7-day tour to Tusheti
7-day hike to Tusheti
A tour to Tusheti is the perfect choice for those dreaming of a true adventure in one of Georgia's most picturesque and unique regions. Situated in the northeastern part of the country on the slopes of the Greater Caucasus, Tusheti is renowned for its ancient history, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here you'll find everything you need for a captivating and memorable vacation: majestic mountain landscapes, authentic villages with stone towers, traditional Georgian cuisine (including the famous khinkali and local cheese), and incredibly hospitable locals who preserve centuries-old traditions.
One of the main attractions of a tour to Tusheti is the region's unique architecture. You'll see ancient defensive towers and fortress-villages, such as those in Dartlo, Omalo, and the famous Shatili (although Shatili is part of neighboring Khevsureti , many tours combine the two regions). These medieval stone structures were built to defend against raids and still stand as symbols of the mountain people's courage. Each tower and fortress has its own history, legends, and unique style, making them ideal for photo sessions and in-depth exploration.
For those looking for more adrenaline, check out our climbing trips in Georgia.
Not sure if you should go? 5 reasons why Tusheti will change you
Tusheti 7-day itinerary
Day 1 of the tour to Tusheti – Omalo and the Keselo fortress (1900 m)
Upon arrival in Omalo , the largest village in Tusheti, we'll take a walk to Upper Omalo, a medieval defensive fortress offering 360-degree views of the mountains and gorges. It immediately becomes clear why this location was chosen as strategically important for the fortress's defense. After the walk, we'll enjoy a traditional Tusheti hearty dinner. All programs and tours in Tusheti —short and long—are available, with camping and in guesthouses.
Day 2 – Shenako, Diklo and ascent to Shavikvishu (3200 m)
After a hearty breakfast, we head to the villages of Shenako and Diklo. We will visit another medieval fortress with an excellent view. We will have a tea party with sweets there. Having gained strength, we will set off to conquer the peaks. We will be trekking along forest paths up to an altitude of 2700m to the foot of Mount Shavikwisha. From there there is a unique view of the Caucasus Mountains, visible only from this place. If the group is in good spirits and the weather is good, we will climb to the top of Shavikvishi, to an altitude of 3200m.
Day 3 – Dartlo Village and Trekking to Kwawlo
On this day, one of the business cards of TushetiThe village of Dartlo. Its view is one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the region. Traditional towers and houses built from tightly laid flat slates create a unique and unforgettable village appearance. We'll stroll its narrow streets and perhaps encounter the local animals that always greet tourists: a donkey, friendly dogs, rabbits, and a curious goat that lives at the top of the village and curiously allows itself to be petted. From the village, we'll take an easy trek to the village of Kvavlo, where monuments from a bygone era have also been preserved. In the only café on the top, you can relax and sip hot coffee with a view of the mountains.
We spend the night in one of the guest houses in the village of Dartlo.
Day 4 – Rest in Omalo: meadows, picnic, horseback riding
We return to the familiar Omalo. Next up is a day of rest and active play. Omalo boasts numerous vast meadows where you can calmly recharge after a busy day, immersed in nature and yourself. For those who prefer, there will be active entertainment and a picnic in the countryside. Horseback riding is also an option.
Day 5 – Lake Oreti (2650 m): the pearl of the Tusheti National Park
The next day we had a simple hike to Lake Oreti at an altitude of 2650. An incredibly beautiful and picturesque place. The lake is one of the must-see places in the Tusheti National Park.
The water in the lake constantly changes color. From sky blue and turquoise to a state of crystal transparency. We will have lunch at the lake and head back to Omalo.
Day 6 – Bochornu: the highest village in Europe (2345 m)
After waking up and packing our things, we will go to another unique place. To the highest settlement in Europe (2345m) - the village of Bochorna. There is an interesting fact connected with this: for a village to officially have the status of the highest, it must be inhabited all year round. For this reason, the local doctor, who initiated the assignment of the "high" status to Bochorna, now lives there all year round, remaining alone for the entire winter period. And of course, providing medical assistance to those who live in isolation from the rest of the world for most of the year.
And of course, beautiful views await us in Bochorna. Both in the village itself and on the way to it. As well as authentic buildings of this unique region.
On the way back we will stop at the guest house for our things and head to Tbilisi, driving through the city again. the most picturesque road in Georgia.
Day 7 of the Tusheti tour
Reserve day in case of bad weather
"Not sure if this route is right for you? Check out our tour difficulty levels ."
Tour to Tusheti with PVD Club: What else is worth knowing?
This route is a signature week-long program from PVD Club, whose team has been regularly taking groups to Tusheti for several seasons and knows the region inside and out. Besides the route itself, here's what's useful to consider when planning your trip. And for the best time to visit Tusheti , read our article.
- What else can you see in the region? If you still have time and energy after a week-long hike, PVD Club offers short tours and excursions around Tusheti—from one-day excursions to three-day programs that can be combined with ascents to neighboring peaks or a trip to Khevsureti, home to the famous Shatili with its stone fortresses.
- Activities as desired. In addition to the main trek, the program includes optional activities—a horseback ride through the Omalo meadows, an ascent to the summit of Shavikvishi (3200 m) if the weather and the group's mood permit, and free time for photography in the villages of Dartlo and Kvaavlo, considered the most photogenic points on the route.
- Group formatThe tour is suitable for both groups of friends and solo travelers—PVD Club organizes mixed groups, so even a solo trip can be spent in the company of like-minded individuals.
- Logistics. Transfers from Tbilisi and back are already included in the program, and within Tusheti itself, the group is transported in SUVs—there are simply no paved roads there.
Questions and answers about a week-long tour to Tusheti
When is Tusheti open for visiting?
Tusheti is accessible to tourists from June to October. The road through the high-mountain Abano Pass usually opens in late May or early June, after the snow melts. At this time, nature is especially beautiful: alpine meadows are in bloom, rivers are full, and high-mountain villages are completely open. By October, the weather cools, and the season gradually comes to an end.
Do you need good physical fitness to hike in Tusheti?
Yes, an intermediate level of fitness is recommended. The route includes trekking along forest trails, ascents to 2700–3200 meters (optional summit Shavikvish), and high-altitude walks. The tour is suitable for those who regularly hike or play sports. If you lead an active lifestyle, you won't encounter any difficulties—the route is considered an easy hike.
Where does the group live during the tour in Tusheti?
The group stays in cozy guesthouses with local residents in the traditional Tushetian villages of Omalo and Dartlo. This authentic mountain atmosphere offers stone houses with towers, home-cooked meals, and a warm welcome from the hosts. This accommodation allows for a deeper immersion into the Tushetian way of life and culture, rather than simply observing it from the outside.
How to get to Tusheti from Tbilisi?
Is it possible for one person to travel to Tusheti?
Yes, you can. Individual participants are welcome to join a group tour—and this is often the case. We organize customized tours based on your dates and preferences. Groups typically include people with similar interests, so even if you're traveling alone, you won't be bored.
TUSHETIA PHOTOS FROM TOUR
What's included in the price of a tour to Tusheti?
- Accommodation in guest houses
- Transfer from Tbilisi and back
- Transfers in Tusheti
- Trekking poles
- Trekking shoes (Package Plus)
- Backpack 60l (Plus package)
- Snacks along the route
- Evening events
- Routes in Tusheti with a guide
- Breakfast and dinner in guest houses
cost of a TOUR TO TUSHETIA
$790 Package Standard
$950 Package Plus
TUSHETIA. IT IS IMPORTANT TO KNOW
To book a tour, a mandatory prepayment of 50% of the tour cost is required.
The remaining 50% is due at least 7 days before the start of the tour.
Refunds of prepayment/payment are made if you cancel the tour at least 15 days in advance.
If you cancel the tour less than 15 days in advance, the prepayment/payment is not refunded or transferred.
Payment in lari at the rate of the National Bank of Georgia on the day of payment.
We offer equipment rental , and you can also read about where to buy equipment in Tbilisi.
