Beyond civilization: the Tusheti & Khevsureti expedition
September 6–13, 2026
This journey is not for everyone. It is reserved for the bravest, most inquisitive, and sophisticated travelers—those who seek the unusual, the spiritual, and the secluded. We will walk along paths rarely trodden by tourists. Traveling through Tusheti and Khevsureti is an exclusive experience in the global travel market. For us, this is the most profound experience Georgia has to offer, and we are proud to present it to you.
We meet early in Tbilisi and begin our journey toward Shatili, a high-mountain village in the historic Khevsureti region. Our route takes us along a winding dirt road through the "Bear Cross" Pass, descending into the deep Argun Gorge, just 2 km from the border with Chechnya.
Shatili is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its architectural scale is staggering. The village is built as a single, cohesive defensive complex—a "cave city" of stone. You will explore ancient battle towers, deep cellars, and narrow stone passages that once protected the Khevsur people. The inhabitants here have a distinct culture and character, forged by centuries of isolation and the rhythm of the mountain river flowing through the gorge.
In the morning, we explore the "Georgian Machu Picchu"—the ancient, abandoned fortified city of Mutso, perched high above the Ardoti River. Shrouded in mist and mystery, some say it was built in the 12th century under the legendary Queen Tamar, while others date its towers to the 16th century.
Since 1931, Mutso has been known as a "dead city," but its unique, powerful energy is very much alive. From its heights, you can witness a breathtaking view of the Tushino Mountains and the Andaki River. Afterward, we begin a long trek toward the Hidotani Mountain Range. We will camp on the ridge itself, spending the night in tents to meet a sunrise you will remember for the rest of your life. There is no beauty quite like the first light hitting these peaks.
This is the most technically and physically demanding day of the expedition. We cross the picturesque Atsunta Pass, the natural border separating the regions of Khevsureti and Tusheti.
Along the way, you will witness the majesty of Tebulos Mta, the highest peak of the Eastern Caucasus (4,500m), capped in eternal snow. We descend from the ridge into a deep gorge to camp by a mountain river.
Stats: 15 km | Ascent: 830 m | Descent: 1,030 m.
Today’s 17 km trek takes us through the Pirikit Gorge, following the banks of the Kvakhidistskali and Pirikitskaya Alazani rivers. We will pass through three abandoned villages, where medieval towers still stand as colorful silent witnesses to the past.
Our destination is the village of Girevi. Here, we settle into a guesthouse for a well-deserved rest. This is your chance to try Aludi—the traditional Tusheti beer, brewed according to ancient local customs. It is the perfect sensory reward after a long trek.
Stats: 17 km | Descent: 450 m.
We head toward Dartlo, a stunningly picturesque village that feels like a living museum. En route, we stop at Parsma, a Tusheti village untouched by tourism—there are no hotels or guesthouses here, only warmth and raw authenticity.
In Dartlo, you can stroll through ruins of a Christian church and see the ancient stone chairs where the community elders once sat in judgment. In the center stands a remarkable six-story tower, built from flat stone without the use of mortar—a testament to local craftsmanship. For those with extra energy, an optional climb to the Kvavlo Fortress offers a stunning perspective over the village.
Stats: 7 km | Descent: 150 m.
Today we arrive in Omalo, the cultural heart of the region and the setting for the iconic scenes of the Soviet film Mimino. Being here feels like returning home to the roots of Georgian mountain soul.
After lunch, we will walk to the Keselo Fortress, which once served as a sanctuary for the locals. If time and energy allow, we can ascend to Lake Oreti, one of the ten most beautiful mountain lakes in Georgia, perfectly reflecting the surrounding peaks in its crystalline waters.
A difficult test of spirit awaits. We descend by 4x4 vehicles toward Telavi via the legendary Abano Pass—officially ranked among the three most dangerous and beautiful roads in the world.
The thrill of the road is followed by the relaxation you have earned. We move to a 4-star hotel in Kakheti. A delicious dinner, a hot shower, and a comfortable bed—these simple luxuries take on a new meaning for a traveler returning from the high mountains. We conclude the day with a professional wine tasting in the heart of the valley.
After a leisurely, hearty breakfast, we make our way back to the capital. We are available to assist with hotel selections in Tbilisi or organize a guided walk through the city to wrap up your Georgian experience.
Price: $3,950
Special price: 3500$, if you book before 30th June 2026!
Included in the price:
7 full days of trekking through the most remote and beautiful corners of Tusheti and Khevsureti.
Equine Support: Several horses per group to transport tents and provisions.
Transfers: Professional 4x4 Jeep support for all necessary segments.
Accommodations: Mountain guesthouses with breakfast and tent rentals.
Leadership: A professional, certified, Russian- or English speaking guide.
Final Luxury: A 4-star hotel in Kakheti with a farewell dinner and wine tasting.
Not Included:
Airfare and personal insurance.
Individual meals (outside of guesthouse breakfasts).
Personal expenses.
Professional photographers and videographers are available upon request.
