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Trekking in Georgia and the High Caucasus

Trekking in Georgia and the Caucasus Mountains

Trekking in the Caucacus Mountains Georgia

Trekking and exploring in the `Alps of the East`
The classic view of Kazbek from Gergeti
Fortified villages of Mutso and Shatili
Meet local villagers and shepherds of the Caucasus
New Itinerary for 2011

East of the Black Sea and separated from Russia by the long chain of the Caucasus Mountains, Georgia is one of the most exciting adventure travel destinations in Europe. From the capital Tbilisi, we travel north to the striking Mount Kazbek (5047m) and begin trekking across the Sadzele and Borbalo passes into the remote Khevsureti Range. Crossing open ridges, with far-reaching views, we descend through flower-filled mountain pastures into steep-sided and forested valleys, where we find fortified medieval villages such as Mutso and Shatili. Close to the border with the tiny republics of Chechnya and Dagestan, this is Georgia's most traditional region, home to animist shrines, hidden churches and impressive stone-built defensive towers. After our 'loop' northwards into the mountains, we will add to our understanding of this fascinating country with a day of guided sightseeing in Tbilisi and in the nearby town of Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Georgian capital.

Trip Guide

This is one of the more adventurous trekking itineraries on the south side of the Caucasus Mountains. However, it is not a particularly high-level trek, and with its maximum elevation only a little above 3000 metres, the effects of altitude will be a minor consideration. Our route follows good trails between valleys and villages, and the underfoot conditions should prove straightforward for the most part, although there are a couple of steep ascents and descents as we cross the passes. Most of the trekking days involve hiking for 5 or 6 hours, and we have two longer days with up to 8 hours of walking. Overall, this is a short trip at a generally easy pace, and we have given it our MODERATE grade. You should ensure you are conversant with our grading system and are physically prepared for the trekking on this holiday.