Kazbegi Tour: Georgia’s Natural Marvels
Why join a tour to Kazbegi?
I know what you may be thinking… why would I want to join a tour when I can just do things myself? Well, I was thinking the same until I went on this tour. A tour is a great way to see a lot of brilliant sights all in one day and saves you the ease of trying to figure out how to get to each one. It is also a great way to meet people and learn some information about each site you are seeing.
You can check out tours on GetYourGuide or Viator.
Details of the tour:
It is really easy to book a tour as there are loads of travel companies located around Tbilisi, so just have a wander around and pick the best one that suits you.
The tour leaves usually around 9 am and you will return to Tbilisi at 6-7 pm.
The tickets cost between 55-75 GEL (€20-26). If you wish to switch cars and visit Gergeti Trinity Church then you will need to pay an extra 20 GEL (€7).
Lunch is usually not included in the price but you will usually be given a bottle of water and you will get to sample some honey on this trip.
Sights you will visit:
1. Panorama of Zhinvali Resovoir
The Zhinvali Reservoir was created on the Aragvi River. There are panoramic views here where you can see the Ananuri Fortress Complex.There is also markets here so you can buy souvenirs or buy some traditional Georgian food.
2. Ananuri Fortress Complex
The Ananuri Fortress Complex is found on the picturesque shores of the Aragvi River. This medieval fortress has well-preserved walls, towers, and churches. There is a stunning backdrop of the surrounding landscapes making this a fascinating visit. It was built during the late 16th to early 17th century.
3. Local Honey and wine tasting
Georgia is home to a wide variety of plants and Georgia has bees which produce honey. Some popular types of honey produced in Georgia include: Acacia, Alpine, Citurs, Wildflower and Buckwheat. You can also sample some local wine which is made from their unique grapes! Georgians use one of the oldest wine making techniques in the world.
4. Confluence of different coloured rivers
This phenomenon is often a result of the different minerals, sediments, and even microorganisms present in the waters of each river. These variations can lead to rivers carrying different shades of blue, green, brown, or even red. When they meet, the colours don’t immediately mix because of different flow rates.
5. Georgian Russian Friendship Monument
This monument was built during the Soviet era in 1983 to commemorate the Treaty of Georgievsk. This represented the relationship between the Kingdom of Kartli-Kakheti (now Georgia) and the Russian Empire. As well as visiting this monument you can see stunning views of the Caucus mountains. So this is a great spot for a photo!
6. Travertine Mineral Springs
This natural spring is formed from minerals from an underground water source. Layers of sediment will form over time and deposits gradually build up. This forms what you can see today which resemble stone steps or tiered pools.
7. Gergeti Trinity Church
Perched at an elevation of around 2,170 metres, this church is surrounded by the Caucasus Mountains (including Kazbegi or Stepantsminda). It was built in the 14th century and is a traditional Georgian architectural style, featuring a dome and stone masonry.
How to visit Kazbegi yourself:
You could hire a car and drive to Kazbegi yourself and see the same sites as I have spoken about in this article. You can book your hire car through RentalCars.com. Or you can take a marshrutka from Didube Station in Tbilisi and this will cost you 15 GEL (€5.30). They depart every day and are fairly regular.
Where should you stay?
Budget – The White House – boutique hotel which offers a luxurious retreat for travellers, and panoramic views of the towering Mount Kazbek
Medium – Hotel Nestt – Here you can relax and enjoy the beautiful views Georgia has to offer as well as enjoy a luxurious room with a balcony
High – Kazbegi Apartments – it has a prime location that allows for breathtaking views of Mount Kazbek, and has a tranquil space to relax in the garden
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