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Heli-skiing in Gudauri: what is it and when is the season?

Helicopter skiing: season, guides, format.

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Short answer

Heli-skiing in Gudauri means skiing slopes that a helicopter takes skiers to, and with enough snow the season opens in the second half of January and runs until late spring. Gudauri is one of the few Georgian resorts offering it. Licensed guides lead the groups, and several descents are usually made in a day.

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Why

  1. The season depends on snowfall: if there is enough snow, it opens in the second half of January.
  2. Before the tour, participants take a prep course on helicopter and avalanche safety.
  3. The guide assesses each skier's abilities and picks slopes and safe helicopter landing spots.

Details

Contact a local operator to book. Runs usually start early in the morning, and the number of descents depends on the skier's stamina and wishes. Operators offer an all-inclusive package (airport pick-up, hotel, food, supplies) or a more limited one; groups are 8 to 10 people.

For where the resort is see Where is Gudauri, and when is the season. The wider area is covered in Where is Kazbegi, and what is there to see.

Tip

Book through a local operator and ask in advance what the package includes.

What may differ

The start of the season depends on snow, and price and package contents differ between operators, so check prices in advance.

Common misconception

If you can ski, you need no preparation for heli-skiing.

What actually happens

Participants take a helicopter and avalanche safety course before the tour, and the guide picks slopes to suit each skier.

People also ask

  • Is there heli-skiing in Gudauri?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Freeride and heli-skiing carry avalanche risk, so go only with a certified guide.

Ski resorts in Georgia
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