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Mount Kazbek

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

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Mount Kazbek, known in Georgian as Mkinvartsveri, which translates as Ice Peak, is a majestic dormant stratovolcano located in the eastern part of the Greater Caucasus. Standing at 5,047 meters (16,558 feet), it is the third-highest mountain in Georgia and the seventh-highest peak in the Caucasus range. The volcano is considered extinct, with its last significant eruptions occurring around 750 BC, though geothermal activity still persists in the form of hot springs at its base. Situated along the historic Georgian Military Road, the mountain is deeply embedded in Georgian folklore and Greek mythology, often identified as the site where Prometheus was chained to the rock. Perched on its slopes at an elevation of 2,170 meters is the famous 14th-century Gergeti Trinity Church, which serves as one of the most iconic symbols of the nation's spiritual heritage. The first recorded ascent of the glaciated summit was achieved in 1868 by Douglas Freshfield, Adolphus Moore, and Charles Tucker. The area surrounding Kazbek is a vital natural reserve, providing a habitat for diverse high-altitude flora and fauna, including the East Caucasian tur and the Caucasian black grouse.

Location: Georgia
Nearby: Gudauri (18 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-10	-9	-4	1	7	11	15	14	10	5	-2	-7
Rain mm	38	32	55	65	89	89	62	55	54	60	44	33

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The standard starting point is Stepantsminda town, easily reached from Tbilisi. From there, trails or dirt tracks lead up towards the famous Gergeti Trinity Church.

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Best season

The summer months from July to September typically offer the best weather for high-altitude trekking. Winter and spring bring severe cold and a significantly high risk of avalanches.

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Terrain & paths

The lower slopes consist of steep grassy paths and rocky trails. Ascending beyond the glacier requires navigating deep snow and dangerous crevasses, demanding real mountaineering skills.

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What to bring

Standard hiking gear is sufficient for the lower trails. Attempting to reach the summit absolutely requires specialized mountaineering equipment, including crampons and ice axes.

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Parking

Ample parking is usually available in Stepantsminda. Visitors heading to the church can leave their vehicles safely in the main town square or at their respective guesthouses.

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Safety

Altitude sickness is a real threat; proper acclimatization is essential before attempting the summit. The weather changes rapidly, so hiring a certified mountain guide is highly advised.

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Time needed

A hike to the Trinity Church typically takes half a day. A full summit expedition usually requires three to four days, including necessary time for altitude acclimatization and rest.

Geography

Coordinates

42.69750, 44.51860

Facts

Mount Kazbek is a dormant stratovolcano standing at 5,047 meters (16,558 feet).
The Georgian name Mkinvartsveri literally translates to Ice Peak in English.
The last significant volcanic eruption of Kazbek occurred around 750 BC.
The first recorded ascent was completed in 1868 by Douglas Freshfield and his team.
The Gergeti Trinity Church is located on the mountain slopes at 2,170 meters.
Mythology links the mountain to Prometheus and the Georgian hero Amirani.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Gveleti Waterfall12 km · NExplore →

Gergeti Trinity Church12 km · NExplore →

Darial Gorge12 km · NExplore →

Sno Valley14 km · NWExplore →

Truso Valley14 km · SWExplore →

Gudauri18 km · WExplore →

Juta27 km · NExplore →

Vladikavkaz31 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Mount Kazbek (1)

Kazbegi 📍 landmark

A prominent mountain peak in the Caucasus, also known as Mkinvartsveri.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Mount Kazbek?

A 5,047 m high dormant volcano in the Greater Caucasus, near Stepantsminda.

Can you climb the summit without experience?

No, reaching the summit requires crampons, ice axes, and usually a mountain guide.

Which church is located at the foot of the mountain?

The Gergeti Trinity Church is the famous landmark set against the mountain panorama.

How long does a climb take?

Usually 3 to 4 days, including acclimatization at the Meteo station.

Are there myths about Kazbek?

It is linked to the myth of Prometheus, who was said to be chained here.

Mount Kazbek: where is it located?

Mount Kazbek is located in Georgia.

Mount Kazbek: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.

Mount Kazbek: why is it worth visiting?

Mount Kazbek, known in Georgian as Mkinvartsveri, which translates as Ice Peak, is a majestic dormant stratovolcano located in the eastern part of the Greater Caucasus.

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