Travel Guide to Gudauri Ski Resort, Georgia: An Affordable Ski Destination

Located in the Caucasus region of Georgia, Gudauri Ski Resort is known for its stunning views, world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Situated at an altitude of 2,196 meters above sea level, the resort offers a wide variety of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

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If you’re planning a trip to Gudauri, this travel guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make the most out of your visit.

Best Time to Visit Gudauri?

The ski season in Gudauri runs from mid December to April, with peak conditions between January and March. The area receives abundant snowfall, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced skiers. Off-season, the lush green landscapes attract hikers and mountain bikers.

We visited Gudauri twice: the first time at the end of February and the beginning of March, and the second time in mid-April. Both trips were fantastic! During our mid-April visit, we experienced the last week of the ski season. While some downhill slopes were less than ideal due to melting snow, the conditions uphill remained excellent, allowing us to enjoy nearly empty slopes with fewer crowds. Since conditions change every year, it’s a good idea to plan your visit before the end of March if you’re traveling from far away, to ensure that ski season is still happening.

How to Reach Gudauri?

Getting to Gudauri from Tbilisi is straightforward:

By car: It’s around 2,5 hours drive along the scenic Georgian Military Highway.
By minibus: Regular minibuses (marshrutkas) run from Tbilisi’s Didube Bus Station to Gudauri.
- The schedule is as follows: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 7:00 PM. If the van fills up, the driver will leave early. So, it’s important to arrive at least 30 minutes early to make sure you get a seat.
- The fare from Tbilisi to Gudauri is only 10 GEL per person.
Participate in the tour departing from Tbilisi.
Private transfer:
- Book a private transfer with Go Trip! You can make as many stops along the way as you like. The cost is approximately 200-300 GEL from Tbilisi. It’s recommended to reserve your car in advance, but we’ve successfully arranged same-day transfers without any issues. Payment is made in cash directly to the driver at the end of the trip.
- It’s also possible to use BOLT– app to organise your transfer to Gudauri. We used this option once and it cost around the same than GoTrip.

Read more -> Take a look at our post about where to stop along the Georgian Military Highway on your way to Gudauri. Discover 8 best stops along Georgia’s scenic Military Highway – From Tbilisi to Kazbegi

Skiing and Snowboarding in Gudauri

Gudauri has runs for every level, from wide beginner-friendly slopes to challenging off-piste areas for experienced skiers. The resort has 17 lifts. Mt. Sadzele (3,307 m) is accessed by lifts up to 3,279 m elevation. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, Gudauri is known for its heli-skiing, offering access to untouched powder fields where you’ll feel like you’re skiing on clouds.

Gudauri may not be as popular as many other ski resorts in Europe, and I believe that’s a positive aspect. You won’t find long lines at the ski lifts; the longest we waited was about three minutes, and often there are no lines at all. Many times, it feels like the slopes are just for you, with no one else around, which enhances the beauty of the experience. Although it may not be a widely known destination just yet, there are still enjoyable après-ski parties and activities to partake in!

Ski Pass

Gudauri offers a variety of ski pass options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or an extended stay at the resort, you can choose from single-day passes, multi-day passes, and even seasonal passes.

Ski passes can be purchased at the base of each road-accessible lift, including Pirveli, Soliko, Gudaura Gondola, and Shino. When buying multi-day passes, it’s essential for everyone in the group to be present for a photo to be taken.

Season passes are also valid at other ski resorts in Georgia, including Bakuriani, Mestia, and Goderdzi.

In the 2023/2024 season, season pass prices were as follows: 7-day pass for 370 GEL, 10-day pass for 460 GEL, and a seasonal pass for 650 GEL (adult). Days do not have to be consecutive and can be utilized at any time throughout the season. A single-day ticket costs 70 GEL (adult).

Ski Rental

If you don’t have your own ski equipment, don’t worry! Gudauri has a variety of rental options available. You can rent skis and snowboards on a daily or weekly basis, and there are also options for long-term rentals.

If you are an advanced skier, it’s advisable to bring your own gear, as the quality of rental equipment may not meet your expectations.

Ski Schools

For those new to skiing or looking to improve their skills, Gudauri offers several ski schools that provide lessons for both adults and children. Lessons can be booked on an hourly basis or as part of a package that includes equipment rental and lift passes.

Slopes

Beginners

An excellent beginner slope is conveniently located right next to the Gudauri Loft hotel. For families, there’s a small slope in New Gudauri that’s perfect for kids. However, I believe the best practice slope is adjacent to Snow Park. To access it, take the gondola from New Gudauri, and then switch to the chairlift on the right-hand side.

Intermediates

Gudauri offers a variety of excellent blue runs. By taking the gondola from New Gudauri and heading in any direction, you’ll discover wonderful slopes suitable for intermediate skiers. Additionally, you can ride the lifts further uphill after the gondola to access even more fantastic intermediate terrain.

Advanced

Kudebi, Sadzele, and the new lifts in Kobi Canyon give you access to some of the highest elevations and steepest slopes around. In-bounds avalanches have occurred in the steeper areas of Kudebi, Sadzeli, and Kobi. It’s essential to have the right equipment and training or to ski with a guide when exploring off-piste in these regions.

What Activities Can You Enjoy in Gudauri Beyond Skiing?

Gudauri is not just a winter wonderland for skiers; there are plenty of other activities to enjoy during your stay. Some options include:

Snowmobiling: Explore the mountains and surrounding areas on a snowmobile.
Paragliding: Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape while paragliding over the resort.
Horseback riding: Take a guided horseback ride through the snowy trails.
Spa and wellness: Relax and unwind after a day on the slopes at one of Gudauri’s spa facilities.
Apres-ski: Enjoy some traditional Georgian food and drinks at one of Gudauri’s restaurants and bars.
- Check Drunk Cherry, Black Dog, Travel Bar
Hiking and snowshoeing: Take a break from skiing and explore the beautiful scenery on foot.

What Are the Must-See Attractions Near Gudauri?

If you have some extra time to explore beyond the resort, there are several must-see attractions near Gudauri that are worth a visit. These include:

Gergeti Trinity Church: A picturesque church perched on a hilltop overlooking the town of Stepantsminda (Kazbegi)
Russian-Georgian Friendship Monument: A unique structure commemorating Soviet friendship between Georgia and Russia
Ananuri Fortress: A medieval fortress complex located on the Aragvi River.
Sno Village: It’s a spot with huge stone heads – Georgia’s version of Easter Island, set amidst stunning landscapes. Found just before Kazbegi town. Perfect for a brief stop to snap some beautiful photos.

Where to eat in Gudauri?

Brunch/lunch:

On the slopes, you’ll find restaurants boasting breathtaking views of the mountains. You can easily access these dining spots via the gondola or chairlift. Here are some must-visit restaurants: Café Vitamin Gudauri, Vitamin Kudebi, and Khada Hut.

Dinner:

The New Gudauri area has a bunch of great restaurants to check out. Drunk Cherry is definitely one of the most popular spots. If you’re in the mood for a tasty burger, Hee Haw Gastro-bar has you covered, and sushi lovers should swing by Layover Cafe & Bar. Plus, Gudauri Lodge hotel has a really good restaurant too!

Where to Stay in Gudauri?

We believe the best place to stay in Gudauri is the New Gudauri area, as it offers proximity to numerous restaurants, stores and ski lifts. You’ll find a variety of apartments available to suit different budgets.

If you prefer hotel accommodations, we recommend either Gudauri Loft or Gudauri Lodge. Both hotels are conveniently situated right next to the ski lift and offer excellent sauna and spa facilities, perfect for unwinding after a long day on the slopes.

Tips for Visiting Gudauri:

Pack layers of clothing as the weather can be unpredictable, especially in higher altitudes.
Always remember to apply sun protection, as the sun can be quite intense at high altitudes in the mountains.
In addition to sunscreen, be sure to pack your goggles and sunglasses, as the slopes face south.
If you plan to cook your own meals, you’ll find only small supermarkets in Gudauri that offer basic supplies. For more specialized ingredients, it’s advisable to shop in Tbilisi.
Gudauri offers ski stores; however, the prices appear to be relatively high, and the selection is somewhat limited. I would recommend bringing your own equipment and purchasing items only if absolutely necessary.
If you don’t have your own car, it’s advisable to stay near the ski lifts, as getting around in Gudauri can be challenging and somewhat expensive. While the Bolt app is available, there aren’t many cars on the platform.

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