Private Day Tour: Ananuri, Gudauri & Kazbegi via Military Road

Summary

Georgia Mountain Day Trip: Zhinvali, Ananuri & Gergeti Church

If you want to see Georgia’s wild mountains and real local life in just one day, this trip packs in history, scenery, and little surprises—from ancient fortresses to mineral springs and that famous hilltop church above Stepantsminda.

What’s the experience like?

Leaving Tbilisi early, we wound our way along the Aragvi River gorge. The air felt crisp even in summer, and you could smell wild herbs as we stopped at the edge of the Zhinvali reservoir. Its water really is that odd blue-green color—almost unreal. Our guide, Giorgi, explained how the dam changed life for nearby villages. You can still spot fishermen casting lines from the far shore if you look closely.

Next up was Ananuri Fortress. Thick stone walls and towers rise above the riverbank; it’s easy to picture old battles here. Inside, faded carvings decorate the church walls. Giorgi told us stories about the Aragwa eristavs—local rulers who once called this place home. There’s a tiny vendor outside selling churchkhela (those nutty Georgian sweets); I grabbed one for later.

We paused where two rivers meet—the White and Black Aragvi. You’ll notice their colors don’t mix right away; it’s a strange sight, almost like a line drawn through water. Further along, we pulled over at the Arch of Friendship. The wind up there is sharp and cold even in June, but the views stretch forever across green hills and rocky peaks.

There’s also this mineral spring by the roadside—locals call it “the golden river” because of its orange deposits. The taste? Metallic and salty, not for everyone, but worth a sip just to say you tried it.

The last stretch took us to Stepantsminda village under Mount Kazbek. We switched to jeeps for the bumpy climb up to Gergeti Trinity Church. It sits alone on a hilltop with clouds swirling around—just like those old postcards or Pushkin poems describe. Up there, it’s quiet except for wind and cowbells somewhere below. If you’re lucky with weather, you’ll see Kazbek’s snowy peak right behind the church.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mountain Landscapes and Historic Sites

• Visit Zhinvali reservoir dam
• Explore Ananuri fortress
• See confluence of White and Black Aragvi rivers
• View Arch of Friendship
• Discover unusual mineral spring
• Visit Gergeti Church via jeep

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The route is comfortable for most people and we provide infant seats if needed. The only steep part is reaching Gergeti Church by jeep.

How much cash should I bring?

You’ll need 15 GEL per person for the jeep ride up to Gergeti Church and some extra if you want snacks or souvenirs along the way.

What should I wear?

The weather changes fast in the mountains—layers are best. Bring a light jacket even in summer; it gets windy at higher stops like Gudauri.

What’s included

Your own private vehicle with air conditioning, plus a friendly local guide who knows all the stories behind each stop. We’ve got infant seats available too—just let us know ahead of time!