Is it possible for a tourist to visit South Ossetia?
South Ossetia is a rebel provice of the Republic of Georgia recognized and supported by Russia as an independent state since 2008 but recognized by most countries in the world as part of the Republic of Georgia.
I heard that in the case of South Ossetia you cannot visit from Russia (North Ossetia) unless you are a citizen of a CIS country, and that you cannot visit from Georgia at all.
Is this still the case in November 2011? Can I visit as foreign tourist either from Georgia or Russia and if so what visas/permits/paperwork will I need? If I can visit from Russia but not from Georgia will I have trouble subsequently visiting Georgia with a South Ossetia passport stamp?
P.S.
I'm not asking about whether any western country issues travel advisories asking me not to visit. I'm aware it's unstable to some degree or other. If there are documented killings or kidnappings of western tourists in the last year that may be relevant however.
Best Answer
I tried to get into South Ossetia from Gori, in May 2008. Less than 3 months Before the 5-day-war. When I got to the checkpoint on the Georgian side, the military asked me what I was doing there "Do you know there is a war going on here" he said. Well he was right - 2 month later.
So I would like to say. No way you can get into Soth Ossetia from Gori today. You have to go from North, take the Roki tunnel. If you get a visa from the South Ossetian embassy in Moscow.
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Can you enter South Ossetia?
Entry requirementsSouth Ossetia may only be entered through Russia. All visitors, except for citizens of exempt countries, must be invited by a party in South Ossetia (a private citizen or a South Ossetian organization, such as a government department or business) prior to their arrival.Can I visit Ossetia?
Tourism in South Ossetia is illegal under Georgian law. No one may enter the occupied territory without permission, however it remains accessible through Russia via the South Ossetia\u2013Russia border. Non-Russian citizens are required to hold a valid Russian visa that permits them to return to Russia.Does the US recognize South Ossetia?
South Ossetia and the United States have no official relations as the U.S. recognizes South Ossetia as part of the sovereignty of Georgia.Does South Ossetia have a government?
South Ossetia's head of state is the president, the current president is Anatoly Bibilov. The head of government is the prime minister, who is supported by a cabinet of ministers.What do Russian tourists like to see in South Ossetia?
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