikala Fortress, reached from the river by cable car, there are superb views across the city. Finally, we’ll visit the treasures of the Georgian National Museum and take a walk along Rustaweli Avenue, the city’s busiest and most important thoroughfare. Tonight, we’ve laid on a farewell dinner during which you can share the highlights of your trip. Overnight in Tbilisi. (B, D)

Today marks the end of the tour. Our driver will escort you to the airport in good time for your flight. We hope you’ve enjoyed Georgia’s magical scenery and hope to see you again one day. (B)