Ski Mountaineering with Peter Schön
from 2,400.00 €Mt Kazbek, Georgia’s third‑highest summit at a majestic 5,054 m, draws mountaineers by the hundreds each summer. But why follow the herd when you can blaze your own trail on skis?
In winter, Kazbek transforms into a powder paradise: carve pristine slopes, savour the hushed grandeur of a frozen alpine world, and haul your skis to the summit for a descent like no other.
This is ski touring at its purest where every turn feels like a rare jewel, and the reward isn’t just the peak itself, but the exhilarating journey through deep snow, crisp air, and untouched high‑altitude terrain. Whether you’re tuning your kit in Colorado, the Scottish Highlands, or Scandinavian fjords, Kazbek’s winter ascent promises an epic adventure that transcends borders and ignites the spirit of every skier.
This adventure is an exciting alternative to a standard ski touring package, crafted for seasoned ski tourers and alpinists eager to explore high-altitude summits between 4000 and 5000m. Our primary goals include the majestic Mkinvartsveri (Kazbek, 5054m) and Maili-Khok (4600m). Since the snow line may sit too high around Stepantsminda, we’ll head straight to Altihut, our cozy mountain refuge equipped with everything needed to recharge after day in a snow. With full board at the hut, you’ll be well-rested and ready to take on each challenging day.
This exclusive trip accommodates a maximum of 3 participants and requires solid experience in ski touring as well as excellent physical fitness.
the Guide
Your guide, Peter Schön, is an ACMG-certified Ski Guide with deep expertise in the Gudauri-Kazbegi region. Since 2006, Peter has pioneered ski tours and first descents here, bringing unique knowledge of the terrain. His work with the local avalanche forecasting for the Gudauri-Kazbegi area ensures that he is fully informed about snow and avalanche conditions.
Credentials:
ACMG Ski Guide - Association of Canadian Mountain Guides
Canadian Avalanche Association Level 3 & Professional Member
Mt. Kazbek Winter Ski Tour
Discover the thrill of climbing Mt. Kazbek (5,054m), Georgia’s third-highest mountain and a classic summer climbing route in the Caucasus, but with a twist – on skis! This exceptional winter itinerary combines adventure with comfort, giving you a unique ski-mountaineering experience and an unparalleled chance to have this mountain nearly all to yourself. And your base? Altihut 3014m – a brand-new, Swiss Alps-standard mountain hut right here in Georgia.
Highlights:
Four nights at Altihut 3,014: Comfortable, cozy, located ideally for acclimatization and stunning ski tours.
Comprehensive Altitude Training: We offer two full days of altitude training – more than any other Kazbek tour provider.
Small Group, Big Adventure: With limited spots, you'll have the backcountry to yourself for an exclusive winter experience.
Expert Guiding and Quality Service: Led by certified guides, our tour provides full support and exceptional amenities, from hearty meals to expert weather assessments for a safe summit push.
Ski Touring Equipment Rental Available Onsite - To make your journey to Georgia lighter and support local businesses, we’ve partnered with local entrepreneurs to create a positive ecosystem that benefits travelers and the community alike. You’ll have access to world-class, state-of-the-art ski touring equipment, available for rent in Tbilisi or Kazbegi. This means you can travel worry-free without the hassle of extra luggage, knowing top-quality gear will be ready for you, sourced locally and conveniently.
Participant Requirements
This is an advanced-level ski tour requiring previous ski touring experience. You should be confident skiing off-piste in a variety of snow conditions and have some experience with crampons, ice axe use, and basic rope skills.
Day 1 – Arrival in Tbilisi
Arrive at Tbilisi International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Tbilisi[1] (or Stepantsminda, depending on your arrival time). Rest up for the adventure ahead!
Day 2 – Briefing and Transfer to Altihut
Meet your guide in the morning for a pre-tour briefing and gear check. We’ll then drive to Gergeti village and start the ascent to Altihut (3,014m), our basecamp, with a 4-hour skinning hike. Enjoy the welcoming comforts and stunning views at the hut. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included
Distance: 7 km, 4 hours; Elevation gain: 800–1000m
Days 3 & 4 – Altitude Training
These two days are dedicated to altitude training. The first day, we’ll head towards Mt. Ortsveri (4,222m) to get in some altitude and acclimatization. On the second day, we’ll cross the Gergeti Glacier, aiming for the old meteo station (3,700m) and the Black Cross at 4,000m, practicing glacier safety along the way. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included
Distance: 700–1000m vertical ascent/descent each day
Day 5 – Summit Push
Early start at 2am for our Kazbek summit attempt! We’ll climb up Gergeti Glacier to the plateau (4,400m), then switch to crampons for the final stretch, with our guide monitoring conditions carefully. After around 10 hours, we’ll reach the summit before skiing back to Altihut for a well-deserved celebration. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included
Distance: 2,054m vertical ascent/descent, 12 hours
Day 6 – Reserve Day
Extra day in case of poor weather.
Day 7 – Descent and Transfer to Tbilisi
Ski down to Stepantsminda and transfer back to Tbilisi for a final night in the city. You’ll be ready for a warm shower, Georgian food, and maybe a toast to your adventure!
Included: Breakfast
Distance: 900m descent
Day 8 – Departure
Transfer to Tbilisi International Airport. Until next time, Kazbek!
Included
Experienced, English-speaking mountain guide
All transfers (including 4x4 vehicle for Gergeti access)
Two nights in Tbilisi (3-star hotel), four nights at Altihut
All meals as per itinerary and unlimited stunning views
Not Included
International flights to/from Georgia
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses, snacks, and drinks
Tips for guides (optional but appreciated)
Pricing
1 person: €2,600 per person
2 people: €1,800 per person
3+ people: €1,450 per person
Required Equipment
Ski gear: Touring skis with bindings, skins, ski touring boots, ski crampons
Climbing gear: Crampons, harness, ice axe, helmet
Safety gear: Shovel, probe, avalanche transceiver
Clothing: Thermal layers, waterproof outer layers, gloves, down jacket
Or you may stock at Ski Touring Equipment Rental that is Available Onsite.
For an unforgettable adventure, make sure you’re ready for high-altitude skiing, stunning mountain views, and the sense of isolation only winter in the Kazbegi mountains can provide. And a heads-up: the post-summit Georgian wine is as legendary as Kazbek itself!
არასოდეს არ მოვეშვებით თქვენს განცვიფრებას. ამოდით ალტიჰატში და თავად დარწმუნდით ამაში.
ათასჯერ გაგონილს ერთხელ ნანახი ჯობია.