Hiking in Georgia: The best options for exploring the Caucasus on foot

The Caucasus formed mainly because of a tectonic plate collision between the Arabian plate moving northwards with respect to the Eurasian plate. As the Tethys Sea was closed and the Arabian Plate collided with the Iranian Plate and was pushed against it and with the clockwise movement of the Eurasian Plate towards the Iranian Plate and their final collision, the Iranian Plate was pressed against the Eurasian Plate. This resulted in the creation of the Caucasus Mountains. As a result, over 50% of Georgia is mountainous.

Although most of Georgia consists out of what is called the lesser Caucasus, there is also the North, where Georgia shares the Greater Caucasus with Russia, and some in the East, where Georgia borders Azerbaijan. In the North of Georgia, it becomes interesting for trekking enthusiasts. Here you will find the beautiful areas of Svaneti, Racha, Khevi, Khevsureti, and Tusheti. Don’t be mistaken, however. In the South, there is Borjomi and closer to the coast you can find Adjara. Both also offer some spectacular hiking possibilities.

It is not easy to make an informed decision when it comes to trekking in Georgia. Do you go South or East? Do you go North? If yes, how do you get there? Can you start from Tbilisi or do you have to travel halfway through the country to find someone who can show you the way?

Tourism has come a long way in Georgia and there are more and more companies popping up that can show you where to go trekking and can take you on guided trekking tours. The most popular options we hear you asking?

1. Trekking in Svaneti

On the Svaneti Trek you are through flower-strewn alpine meadows, cross passes and you get to see some of the highest peaks of Georgia. Keep reading if you are looking for an itinerary.

2. Kazbegi Trekking

Trekking in Kazbegi in the North of the country evolves around Mount Kazbek and famous little landmarks like the Gergeti Trinity Church which is pictured above. This trek in the Kazbegi region is really a cracker of an adventure.

3. Tusheti to Khevsureti via Atsunta Pass (Omalo to Shatili)

Tusheti and Khevsureti are arguable the most remote regions of Georgia. We don’t know what’s more exciting; The actual trek from Omalo to Shatili or the drive there, which is considered to be one of the most dangerous roads in the world.

If you are looking for the best trekking thrill in Georgia, you should come to Svaneti. Mestia and Ushguli are two medieval towns in the Greater Caucasus. Here you will find yourself in Upper Svaneti, an area that really deserved its spot on the Unesco World Heritage List. The area is famous for Svan towers: A typical Svan fortified dwelling consisted of a tower, an adjacent house, known as machub, and some other household structures encircled by a defensive wall.

Ushguli is a community of four villages and at an altitude of 2.100 meters (6,890 feet), it is the highest continuously inhabited settlement in Europe. We hear you asking how many people actually live in Ushguli. Where Mestia is home to about 2000 living souls, Ushguli only has about 200 inhabitants.

On the Svaneti Trek, you are through flower-strewn alpine meadows, cross passes and you get to see some of the highest peaks of Georgia: Shkara (5152 meters - 16,900 feet), Janga (5.059 meters - 16,600 feet), Tetnuldi (4.858 meters - 15,930 feet), and Ushba (4.710 meters - 15,450 feet). Staying at local guesthouses, you really get a sense of what life has been and is like in this beautiful mountain wonderland.

If you are looking to go trekking in Georgia, you should know that this is not possible all year round. Because of the altitude and the wintery conditions, most of the year you would need to bring your snowboard or skis. If that is what you are after, you should consider Gudauri, Georgia’s biggest ski resort.

For trekking, the best time is from the second half of June till late September. If you are less picky on the season, you can also get round in May and in October, but these months are not suitable for the treks at higher altitudes. Late May, early June the roads to Tusheti and Khevsureti will open.

If you want to do some serious multiday trekking, you should wait till late June – this is when nature looks its best: flowers bloom and trees get greener. The problem is that May and June belong to the rainy season. In July and August weather becomes more stable and dry: this is the best period to trek. These nice weather conditions tend to last until the end of September, but you never know in the mountains.

The most common and easiest way to get to Georgia is to fly to Tbilisi International Airport (TBS). Airlines such as Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Georgian Airways, and Ukraine International Airlines are some of the carriers that have a regular schedule for Tbilisi. You can check all the airlines that fly to Georgia here.

Once you arrive to the Airport it is very easy to get to the city center either by bus, train or taxi. The public bus stop is located in front of the Arrival hall and provides transportation to the city center 24/7. One way fee is 0.50 Georgian Lari (0.20 USD).

Taxis are available outside the terminal, just at the curbside of the Arrival Hall and it is also available all day. The journey time to the city center takes 20-30 minutes dependent on traffic. The taxi fee is around 30 to 50 GEL (11 to 20 USD). Although the train is a fast and cheap option (0.20 USD), trains don’t run very often.

Your gear is your best friend while being out in the mountains. It, in fact, doesn’t matter where you are going, your equipment is key. In extreme cases, gear can make the difference between life and death. In every case, the right equipment can make the difference between you having a good time and ending up miserable. Trekking in Georgia is very similar to trekking in the Alps. Just note that that you will not be seeing any large towns or malls for a good few days in a row, so get prepared. Getting prepared you can also do in Tbilisi. You don't need to drag everything into the plane.

Before we start, note one important thing; we are trekking, not climbing. Hence, you can leave the ropes, the chalk and the carabiners in your closet.

Packs to Carry

If you have to carry something for a prolonged time and you choose what you carry, then don’t compromise. The bags that you bring on your trekking should be of decent quality and you want to be used to them. Don’t swap a winner backpack for a new untested one a week before you head out. Assuming you will have porters to assist you on your trek, you need the following:

• Duffel bag
• Rucksack with rain cover
• Daypack

Happy Feet

We don’t always give our feet the attention they deserve. That may sound weird to you, but just think about what they have all done for you. You can’t go anywhere without your feet. So for your upcoming trekking in Georgia, you better make sure you look after them. Or do you want blisters en route to Ushguli?

• Hiking boots
• Sandals or shoes
• Hiking socks
• Trekking poles (Only if you know how to use them)
• Inner socks

Dress for the Occasion

You don’t have to go overboard when it comes to your trekking gear. Find a healthy balance between comfortable and durable. If you are new to trekking or you only do it once a year, you don't need to invest in high-end expedition gear.

• Thermal baselayer
• T-Shirts
• Fleece pullover or jacket
• Light weight thermal tops
• Waterproof jacket
• Sports bra for her
• Hiking shorts
• Hiking pants
• Waterproof pants

Sleep Is Everything

A good night of sleep is the best recovery. Your wellness during trekking relies partly on the energy you are tanking in the night. When you are staying in guesthouses, you don't need to worry about this section too much. Guesthouses in Georgia are very comfortable. If you are on your own in the mountains, take note of the following:

• Sleeping bag
• Pillow
• Earplugs

Get Cover

There are multiple reasons for covering your head. Whether it’s sun, snow or rain: It is likely it strikes your head first. Protect yourself against sun rays and bring something that keeps you dry when it gets rough.

• Wool hat
• Sunhat
• Buff
• Sunglasses

Some Extras

No one is the same and everyone has his own level of comfort. There will be things missing on this list, simply because you attach more value to them than others. Bring what you want to bring. The next things are definitely worth bringing:

• Sunscreen
• Water bottles
• Head lamp
• Wet wipes
• Sanitizer
• Creams
• Pain medication
• First aid kit
• Towel
• Toiletries

Leave This in the Closet

There always things that you can just leave at home. Light and Fast: The lighter your backpack, the easier your life on the trails will be. Ease is a joy. Here is what you should not bring along.

• Leather
• Jeans
• Unnecessary electronics
• Jewelry
• Classic towel

One last thing: Whatever you pack, make sure you don’t overpack. Someone needs to carry all that stuff and that person is you.

Tipping is a common practice if you get assistance from anyone all over the world. Especially in Nepal and while climbing Kilimanjaro, where you get assistance from both guides and porters. In Georgia tipping is not expected but it still fairly common practice. If you book an organized trek, it is common to tip 10% to 15% of the total price to your guide. You, however, only need to do this when your expectations are met and you are happy about your experience.

If you live anywhere else other than the Alps, it will be hard to get your legs ready for higher altitudes. This is why we have to be clear upfront: Unless you have hiked at a higher altitude before, it will be difficult to get a 100% ready for your adventure. If that sounds bad to you, then comfort yourself with the fact that there is absolutely no need to be 100% ready. You are not climbing K2 or Mount Elbrus and not running a mountain race. This is trekking. In fact, you are actually supposed to take it easy. It doesn’t matter how fit you are, once you are out there on the trails, you have to stick to your own pace. But of course, the fitter you are, the more you can enjoy your days. Let’s get ready!

Hike and Hike Even More

One solid approach to get the hang of what you do is to rehearse. The best practice for climbing is climbing. Seeing that you are keen on a multi-day trekking experience, we accept that you enjoy walking. Awesome, do it more. If you are fortunate to be encompassed by some hills or even mountains, the time has come to see them all the more frequently. When? In the event that you are new to this, we recommend beginning a half year the start of your trek, essentially going for 60 minutes (or two) climb seven days. When you get the hang of it, after around three weeks, you will have an ideal opportunity to reinforce your power. Convey a pack of 10 to 15kg and include a more drawn out climb of three hours to your week. On the off chance that this way of life is different to you, you will before long receive the rewards of this moderate exercise.

Health Benefits

Some of the health benefits of trekking and hiking include a lower risk of heart disease, improved blood pressure and sugar levels and of course it helps to control your weight. Once you are ready for the hills, it only gets better. According to Gregory Miller, president of the American Hiking Society, "a 5% to 10% incline equals a 30% to 40% increase in calorie burn.” Our personal health benefits are a clearer mind and an elevated mood. Trekking keeps us sane. After a good few months of solid hiking, it is time to put your endurance to the test. Do back to back long hikes. You can simulate a few days of constant trekking by going hiking for a few days. Easy at that. Plan a smaller trekking holiday or keep it simple by hiking your favorite route on repeat. If you are comfortable hiking for 4 hours a day, 3 days in a row while carrying a 10kg to 15kg backpack, you will be fine.

Get Stronger

One misconception about trekking is that the ascent is the hardest on your body. Wrong. Descending is actually very demanding. When you hike downhill, your quadriceps is being put to work. If you notice any overly sore muscles and weak spots in your quads while going out on hikes, it can be wise to add some strengthening exercises to the mix. If your quads and glutes are suffering, your knees and ankles might also take too much strain.

One way to get stronger is to do some basic exercises. You don’t need a gym membership, as merely using your bodyweight can already give you the results you are looking for. Once or twice a week, depending on how you are feeling, you can do two sets of 10 lunges, 10 squats, and 10 step-ups. If you want to push yourself a bit more, you can try to add some pull-ups and push up to your routine. Going the extra mile in your strengthening is, however, really not necessary. You can already enjoy trekking when you just stick to the basics. This is not a fitness competition.

Elevation Simulation

An elevation mask is an elevation reproduction gadget that restrains your intake of oxygen. Usually utilized by endurance athletes who contend at a higher altitude. Likewise, hikers and trekkers can also benefit from it. When you are going trekking in Georgia, there is definitely no compelling reason to go this far, yet in the event that it settles your stresses, you out it an attempt. On the off chance that you are thinking about to roll out exceptional improvements in your way of life, always make sure to consult a medical professional first. Especially if you want to mimic altitude.