Above the Military Highway: A One-Day Gudauri Adventure of Paragliding, Rafting, and Mountain Trails
Soar, taste, and tread the Caucasus in a single, unforgettable day
The first thing you notice in Gudauri is the sky. It opens wide over serrated ridgelines, and the wind arrives with an easy authority, tugging at your jacket and testing the patience of the launch crews. On a crisp morning the slopes feel like a relay: mountain passes hand you off to thermals, thermals hand you to the glider, and the glider hands you back to the river far below. This full-day trip from Tbilisi threads those elements together — a tandem paragliding flight off a snow-sparked ridge, a riverside rafting stop, and a short hike framed by the Georgian Military Highway — all packaged into a single, decisive day of movement.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for wind and sun
High-altitude launches are windy and bright; bring a windbreaker and sun protection even if mornings feel cool.
Secure footwear
Launch and short hikes include loose scree and muddy trail sections; trekking shoes with good grip make takeoff and walkouts easier.
Bring a small daypack
Pack a water bottle, light snacks, and a spare layer so you can stay comfortable during transfers and the flight.
Plan buffer time
Flights are weather-dependent; avoid scheduling the tour on your last day to allow for rescheduling.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive to the Zhinvali viewpoint for sweeping reservoir panoramas
- •Explore the lesser-visited trails around the Ananuri complex for quiet historical views
Wildlife
Golden eagle, Chamois
Conservation Note
Stick to marked launch and landing zones and avoid disturbing alpine flora; responsible operators limit their footprint and practice strict waste management.
The Georgian Military Highway has been a strategic route for centuries, linking Tbilisi to the Caucasus and hosting historic sites like the Ananuri fortress complex dating mainly to the 16th and 17th centuries.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Stable thermals later in day, Wildflowers below the ridges
Challenges: Unpredictable snowmelt, Variable wind directions
Spring offers melting snow and a fresh landscape; mornings can be chilly and wind patterns shift, so afternoon flights are common.
summer
Best for: Clear skies, Longer daylight for photography
Challenges: Afternoon thermals can be strong, Higher visitor numbers
Summer brings the most stable flying windows and easy road access; bring sun protection for exposed launch sites.
fall
Best for: Crisp visibility, Autumn colors on lower slopes
Challenges: Rapid temperature drops, Early season weather shifts
Early autumn often has calm, clear days and spectacular color, but evenings cool quickly and weather can change fast.
winter
Best for: Snow-capped views, Seasonal atmosphere
Challenges: Cold takeoffs and potential cancellations, Shorter daylight hours
Winter creates dramatic snowy vistas and unique flying conditions but increases the chance of weather-related cancellations and requires heavier layers.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy trekking shoesEssential
Provide traction on scree and muddy trails at launch and landing areas.
Windproof shellEssential
Protects against gusts and the chill of higher altitudes during flight.
Sunglasses and sunscreenEssential
High-elevation sun is intense; eye and skin protection is essential.
Small daypack and water bottleEssential
Keeps essentials organized and hydrated during long transfers and waits.
Common Questions
Do I need prior paragliding experience?
No; flights are tandem with a trained pilot so no prior experience is required.
What is the cancellation policy for bad weather?
Flights are weather-dependent and may be canceled for safety; operators will rebook where possible and recommend not booking on your final travel day.
Is there an age or weight limit?
Operators often have weight and age guidelines for tandem flights; check directly with the provider when booking.
What language are briefings given in?
Most operators provide briefings in English and Russian; ask about other languages if needed.
Are helmets and gloves provided?
Yes; the tour provides helmets and gloves for the flight portion.
How long is the actual flight time?
Flight duration varies with conditions but typically lasts 10–30 minutes per tandem flight, with ground time for transfers and sightseeing making up the rest of the day.
What to Pack
Windproof jacket for gusts; sturdy trekking shoes for launch runs; sunglasses and sunscreen for high-altitude sun; small water bottle for hydration
Did You Know
Ananuri fortress overlooks the Zhinvali reservoir and features defensive towers and a 17th-century church, reflecting the region's historic control of the Military Highway.
Quick Travel Tips
Allow 2–3 hours driving time from Tbilisi; bring cash for roadside stops; confirm pickup time the evening before; expect limited cell coverage on ridgelines
Local Flavor
After the flight, seek a communal meal of khachapuri and mtsvadi; in Gudauri small cafes serve hearty soups and local bread, while Tbilisi's Old Town offers lively wine bars and a broader taste of Georgian cuisine.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Tbilisi International Airport (TBS); Driving distance from Tbilisi: ~2–2.5 hours along Georgian Military Highway; Cell service: patchy above tree line; Permits: none typically required for tandem flights
Sustainability Note
This route crosses sensitive alpine habitat and historic sites; respect marked trails, pack out all trash, and choose operators who minimize shore and slope disturbance.