The Mountains, Georgia
The mountain climate in Kazbegi changes quickly. Layering is always recommended for temperature fluctuations, precipitation, and wind. Spring (April-May) brings gradual awakening with temperatures from 5°C to 15°C.
Summer (June-August) is the warmest, 15°C to 25°C, best for outdoor activities. Autumn (September-October) brings colors, 5°C to 15°C. Winter (November-March) is cold, -10°C to 5°C, with heavy snowfall.
Winters in Kazbegi are exceptionally cold. This calls for specialized cold-weather gear to stay warm and safe. Even in summer, temperatures drop significantly between day and night, especially at higher elevations. Always carry layers.
Heavy snowfall during winter leads to closures of sections of the Georgian Military Road. The Jvari Pass, a high-altitude section, is susceptible to closures. Travelers during winter must check road conditions before travel. Four-wheel-drive vehicles with snow chains are often a choice.
Crowded, highest prices.
Best weather for hiking, all trails open, full services.
Largest crowds, high accommodation prices, busy trails.
Fewer crowds, scenic.
More peaceful, lower prices, beautiful scenery (spring blossoms/autumn foliage).
Some high trails closed (snowmelt/new snow), unpredictable weather, fewer businesses open.
Few tourists, quiet.
Minimal visitors, lowest accommodation prices, winter sports at Gudauri.
Many trails inaccessible, some guesthouses closed, challenging road conditions.
Georgia has a very liberal visa policy. Citizens of over 90 countries enter visa-free for up to one year. This includes citizens from the US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Verify your nationality's status on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia website.
For others, Georgia has a convenient e-Visa option. You can apply online through the Georgian e-Visa Portal (Evisa.gov.ge). The application process is straightforward, approval typically within days. Some countries need traditional embassy/consulate visa applications, check their website for specifics.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
For e-Visa/embassy applications, recent passport-sized photos meeting specific criteria.
Immigration officials may request proof of sufficient funds. This is rarely enforced for tourists.
Carrying comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads, SafetyWing, Insubuy) is strongly recommended.
Immigration officials may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket.
Georgia generally has good value for money compared to Western Europe or North America, but costs vary based on your travel style.
Approx. 80-150 GEL ($30-55 USD) daily.
Approx. 200+ GEL ($75+ USD) daily.
These are general price ranges and vary based on season and specific establishment.
| Route | Mode | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tbilisi to Stepantsminda | Marshrutka | 15-20 GEL |
| Tbilisi to Stepantsminda | Shared Taxi | 30-50 GEL |
| Stepantsminda to Gergeti Trinity Church | Round-trip Taxi | 40-70 GEL |
Your well-being in Kazbegi matters. Georgia is a safe country, but awareness of specific regional factors is wise.
Ensure MMR, DTP, Polio are current.
Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid might be considered for rural areas.
Consider if animal contact expected. Consult a travel health professional well in advance.
Traveler's diarrhea is common. Drink bottled/filtered water. Eat hot, fresh food. Carry anti-diarrhea medication (Anti-diarrhea medication) and rehydration salts.
While Stepantsminda is not at extremely high altitude, symptoms occur when ascending to higher points like Gergeti Trinity Church or especially Mount Kazbek.
The high altitude means stronger ultraviolet (UV) radiation, even on cloudy days. Use a high-SPF sunscreen (High-SPF sunscreen) on all exposed skin, even in winter.
Mosquitos are present in warmer months, though less problematic at higher altitudes. Ticks are a concern in wooded and grassy areas, notably during spring and summer. Use an insect repellent (Insect repellent) containing DEET or picaridin.
Stepantsminda has a basic local clinic. For serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Tbilisi is likely needed.
Basic pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications, but selection is limited.
Georgia's universal emergency number is 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance).
Georgia has a low crime rate, making it a safe destination. Stepantsminda is especially safe, with violent crime being very rare. Petty crime is minimal.
For truly urgent situations, keep these numbers handy.
Dial 112 nationwide for Police, Fire, and Ambulance.
Locate your country's embassy or consulate in Tbilisi. Note their contact details for assistance.
If attempting challenging treks, inquire locally about specific mountain rescue contacts.
