Backcountry Ski Tours
In Gudauri

Gudauri, Georgia

Gudauri Ski Touring: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Backcountry descents in Georgia's Most Accessible Alpine Paradise!

Discover the allure of Gudauri’s backcountry skiing scene with our guided ski tours, and you’ll quickly realize why this destination is gaining global recognition. The possibilities here are boundless, offering an unforgettable ski tour for every snow condition, rider skill level, and hiking preference. From the serene, rolling landscapes of Sioni Valley to the thrilling, narrow couloirs of Narvani Mountain, our team of professional ski tour guides ensures that you’ll savor the absolute best of the Caucasus. Join us for an unmatched backcountry skiing experience in Gudauri, where adventure knows no limits.

PROFESSIONAL
GUIDE

GROUND
TRANSPORT

SKILL
DEVELOPMENT

TRIP OVERVIEW

On Your Adventure You Will

Explore with Deeply Knowledgeable Guides
Our experienced ski touring guides are not only fluent in English but also intimately familiar with the Gudauri/Kazbegi region. They possess an in-depth knowledge of the terrain, ensuring a safe and exhilarating adventure into Gudauri’s expansive backcountry. With countless options to explore, you’re guaranteed to have a blast while soaking in breathtaking views.

WHATS INCLUDED​

Effortless Transportation
Relax with our convenient Door-to-Trail transportation services. Our driver will pick you up from your Gudauri accommodation and transport you to the agreed-upon location for the day’s adventure. After a fulfilling day of backcountry adventure, our driver will ensure your comfortable return, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the epic day you’ve had.

Avalanche Safety 
In the realm of backcountry skiing, there’s no such thing as too much knowledge and safety awareness, especially concerning avalanches. Whether you’re a newcomer learning to use a beacon or a professional pit digger, our guides will elevate your understanding and awareness, placing safety first when backcountry ski touring in Guduari.

Skill Development
Beyond avalanche safety, our guides are skilled in helping you navigate challenging, deep, and steep terrain with ease, using specialized riding techniques. You’ll learn how to conserve your energy, enabling you to stay out longer and carve through more powder. Elevate your skills and make the most of your Gudauri ski tour.

HOTEL PICKUP

Pickup Time: 09:30
Begin your Gudauri ski tour with convenience and ease. Our professional driver will pick you up from your Gudauri hotel at 09:30 AM, ensuring a punctual start to your adventure.

MORNING BRIEF & GEAR CHECK

Location: Tour Starting Point
Upon arriving at the tour starting point, meet your professional ski guide who will assess the snow conditions and your skiing level. You’ll receive a thorough briefing on the day’s plan, safety protocols, and the chosen route based on conditions and your preferences. Ensure all your gear is properly checked and adjusted for maximum comfort and safety.

GUDAURI SKI TOURING

Duration: 10:30 AM – 16:30 PM
Set out on your exhilarating guided ski tour in the Gudauri-Kazbegi region. Your guide will lead you through pristine snowscapes, exploring some of the most breathtaking terrain in the Caucasus. Enjoy the thrill of untracked powder, stunning mountain views, and the freedom of untouched backcountry skiing. During the tour, you’ll also receive expert guidance on avalanche safety and ski technique, tailored to your skill level and preferences.

A SCENIC LUNCH BREAK

Location: Scenic Spot Along the Route

Around midday, take a break in a picturesque spot amidst the wilderness. Eat some snacks and replenish your energy for the afternoon adventure. Revel in the natural beauty surrounding you, and perhaps engage in some discussion with your guide about your morning’s experiences and goals for the afternoon.

AFTERNOON EXPLORATION

Duration: 13:30 PM – 16:30 PM
Continue your backcountry ski tour, exploring the Gudauri backcountry. Your guide will provide further instruction and refinement of your skiing technique if desired. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this afternoon session is designed to enhance your skills and confidence in the backcountry.

HOTEL DROPOFF
Dropoff Time: 17:30
As the day draws to a close, our driver will transport you safely back to your Gudauri hotel, ensuring you’re comfortably settled in by 17:30. Take the time to relax, rejuvenate, and relive the memories of your incredible backcountry ski touring experience in Gudauri.

Prerequisites

Previous experience skiing or snowboarding in powder, fitness level suitable for hiking at high elevation for 3-4 hours. 

Required Equipment

Touring Gear
– Skis / Splitboard Equipped with Touring Bindings
– Climbing skins
– Touring Ski/snowboard Boots
– Collapsible Touring Poles

Avy Gear
– Avalanche Beacon
– Avalanche Probe
– Foldable Shovel

Outer Wear  
– Base layers
– Midlayers
– Waterproof Ski Pants
– Waterproof Ski Jacket
– Gloves
– Helmet
– Goggles

Backcountry Essentials  
– Sunglasses
– 25-35 L Backpack (large enough to carry all of your equipment)
– Water Bottle (thermos is best)
– Snacks
– Sunscreen

 

RECOMMENDED

Travel Insurance
– Comprehensive travel insurance with medical and trip cancellation cover

PROFESSIONAL GUIDE

Fluent English, First Aid Trianed

TRANSPORT

Lodging to Trailhead

BACKCOUNTRY 

Gudauri / Kazbegi

DURATION

6 Hours

SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Avalanche Safety & Ski Technique 

PRICE

From $88 / Person

PRICE CALCULATOR

PARTICIPANTS

PER PERSON


TOTAL


Reviewer
Laura Crudeli
Apr 5, 2023
We had some trouble with the payment and we were not lucky with the weather, but Chiara and the skitour guide Kakhaber were really nice, honest and understanding 🙂
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
Google
Reviewer
Sumeet Chandhok
Feb 1, 2023
I made a free ride /ski tour booking with Vagabound adventures . The reason I chose them was because I did not have a good experience during the phase of communications with the others . Vagabound adventures , the girl named Chiara advised me when to do my air and hotel booking , considering the snow conditions for offpiste/ free ride and some piste which I had signed for which was for me important since i was coming from india . The whole communication with her gave me assurance that they are professionals , they know the snow conditions very well for offpiste /free riding . They assigned Simone to be my trainer/guide for my three sessions . I never expected Simone to start communications in a professional manner right after I booked them. He adviced me which skis I should bring along since I have a couple of free riding skis , considering the snow conditions here at the moment. The moment I met him , it was magic , the reason being I didn’t expect a trainer to become my Freind and the way he encouraged me , I must say that no previous trainers of mine took care of me especially educating me about the avalanche areas and what should ne done Incase I face one . I’ll drink 3 beers to them, One awsome team !
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
Trip Advisor
Reviewer
Martina Ondrová
Feb 8, 2023
We did a one day course with Vagabond Adventures in Gudauri - avalanche course and basic ski touring. We were a group of 6 - some of us for the first time on ski alps or splitboards. Eva and Šimon took a great care of us, answered all our questions and even help us with equipment rental. I hope this wasn’t our last well spent time with vagabond guys. It was real fun! Thanks.
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
Google
Reviewer
POWDERHOUNDS EUROPE
Oct 25, 2023
Had a funtastic (sic) backcountry day out with Taylor and the crew from Vagabond Adventures. Knowledgeable, calm, measured, assured = exactly what one wants in big mountain, backcountry terrain. The skinning was set at a cruisy pace for our slowest group member. And whilst the snow wasn’t awesome when we went out, it didn’t matter. We knew what we were in for, and we laughed our way through it and appreciated the grandeur and quiet of the place. No one else was where we were. The mountains are vast in this region, and some of the backcountry descents could be amongst the all-time best skiing moments of your life in stable powder. In a foreign country, no matter how friendly the locals are, it is always nice to have a guide like Taylor, a native English speaker, that is fluent in the local language. His and his team’s experience in Georgia counts for a lot. It smooths out the ever-present creases that one comes across in Georgia. We learnt in Gudauri to never bother asking why? Why, well because there is no point. Sometimes there is just no reasonable answer. And so it was a pleasure to catch Taylor out asking why ……… and getting him to drop and give me ten (push-ups that is!). Classic. When the ski resort has done all it can for you, get out with Vagabond Adventures and discover the real reason for coming to Gudauri.
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
PowderHounds
Reviewer
Smiling Assassin
Nov 18, 2023
"Taylor" made backcountry touring with Vagabond Adventures so much fun. These tours cater to everyone in the small group, providing a fun adventure which is enhanced by the guides quirky, cheerful leadership that you can't help but get caught up in. The snow wasn't at it's best when I was there but I still had a fantastic experience.
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
PowderHounds
Reviewer
Laura Crudeli
Apr 5, 2023
We had some trouble with the payment and we were not lucky with the weather, but Chiara and the skitour guide Kakhaber were really nice, honest and understanding 🙂
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
Google
Reviewer
Sumeet Chandhok
Feb 1, 2023
I made a free ride /ski tour booking with Vagabound adventures . The reason I chose them was because I did not have a good experience during the phase of communications with the others . Vagabound adventures , the girl named Chiara advised me when to do my air and hotel booking , considering the snow conditions for offpiste/ free ride and some piste which I had signed for which was for me important since i was coming from india . The whole communication with her gave me assurance that they are professionals , they know the snow conditions very well for offpiste /free riding . They assigned Simone to be my trainer/guide for my three sessions . I never expected Simone to start communications in a professional manner right after I booked them. He adviced me which skis I should bring along since I have a couple of free riding skis , considering the snow conditions here at the moment. The moment I met him , it was magic , the reason being I didn’t expect a trainer to become my Freind and the way he encouraged me , I must say that no previous trainers of mine took care of me especially educating me about the avalanche areas and what should ne done Incase I face one . I’ll drink 3 beers to them, One awsome team !
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
Trip Advisor
Reviewer
Martina Ondrová
Feb 8, 2023
We did a one day course with Vagabond Adventures in Gudauri - avalanche course and basic ski touring. We were a group of 6 - some of us for the first time on ski alps or splitboards. Eva and Šimon took a great care of us, answered all our questions and even help us with equipment rental. I hope this wasn’t our last well spent time with vagabond guys. It was real fun! Thanks.
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
Google
Reviewer
POWDERHOUNDS EUROPE
Oct 25, 2023
Had a funtastic (sic) backcountry day out with Taylor and the crew from Vagabond Adventures. Knowledgeable, calm, measured, assured = exactly what one wants in big mountain, backcountry terrain. The skinning was set at a cruisy pace for our slowest group member. And whilst the snow wasn’t awesome when we went out, it didn’t matter. We knew what we were in for, and we laughed our way through it and appreciated the grandeur and quiet of the place. No one else was where we were. The mountains are vast in this region, and some of the backcountry descents could be amongst the all-time best skiing moments of your life in stable powder. In a foreign country, no matter how friendly the locals are, it is always nice to have a guide like Taylor, a native English speaker, that is fluent in the local language. His and his team’s experience in Georgia counts for a lot. It smooths out the ever-present creases that one comes across in Georgia. We learnt in Gudauri to never bother asking why? Why, well because there is no point. Sometimes there is just no reasonable answer. And so it was a pleasure to catch Taylor out asking why ……… and getting him to drop and give me ten (push-ups that is!). Classic. When the ski resort has done all it can for you, get out with Vagabond Adventures and discover the real reason for coming to Gudauri.
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
PowderHounds
Reviewer
Smiling Assassin
Nov 18, 2023
"Taylor" made backcountry touring with Vagabond Adventures so much fun. These tours cater to everyone in the small group, providing a fun adventure which is enhanced by the guides quirky, cheerful leadership that you can't help but get caught up in. The snow wasn't at it's best when I was there but I still had a fantastic experience.
Read more
Review Source Image
Posted on
PowderHounds

GUDAURI

BACKCOUNTRY TERRAIN

Gudauri offers an array of backcountry terrain that caters to skiers and snowboarders of various skill levels. Here’s a breakdown of the terrain you can explore:

Alpine Bowls
Gudauri is renowned for its vast alpine bowls, providing open and expansive areas for backcountry enthusiasts. These bowls offer opportunities for both powder-filled descents and wide-open turns.

Steep Chutes 
Thrill-seekers will appreciate the steep chutes and couloirs that Gudauri has to offer. These challenging descents are ideal for advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for an adrenaline rush.

Remote Zones
If you’re looking for solitude and untouched snow, venture into Gudauri’s remote zones. These areas require careful planning and are best explored with a knowledgeable guide.

SNOW CONDITIONS

Gudauri typically enjoys abundant snowfall, making it a backcountry skiing paradise. Here’s what you need to know about snow conditions:

Snowfall
Gudauri experiences snowfall from December to the end of March, with an average annual snowfall of over 5 meters (16 feet). This consistent snowpack ensures excellent conditions for backcountry skiing throughout the season.

Varied Conditions 
From light, dry powder to spring corn snow, Gudauri offers a wide range of snow conditions to suit every skier’s preference.

GETTING THERE

Gudauri is not only one of Georgia’s premier ski resorts but also one of the most accessible destinations for backcountry skiing adventures. Here are your transportation options to reach this winter wonderland:

From Tbilisi
Gudauri is conveniently located just a 2.5-hour drive north of Tbilisi, and the journey is nothing short of spectacular along the scenic “Military Highway.” For those seeking budget-friendly travel, public Marshrutkas depart hourly from Didube Metro Station, offering an authentic local experience.

If you prefer a more comfortable and hassle-free ride, consider reaching out to us. We can arrange a private transfer with one of our experienced drivers, ensuring you arrive at Gudauri in style and comfort.

From Kutaisi.
While the drive from Kutaisi is a bit longer, lasting approximately 5 hours, it’s a straightforward route that takes you through central Georgia. You’ll also have the opportunity to traverse the new “Silk Road” highway project, adding a unique element to your journey. This route eventually connects to the renowned “Military Highway” that leads you northward to Gudauri.

WHEN TO COME

The ideal time to plan your backcountry ski tour in Gudauri depends on your preferences and skill level:

Mid February – March
This period often provide the best balance between abundant snowfall and milder temperatures. The sunnier days make for great backcountry adventures.

Late March – April
As spring approaches, you can still enjoy great skiing, especially in higher elevations, with the added bonus of longer daylight hours and that spring corn snow!

BOOK YOUR BACKCOUNTRY
SKI TOUR IN GUDAURI
TODAY!

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