Safety
 

All the questions seem to be answered regarding the Georgia/Russian crossing. Was hoping to be on the Georgia side around Stepantsminda in May but looking on the UK Govt website they advise not to travel in South Ossetia. This area was on my list of principal places to visit on my Georgia/Armenia and Turkey trip.


Any recent info about the area would be gratefully received.


Thanks in advance.


Boycie

Stepantsminda is located just off the Georgian military highway just after crossing over from Russia (North Ossetia) so thats fine to visit

Now prior to the 2008 South Ossetia conflict you could visit South Ossetia via Gori (Stalin's place of birth) or via Russia on the Roki Tunnel

After the 2008 conflict South Ossetia became independent of Georgia however this is only recognized by Russia, Nicaragua, Venezuela and Nauru abit like Transnistria, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Abkhazia

So that is why the UK Govt website advise not to travel as they don't recognize this republic as being independent and regard it as being part of the Republic of Georgia.

To access this republic you will have to obtain permission before hand however due to the current Geopolitical state i doubt you will get a visa for this republic

If you are not a Russia citizen, in order to travel to South Ossetia you must receive permission from the Foreign Ministry of South Ossetia. If you do not get this permission you will be denied entry to South Ossetia. Contact the consular section of the Ministry of Foreigner affairs in South Ossetia. Allow plenty of time and insist in the end if your visit has approved to give the reply also in Russian.

Also South Ossetia is not directly South of North Ossetia it is more West.

EO who is on this forum knows more than most has he visited there before.
Stage 20 – Russia & South Ossetia: The North Caucasus [2/2] | EurasiaOverland

Maybe he can advise better

Also for Abkhazia you need a visa if you want to go there
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...eorgia-75330-2

As for Georgia it is very safe country to travel around with no issues, i have been there a few times and i love the place and look forward to visiting again some time

Many thanks for the comprehensive information. It is a great help.


Boycie