Ski Mountaineering on Mount Kazbek

program conditions equipment photos

Highlights

Mount Kazbek (5,054 m) is one of the most iconic ski-mountaineering objectives in the Caucasus. Climbing Kazbek on touring skis and skiing down from high on the mountain is a unique adventure that combines glacier travel, high-altitude mountaineering, and unforgettable freeride terrain.
This ski touring expedition follows the classic south route from Georgia, starting in the mountain town of Stepantsminda and gradually ascending through the Gergeti Glacier towards the summit. The route is designed with proper acclimatisation and weather flexibility to maximize summit chances and ensure a safe experience in the high mountains.

8 days

First trip May 1

Difficulty

Apr - May

Season

Up to 8

Group

1:4

Guide ratio

1 600€

Price

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Program

Day 1

Arrival and transfer to the mountains

Your journey begins at the airport in Tbilisi, where you'll meet your guide. From there, we drive to the mountain village of Stepantsminda (1,700 m), located beneath the massive north face of Kazbek.
Upon arrival, we check into the hotel and perform a full equipment check. If needed, your guide will help arrange rental equipment locally. In the evening, we enjoy a traditional Georgian dinner and discuss the plan for the expedition.

Day 2

Skitour to the Altihut

Today we begin our ski touring approach towards Sabertse Pass (3,000 m). Depending on snow conditions, part of the lower section may require carrying skis before continuous snow begins.
The route passes the famous Gergeti Trinity Church — one of the most iconic landmarks in Georgia — before ascending higher into the alpine terrain beneath Mount Kazbek.
Our destination is Altihut (3,014 m), a comfortable mountain hut with spectacular views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. Main expedition gear will be transported by horses to make the ascent easier.

Day 3

Skitour to the Meteostation

We continue our ascent towards the Meteostation (3,650 m), which will serve as our base camp for the summit attempt.
The route crosses the impressive Gergeti Glacier, where we begin traveling in glaciated terrain surrounded by ice formations, seracs, and wide volcanic slopes. Depending on conditions, sections of the route may require ski crampons or carrying skis.
After reaching the hut, we rest and prepare for the acclimatisation days ahead.

Day 4

Acclimatisation skitour

Today we make a ski tour towards Kazbek Pass or in the direction of Mount Ortsveri (approximately 4,000–4,200 m), depending on snow and weather conditions.
This day allows the body to adapt to altitude while also giving us the opportunity to assess skiing conditions on the mountain.

Day 5

Glacier skills and summit preparation

Today is reserved for glacier and avalanche safety training, technical preparation, and rest before the summit push.
We review rope travel on glaciers, kick-turn techniques on steep terrain, use of crampons and ice axe, avalanche transceiver practice, and other mountain skills that may be necessary higher on the route.
You can also visit the small modern chapel near the Meteostation and ring the bell for good luck — a tradition among climbers and ski mountaineers before attempting Kazbek.

Day 6

Summit Day

The most demanding and rewarding day of the expedition.
We begin the ascent very early in the morning, skinning across the glacier towards the upper plateau of Mount Kazbek. Higher on the mountain, steeper terrain may require bootpacking with crampons and ice axe, depending on snow and ice conditions.
After reaching the summit of Mount Kazbek (5,054 m), we prepare for the highlight of the expedition — the ski descent.
Weather and snow conditions permitting, we ski down the upper slopes of Kazbek and descend back towards the Meteostation through the vast glaciated terrain of the Gergeti Glacier.
In Georgian, Kazbek is called Mkinvartsveri, meaning “ice-capped peak.” Standing on the summit and skiing in this high alpine environment is an unforgettable experience.

Day 7

Spare day

Reserved as a backup day in case of bad weather or unfavorable mountain conditions.
If the summit attempt is successful on Day 6, this day can be used for additional skiing around the Meteostation area or for an earlier descent to Stepantsminda.

Day 8

Descent and departure

We ski and hike back down to Stepantsminda and transfer to Tbilisi — either to your hotel or directly to the airport depending on your travel plans.
We highly recommend spending additional time in Tbilisi before or after the expedition. Its atmosphere, food, wine, and culture make it the perfect place to celebrate the end of a ski-mountaineering adventure in the Caucasus.
The structure, acclimatisation flow, summit reserve day, and ski-mountaineering terminology were aligned with established Kazbek ski touring programs and common expedition practices.

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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!

1 600€

Included

Professional guiding team
Group transfers
Guesthouse at the base of Kazbek
Mountain lodge stays
Delicious meals
Scenic pickup
Group and camping equipment
Avalanche safety training
Advanced safety measures

Not Included

Flights
Mountaineering insurance
Private services
Porter services
Individual expenses
Tips for guides

Equipment

Clothes

Equipment

Other

Booking

“If you have any questions or doubts, just share your contact info. I’ll reach out to answer everything: help you pick the right tour, tell you about dates, gear, fitness level — and help with flights if needed.”

— Dmitry, mountain guide,

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