Reins of Freedom

Tusheti Equine Adventure: Delving into Europe's Secluded Wilderness on Horseback

Detailed Description

Overview

Difficulty
Comfort
Tbilisi
Start & end location
Kakheti   Tbilisi  
Destinations
Active
Tour type
June — September
Period
7 days
Duration
1-6
Group
12+
Age
GT013
Program code

Far beyond the busy cities and tourist routes lies Tusheti, Georgia's most isolated mountain region — a place where medieval villages cling to dramatic cliffs, ancient stone towers watch over deep valleys, and horseback remains one of the most authentic ways to explore the landscape.

This seven-day horseback adventure has been designed for travelers who want to experience the very best of Tusheti without sacrificing comfort. Each day brings a new mountain pass, hidden valley, or centuries-old village, while every evening ends in the warm hospitality of traditional Tushetian guesthouses, where homemade meals and local traditions await.

Your journey follows historic trails that connected mountain communities long before roads existed. Ride across alpine meadows, through remote valleys and over spectacular passes, visiting iconic villages such as Shenako, Dartlo, Farsma, Bochorna, and Omalo. Along the way you'll encounter medieval fortresses, defensive towers, abandoned settlements and breathtaking viewpoints that reveal why Tusheti is considered one of the Caucasus' greatest treasures.

Unlike many horseback adventures that rely on camping, this itinerary offers comfortable accommodation every night, allowing you to enjoy the wilderness while still relaxing after each day's ride. Local guesthouses provide an authentic glimpse into Tushetian life, where recipes, customs and traditions have remained remarkably unchanged for generations.

Although civilization feels wonderfully distant, this is not simply a horseback holiday. It is an immersion into one of Europe's last truly wild cultural landscapes—a region protected both for its extraordinary biodiversity and for the remarkable heritage of the Tush people, whose traditions continue to shape everyday life in these mountains.

The riding pace is generally relaxed, allowing both riders and horses to safely navigate mountain terrain while fully appreciating the spectacular scenery. There are opportunities for faster riding where conditions permit, but safety always remains the priority.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Journey to the Kingdom Above the Clouds

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Tbilisi into one of the most remote and spectacular regions of the Caucasus. The journey follows winding mountain roads through Kakheti before climbing the legendary Abano Pass (2,826 m) — the only road connecting Tusheti with the rest of Georgia. The route itself is an unforgettable experience, offering dramatic mountain panoramas, deep gorges, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. By late afternoon, arrive in Shenako, one of Tusheti's most beautiful villages, famous for its traditional stone houses, defensive towers, and the unique Holy Trinity Church overlooking the valley. Settle into your family-run guesthouse, enjoy a homemade Tushetian dinner, and take in the peaceful atmosphere of this isolated mountain community.

Route: Tbilisi — Private car | 190 km · 7 h — Shenako

Accommodation: Included Guesthouse Old Tusheti * Or similar | Guest House | 2-5 person per room, shower and WC in the front house

Meals: breakfast: not included, lunch: not included, dinner: included

Guide: Not included

Visited Attractions*: Abano Pass.

Day 2 — Ancient Fortresses and the Lost Village of Diklo

After breakfast, meet your horses and begin your first day in the saddle. Today's ride introduces you to the dramatic landscapes and medieval heritage that make Tusheti one of Europe's last great wildernesses. Your route takes you across rolling alpine pastures to Aguerta, a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Pirikiti Valley, before continuing toward Dotkalto, surrounded by untouched mountain scenery. The trail then leads to the impressive Diklo Fortress, an ancient defensive stronghold built to guard Georgia's northeastern frontier. From here, continue to the abandoned settlement of Old Diklo, where centuries-old stone towers and ruined houses stand as silent reminders of Tusheti's rich history. Return to Shenako in the afternoon for another evening of authentic mountain hospitality.

Route: Shenako — Horseback riding | 9 km · 3 h — Diklo — Horseback riding | 7 km · 2 h — Shenako

Activities: Horse Riding | 5 hours , Sightseeing | 2 hours , Food Tasting | 1 hours

Accommodation: Included Guesthouse Old Tusheti * Or similar | Guest House | 2-5 person per room, shower and WC in the front house

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*:

Day 3 — Crossing Sanare Pass to Medieval Dartlo

Leave Shenako behind and begin your ascent toward the beautiful Sanare Pass, where sweeping views reveal the vast mountain ranges and deep valleys of Tusheti National Park. Crossing the pass, follow ancient shepherd trails to the tiny village of Chigho, one of Tusheti's most secluded settlements. Continue riding through breathtaking alpine scenery before reaching Dartlo, arguably the region's most iconic medieval village. Its beautifully preserved stone towers, slate-roofed houses, and cobbled pathways create one of Georgia's most unforgettable landscapes. Spend the evening exploring the village before enjoying dinner at your guesthouse.

Route: Shenako — Horseback riding | 22 km · 6 h — Dartlo

Activities: Horse Riding | 6 hours , Sightseeing | 3 hours , Food Tasting | 1 hours

Accommodation: Included Guesthouse Shuni * Or similar | Guest House | 2-5 person per room, shower and WC in the front house

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*:

Day 4 — Along the Legendary Villages of Pirikiti Valley

Today's ride follows the historic Pirikiti Valley, connecting several of Tusheti's most picturesque villages. Begin with a climb to Kvavlo, dramatically perched on a steep hillside overlooking the valley below. Continue to Dano, a quiet settlement surrounded by breathtaking mountain panoramas, before descending toward Farsma, one of Tusheti's oldest inhabited villages, known for its distinctive defensive towers and traditional architecture. Finish the day in the peaceful village of Chesho, where you'll enjoy another evening immersed in authentic Tushetian life.

Route: Dartlo — Horseback riding | 19 km · 5 h — Chesho

Activities: Horse Riding | 5 hours , Food Tasting | 1 hours , Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Guesthouse Pirikiti Chesho * Or similar | Guest House | 2-5 person per room, shower and WC in the front house

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Day 5 — Crossing Nakaicho Pass: On the Roof of Tusheti

Today is one of the highlights of the journey. Leaving Chesho, the trail steadily climbs toward the magnificent Nakaicho Pass (2,800 m). As you gain altitude, panoramic views unfold in every direction, revealing endless ridgelines, dramatic valleys, and remote villages scattered across the landscape. This high mountain crossing offers some of the finest horseback riding scenery in all of Georgia. After reaching the pass, descend into the tranquil village of Jvarboseli, a traditional Tushetian settlement surrounded by alpine pastures and ancient stone towers.

Route: Chesho — Horseback riding | 22 km · 6 h — Jvarboseli

Activities: Horse Riding | 6 hours , Sightseeing | 1 hours , Food Tasting | 1 hours

Accommodation: Included Guesthouse Posholi * Or similar | Guest House | 2-5 person per room, shower and WC in the front house

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*:

Day 6 — Bochorna and Omalo: Into the Heart of Tusheti

Your final riding day explores the very heart of Tusheti. Ride first to Dochu, a tiny mountainside village offering spectacular views across the surrounding valleys. Continue toward Bochorna, recognized as one of the highest permanently inhabited settlements in Europe at over 2,300 meters above sea level. The journey concludes in Omalo, the cultural and administrative center of Tusheti. Before reaching your guesthouse, admire the iconic Keselo Fortress, whose stone towers have protected the valley for centuries and remain one of the symbols of the region. Celebrate the completion of your horseback adventure with a traditional farewell dinner.

Route: Jvarboseli — Horseback riding | 23 km · 6 h — Omalo

Activities: Horse Riding | 6 hours , Food Tasting | 1 hours , Sightseeing | 1 hours

Accommodation: Included Hotel Tsasne * Or similar | Guest House | 2-5 person per room, shower and WC in the front house

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Keselo Fortress.

Day 7 — Farewell to the Mountains of Tusheti

After breakfast, enjoy one final morning surrounded by the pristine beauty of Tusheti before beginning the return journey to Tbilisi. Cross the spectacular Abano Pass once again, taking in the final views of Georgia's most remote mountain region before descending into Kakheti and continuing back to the capital. Arrive in Tbilisi in the evening, bringing your unforgettable Tushetian horseback adventure to a close.

Route: Omalo — Private car | 190 km · 7 h — Tbilisi

Accommodation: Not Included

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Not included

Our tour program's list of attractions is a guide, not exhaustive. Unlisted sites may be visited, and listed ones might be viewed from a distance. Conditions like operating hours, weather, or local rules may affect access. Thank you for your understanding.

Prices

This tour has open departure and can be organized based on your preferred dates. Remember, prices vary based on the exact group size.

From June 15, 2027 to Sept. 30, 2027

What's included?

Accommodation

6 nights — 2-5 person per room, shower and WC in the front house

Meals

6 breakfasts, 5 lunch, 6 dinners.

Guide

5 days — Full day,

Transport

Private car: ~380 km, Horseback riding: ~102 km. *

Activities

Horse Riding: ~28 hours, Sightseeing: ~9 hours, Food Tasting: ~5 hours. *

Additionally included

Accommodation, Transport, Entrance fees to all sites according to the programm, All meals in guest houses, English speaking guide.

Not included

Plane tickets, Personal expenses and tips, Travel insurance.

The provided measures of total kilometers for transport, duration of guide services, and activities in our tour program are approximate and may vary depending on the program flow and terrain conditions. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these numbers, please note that they are intended as estimates. We make every effort to provide the most precise information possible to give you an idea of the overall tour experience.

Note

The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather conditions, trail accessibility, or other factors affecting safety. Our guides will always choose the best available route to ensure the most enjoyable and secure experience.
All driving times and horseback riding durations are approximate and may vary depending on weather, trail conditions, and the pace of the group.

Airport transfers are not included in the tour price. Should you require private airport transfers, we will be happy to arrange them for you. Pricing will be quoted individually based on your arrival or departure airport and the number of passengers.

Additional overnight in Tbilisi in 3-4* local hotel:
Single : 60 euros / pers.
Twin : 80 euros / room for 2 pers.

* The times given are approximate.
** Lunches during the horseback trek will be picnics.

Equipment & Checklist

Preparing well will help you make the most of your horseback adventure through the spectacular mountains of Tusheti. While you'll be staying in comfortable family-run guesthouses each night, weather conditions in the Greater Caucasus can change quickly, making appropriate clothing and equipment essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Before travelling, make sure you have your passport, travel insurance, airline tickets, and any personal medications you may require. For riding, we recommend comfortable clothing suitable for several hours in the saddle, along with sturdy trekking shoes that provide good grip both on horseback and while walking on uneven terrain.

Mountain weather can vary considerably, even during summer. Be prepared by packing a waterproof jacket, warm layers, and sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A reusable water bottle, small daypack, and portable power bank are also highly recommended for daily rides.

Difficulty

This tour is designed for riders with previous horseback riding experience and a good level of physical fitness. Daily rides last approximately five to six hours and traverse mountain trails with significant elevation changes, narrow paths, and occasional steep ascents and descents.

While the riding pace is generally relaxed, participants should feel confident riding for extended periods over varied terrain. Previous mountain trekking experience is helpful but not essential.

This journey rewards riders with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Caucasus, combining challenging yet enjoyable riding with authentic cultural experiences in one of Europe's most remote mountain regions.

Accommodation

The accommodations in this tour offer a mix of traditional charm and modern conveniences, primarily in good and clean 2-3 star hotels with private facilities, with some nights spent in small, locally-run hotels or home-stays with shared facilities. All accommodations are located in excellent central locations. If a hotel name is marked with "* or similar," it means a similar hotel of equivalent or higher class may be provided based on tour dates, group size, and hotel availability. The itinerary section of the program description will specify the exact type of accommodation for each day.

Meals

During the Tusheti adventure, delight in a variety of local Tusheti and Georgian dishes prepared daily to energize your adventure.

Breakfast: Savor tea, coffee, accompanied by cheese, jams, honey, butter, bread, eggs, and fresh fruits.

Picnic: Enjoy a midday picnic with fresh vegetables, bread, cheese, and a choice of fish, chicken, along with fruits and churchkhlas.

Dinner: Traditional Georgian and Tush dishes.

NB: Vegetarians welcome!

Important Information and Guidelines for Your Tusheti Horseback Adventure

Tusheti is one of Georgia's most remote mountain regions, where weather and trail conditions can change rapidly. For your safety and the well-being of the horses, our guides may occasionally adjust the itinerary or riding routes if necessary.

Daily rides take place on mountain trails with varying elevations and uneven terrain. A good level of physical fitness and previous horseback riding experience are therefore essential for enjoying the tour comfortably and safely.

Accommodation is provided in carefully selected family-run guesthouses, offering an authentic introduction to Tushetian hospitality and traditional cuisine. Lunches during the riding days are served as scenic picnic meals, while breakfasts and dinners are enjoyed at the guesthouses.

We kindly ask all participants to follow the instructions of their guides at all times. Their decisions regarding safety, weather conditions and horse welfare are final and are made in the best interest of both guests and animals.

Travel insurance covering horseback riding activities, medical expenses and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended.

Please note that medications containing codeine are prohibited in Georgia. If you travel with prescription medication, we recommend checking the latest customs regulations before your departure.

Transport

All transportation throughout the tour is private and adapted to the size of your group. Your journey between Tbilisi and Tusheti is operated by experienced local drivers using vehicles suitable for mountain roads, including the spectacular crossing of Abano Pass (2,826 m) — the only road connecting Tusheti with the rest of Georgia.

Transfers may be operated by a private car, minivan, or 4X4 vehicle depending on group size and road conditions, ensuring both comfort and safety throughout the journey.

Guides

Our horseback tours are led by highly experienced local horse guides who know these landscapes better than anyone. Having spent many years riding Georgia's mountain trails, remote valleys, and open wilderness, they combine exceptional horsemanship with deep knowledge of local culture, history, and nature.

More than simply leading the route, your guide will share the stories, traditions, and hidden corners of each region, offering a genuine insight into rural Georgian life. Their familiarity with the terrain allows them to select the most rewarding trails while always placing the safety of both riders and horses first.

English-speaking guides accompany all tours, while guides in other languages can be arranged upon request, subject to availability.

Money

In Georgia, the currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Small exchange offices are omnipresent throughout Georgia and offer competitive exchange rates. Your guide will be able to advise you on the best place to exchange money, as exchange rates may vary depending on the location. You can also check the current exchange rates on www.xe.com

Bank cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and shops, but it is advisable to have some cash as a backup, in case there are issues with local ATM machines or credit cards. However, it is possible that in remote villages, bank cards may not be accepted, so it is best to have some cash on hand. The most widely accepted cards are Visa and MasterCard. We recommend exchanging only small amounts of money at a time, as exchange rates can fluctuate frequently. It is also advisable to inform your bank in advance of your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions.

Health

For your health and safety, it's important to be in good health before traveling to Georgia. Consult with a doctor or travel medicine specialist for recommended vaccines and preventive measures. To prevent insect bites and follow food safety measures, it's best to drink only bottled or treated water and be mindful of what you eat.

Bring enough of your prescription medicine and ensure that it is legal in Georgia if you have a pre-existing medical condition. A basic first-aid kit, including pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and insect repellent, is also recommended in case of minor illnesses or injuries.

While Georgia has modern medical facilities in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, it's still wise to have travel insurance in case of unexpected medical expenses. There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it's important to prioritize your health and safety while traveling.

Tipping

The Georgia.to travel team, including guides, drivers, cooks, etc., are paid a fair wage and do not expect tips. If you choose to leave a gratuity as a way of expressing your satisfaction, please note that damaged or adhesive coins or banknotes cannot be exchanged. Tips can be left at your discretion in envelopes. In restaurants, it is customary to leave 5-10% as a tip.

Visa Requirements for Georgia

Visa requirements for Georgia for foreign citizens vary depending on the country of origin. Citizens of most countries are eligible for a visa-free entry to Georgia for stays of up to one year. However, some countries require a pre-arranged visa, which can be obtained from a Georgian embassy or consulate. It is recommended to check the specific visa requirements for your country of origin before traveling to Georgia. Here is a short list of countries with citizens that do not need a visa to enter Georgia for a stay up to one year:

EU countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, Spain, France, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and more. Switzerland, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Israel, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico etc.

Please find the exhaustive information on the Ministry of Foreign Affaires of Georgia website: https://www.geoconsul.gov.ge/

Dress Code

When visiting Georgia, it is important to be mindful of the local customs and dress codes, especially when entering religious buildings. In such places, it is expected that visitors dress modestly with women covering their heads and legs. Shorts and skirts above the knee are usually not allowed. Outside of religious buildings, there is a more casual and relaxed dress code with no specific restrictions, and visitors are free to wear what they prefer. It is worth noting that Georgia is a modern and European-influenced country, so visitors may encounter a mix of styles from traditional and contemporary.

Laundry

Laundry service is available at most of our hotels for a reasonable fee, typically around 10 euros or less per load. If you need this service, please let your guide know in advance to arrange it. During the hiking portion of the trip when staying at family hotels or home-stays, you may need to do your own laundry at times. To ensure environmental safety, we recommend bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for this purpose.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not a requirement to enter Georgia, but it is highly recommended. A comprehensive travel insurance policy can provide coverage for trip cancellations, medical expenses, lost or stolen belongings, and emergency evacuation. In case of unexpected events, having travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection. It is important to review the coverage and terms of your travel insurance policy before departing to ensure it meets your specific needs and provides adequate protection while traveling in Georgia.

Safety and Security

Georgia is considered one of the safest countries in the world and visitors can generally feel safe while exploring the country. Crime rates, including pickpocketing, are low and tourists can move around freely without major concerns for their safety. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of one's surroundings in busy areas.

Emergency Contact

In case of any emergencies, we are available for support. During office hours (Tbilisi time), you can reach us at +995 511 14 77 85 for any urgent questions. Additionally, upon booking, you will be provided with a 24/7 personnel travel assistant for the duration of your trip. They will be available to assist you with any needs or concerns.

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Last update: July 20, 2026, 7:38 a.m.