Tusheti

Hidden beyond the snowbound Abano Pass, Tusheti feels like another world — a remote mountain realm where ancient towers rise above emerald valleys, and the rhythm of life follows the pulse of the high Caucasus. Perched in Georgia’s far northeast, this is one of the most pristine and culturally rich corners of the country — a living memory of how mountain people once lived, in harmony with nature and faith.

Reaching Tusheti is an adventure in itself. The road from Kakheti climbs over 2,800 meters, twisting along cliffs and waterfalls until it crests the Abano Pass — one of Europe’s highest drivable mountain routes. From there, the landscape unfolds in breathtaking drama: alpine meadows, stone villages, and endless horizons stretching toward Dagestan.

At the heart of Tusheti lies Omalo, with its cluster of ancient defense towers standing guard above the valley. From here, hiking trails lead to Dartlo, Diklo, and Shenako — picture-perfect villages where slate-roofed houses blend seamlessly with the mountains. In Pirikita Alazani Valley, shepherds still move with their flocks through wildflower fields, preserving traditions passed down through centuries.

Tusheti’s cuisine reflects the rugged purity of the land. Travelers are welcomed with kotori — tender cheese-filled pastries, khinkali made from local mutton, and dakhturi, a rich dish of melted cheese and butter cooked slowly over the fire. Guda cheese, aged in sheepskin, carries the true taste of the mountains — sharp, smoky, and unforgettable. Sweet tsiklauri bread, baked for festive days, completes the meal, often shared with a toast of araki or home-brewed beer.

Life in Tusheti follows the seasons. In winter, the passes close under snow and the villages fall silent; only in summer do families return to tend their herds, celebrate festivals, and welcome the few who venture this far. Hiking, horseback riding, and exploring untouched landscapes make Tusheti a paradise for those who seek wilderness and authenticity.

Join our journey and explore Tusheti — Georgia’s last frontier, where stone, sky, and spirit meet. Here, every trail feels sacred, every meal is shared, and every silence speaks with the voice of the mountains.