A Day Trip Guide to Skiing in Gudauri
Winter in Georgia brings the perfect opportunity for a quick escape during the stressful exam season. If you’re looking for a day filled with adventure then Gudauri is the ultimate destination. Here’s your complete guide to making the most of a day trip to Gudauri, right from dawn till dusk.
Disclosure: Some links below are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission when you click and purchase through the affiliate links on our website (at no extra cost to you). Read our full affiliate disclosure here.
Itinerary:
6-7am: Start your day bright and early. Get ready for an exciting, adventurous day.
7-9am: Depart for Gudauri, aiming to beat the traffic and maximize your day. The journey from Tbilisi takes around 1.5-2 hours.
8-9am: Enroute to Gudauri, make a pit stop at JHINVALI dam. Explore market stalls and capture the perfect photo against a breathtaking backdrop.
9-11am: Arrive in Gudauri. Head to a ski rental spot for equipment and consider renting ski clothes if you’re not looking to buy – definitely try to haggle down prices and ask for discount. Purchase a ski lift pass for the day.
11-4/5pm: Enjoy Skiing. Beginners might want to consider a 1-hour session with an instructor before braving the slopes on your own. Start heading back down the mountain via ski lift around 4/4:30 pm as the lifts close at 5 pm.
4-5pm: Grab a bite/drink. Numerous food options are available near the slopes or at the resort. My personal favourite is the Black Dog Bar.
5-6pm: Begin your journey back to Tbilisi. On the way, make a pit stop at Gudauri viewpoint for the perfect photo against the mountainous backdrop.
6-9pm: Travel back to Tbilisi, ensuring you arrive before 9 pm. Your full day at Gudauri is now complete.
Transport Options:
– Martshrutka: Depart early from Didube bus station, leaving approximately every 30 minutes. Cost: 20 GEL (Note: Returning might be challenging).
– Tour Company: Opt for a day trip with @ilona_tour_guide, offering affordable packages for students. Cost: 45 GEL.
– Taxi: While a bit pricier, booking a Yandex or Bolt from Tbilisi usually allows you to negotiate a deal for the day with the driver. If traveling with friends, you can split the costs for return.
What to Pack:
– Warm clothes, layer up
– Snacks
– Plenty of water
– Portable charger
– Entertainment for the journey
– Cash (around 100 GEL or more for additional activities)
Estimated Cost Breakdown:
– Travel: 20-45 GEL
– Snacks: 10-20 GEL
– Ski rental: 40-70 GEL
– Ski lift pass: 40 GEL
– Food: 20-50 GEL
Total Estimated Cost: 130 – 225 GEL
So if you want to swap our exam stress for a day on the slopes, then a Gudauri is the place for you.
Let the slopes of Gudauri become the backdrop to a day filled with excitement, breathtaking views, and best of all… skiing.
I hope you found this helpful in planning your next trip to Gudauri.
Thank you for taking the time to read! Until next time.
Kem x