Hiking in Georgia: Best routes in the Greater and Lesser Caucasus

Hiking, traveling, camping in fabulous locations, waking up at dawn to the sound of birds chirping and breathing in refreshing mountain air—that’s exactly what Georgia offers all hiking enthusiasts who choose to hike in this fabulous region.

Georgia lies between the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains. It is precisely this location that makes it possible for the country to offer hikes to suit every taste. Beginners can choose easy destinations, while even advanced hikers can tackle several strenuous climbs over the course of a few days.

Hiking with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains

The mountain regions are particularly suitable for hiking: Svaneti, the region of Stepantsminda, where the majestic Mount Kazbeg is located, and Tusheti and Khevsureti, in the northeastern part of the Greater Caucasus. These areas still offer authentic, unspoiled, and truly dreamy corners where you can unwind.
Khevi is the name of the region where the small town of Stephantsminda is located. There are numerous hiking destinations around Stephantsminda, making this area a true hiking paradise. Mountaineering is also possible here.

Although Khevi is so dotted with hiking destinations, Svaneti offers even more hiking opportunities. Here, you can hike continuously for over two weeks to a variety of locations, and no two days will be the same, as each destination is so different. This is precisely why Svaneti is the most popular hiking destination.

Blick vom Dach eines Wehrturms in Mestia

Waterfalls are a must

Not far from Stephantsminda lies the almost deserted village of Gveleti. Gveleti is surrounded by imposing cliffs, and a rushing mountain river rushes below. The path gradually narrows, leading you into the gullies of boulders, from where the transition to the rocky peaks begins. Once there, you’ll see the 30-meter-high, gushing waterfall. This spectacular view will make you forget all the hardships of the journey and leave you feeling fulfilled just by becoming one with nature.

Another exciting place is the Chaukhebi mountain range. The journey itself is unforgettable, as you travel to a village called Juta, isolated from the outside world for eight months. The hike to this impressive mountain range, during which every step gives you a sense of how beautiful the world is and how close and far the mountains are, transports you to a dream world of nature, from which you can only awaken if you accidentally step into the icy mountain stream flowing by.

These regions also boast breathtaking river valleys and valleys where the water transforms into travertine, forming a miniature Pamukkale in the high Caucasus Mountains. You can also hike there.

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