Mount Kazbek Ascent

Highlights

Mount Kazbek (5,054 m) is a dormant stratovolcano that last erupted over 2,500 years ago. A well-planned ascent of Mount Kazbek with a guide is a chance to experience two countries from the summit of one of the highest peaks in the Caucasus. This high-altitude climb can be combined with a journey through the beautiful mountains of Georgia.

Program

Day 1

Arrival and transfer to the mountains

 Your journey begins at Tbilisi airport, where you'll be met by your guide. From there, you'll head to the mountain village of Stepantsminda (1,700 m), located at the foot of Kazbek. The scenic drive takes around 3 hours through dramatic gorges and winding mountain roads.
 Upon arrival check-in at the hotel and gear check. If you’re missing anything, your guide will help arrange rental locally. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Georgian dinner and a briefing for the following day.

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Day 2

Hike to Altihut

 We begin the approach to the Sabertse Pass (3,000 m). The trail passes by one of Georgia’s most iconic landmarks — the 14th-century Gergeti Trinity Church, perched beneath the towering face of Kazbek.
 Our goal is the comfortable high-altitude hut Altihut (3,014 m). Main gear will be transported by horses to make the ascent easier.

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Day 3

Trek to Betlemi Hut

 Today we leave Altihut and continue towards Betlemi Hut (3,650 m), our base for the summit push. The route crosses the impressive and windswept Gergeti Glacier, a place of stark beauty and strong winds.
 After a physically demanding day, we’ll have a rest at the simple mountain hut near the station.

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Day 4

Acclimatisation hike

 Acclimatisation day. You have two options: either to hike to Kazbek Pass (4,000 m) or the route towards Mount Ortsveri (approx. 4,000 m). Both routes help with altitude adaptation.
 The Ortsveri option is less visited however offers stunning, peaceful scenery. After the hike, we return to the meteo station for rest and preparation.

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Day 5

Glacier skills and rest

 We’ll spend the day training on snow and ice. Topics include roped travel, self-arrest with an ice axe, and other techniques that may be useful on the way to the summit.
 You can also visit a small modern chapel near Betlemi Hut and ring the bell for good luck — a local tradition before climbing Kazbek.

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Day 6

Summit Day

 The biggest and most demanding day of the trip. The ascent to Mount Kazbek (5,054 m) takes 7–10 hours, followed by a 5–7 hour descent back to Betlemi Hut.
 In Georgian, Kazbek is called Mkinvartsveri, which means “ice-capped peak.” The views from the top are unforgettable.

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Day 7

Spare day

 Reserved as a backup in case of bad weather.

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Day 8

Descent and Departure

 We hike back down to Stepantsminda and transfer to Tbilisi — either to your hotel or directly to the airport, depending on your onward plans.
 We recommend combining your Kazbek ascent with time in Tbilisi — a warm, welcoming city perfect for celebrating your mountain success. You can do this either before or after the climb.

Conditions

 We’re happy to provide you with standart services which are included into program and additional services on the request. We offer a loyalty program for groups and returning clients. Groups of four or more receive a 5% discount for each participant. Additionally, you’ll get a 5% discount on every second trip with us. Discounts can be combined for even greater savings!

Equipment

Clothes

Thermal Underwear

Thin Fleece Jacket and Pants

Thick Fleece Jacket

Storm Shell Jacket and Pants

Hat

Neck Gaiter (Buff)

Balaclava

Warm Jacket (Down)

Gloves

Mittens

Mountaineering Boots

Gaiters

Socks

Summer Clothes

Rain Jacket and Backpack Cover

Hiking Boots

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Equipment

Harness

Carabiners

Helmet

Ice Axe

Crampons

Trekking Poles

Sunglasses

Ski Goggles

Summit Backpack

Duffel Bag

Sleeping Bag

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Other

Thermos

Headlamp

Personal First Aid Kit

Sunscreen

Hygiene Kit

Documents

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