Join me on a day trip from Tbilisi to Kazbegi with Georgian Adventures! Explore stunning landscapes, historical sites, and cool photo spots.
If you’re visiting Tbilisi and looking to escape the city for a day, let me tell you about one of the best experiences I had on my trip—an adventure-filled day trip from Tbilisi to Kazbegi!
I booked this tour with Georgian Adventures, and honestly, it turned out to be the highlight of my entire trip.
What I love most? The flexibility. Their itinerary was weather-dependent, which meant we could adjust the stops to make sure we got the most out of each location, and I felt safe in their hands the entire time. Plus, the landscapes? Breathtaking.
Tbilisi to Kazbegi tour itinerary
Here’s how my day went and some of the best spots to snap those all-important photos!
1. Zhinvali Water Reservoir
Our day began bright and early with a pick-up from my hotel. After a smooth drive through beautiful countryside, we reached our first stop: Zhinvali Water Reservoir. This place is a stunner! The lake is huge, with water so turquoise it looked almost surreal, especially with the mountains and forests reflecting off the surface.
It was my first real glimpse of Georgia’s raw beauty, and wow, what a start!
Photo tip: Stand by the edge of the lake for an epic wide-angle shot with the shimmering water and mountains in the background. Early morning light makes everything glow, so get your camera ready.
2. Ananuri Fortress
Just 15 minutes away was the Ananuri Fortress, one of the most fascinating historical sites on the tour. This place feels like you’ve stepped back in time. The fortress dates back to the 17th century and is perched right above the Aragvi River, giving it incredible views.
We had plenty of time to explore the two towers, wander the church courtyard, and walk along the fortress walls. And let’s be honest, it’s a photographer’s dream!
Photo tip: Climb one of the towers for sweeping shots of the valley and the reservoir. The fortress walls also provide great framing for those Instagram-worthy snaps.
3. The Confluence of the Aragvi Rivers
One of the coolest stops was the confluence of the Aragvi Rivers, where two rivers—one black and one white—meet, but don’t mix right away. It creates this amazing contrast where you can literally see two different colors of water flowing side by side.
It’s such a unique spot, and my guide made sure we had enough time to really take it in. After marveling at this natural phenomenon, we headed to a cozy Georgian restaurant for lunch. I got to try some of my favorite Georgian dishes—khinkali and khachapuri—and the view from the restaurant wasn’t bad either!
Photo tip: The confluence itself makes for an awesome close-up shot, especially when you catch the different water colors against the backdrop of the mountains.
4. Gergeti Trinity Church
Due to the rain, we went here first. The true crown jewel of the tour came next: Gergeti Trinity Church. After a scenic 30-minute drive up winding mountain roads (which was an adventure in itself!), we arrived at the church, sitting high at 2,350 meters above sea level.
I had seen pictures of this place before, but seeing it in real life? Simply breathtaking. The church is surrounded by the towering Mount Kazbegi and endless mountain vistas. It’s peaceful, almost otherworldly, and gives you that sense of being at the top of the world.
Photo tip: The classic shot here is from below the church, capturing it framed against Mount Kazbegi in the background. Also, try to visit when the light is soft in the late afternoon—it gives the stone walls of the church a beautiful golden glow.
5. Gudauri Viewpoint – Panoramic Perfection
After a delicious lunch, we headed towards Gudauri Viewpoint, a must-see for anyone who loves mountain views. This spot is also home to the Friendship of Nations Monument, a vibrant mosaic structure built in 1983. The monument celebrates unity, but honestly, the real showstopper here is the view.
The Caucasus Mountains stretch as far as the eye can see, and no matter where you look, the scenery is jaw-dropping.
Photo tip: Take a wide-angle shot with the mountains behind you or snap a panoramic photo to capture the vastness of the landscape. Trust me, you’ll want to remember this view forever.
6. Scenic Drive Back to Tbilisi
As the day drew to a close, we began the scenic drive back to Tbilisi. The drive itself is a treat, offering more views of the rolling hills and valleys. By the time we arrived in Tbilisi, I was pleasantly tired, filled with memories of a day well spent.
Why You Should Take This Tour with Georgian Adventures?
If you’re planning a day trip to Tbilisi and want to get the most out of your time in Georgia, I can’t recommend the Kazbegi tour with Georgian Adventures enough. The flexibility of the itinerary made it even more special. We could take our time at each stop, and since the itinerary was weather-dependent, I knew we were getting the best experience possible. Plus, the team made sure I felt safe and well taken care of throughout the trip.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone who wants to experience the best of Georgia’s landscapes in a single day, this tour has it all. And don’t forget your camera—you’re going to need it!