Driving the Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi
Published 21 Aug 20261 min read
- routes
- mountains
The Military Highway from Tbilisi to Stepantsminda is about 160 kilometres and takes three to three and a half hours in normal conditions. Your map app will say two and a half. Do not believe it.
Where to stop
The Zhinvali reservoir is the first worthwhile stop, roughly ninety minutes out of Tbilisi. Ananuri fortress follows shortly after and twenty minutes there is plenty. Above Gudauri, the Friendship Monument viewpoint is worth pulling over for.
The Jvari Pass
2,379 metres. Snow and thick fog are routine here in winter, and the road can close temporarily between November and April. Check the status before you set off rather than after you have climbed.
Which car
The road to Stepantsminda is sealed the whole way and any car will manage it. The track up to Gergeti Trinity Church is a different matter - that needs a genuine 4x4, or leave the car in the village and walk up in about ninety minutes.
