Hidden Trails of Georgia 1
A small ancient settlements are scattered throughout this wild landscape with medieval watchtowers and fascinating views of snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, roaring rivers and waterfalls. Still inhabited dwellings are recognized by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Exploration of this remote part of the world and its preserved traditions will leave you with unforgettable pleasant memories!
1025 $
Tour is filling up quickly. Reserve your place with a only 10% deposit.
Full Board
All accommodation including camping
Horses for carrying equipment
All domestic transfers
4WD car service
Tour Leader
Tour Guide and assistants
Local Guides
Cook
Tent for Kitchen
Portable Shower & WC
First Aid Kit
Details:
Regions: Khevsureti – Tusheti – Kakheti – Tbilisi
Duration: 12 nights
Food: Full Board
Accommodation: Tourist Class 2 & Guesthouse, Tents
Best Season: From June to early September
Group Size: Up to 15
Total Trekking Distance: 80 km
Elevation: to 920 m up
Overview
This is a trip to really unique and the most beautiful parts of Georgia – Khevsureti and Tusheti provinces. Of all the regions of Georgia, these are the most ecologically unspoiled and still unexplored by travelers. These ancient settlements are known for their medieval watchtowers, still preserved rituals and customs, fascinating views of snowcapped mountains, alpine meadows, roaring rivers and waterfalls. Unique textiles of Kevsurs & Tushetians are famous for beautifully embroidered stars and crosses symbolizing the sun - the cult of ancient Georgia.
This tour will introduce the history, culture and traditions of the people who managed to preserve its national originality, religion and culture, who often fought to maintain their independence over the centuries.
The trip starts with sightseeing tour of Tbilisi and continues via Mtskheta - an ancient capital of Georgia, to Khevsureti province and its center – medieval tower- complex of Shatili. Then trek through remote villages and over Atsunta Pass 3431 m. to Tusheti province, which was effectively autonomous as a tribal democracy till 17th century.
The first vehicle in this area was seen only in 1982; till nowadays the road is blocked by snow for 7-8 months a year and there is no electricity, solar energy is an only alternative. Most of Tushetians lead nomadic way of life and move to Kakheti lowlands in winter. However few families stay there year around and you will have a fantastic opportunity to share the table with this brave people – who strongly follow a great and ancient tradition of Georgia - the guest is ‘a gift from God.
Better to see it once with your own eyes then hear about it a hundred times!
Locations
Intinerary
Day 1 - Arrival 1
Arrive in Tbilisi. Overnight at hotel.
Day 2 - Drive to Shatili
Breakfast in hotel. 5-6 hours’ drive by 4WD vehicles over Datvisjvari pass 2676 m. to Shatili – center of Khevsureti province. Continue to the first campsite close to the tower ruins of Mutso village. Overnight at Camp.
Days 3-5 - Discovering Tushetian villages
Breakfast in camp. Early morning trek starts from camp site in Khevsureti. Trek along Khonistkali river over Atsunda pass 3431m to Tusheti region, reaching the first, half abounded villages of Tusheti:Girevi and Parsma. Picnic lunch en-route. Trek to village Chesho. Dinner and overnight at camp and simple local guesthouse(s) in Chesho
Day 6 - Exploration of village Chesho
Breakfast in guesthouse. Exploration of village Chesho with stunning views. Dinner and overnight at guesthouse(s).
Day 7-8 Tushetian Dwellings
After breakfast at the guesthouse in Dartlo, begin your trek through the scenic Tushetian villages of Chigo and Diklo, each offering unique views of the highlands and a glimpse into traditional mountain life. Pass by Old Diklo, perched dramatically near the border with Dagestan, before ascending the Sonekhi Pass (2497m)—a moderately challenging section with rewarding panoramic views of the Caucasus.
Descend to the picturesque village of Shenako, known for its traditional architecture and historic Church of the Holy Trinity. Enjoy a homemade dinner and overnight stay at a local guesthouse.
Day 9 - To the center of Tusheti
Breakfast at the guesthouse. In the early morning, take time to explore Shenako, one of the few still-inhabited villages in the Tusheti highlands. The village offers stunning views of Mount Diklo and is home to traditional Georgian folk architecture and the historic Church of the Holy Trinity, a rare example of a functioning Christian church in the region.
Begin your trek toward Omalo, the administrative and cultural center of Tusheti. On the way, visit the Keselo towers, medieval defensive structures that once protected locals from invasions, and stop by the Tusheti Ethnographic Museum to learn more about the region’s heritage.
From Omalo, continue by 4WD vehicle to the village of Shtrolta, located in a quiet, scenic valley. Dinner and overnight at a local guesthouse.
Day 10 - End of Trekking
After breakfast in Shtrolta, begin your return journey by 4WD vehicle, crossing the spectacular Abano Pass (2,926 m)—one of the highest drivable mountain passes in the Caucasus. This thrilling drive offers dramatic views and a final taste of Tusheti’s wild beauty.
Arrive in Telavi, the heart of Georgia’s Kakheti region, renowned for its vineyards, wine-making traditions, and warm hospitality. Celebrate the end of your trekking adventure with a traditional Kakhetian dinner, local wine, and heartfelt toasts.
Overnight at a hotel in Telavi.
Day 11 - Explore Kakheti Region
After breakfast at the hotel, set out to explore some of Kakheti’s most iconic historical and cultural sites. Begin with a visit to the majestic Alaverdi Monastery (11th century), set against the backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains. Continue to the Ikalto Monastery and Academy (12th century), once a renowned center of education and philosophy.
Proceed to the picturesque royal town of Sighnaghi, built in the 18th century and famous for its fortified walls with 23 towers, once guarding key trade routes between Europe and Asia. Stroll through its cobbled streets, visit local wine cellars, and engage with Kakhetian winemakers for a taste of Georgia’s celebrated wine culture.
In the late afternoon, drive back to Tbilisi. Enjoy a free evening to explore the vibrant capital’s nightlife, cafes, and cultural corners. Overnight at a hotel in Tbilisi
Day 12 - Departure
Transfer to the airport.