The Most Stunning Mountain Hikes In Georgia

Trekking and hiking lovers will love the breathtaking views in Georgia – the country boasts a variety of different trails to suit everyone from beginners through to professionals. If you’re planning a trip and want to find the perfect route for you, check out our round-up of the best spots around.

Stepantsminda to Gergeti Glacier

Natural Feature

This route is one of the most popular treks in the country, making a perfect one-day trip from Stepantsminda(also known as Kazbegi) village towards the root of Mount Kazbegi that lies at 3,200 meters (10,499 feet) above sea level. During your trek, you will also pass Geregti Trinity Church, one of Georgia’s most famous landmarks. The trek can be challenging, as you need to hike 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) both ways, taking around eight hours in total. For an alternative, the village offers another, very easy trek to the Gveleti waterfalls just 7 km (4.35 miles) away.

Juta to Roshka through Chaukhi Pass

Natural Feature

Chaukhi Pass is another popular trail both with locals and foreigners visiting the country. It connects the Kazbegi region with Khevsureti and takes around two days. The moderately difficult route takes you through the imposing Chaukhi Massif boasting seven sharp peaks. When you reach the other side of the pass, you can explore the colorful Abudelauri lakes and Roshka stone formation. The best time to go on a hike here is from the beginning of July until the end of September.

Udziro Lake

Natural Feature

Udziro Lake lies 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) above sea level in an alpine zone at the very end of the Racha region. In good weather you’ll be rewarded with splendid views of the Caucasus Mountains. The trek starts in the village of Shovi and takes two days. It’s considered to be a hard one, so be fully prepared – the snow can be quite heavy here, so the best time to go is from late June to late September.

Oreti Lake

Natural Feature

Located in Tusheti region, the route to Oreti Lake makes for a perfect one-day hike opportunity. The 27 km long trail in total starts at the village of Kumelaurta village south of Omalo and goes up to the lake. The best time to hike up here is the early summer when the water level is high and nature is in bloom.

Mestia to Koruldi Lakes

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If you’re visiting Mestia, the central city of Svaneti and are up for a small hike, consider Koruldi Lakes for a great day hike from here. The alpine lakes lie at the bottom of Ushba mountain, creating a stunning view of the surroundings. The trek takes approximately seven hours and is considered to be of moderate difficulty.

Shkhara Glacier

Natural Feature

Another very beautiful hike in Svaneti is towards the Shkhara Glacier that starts from Ushguli village. The trail goes along the dirt road and might not be that pleasant, but the views of the highest point in Georgia are worth every step. This could easily be a day hike as it takes only five hours in total – however, you can shorten it by hiring a jeep.

Intsra Waterfall

Natural Feature

The trail towards Intsra Waterfall is a lesser-known trek that starts from Chkvareli village, located a 45-minute drive from Zugdidi, the central city of the Samegrelo region. The trek is easy and takes only three hours making it a great one for day trip to get away in nature.

Tobavarchkhili Lakes

Natural Feature

Considered to be one of the most difficult and dangerous hiking routes of Georgia, the trail to Tobavarchkili, or silver lakes, is packed with absolutely stunning views. You need several days to hike up to the lakes and the same amount of days to come back. However, the beauty of those crystal-clear waters is worth every step. Situated at the heart of the Egrisi Mountains, the lakes separate Upper Svaneti from the lowlands.

About the author

Baia Dzagnidze

Writer

I am a travel blogger, content writer, food lover and a passionate photographer. Four years ago I quit my editorial job at the newspaper in order to pursue my passion of traveling through South East Asia. Check out my adventures at redfedoradiary.com or follow my daily rambling on Instagram @redfedoradiary.