Gudauri, Kazbegi, Zhinvali, Ananuri, Stepantsminda From Tbilisi
Full-day scenic mountain tour from Tbilisi visiting Zhinvali Reservoir, Ananuri Fortress, the Black & White Rivers and Gudauri viewpoints, finishing in Stepantsminda with a visit to Gergeti Trinity Church. Includes transportation, guiding and a local honey tasting. 4WD to Gergeti Trinity Church is available locally and is not included.
In Collaboration with Search My Guide. Updated on July 3, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Search My Guide, inspired by the tour Gudauri, Kazbegi, Zhinvali, Ananuri, Stepantsminda From Tbilisi. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Photo stop at Zhinvali Reservoir
- Explore Ananuri Fortress
- Views at the Black & White Rivers and Friendship Monument (Gudauri)
- Scenic Gudauri ski-area viewpoints
- Visit Gergeti Trinity Church above Stepantsminda
Explore all itineraries in Tbilisi.
Itinerary
Day 1
One-day guided drive along the Georgian Military Highway with multiple short stops for viewpoints, a fortress visit, local honey tasting in Stepantsminda and time at Gergeti Trinity Church. Starts and ends in central Tbilisi.
Meet at Shota Rustaveli Avenue 25, Tbilisi & depart
Meet your guide and group at the indicated central Tbilisi meeting point for a short briefing before departing north along the Georgian Military Highway.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes early to confirm names with the guide at Shota Rustaveli Avenue 25.
- Bring a light daypack and any personal ID you may need; the vehicle will be parked nearby.
- Restroom options are available at nearby cafés on Shota Rustaveli Avenue before departure.
Zhinvali Reservoir — photo stop
Short scenic stop at the turquoise Zhinvali Reservoir for photographs and to enjoy the valley views.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear windproof layers—mountain winds can be cool even in summer.
- Keep cameras ready for panoramic shots; the best light is usually mid-morning on clear days.
- Public restrooms are limited; use facilities before leaving the vehicle when the guide indicates.
Ananuri Fortress — historic visit
Explore the 17th-century Ananuri complex overlooking the Aragvi River — walk around the towers and enjoy river and mountain views.
Tips from local experts:
- Modest dress is recommended inside church buildings (shoulders and knees covered).
- Sturdy shoes are useful for uneven paths and stone steps around the complex.
- There is limited shade; bring sun protection during summer months.
Drive along the Georgian Military Highway — approach to Gudauri
Scenic driving section along the Georgian Military Highway with mountain views en route to Gudauri; includes time in vehicle for photo opportunities from viewpoints.
Tips from local experts:
- Windows offer excellent views; sit on the mountain-facing side if possible for better photos.
- Keep personal items secure during transit; the vehicle will stop at viewpoints for photos.
- Expect winding mountain roads—motion-sickness remedies are useful if needed.
Black and White Rivers viewpoint (Gudauri area)
Short stop to view the confluence where differently colored streams meet — a striking natural contrast on the mountainside.
Tips from local experts:
- This viewpoint can be exposed—bring a hat and sunscreen on sunny days.
- Stand back from the road edge and follow the guide's instructions for safe photo spots.
- If you’re sensitive to altitude, move slowly and drink water during stops.
Friendship Monument (Gudauri) — viewpoint
Photo stop at the Gudauri (Russia–Georgia) Friendship Monument for panoramic views and the monument's murals and architecture.
Tips from local experts:
- The monument area can be windy and cold—bring an extra layer.
- The monument is a short walk from the parking area; wear comfortable shoes.
- Watch your step on uneven ground near viewpoints and follow the guide for safety.
Gudauri ski-area viewpoint — short break
Quick stop in the Gudauri resort area to take in alpine views and stretch legs; ideal moment for a coffee with mountain vistas.
Tips from local experts:
- Cafés in the resort area accept cards but carry small cash for mountain stalls.
- Altitude can feel different; drink water and avoid heavy activity immediately after arrival.
- For a romantic photo, ask your guide the best nearby vantage for a couple’s portrait.
Drive to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)
Drive north to the mountain town of Stepantsminda, the base for Gergeti Trinity Church and Mount Kazbek views.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this longer drive time to relax and enjoy the views; the guide will point out notable landmarks.
- If you plan to opt for the local 4WD to Gergeti, have small local cash ready (fee not included).
- Restrooms are available at the roadside cafes during the drive when the guide stops.
Stepantsminda — free time & local honey tasting
Time to walk the village, have a light meal (not included) and enjoy the included local honey tasting with mountain views.
Tips from local experts:
- Local cafés offer simple meals; if you have dietary restrictions, inform the staff—many are accommodating.
- Honey tasting is typically offered at a village stall or café — let your guide know about allergies.
- Keep valuables secure while walking; Stepantsminda is small but popular with visitors.
Gergeti Trinity Church — ascent, visit and descent
Visit the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church above Stepantsminda. Access is commonly by local 4WD (fee excluded) or by hike; allow time for ascent, photos and return.
Tips from local experts:
- Access to the church commonly requires a local 4WD (fee collected locally) or a 1.5–2 hour hike—choose based on fitness.
- Respect the church interior: quiet voices and modest dress are expected indoors.
- Bring a warm layer and comfortable shoes; the summit is exposed and can be windy.
Return drive to Tbilisi
Drive back to central Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Highway, arriving back at the original meeting point to end the tour.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a longer drive back; use it to relax—your guide will provide an estimated arrival time en route.
- If you need a restroom break on the way, inform the guide early so they can plan a stop.
- Phone reception can be intermittent in the mountains; download any needed maps or messages earlier in the day.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 4 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 11 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Outdoor, Experience |
