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.

About 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 

Day 1: Arrival and Ascent to Altihut 

Meet in Tbilisi for a morning rendezvous and an equipment check at MPlus (www.mplus.ge ), where you can pick up any forgotten gear (we’ve all been there). Afterward, our driver will whisk us away to Stepantsminda for a quick bite before we begin the trek up to Altihut, our cozy base for the week.  

Driving: 3 hrs  

Vertical meters: 900, Time: 4 hrs

Day 2: Acclimatization at Kesi Pass (3,619m)  

 Ski tour to Kesi Pass, that will get us acclimatized. While it doesn’t take us to a summit, the jaw-dropping views of the Caucasus peaks are well worth it, and we get an exhilarating ski descent back to Altihut. With a shorter route, we can opt for multiple runs if energy allows!  

Vertical meters: 1,000–1m200 m; Time: 4–5 hrs  

Day 3: Glacier Skills and Ortsveri (4,222m)  

We take on Ortsveri, the closest 4,000m peak to Altihut. Along the way, you’ll get an introduction to glacier travel and safety, including the use of crampons—always handy on high-altitude slopes.  

Vertical meters: 1,250; Time: 4–6 hrs, depending on summit ridge conditions  

Day 4: “Road of Dreams”-  Spartak or Maili-Kokh

With acclimatization on our side, we’re ready for a big tour up the Gergeti glacier. Based on the weather, snow, and group fitness, we’ll aim for Spartak (4,517m) or Maili-Kokh (4,600m), both excellent ski summits with stunning vistas of Mkinvartsveri and other 5,000m peaks. Peter, who’s skied all of Georgia’s 5,000m giants, will share insider info on each peak. This route is often called the “Road of Dreams,” and you’ll soon see why—untouched, high-alpine terrain that few have skied awaits.  

Vertical meters: 1,500–1,700 (depending on summit); - Time: 7–8 hrs  

Day 5: A Lighter Day

Time to rest those legs! We’ll choose an easier ski tour with about 800m of vertical, selected based on conditions. This day may also serve as a backup in case of inclement weather.  

Day 6: The Summit - Mkinvartsveri (5,054m)  

This is the big one! A 2,000m ascent to Mkinvartsveri, requiring an early start to keep a steady pace. We’ll ascend the Gergeti glacier to the plateau (4,400m) and then climb to the saddle at 4,880m. The final stretch to the summit may call for crampons and ice axe, depending on snow conditions. For the descent, we’ll retrace our route or opt for the more direct south face, if conditions allow.  

Vertical meters: 2,000; Time: 8–9 hrs  

Day 7: Descent and Return to Tbilisi

Enjoy the 900m ski descent back from Altihut before we head back to Tbilisi.  

Vertical meters: 900 (down)  

Time: 1 hr; Driving: 3 hrs  

Day 8: Departure (Optional Tbilisi Tour)

Time to say goodbye! For those with a bit of time, Peter offers an optional city tour through the lively streets of Tbilisi. Whether it's sampling local treats or hunting for last-minute souvenirs, there’s no better way to wrap up the adventure. Warning: You may leave with more than just ski memories (and possibly a suitcase full of Georgian wine).

In addition, for this tour participants MPlus has it own treat to offer, -25% on all their outdoor products (they really have some good stuff from Ortovox, Patagonia, Salewa, Petzl and etc…)