3-Day Tusheti Exploration Tour with Omalo and Pirikiti Valley

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Enjoy breathtaking mountain views on the way to Tusheti
• 02 Explore the 11th-century Georgian Orthodox Alaverdi Monastery
• 03 Discover traditional Tushetian villages amid stunning alpine scenery
• 04 Visit the historic Girevi Fortress in the beautiful Pirikiti Valley

Embark on a scenic journey through Georgia's remote Tusheti region, with breathtaking mountain views, a visit to the historic Alaverdi Monastery, and time in Omalo, the region's main village. Hike through alpine meadows to traditional Tushetian villages, see fortified towers known as Koshkebi, and visit the historic Girevi Fortress in the beautiful Pirikiti Valley. The tour concludes with visits to remote villages including Kvemo Omalo, Shenako, and Diklo, as well as Pichekhi Castle at the border of the Russian Federation.

Hike through alpine meadows to traditional Tushetian villages, see fortified towers known as Koshkebi, and visit the historic Girevi Fortress in the beautiful Pirikiti Valley.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Tbilisi, Tusheti

Languages English, Georgian, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Scenic Drive to Tusheti and Omalo

• Pick up from your accommodation in Tbilisi between 7:00 and 7:30 am.
• Drive from Tbilisi to Gombori Pass, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Next, visit the historic Alaverdi Monastery, an 11th-century Georgian Orthodox monastery.
• After the monastery, begin the journey to Omalo, the main village in the Tusheti region. The road to Omalo is a challenging one, with winding mountain roads and breathtaking views.
• Upon arrival in Omalo, check in to the guesthouse and enjoy a traditional Georgian meal.
• In the evening, explore the village and meet the local people, who are known for their warm hospitality.

2

Day 02

Hike Through Pirikiti Valley Villages

• Wake up early to hike to the nearby villages of Bochorma and Dartlo, which are located in beautiful alpine meadows.
• Along the way, you will see traditional Tushetian architecture, including fortified towers called "Koshkebi" that were used for protection in centuries past.
• After lunch, visit the Girevi Fortress.
• Return to Omalo for dinner and an overnight stay.

3

Day 03

Remote Villages and Return to Tbilisi

• Start the day with breakfast and depart for Lower Omalo.
• Visit the villages of Kvemo Omalo, Shenako, and Diklo.
• See Pichekhi Castle, standing at the border of the Russian Federation.
• Explore Alaverdi Monastery.
• Return to Tbilisi, ending the Tusheti tour.
• Late arrival in Tbilisi.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• 4X4 WD off-road transport from Tbilisi for a thrilling adventure
• Professional guide service to provide insightful commentary and enhance your experience
• Shared accommodation throughout the tour
• Delicious breakfast served on days 2 and 3, ensuring a great start to your day
• Enjoy flavorful dinners on days 1 and 2, showcasing local cuisine and culture

What's Not Included

• Lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savour the flavours of Tusheti cuisine
• Personal expenses such as horseback riding, alcoholic beverages, etc.
• Gratuities for your guide and driver, should you wish to show your appreciation (optional)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off can be arranged for an additional fee
• Personal insurance

What to bring

• Warm clothing
• Waterproof gear

Know before you go

• The itinerary can be changed due to weather or delays on the return trip to Tbilisi, so it is important to be flexible and open to changes in the schedule.
• Tusheti is a remote and mountainous region with challenging roads and limited infrastructure. Visitors should be prepared for rugged terrain and limited amenities. Those prone to motion sickness may want to consider taking medication beforehand.
• The Tusheti tour is only available during a limited season, typically from June to September. Be sure to check availability before booking.
• Cell phone coverage is limited in Tusheti, so it is important to have a backup way to communicate in an emergency.
• The weather in Tusheti can be unpredictable, with sudden temperature changes and the potential for heavy rain or even snow. Visitors should come prepared with warm clothing and waterproof gear.
• There are limited medical facilities in Tusheti, and emergency medical evacuation can be difficult. Visitors should have travel insurance and be in good health before booking this tour.
• The altitude in Tusheti is high (1800-2900 m / 5905-9514 ft), so those with altitude sickness should take appropriate precautions and consult a doctor before embarking on the tour.
• There is limited access to electricity and running water in Tusheti, so be prepared for rustic living conditions.
• Be aware of cultural sensitivity. Tusheti is a very traditional area, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions.
• As Tusheti is a protected area, it is important to follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and respect the natural environment.
• The tour includes comfortable accommodations (single or double rooms) and delicious traditional meals, but please note that the comfort level may be lower than what you are used to.
• The vehicle used for transport is a Mitsubishi Delica. While it may not be the most luxurious vehicle, it is reliable and equipped to handle the rugged terrain of Tusheti. Rest assured that we have balanced affordability, safety, and comfort for a truly memorable experience.
• Finally, to prepare for being cut off from the modern world, Tusheti is a space to enjoy nature, culture, and the simplicity of life.
• For the Tusheti tour, a 100% refund is available if cancelled five days before the tour starts. No refunds are available for cancellations within five days of the tour start.
• A private room upgrade is available upon request.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Tbilisi, Грузия

Tour start

Abano Pass, Грузия

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.