Georgia's Hidden Trails: Experience the Caucasus on Foot
Georgia's mountains are still lesser-explored and rife for the taking for the lovers of unique adventures, even though its popularity among dedicated hiking enthusiasts has been steadily growing over the last few years. You can find a fantastic range of trekking tours across multiple mountain regions.
Though, do keep in mind that the Georgian mountains are perilous and tricky, with sparsely demarcated routes, so using the services of an experienced local guide isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity to ensure the experience is as low-risk, as can be.
Svaneti is likely currently the one name you’ve heard of if you’ve heard of Georgia at all. The region is famed for its ancient medieval stone towers, but it’s the breathtaking glacier views the hikers are really after. With the influx of tourists, the most famous trails can become overrun during busy tourist seasons, so working with experienced local guides is even more important! Not only do they ensure safety, but they can lead you along less-trodden paths, connecting tiny historical villages and offering a deeper immersion into the local culture.
But it’s Tusheti that’s the real bucket list item. Georgia’s most remote and challenging region to reach, its remarkably preserved traditional architecture and nigh-untouched nature are a wonder. While it’s hard to access via car (only possible through Abano Pass), there are multiple less trodden trails that cross into other regions. Many tour options that explore Tusheti include embarking on adventurous cross-regional treks, like neighboring Khevsureti. Unsurprisingly, these historic trails aren’t in use by anyone other than locals, and require the expertise of seasoned local guides to safely navigate. But it’s truly an experience any real adventurer would find worthy.
On the other hand, if you’re in the country for only a few days, opt for trekking in Kazbegi. Easier to reach from Tbilisi, the region draws many with the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church, dramatically set against the alpine meadows and towering presence of Mount Kazbek. For hikers keen to explore authentic Georgian culture off the main trails, a memorable option is the trek starting from Juta village, near Kazbegi, which crosses a stunning mountain pass like Chaukhi Pass to reach the village of Roshka in Khevsureti. And while in Khevsureti, set a day aside to hike to the stunning, colorful Abudelauri Lakes, if you can.
The prime trekking season in Georgia generally spans May to October, though, if equipped with proper gear, you’ll find winter trekking to be just as rewarding, if a little more demanding an experience. CaucasTours offers plenty of options across all seasons. Additionally, the company is dedicated to sustainable travel practices, with groups kept small to minimize environmental impact. Working closely with local communities ensures that tours provide authentic Georgian experiences for travelers, while directly benefiting local economies.
For more information about the trekking tours in Caucastours' catalog, visit the official website, or contact the company directly via an e-mail at info@caucastours.com or phone at +995599223090.
