Pre-Trip Checklist: Kazbegi

Essential Preparations: Getting Ready for Your Adventure

A smooth arrival sets a positive tone for your trip.

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured approach to your pre-trip activities.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check validity and begin application if needed.

Book Flights

Secure international flights to Tbilisi for better prices.

Health Consultation

Consult a doctor for vaccinations and health precautions.

Month Before

Book Accommodation

Secure your guesthouse or hotel in Stepantsminda.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

Itinerary Planning

Plan your rough itinerary and activities in Kazbegi.

Week Before

Notify Bank

Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card suspension.

Download Maps

Download offline maps for Kazbegi on Google Maps and Maps.me.

Home Preparations

Arrange for house or pet sitting if needed.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain aspects of your trip necessitate early booking.

Bookings Not to Delay

International and domestic flights.
Accommodation, especially during high season.
Specialized tours like a guided Mount Kazbek ascent.
These cannot be left to the last minute.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Gain valuable insights before your departure.

Research Areas

Read about Georgian history and culture, especially the Khevi region.
Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette.
If traveling in winter, check road conditions to Kazbegi.
The Georgian Military Road can be subject to closures.

Arrival Checklist: First Steps in Georgia

A smooth arrival sets a positive tone for your trip.

Upon Arrival at Tbilisi Airport

Proceed through immigration.
Collect your checked luggage.
Purchase a local SIM card (Magti is recommended).
Withdraw Georgian Lari (GEL) from an ATM.

Orientation Strategies

Locate your guesthouse and settle in Stepantsminda.
Walk around the main square to familiarize yourself.
Chat with your guesthouse host for valuable local tips.
Identify shops, restaurants, and the marshrutka/taxi stand.

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

Have small GEL denominations for marshrutkas and local taxis.
Some smaller guesthouses may not accept cards.
Purchase bottled water and any basic snacks needed for initial explorations.
Look for reputable exchange offices at the airport.

Essential Tip

This thorough checklist guides you towards a confident and enjoyable Kazbegi adventure.

Departure Preparation: Heading Home

A well-organized departure ensures a smooth return from your mountain escape.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Final Purchases:
Purchase any remaining souvenirs in Stepantsminda or Tbilisi.
Luggage Limits:
Be mindful of luggage limits, especially for items like wine or chacha.
Shipping:
Shipping from Stepantsminda is generally impractical; arrange from Tbilisi.

VAT Refund Procedures and Return Trip

VAT Refunds:
Georgia offers VAT refunds on certain goods for non-residents (Tax Free shopping).
Procedure:
Procedures are handled at Tbilisi International Airport upon departure; keep receipts.
Timing:
Allow ample time for the marshrutka journey back to Tbilisi for connecting flights.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure Your Home

Lock all doors and windows before you leave.

Stop mail and newspaper deliveries or arrange collection.

Notify Contacts

Inform trusted family or friends of your itinerary.

Provide them with your emergency contact details.

Pack Carefully

Pack your luggage carefully, placing valuables and documents in carry-on.

Ensure all items comply with airline regulations.

Smooth Return

A well-prepared departure helps for a smooth return home.

Pre-Departure Timing and VAT Refunds

Efficient planning for your return journey.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time for marshrutka travel back to Tbilisi.
The Georgian Military Road can experience delays or closures.
Plan for buffers in your schedule, especially for connecting flights.
Reconfirm all onward travel details (flights, train connections).

VAT Refund Procedures

Georgia offers VAT refunds to non-residents on certain goods.
Look for shops displaying "Tax Free" signs.
Keep all receipts and ensure goods are unused for inspection.
Refund procedures are handled at Tbilisi International Airport upon departure.

Luggage and Documents

Organize your belongings and important papers.

Packing for Departure

Pack your luggage carefully.
Place valuable items in your carry-on.
Ensure required documents are accessible.
Practice Leave No Trace principles.

Home Preparation

Secure your home by locking all doors and windows.
Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.
Notify trusted family or friends of your itinerary.
Provide emergency contact details to your trusted contacts.

Final Tips

Careful pre-departure activities contribute to a seamless transition home.

This checklist endeavors to ease your return from the Caucasus mountains.

Pre-Trip Checklist