Description
Tusheti & Khevsureti – Remote Mountain Adventure
Tusheti and Khevsureti are two of the most remote and breathtaking trekking regions in Georgia, located in the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Known for their untouched alpine landscapes, deep river gorges, and ancient stone villages, these highlands offer one of the most authentic trekking experiences in the Caucasus.
Tusheti is famous for its dramatic scenery, dense forests, and traditional villages such as Omalo and Dartlo. The region preserves a strong pastoral culture, where locals continue sheep herding and seasonal mountain life. Accessible only during summer via the legendary Abano Pass, Tusheti is one of Georgia’s most iconic off-road and trekking destinations.
Khevsureti is known for its rugged peaks and historic mountain settlements such as Shatili and Mutso, where medieval defensive towers and ancient traditions are still preserved.
The two regions are connected by the challenging Atsunta Pass (3,431 m), a 41 km high-altitude trekking route considered one of the most scenic and demanding crossings in Georgia. Each summer, from June to September, it attracts trekkers from around the world seeking raw wilderness, cultural heritage, and unforgettable Caucasus mountain views.
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
Your Tusheti tour begins early in the morning, as you set off towards the remote and breathtaking landscapes of Georgia’s Tusheti region. After breakfast, you will meet your guide, followed by a brief equipment check. We then drive towards the Kakheti wine region, where we visit the impressive Alaverdi Cathedral, a remarkable 11th-century monument and one of Georgia’s most important religious sites.
Continuing the journey, we cross the dramatic Abano Pass, one of the highest and most adventurous motorable passes in Europe, reaching elevations of 2,850–2,950 meters. After approximately six hours of scenic mountain driving, we arrive in Omalo village, the administrative center of Tusheti and the main gateway for travelers exploring the region.
Upon arrival in Omalo, we check in at a local guesthouse. After some rest, we explore Omalo village and visit the historic Keselo Towers, a symbol of Tusheti’s medieval heritage. Later in the day, we continue to the picturesque villages of Diklo and Shenako, known for their traditional architecture, panoramic views, and authentic Tushetian culture.
Dinner and overnight in Omalo.
DETAILS:
Driving – 225 km (6-7 h)
Accommodation – guesthouse
Tusheti is divided into two main valleys – the Pirikiti Alazani River valley and the Gometsari Alazani River valley. Today, we explore the Pirikiti Tusheti valley, one of the most scenic and culturally rich parts of the region.
In the morning, we hike from Omalo to Dartlo village, a beautifully restored medieval settlement known for its traditional stone houses, defensive towers, and authentic Tushetian architecture. Dartlo is one of the most iconic villages in Tusheti and a true example of preserved high-mountain heritage.
From Dartlo, we continue hiking to Kvavlo village – a remote and partially ruined settlement overlooking the Alazani River gorge. Kvavlo offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and ancient stone structures, making it a highlight of today’s hike.
Return hike back to Dartlo. Dinner and overnight in Dartlo.
DETAILS:
Trekking – 18 km (6 h)
Elevation gain – ↑ 800 m
Elevation loss – ↓ 600 m
Difficulty – moderate
Overnight – guesthouse
Continuing our journey through the remote region of Tusheti, today we follow the Pirikiti Alazani River upstream, moving deeper into the dramatic Pirikiti Tusheti valley – known for its narrow gorges, traditional villages, and untouched mountain landscapes.
In the morning, we depart from Dartlo and visit the picturesque villages of Chesho and Parsma. These historic Tushetian settlements are distinguished by their well-preserved stone houses, medieval defensive towers, and authentic high-mountain architecture.
From Parsma, we continue along a scenic and narrow mountain trail that leads us further into the valley. The route offers beautiful views of the Alazani River gorge and surrounding peaks, providing a true sense of Tusheti’s wild and isolated nature.
By the afternoon, we reach Girevi village – the last inhabited settlement in the Pirikiti valley and one of the most remote villages in Tusheti, located near the border with Dagestan.
Dinner and overnight in Girevi.
DETAILS:
Trekking: 14 km (6 h)
Elevation gain: ↑ 400 m
Elevation loss: ↓ 200 m
Difficulty: moderate
Overnight: guesthouse
After breakfast, we begin one of the most challenging and rewarding days of our Tusheti trekking tour. Starting from Girevi village, we continue deeper into the remote Pirikiti Tusheti valley, following a narrow mountain gorge along the upper reaches of the Alazani River.
Along the way, we cross several small mountain streams and pass the abandoned village of Chontio – one of the most remote and lesser-known settlements in Tusheti, preserving the atmosphere of an ancient highland community.
The trail leads us through wild alpine landscapes, including open green fields, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. This section of the route highlights the untouched nature and true wilderness of Tusheti.
By the afternoon, we reach the Kvakhidi area – a scenic location set among alpine meadows, ideal for camping. Here we set up tents and enjoy dinner in the heart of nature.
Dinner and overnight in tents.
DETAILS:
Trekking – 13 km (7 h)
Elevation gain – ↑ 950 m
Elevation loss – ↓ 550 m
Difficulty – hard
Overnight – tents
After breakfast, we begin one of the most challenging and spectacular days of the Tusheti trekking tour. Today we hike from the Kvakhidi camping area towards the highest point of the entire route – Atsunta Pass.
In the early morning, we ascend through alpine landscapes towards Atsunta Pass, located at 3,431 meters above sea level. From the pass, we enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, alpine meadows, and the remote wilderness of the Greater Caucasus.
After a short break for snacks and rest at the pass, we begin our descent towards the Khidotani Ridge. The trail continues through vast open alpine terrain, offering dramatic mountain scenery throughout the day.
By late afternoon, we reach the camping area near Khidotani Ridge, located on the western side of Atsunta Pass in the Khevsureti region. Here we set up tents, enjoy dinner, and rest in a peaceful high-mountain environment.
Dinner and overnight in tents.
DETAILS:
Trekking – 10 km (7 h)
Elevation gain – ↑ 1100 m
Elevation loss – ↓ 1100 m
Difficulty – hard
Overnight – tents
After breakfast in the stunning high-mountain nature of Khidotani Ridge, we begin our descent into the narrow gorge of Khevsureti. The trail leads us through dramatic landscapes as we reach one of the first inhabited areas of the region.
Continuing along the route, we pass the village of Khone and arrive at Mutso – a historic and largely abandoned fortified village that remains one of the most impressive cultural landmarks in Khevsureti. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and ancient stone towers, Mutso offers a powerful glimpse into Georgia’s medieval mountain heritage. The Mutso fortress complex, recently restored, stands as a highlight of the region.
From Mutso, we take a short hike (approximately 2 km) to explore the fortress area, built entirely without cement, showcasing traditional dry-stone architecture. After visiting the fortress, we continue our journey.
Later, we descend by vehicle towards Shatili, one of the most iconic fortress villages in Georgia, and included on the UNESCO Tentative List. On the way, we pass the Anatori tombs, a historic and atmospheric site along the valley.
Upon arrival in Shatili, we check in at a local guesthouse - dinner and overnight in a traditional Georgian mountain environment.
DETAILS:
Trekking – 11 km (5 h)
Elevation gain – ↑ 200 m
Elevation loss – ↓ 1100 m
Difficulty – moderate
Overnight – guesthouse
After breakfast, we begin our drive back to Tbilisi. The journey takes us through the stunning landscapes of the Khevsureti region, with stops at two unique historical landmarks along the way – Lebaiskari Fortress and Kistani Fortress. These remote defensive structures offer a fascinating insight into Georgia’s medieval mountain architecture and strategic heritage.
Continuing the journey, we visit Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will explore one of the country’s most important cultural and religious centers.
After the visit, we stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
In the evening, we arrive in Tbilisi. Check in at the hotel, dinner, and time to rest.
DETAILS:
Driving - 155 km (4 h)
Accommodation - 3* hotel
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
