Off Road Cycling to Mount Kazbegi

If you’re craving a mix of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and authentic local sights, this Off Road Cycling to Mount Kazbegi tour hits the spot. Covering the rugged beauty of the Great Caucasus mountains, historic sites like Ananuri Fortress, and the impressive Gergeti Trinity Church, this 10-hour experience offers more than just a bike ride — it’s a full immersion into Georgia’s wild, scenic heartland.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll glide through the Tergi River canyon, climb mountain passes, and explore a remote mountain village called Juta. You’ll love the way the tour combines the thrill of off-road biking with cultural highlights, all wrapped in spectacular mountain vistas.

One of the standout features is the opportunity to cycle up to Gergeti Trinity Church, perched at 2,150 meters, with the mountain of Kazbegi looming behind. Plus, the inclusion of a 4WD vehicle to reach Juta or assist during the ride makes this adventure accessible to a broad range of fitness levels.

A consideration? The 6 km uphill challenge to Gergeti might be tough for some, but it’s well worth the effort for the incredible views. This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of cycling and sightseeing, and who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Scenic Adventure: Combines off-road biking with visits to historic and natural sites.
• Stunning Views: Features iconic sights like Mount Kazbegi, Juta Village, and Jinvali Lake.
• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable guides, with options for assistance during tough parts.
• Cultural Highlights: Includes a visit to ancient Ananuri Fortress and Gergeti Trinity Church.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Includes bicycle, guide, car, fuel, and water, making it straightforward.
• Small Group: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention.

This tour offers a rare chance to see Georgia’s mountainous northeast in a way that’s both active and immersive. Starting early in the morning, we’re picked up from our hotel in Tbilisi, whisked across the scenic Georgian military highway toward the Kazbegi region. The journey itself is a highlight, with panoramic views of the Aragvi valley and the towering Great Caucasus range.

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First Stop: Ananuri Fortress

Our first destination is Ananuri Fortress, a formidable medieval complex overlooking Jinvali Lake. Built between the 14th and 18th centuries, it was once a seat of local rulers and a strategic military point. The fortress’s high, turreted stone walls, two churches, and watchtower exude medieval toughness. The carved facades of the main church, adorned with animal, floral, and Celtic motifs, hint at the artistic flair of the period.

The setting—overlooking a shimmering reservoir—offers enviable photo opportunities and a sense of stepping back into Georgia’s turbulent past. We linger here for a while, absorbing the history and the stunning landscape.

Journey Through Mountain Passes

Leaving Ananuri behind, we pass Gudauri ski resort, a familiar sight for winter sports fans, before ascending the Jvari Pass. The drive through this high-altitude pass (over 2,200 meters) provides a dramatic entrance to the mountain village of Juta.

This remote hamlet at 2200 meters feels like a world away. Surrounded by the Chokhi mountains, with peaks soaring over 3,800 meters including Mount Choke (the highest in Georgia), Juta is a quiet, authentic place that offers a glimpse into traditional mountain life.

The Challenge and Reward of Cycling

From Juta, the adventure shifts gears. You’ll hop on your rented off-road bicycle to descend through the Sno River Valley, a landscape carved by high peaks and dotted with old villages, towers, and waterfalls. The ride is about 15 km, but the highlight is the 6 km uphill challenge to Gergeti Trinity Church. This ascent, climbing approximately 400 meters, tests your fitness but rewards you with arguably Georgia’s most iconic view: the church’s white silhouette against the snow-capped Mount Kazbegi.

For those less inclined to pedal uphill, the tour provides the option to hire a 4WD to reach the church instead — a considerate touch for mixed groups or less experienced cyclists.

Gergeti Trinity Church: Georgia’s Mountain Jewel

Perched on a hill, Gergeti Trinity Church dates from the 14th century and has become the symbol of Georgia’s rugged beauty. Standing at 2,150 meters, its pristine white walls and steep pitched roof contrast beautifully with the jagged peaks behind.

From the church, you can gaze eastward to the summit of Mount Kazbegi or look down into the Tergi Gorge. The scenery here is dramatic enough to make you forget about the effort it took to get there.

If you’re feeling energetic, you can extend your visit by cycling a bit further up the trail (additional distance of about 2 km with an altitude gain of 150 meters). Otherwise, the optional 4WD makes this ascent accessible for everyone.

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The End of the Ride and Optional Extras

The tour concludes in Stepantsminda, a small mountain town with a welcoming atmosphere. You’ll have some time to soak in the views or explore local shops. If you’re still eager for more, you can hire a guide to continue cycling up to Mount Kazbegi — a further 6 km with an altitude gain of 400 meters, for a more challenging but rewarding experience.

Practicalities and Value

The inclusion of a bicycle, guide, driver, and fuel makes this tour straightforward and transparent. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the pick-up from your hotel takes the hassle out of logistics.

While participants should be comfortable on a bike and prepared for some physical exertion, the tour’s flexibility — offering lifts and optional climbs — makes it accessible to a range of fitness levels.

The cost primarily covers transportation, bike rental, and guiding, which is quite reasonable given the remote and scenic destinations covered. Remember, lunches and dinners are not included, so plan for a picnic or a stop at local eateries.

This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy active outings and scenic drives. It’s perfect for those who want a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path look at Georgia’s mountainous regions. The combination of cycling, cultural exploration, and stunning vistas makes it ideal for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a combination of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery in a spectacular setting, this tour delivers. The expert guidance, breathtaking scenery, and the chance to cycle through traditional villages make it a memorable highlight of any trip to Georgia. While it requires a good level of fitness, the optional lifts ensure everyone can enjoy the awe-inspiring views of Mount Kazbegi and beyond.

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, including transportation and sightseeing, but starting times depend on availability, so check before booking.

Is this suitable for beginners?
It’s recommended to have off-road cycling experience and a good fitness level. The tour involves some challenging climbs, especially the 6 km uphill to Gergeti Trinity Church.

Are lifts available during the ride?
Yes, most of the trip vehicles can give lifts whenever participants wish, making it more manageable if you need a break or find the climb tough.

What do I need to bring?
Comfortable shoes, helmet, sunglasses, sun protection, a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, a rain suit, and a daypack are recommended.

Can I visit Gergeti Trinity Church without cycling?
Absolutely. You can hire a 4WD to drive up to the church if you prefer not to cycle the uphill stretch.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the bicycle, guide, car with driver, petrol, and water. Lunches and dinners are not included, so plan accordingly.

This tour balances adventure with cultural sights, all set against the stunning backdrop of Georgia’s Great Caucasus. Perfect for those who want to experience the mountains with an active twist, it offers genuine, memorable moments that will stay with you long after the ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: