Tusheti National Park

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Tusheti National Park: An Unforgettable Mountain Adventure

IUCN Categories: National Park & Strict Nature Reserve

Tusheti National Park represents one of the most mystical regions in the Caucasus Mountains. If you seek untouched landscapes and ancient traditions, this remote sanctuary is your perfect destination. Consequently, many travelers describe it as the hidden soul of Georgia.

Exploring Ancient Stone Towers and Traditions

The architecture of Omalo, Shenako, and Diklo tells a story of survival and heritage. Additionally, the iconic stone towers stand as guardians of the high-altitude valleys. You can wander through these medieval villages and feel the pulse of centuries-old history. Furthermore, the local community still preserves unique traditions, such as knitting “chiti” (socks) and pressing thick felt from ecologically pure wool.

The Thrill of the Abano Pass

Reaching the park is an adventure in itself. Because the road crosses the Abano Pass at 2,826 meters, you will experience one of the most breathtaking drives on the planet. However, the journey requires a professional 4×4 vehicle and an experienced driver. Once you reach the top, the panoramic views of the Alazani Valley will leave you speechless.

Hiking and Adventure in the High Caucasus

Tusheti National Park offers diverse trails for every level of adventurer. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling, or horseback riding, the park provides well-marked routes through alpine meadows.

• Hiking: Experience varying difficulty levels from village-to-village walks to high-peak expeditions.

• Cycling & Horse Riding: Explore the rugged terrain using our rental services for bikes and horses.

• Birdwatching: Use hired binoculars to observe rare species in their natural habitat.

Flora: A Botanical Paradise

The flora of Tusheti is distinguished by its incredible diversity, featuring 1,062 species of plants. The landscape is dominated by the Caucasian pine (Pinus kochyana), which covers about 15,000 hectares. As you ascend, the pine forest is replaced by warty and Litvinov birch trees. Notably, the park hosts 230 Caucasian endemic species and 11 Georgian endemics, including the rare Tushetian Aconite and Tebulo Buttercup. Furthermore, Radde’s and black birch are protected under the Georgian “Red List.”

Fauna: Home of the East Caucasian Tur

The inaccessible cliffs of Tusheti National Park serve as the homeland for the East Caucasian tur, chamois, and wild goats. Additionally, the park is an ornithological treasure. You can spot Golden Eagles, Bearded Vultures, and the fastest bird on the planet—the Falcon. The region’s biodiversity includes 18 species from the “Red List,” such as the brown bear, lynx, and the Caucasian grouse. Moreover, the crystal-clear Tusheti rivers are rich in native trout.

Authentic Tushetian Cuisine

Traditional cuisine in this region deserves particular appreciation. For instance, the famous Tushetian Khinkali is made with meat chopped by a dagger and seasoned with mountain savory (kvliavi). You should also try Kotori (Tushetian khachapuri) and Khavitsi, a delicious dish of cottage cheese boiled in melted butter.

A Balanced Georgian Experience

While Tusheti is a world of its own, the journey typically begins and ends in the lush vineyards of Kakheti. After descending from the high peaks, you can relax with a glass of premium Qvevri wine. This contrast between the rugged mountains and the warm wine cellars creates a truly balanced Georgian experience.