Tbilisi: Kazbegi Group Tour with Khinkali Cooking Class

Explore Georgia’s Mountains and Historic Sites in a Day

This 10-hour group tour from Tbilisi offers an engaging way to see some of Georgia’s most iconic sights within a single day. Starting in the heart of Tbilisi, the journey takes you along the scenic Georgian Military Highway, revealing dramatic mountain landscapes and historic landmarks. The tour includes key highlights such as Gergeti Trinity Church, Ananuri Fortress, and the charming mountain village of Stepantsminda.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of sightseeing and culinary culture. A khinkali cooking class with local hosts allows for a hands-on introduction to Georgia’s beloved dumplings, topped off with a hearty homemade lunch. While the tour offers an immersive cultural experience, travelers should be prepared for a full day of movement, with some stops in high-altitude locations where it can get chilly.

This tour suits those who love outdoor scenery, history, and authentic Georgian cuisine. The group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a friendly and personalized atmosphere. A key consideration is that the journey involves off-road travel to Gergeti Trinity Church, requiring a 4×4 vehicle, and the physical pace may be brisk for some.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration and Departure: The full-day tour lasts 10 hours with flexible start times; check availability.
• Scenic Route: Drive along the famous Georgian Military Highway, with photo stops at Zhinvali Reservoir and Ananuri Fortress.
• Iconic Landmark: Visit Gergeti Trinity Church at 2,170 meters, accessible by an off-road vehicle.
• Culinary Experience: Participate in a khinkali cooking class with locals, followed by a homemade lunch.
• All-Inclusive: Price includes transportation, guide, site entry fees, the cooking masterclass, and bottled water.
• Group Size: Small groups limited to 15 people for a more intimate experience.

Starting Point at Marjanishvili Metro Station

The tour begins at Marjanishvili metro station in Tbilisi, specifically in front of cafe My chef. From here, a comfortable vehicle takes travelers northward along the scenic Georgian Military Highway. The guide leads the group through each stop, providing insights into the area’s history and landscape. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy to plan your day.

Scenic Stops at Zhinvali Reservoir and Ananuri Fortress

The first major stop is at Zhinvali Reservoir, where a photo break offers chances to capture the vibrant turquoise waters framed by mountain peaks. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and provides a brief guided overview of the area’s natural beauty.

Next, the group visits the Ananuri Fortress, a sprawling complex perched above a river. Over the one-hour visit, travelers explore the fortress walls, towers, and church ruins while enjoying panoramic views. The site’s dramatic setting makes it a favorite for photos and historical interest.

Mountain Resort at Gudauri and the Drive to Gergeti Trinity Church

Passing through Gudauri, a popular mountain resort, the journey continues with a 30-minute stop. Here, travelers can enjoy mountain scenery and sometimes see skiers in winter months.

The highlight of the drive is reaching Gergeti Trinity Church, situated at 2,170 meters. The off-road vehicle transports visitors up the steep path, leading to the 14th-century church. The guided visit lasts about 1.5 hours, allowing time to soak in the views of Mount Kazbeg and the surrounding peaks. The climb and the location’s altitude mean visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, as it can get chilly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Stepantsminda and the Khinkali Cooking Class

After descending from Gergeti, the group moves to the town of Stepantsminda. Here, the tour shifts from sightseeing to culinary fun with a 2-hour khinkali masterclass. In a cozy local guesthouse or village home, hosts teach the secrets of making Georgia’s iconic dumplings. This hands-on experience involves learning how to fill, fold, and cook khinkali properly.

Following the cooking session, everyone enjoys a homemade lunch featuring the freshly prepared khinkali, along with other local dishes. The meal offers a taste of authentic Georgian hospitality and flavors.

The Return Journey to Tbilisi

After a full day of exploring mountains, historic sites, and savoring local cuisine, the group heads back to Tbilisi. The return journey is comfortable and scenic, giving time to reflect on the stunning landscapes and cultural insights gained throughout the day.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour includes an English-speaking guide and driver, comfortable transportation, entry to all listed sites, the khinkali cooking masterclass, a lunch, and bottled water. The group is limited to 15 participants, fostering a friendly environment where questions and interaction are encouraged.

The meeting point is in front of cafe My chef at Marjanishvili metro station, with the tour ending back at the same spot. The tour is suitable for travelers aged 10 and above, but younger children may find the high-altitude stops challenging.

Important Considerations for the Trip

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket, as mountain locations can be chilly. Sun protection like a sun hat is advisable, especially in summer. Since the road to Gergeti Trinity Church involves a 4×4 vehicle, be prepared for an off-road experience. Food and drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, so plan accordingly.

Comparing Similar Tours in Georgia

This tour emphasizes the mountain scenery and culinary experience, with a focus on Gergeti Trinity Church and khinkali. Other similar options may include full-day trips to Kazbegi, guided tours with hotel pick-up, or multi-day itineraries. The small group size and the combination of sightseeing and cooking make this tour particularly appealing for those wanting an immersive day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This full-day adventure is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and food lovers. The balance of scenic drives, cultural sites, and hands-on cooking offers variety in a manageable timeframe. It’s especially suitable for travelers comfortable with walking and mountain altitude.

Final Thoughts on the Kazbegi Group Tour with Khinkali Class

This tour delivers a compact yet immersive experience of Georgia’s mountains, history, and cuisine. The scenic stops at Zhinvali Reservoir and Ananuri Fortress introduce travelers to striking natural and historic sights, while the Gergeti Trinity Church provides a memorable mountain backdrop.

The culinary component adds a warm touch of local hospitality, making this trip a well-rounded cultural day. The small group size and professional guide help ensure a smooth and engaging experience. Travelers should be prepared for some physical activity and high-altitude conditions but will be rewarded with unforgettable views and authentic flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children under 10?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 10 years old.

What should I bring for the mountain stops?
Comfortable shoes, a jacket, sun hat, and rain gear are advised. Mountain weather can be unpredictable and chilly.

Does the trip include transportation to Gergeti Trinity Church?
Yes, an off-road vehicle takes you from the town up to the church, as the road requires a 4×4 vehicle.

How long is the khinkali cooking class?
The class lasts about 2 hours, including cooking and enjoying the meal.

What sites are visited during the tour?
Stops include Zhinvali Reservoir, Ananuri Fortress, Gudauri, Gergeti Trinity Church, and the town of Stepantsminda.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, mountain weather can affect the experience, especially for the outdoor stops and the church visit.

What’s the maximum group size?
Limited to 15 participants to ensure a personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a meal included?
Yes, a homemade lunch featuring khinkali and other Georgian dishes is included after the cooking class.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with flexible booking options and no upfront payment required.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby