Escape the city streets of Tbilisi and head straight into the dramatic landscapes of the Greater Caucasus on a journey designed to show you the true heart of our mountains.
Begin your morning with a meeting at Meidan Square at 08:50 AM. By heading out at this time, you will navigate the mountain roads smoothly, keeping you comfortable and relaxed before the day's main travel rush begins. Your first glimpse of the wild north comes just 40 minutes later at the stunning Jinvali Reservoir. Standing by its brilliant turquoise waters, you will hear the haunting, fascinating history of the old village that rests completely submerged beneath the lake's surface.
Travel just up the road to step back in time at the 16th-century Ananuri Fortress. Explore its ancient stone walls and towers that overlook the river below before making a quick stop to witness a beautiful trick of nature at the confluence of the Black and White Aragvi Rivers. Here, you will see the exact spot where these two distinct currents flow side-by-side in a single channel without immediately mixing.
Break up the high-altitude drive with an interactive, delicious pause before lunch. Join your guide for an exclusive Honey Masterclass to learn the secret local tricks for instantly spotting the difference between real and fake honey. Once you know the ropes, enjoy a guided storytelling tasting session featuring several varieties of pure mountain honey paired with a complimentary tasting of traditional Georgian wine, fiery Chacha, and local cognac to warm you up for the peaks ahead. Afterward, take a relaxed lunch break at a scenic local restaurant to try authentic mountain dishes at your own expense.
Head higher into the alpine zone to reach the breathtaking Gudauri Viewpoint. Walk along the iconic Friendship Monument perched at over 2,300 meters above sea level to take in the staggering, panoramic views of the deep Caucasus gorges below and the towering peaks surrounding you.
Finally, arrive in the mountain hub of Stepantsminda. From here, you have the option to continue the journey by hopping into a rugged, local 4x4 Delica jeep to navigate the winding forest tracks up to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, perched quietly at 2,170 meters.
For those who choose this optional experience, you will stand on sacred ground and look up at the breathtaking, snow-capped giant, Mount Kazbek (Mkinvartsveri), towering at 5,054 meters. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you are welcome to skip the ride and spend this time exploring the charming town center of Stepantsminda at your leisure.
Relax on the drive back down the military highway, returning safely to Meidan Square by 08:30 PM with memories to last a lifetime.
