11-Day "The Great East Caucasus Trail"

Experience a premier 11-day trek from Tusheti to Stepantsminda. Conquer the 2,900m Abano Pass and the 3,400m Atsunta Pass while exploring medieval towers and the remote Arkhoti valley. This strenuous journey through the High Caucasus offers unmatched isolation and dramatic alpine scenery for seasoned hikers seeking a deep mountain odyssey through ancient stone villages and rugged ridges.

Arrival at Tbilisi International Airport and transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, there is an opportunity for a short walk through the Old Town. In the evening, group meeting and briefing about the trekking program.

Overnight: Tbilisi (hotel)
Meals: Dinner

Ascent: 0 m Descent: 0 m
Day 1

Early morning departure by 4x4 vehicles to Tusheti via the spectacular Abano Pass (≈2,900 m). One of the most scenic mountain roads in the Caucasus. Arrival in Omalo in the afternoon with time to explore the village and medieval Keselo towers.
- Driving distance: ~200 km
- Driving time: ~8 h

Overnight: Omalo (guesthouse)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascent: 0 m Descent: 0 m
Day 2

The first trekking day follows mountain paths through Tushetian villages, alpine meadows, and river valleys. The landscape is pastoral and remote, with constant views of surrounding ridges.
- Distance: ~25 km
- Hiking time: ~8 h

Overnight: Girevi (guesthouse)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascent: 2200 m Descent: 2100 m
Day 3

We move deeper into a remote border region. The trail ascends gradually through narrow valleys and wild mountain terrain. The sense of isolation increases as human settlements disappear.

- Distance: ~16 km
- Hiking time: ~6–7 h

Overnight: Khvakhidi Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascent: 1400 m Descent: 0 m
Day 4

A highlight of the entire trek. A steady climb leads to the Atsunta Pass, offering spectacular panoramic views over Tusheti and Khevsureti. After the pass, we descend into a new valley with contrasting landscapes.

- Distance: ~15 km
- Hiking time: ~7-8 h

Overnight: Khidotani Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascent: 1250 m Descent: 1300 m
Day 5

A long and scenic day through high mountain terrain. The route crosses open alpine pastures and remote valleys rarely visited by outsiders.

- Distance: ~19 km
- Hiking time: ~6-7 h

Overnight: Dartvisjvari Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascent: 1650 m Descent: 1540 m
Day 6

A demanding day with sustained ascents and descents. Wide valleys and impressive mountain views dominate the landscape, emphasizing the wild nature of the region.

- Hiking time: ~7.5 h

Overnight: Upper Tanie (guesthouse)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascent: 1560 m Descent: 1020 m
Day 7

A shorter but very scenic stage. The trail leads through green alpine meadows and traditional shepherd paths into the Arkhoti region.

- Distance: ~9 km
- Hiking time: ~5 h

Overnight: Arkhoti Hut
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascent: 1000 m Descent: 700 m
Day 8

Final trekking day. We hike to the village of Juta, beautifully located below the Chaukhi Massif. After the hike, transfer by vehicle to Stepantsminda (Kazbegi).

- Distance: ~15 km
- Hiking time: ~6 h

Overnight: Stepantsminda (hotel/guesthouse)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ascent: 700 m Descent: 1000 m
Day 9

Morning transfer back to Tbilisi. Arrival around midday or early afternoon. Free time for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxation after the trek.

- Distance: ~150 km
- Hiking time: ~3-4 h

Overnight: Tbilisi (hotel)
Meals: Breakfast

Ascent: 0 m Descent: 0 m
Day 10

Transfer to Tbilisi International Airport according to flight schedule and departure.

Ascent: 0 m Descent: 0 m
Day 11

  • English Speaking Guide
  • Driver and vehicle for transfers from to Tbilisi
  • Accommodation in Altihut 3014m x 3
  • Overnight in Meteo station x 1-2
  • Accommodation in Stepantsminda x 1-0
  • Accommodation in Tbilisi x 1
  • All meals as per itinerary
  • Food at Meteo station

  • Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visas
  • Tips for the guides
  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Soft overnight duffel bag or rucksack (for your main luggage)
  • Daypack (20-30 litres)
  • Waterproof liner for kitbag or rucksack / drybags
  • Lightweight down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Breathable wicking layers
  • Fleece jacket or similar
  • Thermals (merino best) (for Sept trips only)
  • Warm hat
  • Gloves
  • Buff or neckscarf
  • Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear and socks
  • Swimwear
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Sleepwear
  • Hiking boots (worn-in)
  • Sandals for evenings
  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Ear plugs
  • Insect repellent
  • Suncream
  • Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Toilet kit (toilet paper, biodegradable bags to carry paper out to dispose of)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Alcohol hand-gel
  • Headtorch or torch
  • Reusable water bottle/bladder (min 2 Litre capacity)
  • Hiking poles (optional but highly recommended)AGS
Departure Status:
Select Date
Price per person
2500.00 EUR