This 8-day skiing adventure in the stunning High Caucasus offers a perfect blend of moderate to challenging ski tours, far from the usual crowds. You’ll have the chance to conquer high peaks over 4,000m, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations, famous Georgian cuisine and hospitality, and the expertise of a certified International guide.

We kick off the trip with two days of ski touring around Stepantsminda (1,800m), with the majestic Mkinvartsveri (Kazbek, 5,054m) towering as our backdrop. Known as Georgia’s third-highest and most legendary peak, Mkinvartsveri has inspired countless tales and legends over the years. After that, we head up to Altihut (3,014m), a cozy, Alps-style hut perfectly situated to access amazing ski lines on and around Mkinvartsveri, including 3,000m and 4,000m summits in a beautiful, glaciated setting. Altihut offers not only comfort and charm but also the chance to dine at the “restaurant at 3,000 meters,” savoring delicious Georgian meals and exclusive AltiChacha.

 

We’ll spend four days ski touring from the hut, with evenings reserved for relaxation: you can unwind with a book from the hut’s library, sip on a glass of fine Georgian wine, or simply soak in the breathtaking views of Mkinvartsveri. And if conditions and group experience align, we may even attempt the summit of Mkinvartsveri itself (pre-arrangement required).

About Your Guide

Guiding you on this adventure is Peter Schön, an ACMG-certified Ski Guide who has been pioneering ski tours and first descents in the region since 2006. Peter’s extensive work on avalanche forecasting for the Gudauri-Kazbegi area means he’s always up to speed on the latest snow and avalanche conditions.

Credentials:

ACMG Ski Guide - Association of Canadian Mountain Guides

Canadian Avalanche Association Level 3 & Professional Member

 

And just a heads-up: Georgian hospitality might spoil you. Don’t be surprised if you leave craving more summits—and perhaps a suitcase full of khachapuri and Georgian wine + AltiChacha.

Day 1: Arrival, Gear Check and Warm-Up Tour

Meet in Tbilisi for a morning equipment check at MPlus. If you've left any gear behind, don’t worry, MPlus offers rentals of top-notch equipment to get you fully prepared. Then, we’re off! Our driver takes us toward Stepantsminda, with a warm-up tour starting near the Cross Pass, the high point of the “Georgian Military Road.”

 

Vertical Gain: 600m; Tour Duration: 3–4 hours 

Driving: 3 hours 

Accommodation/Food: Guesthouse / Dinner (Lunch optional)

Day 2: East Ridge Ski Tour 

We head out from Stepantsminda, a short drive from our starting point. Today’s goal is the lesser-traveled Japaridze ridge on Mt. Kazbek’s east side, where panoramic views of Kazbek’s majestic east face await. We’ll ski back down to the village from a high point around 3,000–3,200m.

 

Vertical Gain: 1,000–1,200m; Tour Duration: 4–5 hours 

Driving: 30 minutes 

Accommodation/Food: Guesthouse / Full Board

Day 3: Northeast Slope Adventure

Today we take on one of Peter’s favorite runs, a long, northeast-facing slope known for excellent snow conditions and 1,100 vertical meters of exciting terrain. It’s a memorable day with plenty of great descents!

Vertical Gain: 1,100m; Tour Duration: 4–5 hours 

Driving: 50 minutes

Accommodation/Food: Guesthouse / Full Board

 

Day 4: Ascent to AltiHut

After breakfast, we make our way up to Altihut, our cozy high-altitude basecamp. This four-hour climb offers breathtaking views of the iconic Holy Trinity Church and Mt. Kazbek. For those feeling energized, there’s an option to ascend an additional 600m nearby, often providing fantastic skiing conditions.

 

Vertical Gain: 900m (optional 1,500m) 

Tour Duration: 4 hours (6 hours with extra ascent); Driving: 15 minutes 

Accommodation/Food: Mountain Hut / Full Board

 

Day 5: Glacier Tour to Spartak or Maili-Kokh

Now fully acclimatized, we set out for a challenging day on the Gergeti Glacier. Depending on conditions and group fitness, we’ll aim to summit either Spartak (4,517m) or Maili-Kokh (4,600m). Both peaks offer unbeatable views of Mt. Kazbek and other towering 5000m peaks. This tour leads up the glacier to the Kazbek plateau, then westward to Spartak, with the option to continue to Maili. Known as the “Road of Dreams,” this tour truly lives up to its name!

 

Vertical Gain:** 1,500m (Spartak) – 1,700m (Maili-Kokh) 

Tour Duration: 7–8 hours; Driving: None 

Accommodation/Food: Mountain Hut / Full Board

 

Day 6: Flexible Ski Touring Day 

We keep today’s destination open to maximize flexibility and make the most of snow conditions. Your guide will pick the best option based on weather, snow, and group preference.

 

Vertical Gain: 1,200m;  Tour Duration: 4–5 hours 

Driving: None 

Accommodation/Food: Mountain Hut / Full Board

 

Day 7: Final Ski and Descent to Stepantsminda

A short morning ski marks our last day in the mountains. Then, we gather our gear and ski down to Stepantsminda. After lunch, our driver will be waiting to take us back to Tbilisi.

 

Vertical Gain: 800m up, 1,700m down 

Tour Duration: 4 hours;  Driving: 3 hours 

Accommodation/Food: Hotel / Full Board

Day 8: Departure or Optional Tbilisi City Tour

Enjoy breakfast and prepare for your flight home. If you’re not ready to leave just yet, join Peter for an optional city tour of Tbilisi, exploring the vibrant sights of Georgia’s capital.

Accommodation/Food: Hotel / Breakfast

Equipment Rental

To support local businesses and make your travel easier, we’ve partnered with local entrepreneurs for high-quality ski touring equipment rentals. From skis to crampons, you’ll find everything you need either in Tbilisi or Kazbegi, ensuring you’re ready for every turn and descent on this unforgettable adventure.