Kazbegi National Park, Caucasus range, Georgia

About Attraction

Kazbegi National Park

Kazbegi National Park takes its name from Mount Kazbegi-the 6th highest peak in the Caucasus at 5,047 meters. The Park is located on the North hillside of the Caucasus range, covering a total area of 78 543,4 ha. It is characterized by high mountains and the lowest point at an altitude of 1,400 meters. The territory comprises the park, 35% of which is covered by forest and the rest land encompasses mountain peaks, alpine pastures, spectacular gorges, and canyons, carved from the rock by Tergi River. The gorges are mainly constructed with basalt formations such as quartzite, carbonaceous clay shale of the lower Lias age, and argillaceous sediments of the lower Toarcian age. Basalt sections and lava layers are apparent in the cliffs.

The National Park is represented by 1347 species of alpine, subalpine, xerophytic, and other types of vegetation, with 26% endemic plants among them, some of which: Ulmus glabra, Quercus macranthera, Ulmus minor Mill are included on the Red List of Georgia. The forests, located on steep slopes, are composed of 105 species of woody plants with Sosnovski’s pine (Pinus Sosnowski) Junipers (Juniperus - 3 species), Litvinov’s birch (Betula litwinovi), Sea-buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), and cranberries dominating. Caucasian rhododendron (Rhododendron caucasicum), Oriental beech and high-mountain oak are widespread in vast areas.

Local fauna is diverse as well, most rare and endangered species being on the Red List of Georgia: brown bear, East Caucasian tur (Carpa cylinricornis), lynx, chamois (Rupicarpa rupicarpa), also birds of prey, such as the Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), Caucasian Black grouse (Tetrao mlokosiewiczi), griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) and Caucasian snowcock (Tetraogallus caucasicus).

Kazbegi Natural Reserve

Kazbegi is a former name of Stepantsminda townlet, situated 14 km away from Dariali Gorge and Larsi check-post, bordering the Russian Federation. Stepantsminda has rich tourism potential due to its diverse set of historical-cultural attractions and breath-taking nature. Kazbegi and Gveleti glassier trails, walking passes to Devdoraki waterfalls, Sno, Trusso, Juta canyon trails, and hiking pass to Chaukhebi Mountains make the area worthy of visiting. Don't forget Abano alpine lake, Gergeti Mount and if you are lucky with the weather, you will view from afar magnificent Kazbegi Glacier.

The region is very active, with regular small earthquakes and geothermal hot springs. Traditional villages, churches, watchtowers, historical and cultural monuments are scattered throughout the valleys. Historical landmarks, such as the 14th-century Sameba temple, 10th-century Garbani church, Sioni three-parted basilica, Akhaltsikhe basilica, and 17th century Sno castle are some of the most popular tourist attractions. Religious traditions and habits of the local people that represent a mix of Christian and Pagan habits, attract the visitors.

Local inhabitants call themselves the Mokheves (habitants of the gorge). Like the Tushetians and partially, like the Khevsurs, independent highlanders lived beyond the Caucasian watershed range for centuries and protected Georgia from the northern side. They managed the main way to Georgia – the narrow and deep gorge of Dariali - today here is Larsi border check post with Russian Federation.

The Mokheves are hospitable, rightly business-oriented people. They uphold local traditions, which are closely connected to folklore and myths.

Kazbegi National Park offers a number of eco-tourism activities. It is safe to travel independently here, so do not hesitate to grab your backpack, enjoy a splendid weekend in the fresh air and discover popular hiking places:

Truso Gorge-the road leading to Truso Gorge is breathtaking with its travertines and mineral lake, rich in mineral springs, towers, and historical-cultural monuments.

Dariali Gorge - the gorge is famous for its waterfalls and lakes; Gveleti Waterfall descends into a heart-shaped lake, giving it the name “lake of love”.

Khada Gorge-there is plenty of beautiful waterfalls and attractive peaks for alpinists, such as Shavana, Shani, etc.

Visitor center: Stepantsminda, Vazha-Pshavela str. N62 X - 470645 Y – 4722185

From Tbilisi to village Stepantsminda driving distance is 150 km (3 h)

To book private tours, please, follow the links below or contact us here.

Full-day trip to Khevi Province

One-day winter tour to Kazbegi

2-day Tour to Kazbegi

3-day Kazbegi Trekking small group tour

5-day Glimpse of Georgia private tour

7-day CLIMBING MT. KAZBEGI small group tour

7-day Small-group tour from Tbilisi Visit Georgia

8-day Classic Tour to Georgia private tour from Tbilisi