Why Spend Two Nights in the Caucasus Mountains
Most short trips to Georgia stay in Tbilisi and see the mountains on a single long day out. This Georgia tour package from the UAE does it the other way round: two nights up in the mountains at Gudauri first, then two in the capital. With Sharjah to Tbilisi taking about three and a half hours and no time difference from the UAE, the trip fits a short break without jet lag.
Gudauri, Kazbegi and the Georgian Military Road
Gudauri is a ski resort on the Georgian Military Road, the historic route that climbs from Tbilisi through the Greater Caucasus towards the Russian border, crossing the Jvari Pass at 2,379 metres. On the way up, the 17th-century churches of Ananuri stand above the turquoise water of the Zhinvali Reservoir on the Aragvi River.
Beyond the pass lies Stepantsminda, the village at the foot of Mount Kazbek. High above it, the 14th-century Gergeti Trinity Church sits at around 2,170 metres, reached by 4x4 on a rough track. Its setting against the peak has made it one of Georgia’s most recognisable landmarks. Late November is early winter here, so expect cold and bring warm layers, gloves and sturdy shoes.
Tbilisi and Mtskheta
Back in the capital, Old Tbilisi spreads below Narikala Fortress, which already existed in the 4th century. A cable car links the river bank to the fortress, and from the walls you look down on the domed sulphur baths of Abanotubani and the narrow lanes of the old town. The Mother of Kartli statue stands on the ridge above.
About 20 km away, Mtskheta was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Kartli and the place where Christianity was proclaimed Georgia’s state religion in 337. Jvari Monastery on its hilltop and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in the town below form part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Planning your Georgia trip
This Gudauri and Kazbegi tour suits couples, friends and families who want mountain scenery as much as city sights, with a guide and transfers handling the logistics. A free day in Tbilisi leaves room to explore at your own pace or add an optional excursion. The trip runs over the UAE National Day break and works just as well at other times of year. Entry rules depend on your passport and UAE residency, so check the Visa Info section before you book.
Take a look at the full itinerary and inclusions on this page, then send us an enquiry to check availability on this departure.