Stretching from the Black Sea to the Caspian Sea, the Caucasus Mountains form a natural barrier between Georgia and Russia to the north. Our Caucasus trekking itinerary takes you deep into the remote provinces of Khevi, Khevsureti and Tusheti, some of the most unspoilt regions of the Caucasus range where tourism is still very much in its infancy. Four wheel drive tracks take us deep into the mountains and on foot, with pony support we penetrate even deeper, crossing several high passes, and visiting remote and ancient villages and fortifications as we go. While most nights are spent camping in some beautiful locations, on occasions we will be the guests of the local people - a rare opportunity to meet then and understand their way of life.

Time is also set aside to explore the capital of Tbilisi and the old capital of Mtskheta, with its 6th Century Jvari church and 11th Century cathedral.

Dates & Prices

Itinerary

Day 1Depart UK

Day 2 Arrive at Tbilisi international airport in the early hours. Meet with guide and driver from Explore Georgia Ltd. Transfer to the hotel for an early check-in (subject to room availability) followed by the rest of the day free in Tblisi. An optional sightseeing tour can be arranged.

Day 3 After breakfast drive to Mtskheta, the old capital of Kartli-Iberia kingdom and the political and cultural centre since the 3rd century. Drive up to the 6th century Jvari church distinguished with harmonious proportions and representing the high achievements of early Georgian Medieval architecture. We visit Svetitskhoveli cathedral and Samtavro Nunnery - both 11th century architectural monuments. We continue north along Georgian Military Highway to Mtiuleti and Khevi provinces.  This ancient road is still important as a main link connecting all south Caucasus countries to Russia. We visit the Ananuri Architectural complex dated 16th-17th centuries, before continuing to Kazbegi.

Day 4 After breakfast we hike up to the 14th century Gergeti Trinity located at 2180 metres from where you can enjoy amazing view of Mt. Kazbegi (5047m). Return back to Kazbegi and make a 4WD transfer to the highest populated village of East Georgia, Juta 2000m. (45 min driving). After lunch in a local family house we trek towards the Chaukhi base camp at the foot of Caukhi mountain range. Chauki mountain massif contains seven peaks with altitude from 3400m up to 3843m. 3 to 4 hours walking.  

Day 5 We trek over main Caucasus range via Chaukhi pass (3338m). Descend to the Abudealuri lakes. 6 to 7 hours walking.

Day 6 In the morning we trek towards Roshka village (2 to 3 hours walking). Here we meet our 4X4 vehicles and drive to Shatili, a medieval fortified 'tower' village of Khevsureti province. (3 hours driving).

Day 7 We trek from Shatili to the ruins of Mutso towers, with a picnic lunch en-route, and continue to Khonistchala. 7 to 8 hours walking.

Day 8 Trek towards Atsunta Pass 3430m.Camp at Khidotani.7 to 8 hours walking.

Day 9 Full day trek towards ‘Khvakhidi’ campsite over Atsunta pass (3430m). 6 to 7 hours walking.

Day 10 Full day trek via villages Parsma and Girevi to the village of Chesho.8 to 9 hours walking.

Day 11 Hike towards Dartlo, one of the best preserved middle age villages in Tusheti. After exploring the village we continue to Omalo, centre of Tusheti province, where we will visit the Keselo middle age fortress. 6 to 7 hours walking.

Day 12 After an early breakfast we depart for Tbilisi over the Abano pass (2926m). This is the highest pass in Georgia and can be reached only by 4WD vehicles. The scenery of this journey is unforgettable and there are always lots of birds like golden eagles, falcons etc. nestled on the rocks along the road and flying in close to the cars. At Alvani village we change to minibuses and continue to Tbilisi for our last evening in Georgia.

Day 13 Early transfer to the airport to catch your flight home.

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