GEORGIA – TREKKING AND HIKING

Georgia, with its various mountain formations in the Caucasus, is very well suited for trekking and hiking. The Greater Caucasus stretches along the northern border of the country, from Svaneti to Tusheti. The trekking regions are mostly self-contained and only occasionally connected to each other – otherwise, you usually have to descend back to the lowlands and then drive up again. However, it also works well to focus on just one region per trip.

Trekkingareas

Georgia has the mountains of the Greater Caucasus in the north, a kind of valley plain in the center, and the Lesser Caucasus in the south. Below, the regions in the north are described from west to east, followed by the one in the south:

Svaneti

Svaneti, in the northwest of Georgia, is one of the country’s best-known trekking regions. Towering 5,000-meter peaks, medieval stone towers (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and glacier-carved valleys make this area a favorite among hikers. The trekking route from Mestia to Ushguli is especially popular and takes around 4–5 days, leading through picturesque Svan villages. The trails are well-marked, and there are numerous guesthouses along the way. In Svaneti, you not only experience stunning nature, but also gain insight into the unique culture of the Svans. There are also treks to more remote areas such as the Koruldi Lakes, Laila Glacier, Okrostkali Lakes, or directly into the next trekking region:
 

Racha

This region is less well-known and ideal for hikers seeking peace and untouched landscapes. It features dense forests, alpine lakes, and limestone cliffs. Trekking routes around Shovi, Udziro Lake, and the Buba Glacier are becoming increasingly popular. Tourist infrastructure is still limited, which is precisely part of the appeal of this remote area.
 

Khevi

This small historic mountain region is located in northeastern Georgia, on the border with Russia. It is dominated by the mighty Mount Kazbek (5,047 m), one of the highest volcanic peaks in the Caucasus, and features dramatic valleys, steep passes, and iconic landmarks. The village of Stepantsminda (also known as “Kazbegi”) serves as the starting point for day hikes and multi-day treks. Popular hikes lead to the Gergeti Trinity Church and further up to the Gergeti Glacier. More challenging routes, such as through the Truso Valley or the Chaukhi Pass crossing to Roshka, offer spectacular landscapes with relatively few tourists.
 

Khevsureti

The region is known for its remote mountain villages, dramatic gorges, and a mystical atmosphere shaped by ancient towers, legends, and a blend of pagan and Christian traditions. The most famous village is Shatili, a fortified stone settlement that resembles a fortress. Popular trekking routes lead from Shatili to Omalo in Tusheti via the Atsunta Pass — a challenging multi-day trek. Another route connects Roshka to Shatili over the spectacular Chaukhi Mountains and the Datvisjvari Pass.
 

Tusheti

Tusheti is wild, remote, and accessible only via an adventurous drive over the Abano Pass. The region impresses with high alpine pastures, ancient fortified villages like Omalo and Dartlo, and pristine mountain ridges. Various routes can be combined here to create beautiful circular treks.
 

Borjomi

The Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park features a well-maintained network of trails with shelters and marked multi-day routes. It is especially suitable for spring and autumn hikes without extreme elevation changes. While less dramatic than the Greater Caucasus, the area is very peaceful and rich in biodiversity.

Hours-, Day- oder Multipleday Trips

In Georgia, you’ll find hikes for every time budget – from short walks to demanding multi-day treks. Shorter routes often lead to scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, or small mountain chapels and churches, such as the famous Gergeti Trinity Church near Stepantsminda. These are ideal to include between sightseeing stops or as a warm-up. Day hikes, like those to the Koruldi Lakes, Mount Did Abuli, in Borjomi National Park, or through the Truso Valley, offer intense nature experiences that require good fitness but no overnight stay. Multi-day treks with tent or guesthouse accommodation come in various lengths and difficulty levels. Just let us know how much, how often, and what kind of hiking you enjoy – we’ll integrate it meaningfully into your travel plan!
 

Accommodation

For multi-day tours, you can choose between staying in tents or guesthouses overnight. Guesthouses are usually cozy, offer fantastic fresh regional food, and provide the opportunity to connect with local hosts. Since meals are provided and you only need a sleeping bag liner (as bed linen is not always changed), you can keep your luggage light. A guide will help with communication.
 

If you prefer a deeper nature experience, opt for a tent-based trek. An experienced team will accompany you with packhorses, take care of setting up camp, and prepare freshly cooked meals. You’ll hike with just a light daypack, allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
 

Dogs

Anyone planning to hike in Georgia should definitely familiarize themselves with how to behave around dogs. Especially with sheep herds, there are always dogs present that are usually very aggressive. If you’re lucky, you can avoid the herd by keeping your distance or have a shepherd who calls the dogs away. But surprising encounters with dogs can still happen. The behavior that works with our dogs at home unfortunately doesn’t apply to Georgian herding dogs. However, there are other rules of conduct that you can learn. Before each tour with us, we always provide a briefing on potential dog encounters.
 

Not all free-roaming dogs are aggressive. Nowadays, fewer herding dogs are needed, so some have become “unemployed” or have multiplied and now live wild in the countryside. These dogs can be very affectionate and might choose you as a new friend, sometimes sticking close to you for days.