Description
Abul-Samsari Trek – Georgia’s Volcanic Highland Adventure
The Abuli-Samsari Range trekking tour in Georgia takes you across one of the most unique volcanic landscapes of the Lesser Caucasus, located in the remote Samtskhe-Javakheti region. This highland area, formed by ancient extinct volcanoes, features rolling alpine meadows, moraine hills, and numerous scenic lakes scattered across a vast, untouched terrain.
This 52 km multi-day trek includes the ascent of Didi Abuli (3,301 m) as well as Mount Samsari (3,260 m), offering two of the most rewarding viewpoints in the region. Starting from the remote village of Abuli, the trail climbs from open grasslands to rugged volcanic ridges. The ascents are physically demanding, but the reward is a spectacular 360° panorama, with views of the Greater Caucasus, Paravani Lake, and even Mount Elbrus, Aragats, and Mount Ararat on clear days.
The best time for this trekking tour in Georgia is from June to October, when the Abul-Samsari Range is fully accessible and at its most beautiful.
Upon your arrival at Tbilisi International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Tbilisi. After check-in, you will have time to relax, recover from your flight, and prepare for the unforgettable adventure ahead.
DETAILS:
Driving - 18 km (25 min)
Accommodation - 3* hotel
After breakfast, travelers will meet their guide. Following a briefing and equipment check, the group will depart for Gandzani village.
On the way, you will visit the stunning Paravani Lake and the Poka Nunnery. Passing through Vladimirovka village, the route continues toward Abuli Fortress. Upon arrival, the group will set up camp and have lunch nearby.
Later, we will hike to Abuli Fortress – a dry-stone cyclopean fortress located on Mount Small Abuli at an altitude of 2,550 meters above sea level.
After the visit, return to the campsite for dinner and rest. Overnight in tents.
DETAILS:
Driving – 160 km (2.5 h)
Trekking – 6 km (2–3 h)
Elevation gain – ↑330 m
Elevation loss – ↓330 m
After breakfast, the group will continue towards the picturesque Didi (big) Abuli Lake, located at an altitude of 2,870 meters above sea level. Lunch will be arranged en route. Upon arrival, we will set up a campsite by the lake, surrounded by stunning highland scenery.
In the evening, dinner will be served, followed by well-deserved rest. Overnight will be spent in tents by the lake.
DETAILS:
Trekking – 8 km (4–5 h)
Elevation gain – ↑650 m
Accommodation – tents
After breakfast, you will hike from Didi Abuli Lake toward Mount Abuli (3301 m), one of the highest volcanic peaks in the Javakheti region of southern Georgia. This extinct volcano is characterized by dramatic moraines, vast alpine landscapes, and panoramic views over the Javakheti Plateau.
After reaching the summit, you will descend and continue your trekking route toward the scenic Levangeli Lake. Along the way, you will pass two additional remote alpine lakes, making this one of the most picturesque hiking days in the Abuli volcanic area.
In the evening, you will set up camp by Levangeli Lake, enjoy dinner in nature, and relax after a rewarding day of trekking in Georgia’s highlands.
Overnight in tents.
DETAILS:
Trekking – 12 km (5–6 h)
Elevation gain – 1230 m
Elevation loss – 725 m
Difficulty – moderate to hard
After breakfast, you will begin your trek from Levangeli Lake toward the scenic White Lake and Green Lake, located at the foot of Mount Samsari in the Javakheti region of southern Georgia.
This day’s hike takes you across open highland landscapes of the Javakheti Plateau, known for its volcanic terrain, alpine meadows, and remote lakes. Along the way, you will enjoy wide panoramic views and the peaceful atmosphere of one of Georgia’s least-visited trekking regions.
Upon arrival at Green Lake, you will set up camp, enjoy dinner in nature, and rest after the trek.
Overnight in tents.
DETAILS:
Trekking – 8 km (4–5 hours)
Elevation gain – 525 m
Elevation loss – 0 m
Difficulty – moderate
After breakfast at the campsite by Green Lake, you will begin your ascent toward the impressive Mount Samsari (3260 m). This volcanic peak is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Javakheti highlands, offering dramatic panoramic views over the surrounding volcanic plateau, alpine lakes, and vast open landscapes of southern Georgia.
The hiking route gradually climbs through high-altitude terrain shaped by ancient volcanic activity. As you gain elevation, the scenery becomes more rugged and expansive, revealing the raw beauty of the Samsari volcanic range.
After reaching the summit and enjoying time at the top, you will descend back to the campsite at Green Lake. In the evening, you will have dinner and rest in a peaceful alpine setting.
Overnight in tents.
DETAILS:
Trekking – 10 km (4–5 h)
Elevation gain – 460 m
Elevation loss – 460 m
Difficulty – moderate
After breakfast, you will descend towards the beautiful Tabatskuri Lake, located at an altitude of 1991 m. This high-altitude lake is one of the largest and most scenic in Georgia, surrounded by volcanic landscapes and alpine meadows of the Trialeti Range.
Upon arrival near Tabatskuri Lake, you will meet the minivan and begin your drive back to Tbilisi via the scenic Tskhratskaro Pass. The route offers beautiful mountain views and a final look at the highlands of southern Georgia.
On the way, you will stop for dinner. In the evening, arrival in Tbilisi and overnight at the hotel.
DETAILS:
Trekking – 8 km (2–3 h)
Driving – 215 km (4 h)
Elevation gain – 0 m
Elevation loss – 809 m
Difficulty – easy
After breakfast, you will enjoy an Old Tbilisi walking tour. During the walk, you will explore the main highlights of Georgia’s capital, including historic streets, sulfur baths, and other key attractions of the Old Town.
After the tour, you will have lunch and free time to continue exploring the city or relax at your own pace.
In the evening, you will enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant.
Later, we will provide a transfer to the airport, marking the end of your journey.
DETAILS:
Walking - 4 km (2–3 h)
Driving - 18 km (25 m)
Other Activities
Season Other Activities Description
