Overview
Experience the ultimate traverse of the Caucasus Mountains. This 14-day private journey takes you from the hidden valleys of Tusheti to the medieval towers of Svaneti, covering the most dramatic landscapes, UNESCO sites, and remote alpine wonders of Georgia.
Highlights
- Tbilisi & Mtskheta Heritage: Explore the cultural heart of Georgia's capital and visit UNESCO World Heritage sites in the ancient capital, Mtskheta.
- Epic Mountain Passes: Experience a spectacular drive across the Abano Pass at 2,960 meters, the highest drivable road in the Caucasus.
- Ancient Tusheti Villages: Discover the medieval towers, sanctuaries, and remote shepherd settlements of Omalo, Dartlo, and Parsma.
- High-Altitude Trekking: Hike along the dramatic Unagira Ridge , visit the remote Oreti Lake , and trek toward the "Georgian Dolomites" in Juta.
- Iconic Caucasus Landmarks: Visit the Gergeti Trinity Church at 2,100 meters and explore Ushguli, one of Europe’s highest inhabited settlements.
- Glaciers & Alpine Lakes: Trek to the impressive Chalaadi Glacier and enjoy panoramic views from the Koruldi Lakes (weather permitting).
- Svaneti Cultural Treasures: Explore the unique Margiani Tower House and the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography in Mestia.
- Natural Wonders of Western Georgia: Experience the breathtaking Martvili Canyon , Kinchkha Waterfall, and the mystical Prometheus Cave.
- Racha Region Exploration: Visit the serene Shaori Reservoir and the masterfully carved Nikortsminda Cathedral.
Itinerary
Welcome to Georgia! You will be met at Tbilisi International Airport and transferred privately to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy free time to rest or explore the capital at your own pace.
- Stay: Cherry Garden, Tbilisi
Explore the cultural heart of the capital: Narikala Fortress, the Sulfur Baths District, Metekhi Church, and the Bridge of Peace. Later, drive to Mtskheta to visit UNESCO World Heritage sites: Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Jvari Monastery.
- Stay: Cherry Garden, Tbilisi
Begin the mountain adventure by driving via Alaverdi Monastery. Cross the spectacular Abano Pass (2,960 m), the highest drivable road in the Caucasus, and enjoy a picnic lunch en route before arriving in Omalo.
- Stay: Guesthouse Mgzavri, Upper Omalo
Transfer to Bochorna, one of Europe's highest villages. Embark on a dramatic hike along the Unagira Ridge for panoramic views of Tusheti, visit the iconic Keselo Towers, and descend back to Omalo.
- Stay: Guesthouse Mgzavri, Upper Omalo
Experience a full-day hiking adventure through pristine alpine landscapes to reach the remote Oreti Lake. Enjoy the wild nature and a picnic by the water before returning to your guesthouse.
- Stay: Guesthouse Mgzavri, Upper Omalo
Explore the remote valleys of Tusheti by off-road vehicle. Visit the medieval stone villages of Dartlo, Parsma, and Girevi, and discover ancient sanctuaries and shepherd settlements hidden in the mountains.
- Stay: Guesthouse Mgzavri, Upper Omalo
Depart Tusheti and travel along the historic Georgian Military Road. Stops include the turquoise Jinvali Reservoir, the medieval Ananuri Fortress, and the Gudauri Panorama, featuring a scenic cable car ride.
- Stay: Guest house Diana, Kazbegi
Visit the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church (2,100 m). Then, drive to the remote village of Juta for a hike toward the spectacular Chaukhebi Massif, often called the "Georgian Dolomites".
- Stay: Guest house Diana, Gudauri
Travel west into the lush and emerald Racha region. Visit the serene Shaori Reservoir, the masterfully carved Nikortsminda Cathedral, and the impressive Tskrajvari viewpoint.
- Stay: Chateau Dio, Racha
Enter the high Caucasus of Svaneti and arrive in Ushguli, one of Europe's highest inhabited settlements. Explore the Lamaria Church and ancient defensive towers standing beneath the massive Shkhara Glacier.
- Stay: Guesthouse Riho, Ushguli
Drive to Mestia, the cultural center of Svaneti. Visit the Svaneti Museum and the traditional Margiani Tower House, then take the cable car to Zuruldi Ridge for breathtaking mountain views.
- Stay: Sunset, Mestia
Hike to the impressive Chalaadi Glacier. In the afternoon, drive to the Koruldi Lakes for a short hike to witness the reflections of the surrounding peaks, depending on weather conditions.
- Stay: Sunset, Mestia
Descend from the high peaks to the subtropical landscapes of Western Georgia. Stops include the massive Enguri Dam and the beautiful Martvili Canyon for a tour of its unique nature sites.
- Stay: Martvili Canyon Cottage, Martvili
Explore the natural wonders of the region: Kinchkha Waterfall, Gorda Canyon, and the mystical Prometheus Cave or Sataplia Reserve. End the day with a relaxed evening walk in Kutaisi.
- Stay: Martvili Canyon Cottage, Martvili
Drive back to Tbilisi for some last-minute shopping or a final lunch. Transfer to Tbilisi International Airport for your departure flight home.
- Stay: (End of Tour)
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Private Transportation: A comfortable private vehicle is provided for the entire duration of the tour.
- Mountain Logistics: Specialized 4WD off-road vehicles are included for high-altitude regions like Tusheti and the high Caucasus.
- Airport Transfers: Private pick-up and drop-off at Tbilisi International Airport are fully covered.
- English-Speaking Driver-Guide: A professional local guide with deep knowledge of the routes, culture, and safety protocols is included.
- Accommodation: Stays in hotels and guesthouses are included as described in the schedule.
- Meals: Daily breakfasts are included, along with lunches and dinners as specified on the itinerary (primarily during mountain segments).
- Planning & Coordination: All pre-planned itinerary logistics, reservations assistance, and on-ground coordination are covered.
- Driver Expenses: The driver's accommodation and overnight expenses are fully covered.
Cost Excludes
- Lunches: Lunches that are not specifically described in the schedule are excluded.
- Entrance Fees: Fees for museums, cable cars, and protected areas are not included.
- Personal Expenses: Costs for souvenirs, tips, minibar usage, and additional drinks are the responsibility of the guest.
- Travel Insurance: Guests are advised to arrange their own personal travel insurance independently.
- Optional Add-ons: Services such as photography, drone shooting, or cultural masterclasses (wine, cuisine, folklore) can be arranged for an additional fee.
FAQs
General
Yes. This is a fully private journey designed exclusively for you, your family, or your group. The itinerary can also be customized according to your travel style and interests.
The ideal travel season is from June to October, when mountain regions such as Kazbegi, Racha, and Svaneti are fully accessible and the weather is most comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Daily breakfast and selected traditional dinners are included. Lunches, personal snacks, and additional beverages are not included unless specified.
Absolutely. Since this is a private tour, the itinerary can be adjusted based on your preferences, travel pace, accommodation style, and interests.
We recommend comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, a light waterproof jacket, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a small backpack for daily excursions in the mountains.
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No. Personal travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended for all travelers.
The tour begins and ends at Tbilisi International Airport (TBS).
Yes. Georgia is considered one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in the region, known for its hospitality, rich culture, and friendly locals.
The tour is considered moderately challenging. It includes high-altitude hiking on the Unagira Ridge (~16 km) , trekking to the Chalaadi Glacier , and the Chaukhebi Massif. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended for these activities.
Some days involve significant travel, such as the drive to Tusheti via the Abano Pass and the journey from Racha to Svaneti. While long, these drives are broken up by scenic stops, monastery visits, and picnic lunches.
