Gudauri: the Greater Caucasus ski resort with breathtaking views

Gudauri is Georgia's answer to the great Alpine resorts: runs between 1,990 and 3,279 metres altitude, guaranteed snow from December to April, ski passes at a third of European prices and the most impressive views of the Greater Caucasus. In recent years it has become a cult skiing destination for travellers seeking alternatives to the Alps without the price or the crowds.

Gudauri Georgia esquí — pistas nevadas Gran Cáucaso invierno
The Gudauri slopes, with the Greater Caucasus in the background and guaranteed snow from December to April

The Gudauri slopes: for all levels

Gudauri has over 70 km of runs at all difficulty levels:

  • Green and blue: ideal for beginners and families
  • Red: well-groomed intermediate runs
  • Black and freeride: powder snow in the upper zone for expert skiers
  • Heli-skiing: one of the few resorts in the world where it is genuinely affordable (from $150)

Day passes cost around 60–80 GEL per day (17–22 €), a fraction of Alpine prices.

Infrastructure: what the resort is like

Gudauri has modern lifts (gondolas and chairlifts), ski schools with certified instructors, equipment rental shops and a wide range of accommodation (hotels, chalets and apartments for all budgets). High season is January–March; April offers spring skiing with reduced prices.

Gudauri verano — senderismo parapente montañas Cáucaso Georgia
In summer, Gudauri transforms into a base for hiking and paragliding

Gudauri in summer: hiking and paragliding

Outside the snow season, Gudauri is an excellent base for mountain hiking through the Greater Caucasus. Tandem paragliding from the summits — with views of Kazbek and the Georgian Military Highway — is an experience few places in the world can match. Mountain biking and quad riding are also available.

How to get to Gudauri from Tbilisi

Gudauri is 120 km north of Tbilisi along the Georgian Military Highway. By car it takes about 2 hours. Direct transfers from Tbilisi are available during the ski season (buses and private minibuses from 15–25 GEL). Combine it with Ananuri and Kazbegi for a multi-day route through the Georgian mountains.

Frequently asked questions

When is the ski season in Gudauri?

From December to April, though the optimal season is January–March. Snow is most abundant and best quality in February. In April the skiing is more spring-like, with sunny days and wetter snow.

Is it easy to learn to ski in Gudauri?

Yes, it has excellent beginner areas and ski schools with instructors in several languages (English, Russian, Georgian). Lesson prices are far below European levels, making it ideal for learning without breaking the bank.

What happens if there is bad weather in Gudauri?

Heavy snowfall is frequent; in that case the lifts may stop for safety. The Georgian Military Highway can close temporarily. Gudauri has a good après-ski offering (restaurants, bars) for storm days.