Tobavarchkhili Lake: Georgia’s Most Beautiful Alpine Trek
There are lakes in Georgia. And then there’s Tobavarchkhili.
Sitting at 2,650 meters above sea level in the Samegrelo region, this turquoise gem is widely considered the most beautiful alpine lake in the country. No roads lead here. No villages, no cafes, no phone signal. Just you, the trail, and a sequence of waterfalls that seem to appear out of nowhere, pouring straight into the bluest water you’ve ever seen.
This 5-day camping trek is designed for people who want the real mountain experience without carrying a heavy pack. We provide all the gear — tent, sleeping bag, mat, backpack, trekking poles. You just bring your boots and your sense of adventure.
Dates: September 4-8, 2026
Difficulty: Moderate (10-14 km/day, 600-900m elevation)
Type: Camping, no accommodation bookings needed
Group size: Small groups for quality experience
Why Tobavarchkhili?
Most people visiting Georgia stick to the well-trodden paths — Kazbegi, Svaneti, Gudauri. Meanwhile, Samegrelo hides something truly special. Tobavarchkhili isn’t just one lake; it’s a system of glacial lakes connected by streams and waterfalls, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rolling alpine meadows.
The water color changes throughout the day — from deep emerald in the morning to electric turquoise when the sun hits it right. And yes, you can swim in it. It’s cold. It’s worth it.
Program Day by Day
Day 1 — September 4: Tbilisi to Mukhuri
We pick you up in Tbilisi in the morning. If you’re coming from Batumi, we meet in Zugdidi. The drive takes us to the village of Mukhuri, where we switch to 4×4 vehicles for a bumpy but scenic climb up to 2,000 meters. We set up camp at Natipuru, take in the views of the Enguri River valley, and cook dinner under the stars.
- Altitude gain: 0 (driving)
- Hiking: 0 km
- Meals: Dinner included
Day 2 — September 5: Trek to Lake Okhoje
The real trekking starts today. We hike from Natipuru to Lake Okhoje, covering 12 km with 1,200 meters of elevation gain. It’s the hardest day of the trek, but it rewards you with a camp spot right next to a stunning mountain lake. After setting up camp, those with energy can climb Mount Tsashkibuli (3,016 m) for sunset views across the Caucasus range.
- Altitude gain: 1,200 m
- Hiking: 12 km (6-7 hours)
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner included
Day 3 — September 6: Tobavarchkhili Lake + Radial Trek
Wake up early — this is the day you’ve been waiting for. We trek 7 km with 500 meters of ascent to reach the main Tobavarchkhili Lake. We set up camp by the water, then do a light radial hike to Lake Tsakatskharish (5 km, 800 m ascent). The views from up there are absolutely worth the climb — you can see the entire lake system from above. Back to camp for dinner by the water.
- Altitude gain: 500 + 800 m
- Hiking: 12 km total (6-7 hours)
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner included
Day 4 — September 7: Return to Natipuru
One last morning at the lake. We pack up camp and start our descent back to Natipuru. It’s mostly downhill (12 km, 200 m ascent), which means faster walking and more time to enjoy the scenery. We set up camp at Natipuru for our last night in the mountains.
- Altitude gain: 200 m (mostly downhill)
- Hiking: 12 km (4-5 hours)
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner included
Day 5 — September 8: Back to Tbilisi
Early breakfast, pack up, and head down to Mukhuri by 4×4. From there, transfer back to Tbilisi. We drop off in Zugdidi along the way for anyone heading to Batumi. Arrive in Tbilisi by late afternoon.
- Altitude gain: 0
- Hiking: 0 km
- Meals: Breakfast included
What’s Included
- Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping mat
- Trekking poles
- Transfer from Tbilisi and back
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Hot meals on the trail (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Group first aid kit
- Backpack (optional rental)
- Trekking shoes (optional rental)
What’s Not Included
- Travel insurance (mandatory — you must have your own)
- Personal snacks and drinks
- Equipment rental (available separately)
Pricing
Standard Package: $350 per person
Plus Package (with gear rental): $400 per person
Important Info
To book, a 50% deposit is required. The remaining 50% is due at least 7 days before the start of the tour. Cancellations made 15+ days before the tour are fully refundable. Cancellations within 15 days are non-refundable and non-transferable. Payment in GEL (Georgian Lari) at the National Bank exchange rate on the day of payment.
We provide equipment rental, and you can also check our guide on where to buy gear in Tbilisi.
FAQ
Do I need trekking experience?
This trek is rated moderate. If you’ve done 1-2 multi-day hikes before, you’ll be fine. The hardest day is Day 2 (1,200 m elevation gain).
What about weather in September?
September in the Georgian mountains is perfect. Daytime temperatures are 15-20┬░C, nights drop to 5-10┬░C. Clear skies are common, but afternoon thunderstorms can happen — we plan around them.
Can I charge my phone?
No. There’s no electricity on the trail. Bring a power bank for emergencies.
Is there phone signal?
Only on the first and last days near Mukhuri. Days 2-4 you’re completely off-grid.
What should I pack?
- Hiking boots (broken in)
- Warm layers (fleece, thermal)
- Waterproof jacket
- Hat and gloves (it gets cold at altitude)
- Swimsuit (for the brave)
- Headlamp
- Water bottle (1.5L minimum)
- Personal toiletries
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
Ready to Go?
Spots are limited to keep the group small and the experience personal. DM us on Instagram or message us on Telegram to book your spot.
Last window before winter. Don’t wait.
