Georgia trekking tours is a fantastic way to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes, from soaring mountain ranges to lush valleys and pristine lakes. Georgia, located in the Caucasus region of Eurasia, offers a variety of trekking opportunities for adventure seekers. These are the most picturesque and magnificent places, which can be visited. The best vacations with our trekking guides leave the most pleasant impressions in your memory!
Treks in Georgia
Trekking tours in Georgia does not only include the seeing of unspoiled and the most beautiful nature but also plenty of other attractions along the way: ancient villages, churches, and waterfalls. Hiking tours are the sights combined with the views of the rocky mountains located thousands of meters above sea level. It is simply marvelous to see all the attractions from such height as you may also observe the ground and the mountain surroundings.
Trekking in Georgia
During the Georgia trekking tours, every individual gets so close to the unspoiled nature and beautiful scenery that virtually anyone may have an impression of being in heaven. This is a truly unforgettable experience of being far away from noisy city life and the impressions that you are about to get stand second to none!
People can visit flooded villages in the high rocky mountains, waterfalls, lakes, water reservoirs, churches, etc. This is a truly magnificent experience that will never be forgotten and will last in your memory for a very long time. Seeing something new is a marvelous thing, but combining skiing holidays, climbing, extreme and hiking tours with sightseeing is even more pleasant.
Hike from Stepantsminda to the Meteo station (Betlemi Hut)
Betlemi Hut (3650 m) is a mountain refuge that serves as an ideal spot for climbers who are looking to prepare for the high-altitude challenge of Mt. Kazbek. The hut is situated on the south side of the mountain, and it provides a base camp from which climbers can acclimatize to the altitude, rest, and gear up for the ascent.
To reach the Betlemi Hut from Stepantsminda, climbers can take a 4×4 vehicle up to a point where the road ends. It will be a short way that takes max. 20 minutes, and you also save energy easily reaching Betlemi Hut. We have our cars, you can rent from us.
You can reach also the Sameba Trinity Church on foot, and it takes less than an hour. You can take a break and take beautiful photos while relaxing in the surroundings.
From there, they must hike for approximately 6-7 hours to reach the hut. The hike is not difficult but requires a good level of fitness. The stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys make the effort worthwhile.
Once climbers reach the Betlemi Hut, they will find a refuge . It is important to note that climbers should bring their food and water, but it is also possible to eat in a cafe.
Betlemi Hut is an excellent place to prepare for the challenge of climbing Mt. Kazbek. It offers climbers a unique opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude and gear up for the climb on one of the most beautiful peaks in the Caucasus range.
If you plan to visit Betlemi Hut for only 2 days and have no intention of climbing Mount Kazbek, you won’t need to carry a lot of luggage. However, if you plan to climb Mount Kazbek, you will need to prepare and put in more effort for the expedition to the Kazbek summit.
Many people choose to spend the night in tents, which are more affordable and offer a better mountain experience. However, if the weather changes, it can be impossible to stay outside due to the cold. There are some days in life that you will always remember.
Gergeti village
We walk in the direction of Gergeti, from where you can see the beautiful views of the Trinity Cathedral. The village is a bit of an uphill road to the end, but not too difficult, just climb up and start the ascent from the end of the sweat.
Here you find several paths and decide which way you prefer to climb to the temple. One is the driveway and a bit longer, the other — is shorter but more uphill. You may meet dogs on the road, but you should not be afraid of them. They are very used to people.
When you reach to Sameba trinity church, You can relax here for a while, have lunch, take beautiful photos, fill bottles with water, and continue on your way upstairs.
“We have horses available to transport your heavy luggage directly to Meteo station, so you don’t have to worry about carrying it. Especially if your rucksacks are too heavy and you have to wear them. It’s certainly not a pleasant process, but in the mountains, you need to take all the necessary items as well as food. You can simply carry a small backpack with your essentials. We can transport your luggage to and from Meteo station from our office in Stepantsminda or Sameba Trinity church. It’s important to bring all necessary items and food for your stay in the mountains.”
Before we reach the meteo station, on the way you will meet several small rivers that you have to cross. You can get very wet and if you decide to spend the night inside the meteo station, ask there to help you dry your wet clothes.
When you reach Meteo station, there are our colleagues, who work there you can take your luggage.
Hike from Sameba trinity church to Sabertse
We continue the way to the direction of Sabertse. It takes max—3 or 4 hours to reach there.
When it is peak season, every day, morning time, many groups go to climb Mount Kazbek. If you are alone, you can join them on your way. There is a pathway you can follow to the direction of Sabertse.
On the way you will see the river, which is sometimes frozen and I advise you to use crampons and climbing rope.
Before we reach the meteorological station, on the way you will meet several small rivers that you have to cross. Of course, this is not a big problem but you can get very wet and if you decide to spend the night inside the meteorological station, ask your colleagues there to help you dry your wet clothes.
From Sabertse there are beautiful views of Mount Kazbek.
We can overnight there, to more acclimate to the Kazbek summit. When you plan to climb to Mount Kazbek or directly continue the way to Meteo station.
There is a possible overnight in Altihut or overnight outside in tents.
Mount Kazbek climbing
From the pass, for the first time, we will see a view of the glacier, which the following days we will have to overcome on our way to the summit.
On the way you will see the river, which is sometimes frozen and I advise you to use crampons and climbing rope.
From Sabertse there are beautiful views of Mount Kazbek. We can overnight there, if you need more acclimatization for the summit, when you plan to climb to Mount Kazbek or directly continue the way to Meteo station.
There is a possible overnight in Altihut or overnight outside in tents. When you plan to ascent Mount Kazbek, we will advise you overnight one night there, because you have more chance to reach the top of the summit.
Hike from Sabertse to Meteo Station
It takes more than 3-4 hours from Sabertse to reach Meteo Station (Betlemi Hut). We hike upwards. On the way to Betlemi Hut, we have to cross the Gergeti glacier.
It is very good if you have advanced glacier walking experience. You need more experience and when it is bad weather, we highly recommend hiring our mountain guides and using the necessary climbing equipment.
Meteo Station
At last, we will reach Betlemi (Hut Meteo station) where we can overnight inside, or outside in tents. When we plan to Climb Mount Kazbek, we have to overnight there for some days and prepare for the expedition.
The meteo station, also called Betlemi Hut is a place where a lot of tourists spend the nights during the season. Such a tour is possible in 2 days. Sometimes people ask us if it is possible to plan this tour in 1 day. I do not recommend, it because one way up requires about 7-8 hours.
I recommend you devote 2 days to this tour. You will be able to enjoy nature more and spend the night in the background of beautiful sights. It is advisable to go in the morning because you can go up without speed.
The meteo station also called Betlemi Hut or a base camp is a place where a lot of tourists and climbers spend the nights during the season, besides those who come to visit the sights of the Kazbegi district, It is a pleasure to climb there without going to the mountain. Such a tour can be done in 2 days. Sometimes people ask us if it is possible to plan this tour in 1 day.
I recommend not, because one way up requires about 7-8 hours. Well, of course, some people manage to climb in about 5 hours, but this is not possible for everyone, so I recommend you devote 2 days to this tour, you will be able to enjoy nature more and spend the night in the background of beautiful sights. In the morning you will also be able to enjoy the view of Mount Kazbegi, which is very well seen from the Meteo station.
It is advisable to go in the morning because you can go up without speed. Mount Kazbek climb is not difficult and does not require the necessary mountain experience, however, you should be in good physical shape and not have serious health problems. You need to be prepared for this tour in advance.
I am not telling you that it is very difficult to prepare for this tour and it requires a lot of effort, but the necessary items and climbing equipment that will require climbing the mountain, you must supply in advance.
First of all, you should have warm and waterproof clothes with you, as well as waterproof shoes. Many people go with ordinary track shoes and neither is it a problem, you will be able to climb the meteo but imagine that the weather has changed and the snow has come, the temperature is low and cold, or it has rained and your shoes are wet, I think good advice is to walk in higher quality shoes and clothes. Also, be sure to bring gloves with you so that you do not catch a cold. As well as walking sticks, they make it very easy for you to climb higher. It is advisable and sometimes very necessary to use crampons, because when you go, there is a small river on the road that can be frozen and you will realize that it would be better to have crampons with you, which will make it easier for you to jump on it, especially when it is frozen.
Betlemi Hut reservation
A lot of people don’t see any reason to stay inside Meteo Station. In that case, they can stay in a tent near it. It is also not free, but cheap. You have to pay only 10 Gel for the place. The walls of Meteo Station can protect you from wind and snow, so if the weather is not very good we advise everyone to stay inside.
There you will meet a lot of tourists from different countries. To compare, in 2023 the price of staying
inside Bethlemi Hut is 60 gel per night, and for staying in a tent – about 20 gel per night. In high season, from the first days of July till the end of August, the metro station can be full and when you come there it can be no free place. That is why we offer everyone to book sleeping places inside Bethlemi Hut. If you are sure you want to stay inside, we will book the places for you. Still, please write to us about the attestation reservation at least 1 month in advance because when it’s the high season and many groups are coming in full and there are no more seats, by this time there may no longer be any places inside the metro station. Especially keep in mind that during the summer, when thousands of people go to the mountains, it is very difficult to book seats in Meteo. There have been cases when people ask us to book places, it becomes completely impossible to help them because we can not find even one free place at all. So my advice is to write or call us in advance so we can help you. If the seats are not free, then you will have to stay outside in tents. Most groups spend the night outside. For them, it is more convenient and low-budget. Sometimes in bad weather and especially when there is a strong wind, poor quality tents can not withstand it, so we always have very good rented tents and sleeping bags.
When planning to climb Mount Kazbek, it is crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary climbing equipment. At our establishment, we offer a comprehensive selection of premium mountain gear from an array of top brands. Our collection includes ropes, crampons, ice axes, tents, carabiners, harnesses, helmets, and other essential safety equipment that you will need to climb safely.
We offer discounts to customers who make reservations with us. Check out the dedicated section for climbing equipment rental. There, you can browse through the list of necessary equipment and make reservations accordingly. We recommend contacting us via email at least one month before your arrival to secure your required equipment. During peak season, pre-booking is obligatory, as equipment availability may be limited.
We take great pride in offering our clients the highest quality climbing gear that meets the latest standard safety requirements. Our establishment is dedicated to providing an outstanding customer experience, and we are confident that our equipment and services will exceed your expectations.
We have established strong relationships with many companies over the past 17 years and continue to provide them with the best choice of equipment to meet their expectations. If you’re planning a Mount Kazbek expedition with us, we offer the best discounts on equipment packages. Get in touch with us in advance to ensure that you have the best mountain equipment and prices for your climbing Kazbek.
Mountain Travel Agency MTA
Our agency only carries equipment from world-leading brands such as Petzl, Mammut, Scarpa, Asolo, Salewa, and many others. We never compromise on quality to save money, as doing so could endanger lives.
During peak season, many groups visit us, so pre-booking is essential to guarantee equipment availability. To ensure we have the best selection, some customers contact us months in advance. We offer the best discounts for our expedition groups, making our packages more affordable than those offered by competitors.
List of equipment required for climbing Mount Kazbek
Kazbegi Summit requires every necessary climbing gear for the Mt. Kazbek expedition including crampons, ice axes, harnesses, climbing ropes, waterproof mountain boots, gloves, waterproof clothes, helmets, goggles, glacier glasses, and warm sleeping bags. See Here
Mount Kazbek, like any other mountain, is subject to rapid weather changes that can make climbing dangerous. Weather forecast websites can offer some guidance, but they may not always reflect the actual weather conditions. Based on my 17 years of experience, I can say that the weather forecast may change several times during the day and may not always be accurate.
When the weather changes and visibility is low or the road becomes difficult to navigate, it’s best not to risk climbing Mount Kazbek. This is especially true if you don’t have a mountain guide, as it can be very dangerous. Climbing in such weather conditions can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities, so it’s essential to stay cautious.
If you’re planning to climb Mount Kazbek, it’s important to keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for any changes. In case of bad weather, it’s best to postpone the climb or wait for the weather to improve. Never attempt to start the climb in such weather conditions as it can be very risky and can lead to serious consequences.
In summary, when climbing Mount Kazbek, it’s important to be aware of the unpredictable weather conditions and to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
During your Mount Kazbek climbing tour it is necessary to have a GPS with us and monitor the Mount Kazbek weather forecast every minute to make sure how safe our climb to the glacier will be. By no means should we risk our lives. Because the danger is less and even many inexperienced people manage to climb.
If you’re planning on the Mt. Kazbek climb, you should aim to do so between June and September – the optimal time to embark on this thrilling adventure. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make unforgettable memories during this period.
It is extremely important to have a mountain guide with us while climbing as we may encounter challenging situations at any point. Not having a guide could lead to severe difficulties. Therefore, we must ensure that we use top-quality climbing gear to assist us during such times.
Mt. Kazbek’s climb can be exhilarating, but it can also be incredibly dangerous. That’s why it’s essential to exercise caution every step of the way.
Weather on Mount Kazbek
Sure, there’s a more diplomatic version:
If you are considering a Mount Kazbek climb, it is important to ensure that you have favorable weather conditions and the support of a dependable mountain guide. While mountain weather can be unpredictable, it is possible to plan your ascent by consulting reliable weather forecasts. However, it is important to bear in mind that weather predictions may not always be accurate, and conditions can change suddenly throughout the day. Therefore, if the weather changes and visibility is low or the route is difficult to navigate, it may be prudent to postpone the climb or wait for improved conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is essential to carry a GPS and appropriate mountain equipment. It is highly recommended to engage a qualified mountain guide, as they can provide invaluable assistance during challenging situations. At MTA, we offer all the necessary information and high-quality climbing gear to help ensure a successful Mt. Kazbek climb. Choosing good quality equipment from reputable brands, even if you lack experience, is crucial, as inadequate or improper equipment can be hazardous.
Mount Kazbek, also referred to as Mount Mkinvartsveri, is a dormant stratovolcano situated on the border of Georgia and Russia. With an elevation of approximately 5,054 meters above sea level, it is one of the highest peaks in the region.
Prepare for the Mt. Kazbek climb is a very important thing before your climb. Mount Kazbek is a high and tough mountain to climb. It’s in the Caucasus Mountains and popular with people who love adventure and climbing. Reaching the summit is great, but you need to get ready and train for it. We’ll tell you what you need to know to climb Mt. Kazbek.
The Legend of Mount Kazbek:
If you plan to climb Mt. Kazbek, you should first learn about the history and mythology of this famous peak. According to Georgian folklore, Mount Kazbek (also known as Mkinvartsveri) is where Prometheus, the Titan, was chained as punishment for stealing fire from the gods and giving it to humans. The mountain’s snowy summit is said to contain the tomb of Amirani, a mythical hero who challenged the gods and was punished with eternal suffering. These stories give the mountain a sense of mystery and respect, which inspires those who dare to climb it. See here
Mount Kazbek
Mount Kazbek is a volcano that’s not currently active. Climbing it isn’t easy and requires preparation, fitness, and mountaineering skills. Though it’s not as difficult as some of the world’s highest peaks, such as Everest or K2, climbers must navigate steep and icy terrain, deal with bad weather, and cope with high altitude.
Climbing Mount Kazbek is hard because it’s very high. Being so high can make you feel sick, tired, and have trouble breathing. You need to take it slow so your body can get used to the high altitude.
Proper preparation, physical fitness, and mountaineering skills are essential for a safe and successful ascent. Climbers should also be aware of the risks involved and be prepared to make informed decisions based on their abilities and the conditions they encounter during the climb.
Mount Kazbek has slippery slopes which can be dangerous to climb. You must know how to climb on ice and use ropes to stay safe. The easiest way to climb Mount Kazbek is called the Normal Route, but it still needs you to be good at climbing.
Weather on Mount Kazbek. Climbers must be prepared for rapid weather changes and be equipped with appropriate clothing and gear to withstand cold temperatures and inclement weather. here
Want to climb Mount Kazbek? You don’t need any special skills. Just be fit and like hiking, and get our professional guide to help. So, how can you get ready for your climb?
Before your Kazbek expedition, you can contact us for a reservation.
Reaching the peak of Mount Kazbek
When you climb Mount Kazbek, you need to choose the right way up based on how good you are at climbing and what you like. There are two ways up, one that is easier and one that is harder. The easier way starts in a village called Stepantsminda and goes up slowly through the mountains. The harder way is only for people who know how to climb really well. Choose the right way up so you are safe and have fun. here
The best time to climb Mount Kazbek
The best time to climb Mount Kazbek depends on the season and your level of climbing experience. Hire our local mountain guides, they have all the skills, that are very important for your successful expedition.
Many people come to Kazbegi and just decide to Climb Mount Kazbek. They do not have advanced mountain experience and are not ready for climbing.
Mount Kazbek is not a usual mount, it is not a small mountain, and it requires special mountaineering experience. When you do not know, how to use mountain equipment and did not climb before to the glacier. We advise you to join our open expeditions, and the price will be lower, than for private expeditions. We follow European standards, and only three people are in the group.
Climbing Mount Kazbek is best done during the summer months. July and August are the months when the weather is favorable with milder temperatures, and snowfall.
Mount Kazbek is a challenging peak and can be treacherous during certain times of the year, so it’s important to plan your ascent carefully. About the weather forecast please see: Here
June and September are also suitable for climbing Mount Kazbek, but weather conditions may be slightly more challenging. During these months there is lingering snow and colder temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.
September, in particular, is a good option. It offers milder weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak of Mount Kazbek summer months.
How hard is it to climb Mount Kazbek?
Climbing Mount Kazbek is moderately difficult and suitable for beginners and experienced mountaineers. The route involves steep sections, rock scrambling, and potentially crossing glaciers. It is advisable to have prior mountaineering experience, good physical fitness, and basic knowledge of glacier climbing techniques. Trekking the foot of Mt. Kazbek is not difficult, rated at a PD. It is mostly glacier walking.
To climb Mount Kazbek, climbers must have the necessary climbing equipment, including crampons, ice axes, ropes, harnesses, carabiners, sleeping bags, and mountain boots. They also need to have proper warm and waterproof winter clothing and gear to protect themselves from the cold and windy conditions at high altitudes. It is essential to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly before the expeditions to Mount Kazbek. See here
It is essential to prepare adequately and practice before your Mt. Kazbek expedition to this beautiful peak. As you ascend to higher altitudes, the oxygen levels decrease, which can increase the risk of breathing problems and altitude sickness.it’s highly recommended that you engage in physical training beforehand to build your endurance and acclimatize to the changes in oxygen levels that you’ll encounter.
Mount Kazbek attack
It is advisable to go in the morning because you can go up without speed. Mount Kazbek climb is not difficult and does not require the necessary mountain experience, however, you should be in good physical shape and not have serious health problems. You need to be prepared for this tour in advance. I am not telling you that It is very difficult to prepare for this tour and it requires a lot of effort, but the necessary items and climbing equipment that will require climbing the mountain, you must supply in advance.
First of all, you should have warm and waterproof clothes with you, as well as waterproof shoes. Many people go with ordinary track shoes and neither is it a problem, you will be able to climb the meteo but imagine that the weather has changed and the snow has come, the temperature is low and cold, or it has rained and your shoes are wet, I think good advice is to walk in higher quality shoes and clothes. Also, be sure to bring gloves with you so that you do not catch a cold. As well as walking sticks, they make it very easy for you to climb higher. It is advisable and sometimes very necessary to use crampons, because when you go, there is a small river on the road that can be frozen and you will realize that it would be better to have crampons with you, which will make it easier for you to jump on it, especially when it is frozen.
Bethlehem Hut
What to buy before the climb Mt. Kazbek
There are many shops in Stapantsminda where you can buy a new product, you need it because you will not be hungry for 2 days. You should also keep in mind that they should be as light as possible to carry. To do this, I recommend you buy some bread, cheese, sausage, soups, fruits, tea, and coffee Do not let those who love you and without me can not do without coffee and sweets. You must buy gas to make tea, coffee, and soup.
You can only buy high-quality gas mountain cylinders at our agency. We always have the brand: MSR which is very good and burns well even at high altitudes.
Because it is impossible to deliver gas by air, there is always a great need for gas cylinders and we write or call in advance to reserve the required quantity of gas cylinders. For this, it is better to write to us in advance so that we can review them for you. Inside the meteorological station is a café where you can order hot food as well as breakfast and dinner, in which case you will no longer need to carry extra headgear and luggage.
Our guides
We have IFMGA-certified mountain guides who are highly skilled professionals who have undergone extensive training and assessment in mountaineering, rock climbing, and ski touring. Our mountain guides have worked with us for 17 years, they are qualified to lead climbers on challenging outdoor adventures and have experience in the specific type of adventure. and trust our guide to ensure a successful and enjoyable mountain experience.
Our professional mountain guides with extensive experience on Mount Kazbek can offer valuable assistance to climbers. They have a deep understanding of the mountain’s terrain, weather conditions, safety measures, and emergency protocols. We always care about Safety Measures: Safety should be a top priority for climbers on Mount Kazbek. Professionals involved in mountaineering should follow proper safety protocols, including equipment checks, acclimatization, emergency preparedness, and knowledge of rescue procedures, which we always check.