Tour Type: Mountain Tour | Regions: Tbilisi – Kakheti – Shida Kartli – Samtskhe
Fascination Caucasus: Peaks and Stories in Tusheti and Javakheti
Date: September 11-20, 2025 | Duration: 10 Days | Group Size: 10 - 15 | Price: €1090.00

Intro
Whether forests or wine cellars, scouts or gourmets: On this tour through the Georgian part of the Caucasus, the diversity of the region takes center stage. In the breathtaking national parks of Tusheti and Javakheti, we will explore both the Greater and Lesser Caucasus, even reaching its most remote corners. These protected areas are particularly known for their diverse landscapes: In addition to subnival scree fields and blooming alpine meadows, we will pass through dry savannas, mixed forests, steppes, and volcanic lakes. In this mosaic of landscapes, the local wildlife, including a variety of endangered species, has been able to develop almost undisturbed for centuries. Wolf howls can be heard nearly every evening, and traces of brown bears and Caucasian ibexes are often visible. The traditional villages, fortresses, and mountain settlements that harmoniously blend into this wild landscape are especially impressive, inviting us to cultural and culinary experiences.
Highlights
- Three-day hike in the Greater Caucasus with horse support and without heavy luggage
- Day hike to Mount Didi Abuli, an extinct volcano in the Lesser Caucasus
- Overnight stays in family-run guesthouses, in vineyards, and at wild campsites
- Discovering the regional flora and fauna and exciting insights into environmental conservation with knowledgeable guides
- Meeting the hospitable people who dedicate their lives to the mountains and ancient traditions
- Participation in a cooking course led by a host family to prepare "Khinkali," the famous Georgian dumplings
- Visit to the cave city of Vardzia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Culinary experiences with tastings of Qvevri wines and home-brewed beer
Guides
- Kartlos Manvelidze, socio-ecologist at the Tbilisi State University; CEO of Geographic Travel Georgia
- Christopher Hellerich, landscape ecologist at the University of Freiburg; travel expert at Geographic Travel Georgia
Language of Travel
German
Required Equipment
Waterproof tent, sleeping pad, warm sleeping bag (up to 4°C), comfortable hiking boots, rainproof clothing, headlamp or flashlight, drinking cup, metal plate, cutlery, water bottle, reusable lunch box, bath towel, swimwear, hygiene items (biodegradable soap, toothpaste, toothbrush), sun protection (cream and hat), insect repellent. Hiking equipment according to the layered principle, as well as change of clothes for the evening.
Hiking Route
- Total distance and duration: 65.6 km, 4 days
- Ascent: 3463 m
- Lowest point: 2060 m above sea level (village of Girevi)
- Highest point: 3431 m above sea level (Atsunta Pass)
- Difficulty: Medium - Challenging
- Backpack weight: approx. 3 kg (2l water + lunch box)
- Expected temperature: min. +4°C, max. +30°C
Tour Map
Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Kutaisi/Tbilisi
Arrival at the international airport in Kutaisi or Tbilisi. Independent transfer to the hotel in Tbilisi and check-in.
Around 8 PM, we will meet for a welcome dinner in a Georgian restaurant in the old town to introduce ourselves and experience Georgian cuisine and local drinks.
Meals: Dinner
Overnight: Guesthouse in Tbilisi

Day 2 Tbilisi – Omalo – Girevi
In the early morning, we set off towards the Greater Caucasus. The journey takes us through dense forests and past rushing mountain rivers. A special stop is the Abano Pass, at 2,830 meters, one of the highest driveable passes in the Caucasus Mountains. From here, we are treated to impressive views of the majestic Caucasus mountains and the vast Alazani Gorge.
In the early afternoon, we reach the settlement of Omalo. Here, we visit the visitor center of the Tusheti National Park. The building houses an exciting photo exhibition on local nature and culture, and we will get an introduction to the region's geographical conditions, biodiversity, and conservation efforts.
Afterwards, we take a walk through the village to the local ethnographic museum in Keselo Castle, where we learn more about the history and architecture of the region. In the evening, we continue our journey (about 1 hour) to our guesthouse in the village of Girevi, where our hostess will greet us with a warm, traditional meal.
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic, and Dinner
Overnight: Guesthouse in Girevi

Day 3 Girevi – Kvakhidi
Today is the first day of our hike. After a nutritious breakfast, we check our equipment, load the pack horses with the heavy luggage, and begin our hike right from the doorstep of the guesthouse.
The path takes us along the Kvakhidisitskali River, whose clear mountain water cuts through a narrow, rocky valley. The trail winds safely along the valley edges, offering repeated breathtaking views of the rushing water and deep gorges. We pass the ruins of the abandoned village of Chontio and may encounter shepherds making use of the lush grasslands to produce sheep cheese and wool.
We continue to the Kvakhidi meadows, a vast alpine area framed by gentle hills. This meadow, a popular resting place for hikers, offers a peaceful campsite with a magnificent view of the dramatic mountain landscape. With a bit of luck, our day ends with a unique starry panorama.
Hiking Route
Distance: 14.2 km
Ascent: 978 m
Descent: 584 m
Difficulty: Medium
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic, and Dinner
Overnight: Campsite at the Kvakhidi Meadows

Day 4 Kvakhidi – Khidotani
In the morning, we break camp and begin the most challenging stage of our hike. The path takes us up to the Atsunta Pass at 3,431 meters, where we are treated to a breathtaking panorama of the snow-covered peaks and the untouched high mountains. The trail now winds through an alpine landscape, characterized by rugged rock formations, deep valleys, and vast, barren alpine meadows.
We descend in serpentine curves along impressive cliff edges and jagged mountain slopes toward the next valley. In the late afternoon, we reach the Khidotani ridge, where we find a peaceful spot to set up camp and enjoy the sunset over the surrounding mountains.
Hiking Route
Distance: 16.8 km
Ascent: 1,405 m
Descent: 1,168 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic, and Dinner
Overnight: Campsite at the Khidotani Ridge

Day 5 Khidotani – Shatili
Today, we face a long but mostly downhill stage. From the Khidotani ridge, we descend steeply into the valley of the Khonistskali River. The valley takes us through dense forests and along impressive rock walls. The nature in this valley is wild and untouched, and the constant murmur of the river accompanies us on our way.
In the village of Mutso, we take a break to visit the ruins of an ancient fortress, perched high on a rock and offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley. Afterward, we continue on our way and reach the picturesque village of Shatili. It is known for its historical fortified houses, which blend seamlessly into the rugged landscape and tell a fascinating story.
Hiking Route
Distance: 19.6 km
Ascent: 300 m
Descent: 1,511 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic, and Dinner
Overnight: Guesthouse in Shatili

Day 6 Shatili
We spend the entire day in Shatili, an iconic village in the South Caucasus. The day is dedicated to relaxation and Georgian cuisine. In our guesthouse, we participate in a cooking class led by our local hostess. Together, we learn how to prepare Khinkali – the traditional Georgian dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. Additionally, we prepare local specialties such as grilled vegetables and meats, typical for the region.
The course ends with a tasting of homemade, traditional Tushetian beer, brewed in many family homes in this remote mountain region. The afternoon is free for relaxation, exploring the fascinating architecture of Shatili, or going in search of butterflies and wild bees.
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic, and Dinner
Overnight: Guesthouse in Shatili

Day 7 Shatili – Ateni
After breakfast, we set off and drive to the Kartli region to Ateni. Our journey takes us over the spectacular Datvisjvari Pass, which is 2,687 meters high. The serpentine curves of the pass offer us breathtaking views of the rugged mountain landscapes and green valleys of the Greater Caucasus.
In the early afternoon, we reach the settlement of Ateni, known for its dry hills and ancient winemaking traditions with rare grape varieties grown only here. In the village, we visit the Dvalishvili family's wine cellar, where we are treated to a delicious lunch and a tasting of Qvevri wines. This ancient winemaking method, where the wine is stored for an extended period in clay amphorae, has a tradition that spans over 8,000 years.
After the tasting, we enjoy the tranquility of this place and set up our tents among the vines. The evening ends with a shared dinner under the starry sky, accompanied by delicious Georgian wine.
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic, and Dinner
Overnight: Campsite in Ateni

Day 8 Ateni – Borjomi – Vardzia – Bugdasheni Lake
After a hearty breakfast, we leave our campsite among the vines and set off for Bugdasheni Lake in the volcanic highlands of Javakheti in the Lesser Caucasus. The drive takes us through a varied landscape, characterized by dense coniferous forests and vast steppes.
Our first stop takes us to the Borjomi city park, where we taste the famous Borjomi mineral water directly from the source. Afterward, we continue our journey and reach the cave city of Vardzia, an impressive rock complex from the 12th century. During a guided tour, we learn more about the history and geology of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
In the late afternoon, we drive on to Bugdasheni Lake. Here, we set up our tents and enjoy a cozy dinner, winding down the day under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic, and Dinner
Overnight: Campsite at Bugdasheni Lake

Day 9 Bugdasheni Lake – Didi Abuli
Today, we have a joint hike to Didi Abuli (3,300 m), the highest peak in the Lesser Caucasus. The path takes us through vast steppe landscapes, past rare plants and impressive rock formations, including gleaming dragon glass. With each step, we delve deeper into this nearly untouched nature.
Upon reaching the summit, we are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and lakes, making the ascent more than worthwhile. In the afternoon, we will have an exciting presentation on the geology, ecology, and climate of the region, deepening our understanding of this unique landscape.
Those wishing to wind down the evening can visit a traditional sauna in the nearby village to relax their muscles after the strenuous hike.
Hiking Route
Distance: 15 km
Ascent: 780 m
Descent: 780 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic, and Dinner
Overnight: Campsite at Bugdasheni Lake

Day 10 Gorelovka – Tbilisi (Return Flight)
After a late breakfast, we pack up our tents and make our way back to Tbilisi. After our drive through impressive landscapes, we arrive in the Georgian capital in the early afternoon.
Officially, our journey ends around 3:00 PM at Freedom Square in the center of Tbilisi. Anyone who wants to experience more of the city can join a guided tour through the Old Town. Afterward, a visit to the hot sulfur baths in the Old Town is a perfect opportunity to relax after the hikes and recharge. Afterward, we say our goodbyes – until next time!
Meals: Breakfast
Gallery
Dates, Availability & Prices
Dates* | Availability | Prices from** | Your selection |
---|---|---|---|
11-09-2025 | Available | 1145.00 USD |
* The tour will only be guaranteed if the minimum number of 10 travelers is reached.
** Equals 1090.00 euros.
** Based on triple or quadruple room occupancy in the guesthouses, as well as sleeping in your own tent at the campsites.
What's Included
- Transport in a minibus according to the travel program
- 9 overnight stays (4 in guesthouses, 5 at campsites)
- Meals as per the travel program (9x breakfast, 7x picnic, 9x dinner)
- Accompaniment by experienced travel experts
- Horses for transporting luggage, hiking equipment, and supplies (on days 3, 4, and 5)
- Entrance ticket to the cave city of Vardzia
- Khinkali cooking class at the guesthouse in Shatili
- Wine tasting in Ateni
What's not Included
- Flight to and from Georgia
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
Further Information
Food, Drinks & Hygiene
In Tbilisi and Tusheti, we will have breakfast at the guesthouses. Warm meals will also be served there in the evening. At the campsites, meals will be eaten outdoors, with hot dishes served in the morning and evening as well. For lunch, bread, cheese, sausage, fruits, and vegetables will be provided. Each participant should pack their daily provisions in their own lunchbox and take them along during the hikes. Vegetarian or vegan meals can be offered upon request. We ask that you provide dietary preferences and any food intolerances upon registration.
Hygiene items such as biodegradable soap, dishwashing detergent, toilet paper, and disinfectant will be provided by the tour operator. Outside the guesthouses, it is possible to wash in rivers, the sea, or natural thermal baths.
Power Supply
All of our guesthouses have electrical outlets, so electronic devices can be charged there. However, there is no power supply at the campsites. Therefore, it is recommended to bring a power bank for charging phones, cameras, and other devices.
Luggage Management
During the hikes, only the essential items need to be carried (around 3 kg), such as drinking water, lunchbox, and hygiene items. Cooking utensils, food, and camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, mat) will be transported by packhorses. On all other days, the luggage will either remain at the campsite or in the minibus, where it will be safely supervised by the driver.
Safety
Georgia is considered one of the safest travel destinations in the world. The crime rate is very low. The war in Ukraine is barely felt here.
Hospitality, helpfulness, and tolerance are highly valued throughout the country. In recent times, there has been more media coverage in Germany about the independence issue of the occupied region of South Ossetia. It should be clarified here that the tour route does not pass through occupied areas, and the conflict over South Ossetia and Abkhazia does not affect the safety of travel to Georgia or the implementation of the tour in any way. The organizer carefully examines any developments for potential risks and makes decisions based on self-assessment.
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