The route at a glance
- Distance: about 150 km from Tbilisi to Stepantsminda (the town usually called Kazbegi)
- Driving time: around 3 hours without stops — plan 5–6 hours with stops
- Road: paved all the way; long, winding climbs above Gudauri
- Highest point: the Jvari Pass, almost 2,400 m
- Which car: any of our cars in summer; a 4x4 from late autumn to spring
The route follows the Georgian Military Road north out of Tbilisi, along the Aragvi River and up into the Greater Caucasus. It is also the main road to the Russian border at Upper Lars, so expect trucks — more on that below.
Stops along the way
1. Zhinvali Reservoir (about 55 km). The first big view of the trip: a long turquoise lake with pull-outs along the road for photos.
2. Ananuri Fortress (about 70 km). A fortress with two churches and a tall watchtower on the shore of the reservoir, right by the road. Allow 30–45 minutes to walk around and climb the tower.
3. Pasanauri. A small village known across Georgia for its khinkali — a good place for lunch on the way up or down.
4. Gudauri (about 120 km). Georgia's main ski resort. In summer it is a base for hiking and paragliding.
5. The Friendship Monument viewpoint. Just past Gudauri, a large curved monument stands on the edge of a cliff above a deep gorge — one of the most photographed views on the road.
6. The Jvari Pass. The highest point of the drive, at almost 2,400 m. On the far side the road drops into the Tergi valley, past colourful mineral deposits beside the road.
7. Stepantsminda (Kazbegi). The town at the end of the road, beneath Mount Kazbek, one of the highest peaks of the Caucasus at over 5,000 m.
8. Gergeti Trinity Church. The 14th-century church on the hill above town — the view you've seen on every Georgia poster. Most visitors walk up (about 1.5–2 hours) or take one of the local 4x4 taxis from the centre of Stepantsminda.
Driving tips
- Leave early. You'll want time at the stops and daylight for the mountain section — and you'll beat the tour minibuses to Ananuri.
- Expect trucks. Heavy trucks use this road to reach the Russian border. Be patient on the climbs and only overtake where you can see well ahead.
- Fill up before the mountains. Refuel in Tbilisi or along the lower part of the road; fuel options thin out above Gudauri.
- Use your headlights in the avalanche galleries (roofed sections of road) above Gudauri, and watch out for cows — they wander onto the road all year.
- Don't go past Stepantsminda to the border. The road continues to Russia, and our cars can't cross the border.
Driving to Kazbegi in winter
The road is open all year, but the section over the Jvari Pass between Gudauri and Stepantsminda can close for a while during heavy snowfall or when there is a risk of avalanches. Check the weather before you set off, allow extra time, and choose a 4x4 — our Subaru Outback and Chevrolet Equinox are made for this trip. If you're unsure whether the pass is open, message us and we'll tell you what we know.
Day trip or overnight?
Kazbegi works as a long day trip from Tbilisi, but that means six hours or more behind the wheel. If you can, stay a night in Stepantsminda: you can drive up without rushing, see Gergeti Trinity Church in the early morning light, and come back down the next day.
Which car to rent
- Summer, two people: a comfortable sedan like the Chevrolet Cruze 2018 is fine.
- Family, luggage or ski gear: the Subaru Outback 2017 or the Chevrolet Equinox.
- October to April: take a 4x4 — the Outback, Equinox or the all-wheel-drive Subaru Legacy.
We can deliver the car to you in Tbilisi or at Tbilisi Airport. There's no deposit, and full insurance and 24/7 road assistance are included — see the rental terms.
