Tusheti – Georgia’s Last True Wilderness
Tusheti National Park — The Hidden Kingdom
Hidden deep within the northern folds of the Greater Caucasus, Tusheti is Europe’s most remote and untouched mountain wilderness. Accessible only 4 months a year via the thrilling Abano Pass, this region has preserved its medieval stone towers, animist shrines, and mystical traditions intact for over a millennium.
Abano Pass Max Altitude
Protected Plant Species
Mountain Wildlife Species
Marked Eco-Trails
Towers Built of Stone and Silence
The high-altitude villages of Omalo, Dartlo, Shenako, and Diklo feel like living open-air museums. The legendary Keselo fortress and the slate-roofed fortified homes were built centuries ago to guard the valleys.
Tushetians have maintained a unique pastoral lifestyle, moving their vast flocks of sheep up to the alpine meadows in June and returning to the valleys of Kakheti when the snow locks the mountains down.
Essential Tour Guide
🗓 Best Season
The pass opens late May or early June and closes by October. July and August offer perfect weather, lush green ridges, and vibrant local mountain festivals (Tushetoba).
🚫 Cultural Norms
Due to ancient pagan and animist beliefs, pork is strictly forbidden in Tusheti. Do not bring any pork products. Women are also restricted from entering local shrines (Khati).
🎒 Packing Essentials
Weather changes rapidly. Bring high-quality windproof jackets, thermal layers, sturdy trekking shoes, and cash (there are absolutely no ATMs or card terminals).
Authentic Mountain Experiences
🥾 Alpine Trekking
Hike across emerald-green valleys, crystal clear rivers, and deep pine forests on trails untouched by mass tourism.
🐴 Horse Riding
Ride the famous Tushetian horse breed—renowned for its incredible balance and stamina on narrow mountain ridges.
🦅 Wildlife & Birdwatching
Spot rare East Caucasian Turs leaping on jagged cliffs, alongside Golden Eagles and Bearded Vultures.
📸 Photography
Medieval towers at golden hour. Alpine wildflowers in July. Starscapes with zero light pollution. Tusheti is consistently named one of the most photogenic places in the world.
The Flavors of Tusheti
Mountain cuisine is hearty and unique. Taste Kotori—a micro-thin traditional khachapuri made with clarified butter, or authentic mountain Khinkali spiced with wild caraway (kvliavi) harvested from high slopes.
Don’t miss out on the legendary Tushetian Guda Cheese, dry-ripened in a sheepskin bag, giving it an intensely sharp, unforgettable flavor profiles.
From Alpine Peaks to Ancient Qvevris
Every great wilderness adventure deserves an elegant conclusion. Our signature Tusheti tour loops back down into the warm, sun-drenched microclimates of Kakheti.
We conclude the rough mountain tracks with an exclusive private gathering at the Wine Trails winery in Ikalto village, featuring a deep dive into natural amber Qvevri wines and a premium traditional feast.