The Journey from Tbilisi to Tusheti

Gombori Pass - The Gombori Pass, linking Tbilisi and Telavi, is renowned for its winding roads and breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley.

As the ascent begins, the scenery transitions from semi-desert to lush green forests. Along the way, there are several viewpoints perfect for stopping to admire the stunning landscape.

At the summit, visitors can explore the Gombori viewing platform, which provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

In addition to its natural allure, the Gombori Pass is rich in history. It was once a strategic location on the Great Silk Road, connecting Georgia to the wider world. The pass also hosts several historical landmarks, including the 17th-century Gombori Fortress, which welcomes visitors.

Alaverdi St. George Cathedral - The Alaverdi Monastery stands as one of Georgia’s most significant religious and cultural sites. Situated in the fertile Alazani Valley in eastern Kakheti, it was established in the 6th century and is famed for its magnificent 11th-century cathedral, one of Georgia’s tallest structures. The monastery’s interior is adorned with exquisite frescoes and intricate carvings, housing numerous priceless religious artifacts, including manuscripts and icons.

Beyond its historical and religious importance, Alaverdi Monastery is enveloped by stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains, as well as leisurely strolls through the monastery’s beautiful gardens.

Tusheti National Park - The road to Tusheti is an adventure in itself, regarded as one of the most scenic and challenging drives in the Caucasus region. Spanning 93 kilometers, it begins in the historic town of Alvani in eastern Georgia’s Kakheti region.

The route to Tusheti and the Abano Pass offers awe-inspiring views of the Caucasus Mountains, alpine pastures, and charming villages perched high in the mountains. The region is also celebrated for its unique cultural heritage, with traditional stone towers and ancient churches dotting the landscape.

The Abano Pass, at 2,826 meters above sea level, is one of Georgia’s highest motorable passes. It is accessible only from late May to early October due to winter snow coverage.

Despite the road’s challenges, the journey to Tusheti and the Abano Pass is an adventure in itself. The breathtaking views, unique culture, and challenging terrain make this drive a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Omalo - Omalo is a favored destination for travelers exploring the Tusheti region, offering a unique and authentic experience of Georgian hospitality.

During the tour, accommodation is provided in a traditional guesthouse in Omalo. The guesthouse is simple yet comfortable, featuring clean rooms and private bathrooms. The friendly hosts serve delicious home-cooked meals using local produce and can arrange horse riding, hiking, or other outdoor activities.

The village of Omalo itself is a charming place to explore, with ancient stone houses and winding cobbled streets. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, it is the perfect place to relax and soak up the natural beauty of Tusheti.

Staying in a guesthouse in Omalo offers an opportunity to experience the true spirit of Tusheti and savor the warm hospitality for which Georgia is renowned. It’s an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression on any traveler.

Abano Pass - The Abano Pass stands at approximately 2,850 meters, making it the highest motorable road in Georgia. Most of it lacks guardrails, and the drops are significant. Sometimes, the clouds are below you.

In summer, the surrounding peaks still bear snow. Flocks of sheep cross the road, led by shepherds who do this annually, completely indifferent to the 4x4 vehicles crawling behind them. You will stop, but they will not hurry.

The pass takes about 45 minutes to traverse. Most people fall silent somewhere in the middle of it. That’s normal.

Discovering the Beauty of Tusheti

Diklo - The ruins of the Diklo fortress overlook the village, along with summer shelters for shepherds, sheep, and a simple guesthouse. While the harsh climate and challenging road conditions mean the village is depopulated during winter, it offers peace, freedom, and fresh mountain beauty.

Shenako - The village of Shenako is renowned for its authentic Tusheti house towers, constructed in the Middle Ages from black flat stones and wood. The ground floor of these towers was used for livestock, while the upper floor served as living quarters and protection from intruders.

In Shenako, visitors can see St. George’s Church, built in the 19th century. This free-cross domed building is made of slate and limestone and features eight narrow, arched windows in the dome. The church exemplifies traditional Tushetian architecture with its whitewashed walls and octagonal, tin-covered dome with a pyramidal roof. The church also has a rectangular doorway with three semi-circular arches on three sides and a square bell tower (of which only the foundations remain). Visitors can also enjoy the stunning Lavgardan slate shelf that surrounds the church, gate, and minarets.

Shenako is a must-visit for travelers interested in Tushetian history and architecture.

Day 3: Lower Omalo. Back to Tbilisi

National Park of Tusheti - Omalo is celebrated for its unique ethno-cultural heritage and medieval architecture. The historical part of the village includes the Keselo Fortress, dating back to the Mongol invasion of 1230, which served as a defense against raids by North Caucasian tribes. The fortress has been partially restored in recent years. The village’s houses, built between the 17th and 19th centuries, are examples of the region’s distinctive architecture. With only 37 inhabitants, Omalo is an idyllic place to explore the culture and history of Tusheti.

Tbilisi - Late afternoon return to Tbilisi.

• Dinner
• Breakfast

• Gratuities
• Meals

Some roads are simply paths. The journey to Tusheti is a challenge.

Accessible only three months each year, this mountain pass isn’t for everyone — and that’s precisely the allure. Travelers will navigate the Abano Pass at 2,926 meters in a 4x4 Mitsubishi Delica — with hairpin turns, clouds beneath the road, and steep drops without guardrails. It stands as the highest motorable pass in Georgia, rewarding those who reach it.

Over the course of three days, travelers will explore stone villages that remain truly unspoiled — Omalo, Dartlo, Kvavlo, Chesho, Parsma, Girevi — each boasting its own towers, trails, and tales. Guests will stay in a family guesthouse where the host prepares dinner and chacha is always served. Meals are shared with five strangers who depart as friends.

This is the Georgia that many never discover.

• The itinerary can be changed due to weather or delay with back to Tbilisi, so it’s important to be flexible and open to changes in the schedule.
• The road — Abano Pass is rough, steep and has no guardrails. Motion sickness is common. Bring your own medication if prone. This is part of the experience — not a problem to solve.
• The Tusheti tour is only available during a limited season, typically from June to September. Be sure to check the availability before booking.
• No phone signal — Tusheti has limited coverage. Tell someone at home your itinerary before you leave.
• Weather — Changes fast at altitude. Warm layers, waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes. Snow is possible even in July.
• There is limited access to electricity and running water in Tusheti, so be prepared for rustic living conditions.
• Be aware of the cultural sensitivity, Tusheti is a very traditional area and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions.
• As Tusheti is a protected area, it is important to follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash and respect the natural environment.
• The tour includes comfortable accommodations (single or double rooms) and delicious traditional meals, but please note that the level of comfort may be lower than what you are used to.
• The vehicle — Mitsubishi Delica 4x4. Built for this road. Not luxury — reliable, safe and the right tool for the terrain.
• No card payments — Bring cash for personal expenses, tips and anything extra.
• Please note that the price of this tour may vary based on several factors such as the day of the week, the number of participants, the season, and current promotional discounts. The price displayed on the site most often represents the lowest available price, with discounts automatically applied at the expense of the company. We encourage you to check the specific details for your desired date to understand the exact cost for your unique booking.
• The altitude in Tusheti is high (1800-2900 m / 5905-9514 ft), so those with altitude sickness should take appropriate precautions and consult with a doctor before embarking on the tour.
• There are limited medical facilities in Tusheti, and emergency medical evacuation can be difficult. Visitors should have travel insurance and be in good health before booking this tour.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.