Abano Pass: Georgia's High-Altitude Adventure
Experience Georgia's Abano Pass: the Caucasus' highest drivable pass, offering breathtaking views and thrilling adventure for seasoned travelers.
Abano Pass, the highest drivable pass in the Caucasus Mountains, offers stunning vistas and a thrilling journey through Georgia's rugged terrain. Connecting Kakheti and Tusheti, this unpaved road is a must for adventure seekers, open seasonally to 4x4 vehicles and experienced drivers.
A brief summary to Abano Pass
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Local tips
- Visit during the spring or early autumn for the best weather and stunning scenery.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly in the mountains.
- Be cautious of the winding roads, especially in foggy or rainy conditions.
- Check road conditions before visiting, as weather can affect accessibility.
Getting There
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Car
From Tbilisi, head east on highway 838 towards the Gombori Pass. After approximately 120 km (75 miles), you'll reach Pshaveli, the starting point of the Abano Pass. Ensure you have a 4x4 vehicle with high clearance. The 70 km (43 miles) unpaved road to Omalo will take at least 3-4 hours. Be prepared for steep climbs, hairpin turns, and river crossings. There are no tolls or parking fees.
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Public Transport
Take a marshrutka (minibus) from Tbilisi's Ortachala bus station to Alvani. The fare is approximately 12-15 GEL, and the journey takes around 2 hours. From Alvani, hire a shared 4WD taxi to Omalo. This should cost around 50-70 GEL per person, depending on the number of passengers and negotiation. The driver will take you over the Abano Pass. The road is rough, so prepare for a bumpy ride.
Discover more about Abano Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
თუშეთის დაცული ტერიტორიების რეინჯერთა სადგური / Tusheti PA Ranger Station
5.0 km
Discover the Tusheti PA Ranger Station: Your gateway to adventure in Georgia's breathtaking Tusheti National Park.
Hotel Tusheti
13.5 km
Discover Hotel Tusheti, where rustic charm meets modern comfort amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Georgia's Tusheti region.
Khadori Waterfall
13.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Khadori Waterfall, a hidden gem in Chkhatana, Georgia, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tusheti Protected Areas' Visitors Center
13.5 km
Discover the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and adventure opportunities at the Tusheti Protected Areas' Visitors Center in Georgia.
Aqtushetii
14.5 km
Explore the vibrant art center of Aqtushetii in Omalo, where creativity meets the stunning landscapes of Tusheti, Georgia.
Hostel Tishe
14.5 km
Discover the beauty of Tusheti with a stay at Hostel Tishe, offering comfort and cultural immersion in the heart of Georgia's stunning landscapes.
Guesthouse Tushetian Tower
15.0 km
Experience the charm and beauty of Tusheti at Guesthouse Tushetian Tower, where traditional hospitality meets stunning landscapes.
Tusheti Travel
15.0 km
Explore Tusheti, Georgia: A breathtaking mountainous region filled with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable adventures.
Tushetians
15.1 km
Explore the mesmerizing landscapes and rich culture of Tusheti with Tushetians, your gateway to unforgettable adventures in Georgia's majestic mountains.
Gometsari Bridge
15.6 km
Discover the stunning Gometsari Bridge in Jvarboseli, Georgia, an architectural gem offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into rich local heritage.
Mirgvela
16.0 km
Discover the authentic beauty of Omalo at Mirgvela, your cozy retreat in the heart of Tusheti's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Old Tusheti
16.2 km
Discover Old Tusheti, where authentic Georgian cuisine meets breathtaking mountain views in the heart of Tusheti Village.
Guest house "Samtsikhe"
19.2 km
Discover the charm of Guest House Samtsikhe in Dartlo, where traditional Georgian hospitality meets breathtaking Tusheti landscapes.
Nazy's Guest House
20.6 km
Experience the serenity of Pankisi Gorge at Nazy's Guest House, a perfect blend of comfort and authentic Georgian hospitality.
Kobe's Cellar
22.6 km
Discover the enchanting blend of culinary delights and cultural experiences at Kobe's Cellar in Artana, Georgia.
Unmissable attractions to see
Waterfall
5.9 km
A refreshing cascade along the Pshaveli-Abano-Omalo road, offering a scenic break amidst Tusheti's rugged mountain beauty.
Viewpoint
13.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Tusheti from the viewpoint near Omalo. Witness panoramic vistas of the Caucasus Mountains and ancient villages.
Tusheti National Park
16.2 km
Discover Tusheti National Park: Untouched wilderness, ancient villages, and breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Georgian Caucasus.
Chateau Artwine
22.3 km
Experience Georgian wine culture at Chateau Artwine: luxury accommodations, stunning views, and exquisite wines in the heart of Kakheti.
Lopota Lake Resort & Spa
24.1 km
Discover Kakheti's charm at Lopota Lake Resort & Spa: luxury accommodations, diverse activities, and exquisite wines await in a stunning natural setting.
Chateau Napareuli
24.9 km
Discover Georgian winemaking traditions at Chateau Napareuli, offering vineyard tours, wine tastings, and cozy accommodations in Kakheti's wine region.
Alaverdi Monastery
29.1 km
Discover Alaverdi Monastery: A majestic cathedral, ancient frescoes, and Kakhetian winemaking traditions await in Georgia's heartland.
Gremeli Wine & Hotel in Kakheti
31.4 km
Experience Georgian winemaking tradition at Gremeli Wine & Hotel in Kakheti, surrounded by stunning vineyards and mountain views.
Gremi's Archangels' Complex
32.2 km
Explore Gremi Archangels' Complex: A 16th-century fortress and monastery showcasing Georgia's rich history and stunning architecture in the Kakheti region.
Gremi Museum, Historic Citadel and Archangels Church
32.2 km
Discover Gremi's 16th-century citadel, church, and museum in Kakheti, Georgia, offering Silk Road history and stunning views.
Chubini Winery & Cabins
35.4 km
Experience Georgian winemaking and hospitality at Chubini Winery & Cabins in the heart of Kakheti's picturesque vineyards.
Chelti Winery
35.5 km
Discover Georgia's ancient winemaking traditions at Chelti Winery in Kakheti. Taste handcrafted wines and experience Kakhetian hospitality.
Biodynamic.Ge
35.7 km
Experience biodynamic winemaking in Kakheti: sample organic wines, savor Georgian cuisine, and embrace nature's tranquility at Biodynamic.Ge.
Telavi Wine Cellar | MARANI
36.1 km
Experience Georgia's winemaking heritage at Telavi Wine Cellar, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation in the heart of Kakheti.
Vaziani Winery LTD
38.5 km
Experience Georgian winemaking at Vaziani Winery in Telavi, where tradition meets modern techniques for exceptional Qvevri wines.
Essential places to dine
Kakhetian Corner
24.0 km
Savor authentic Georgian cuisine at Kakhetian Corner in Napareuli—where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.
Restaurant Chveni Sopheli
31.0 km
Discover the flavors of Georgia at Restaurant Chveni Sopheli, where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality in a picturesque setting.
Mestvireni - Wine cellar, chateau, winery , vineyards , restaurant
33.7 km
Discover Mestvireni: An enchanting Georgian winery offering exquisite wines and traditional cuisine in Gulgula's scenic landscapes.
Kakheti Restaurant
36.5 km
Experience authentic Georgian flavors at Kakheti Restaurant in Akhmeta – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Sakhinkle tsitsimatiani
37.4 km
Discover authentic Georgian flavors at Sakhinkle Tsitsimatiani in Telavi, where culinary tradition meets warm hospitality.
Artozani
37.5 km
Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at Artozani in Telavi, where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Madliani - მადლიანი
38.2 km
Discover the essence of Georgian hospitality and cuisine at Madliani, where every dish tells a story.
Amzeura
38.5 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Amzeura in Telavi – where authentic Georgian flavors meet a warm atmosphere.
Wine Wood
38.9 km
Experience authentic Georgian flavors at Wine Wood, where tradition meets taste in Telavi's culinary heart.
Khergili RESTAURANT
39.0 km
Discover authentic Georgian cuisine at Khergili Restaurant in Telavi – where tradition meets warmth in every dish.
HB TELAVI
39.2 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at HB Telavi - where tradition meets modern culinary art in a warm and inviting setting.
EL TORO - ელ ტორო
39.2 km
Experience authentic Georgian flavors at El Toro in Telavi – where tradition meets taste in every bite.
სასტუმრო რესტორანი ცისკარი
39.4 km
Experience the authentic taste of Hakka cuisine at Restaurant Tsiskari in Telavi - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.
Su Telavia - Kakheti
39.4 km
Experience authentic Georgian cuisine at Su Telavia in Telavi - a family-friendly restaurant perfect for travelers seeking delicious local flavors.
Doli
39.4 km
Experience authentic Georgian flavors at Doli in Telavi – where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alazani Pass
1.1 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Alazani Pass, your gateway to the breathtaking Tusheti region in Georgia, where adventure meets natural splendor.
guest house old omalo
14.5 km
Experience the authentic charm of Guest House Old Omalo in the stunning Tusheti region, where tradition meets breathtaking nature.
Souvenir shop
15.0 km
Explore Omalo's premier souvenir shop, where local craftsmanship meets cultural heritage in the heart of Tusheti.
Market
37.5 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Telavi at its bustling market, where local flavors, crafts, and culture come alive in every corner.
მარკეტი რემონტი
38.3 km
Discover quality building materials and expert advice at მარკეტი რემონტი in Telavi, a hub for craftsmanship and local culture.
ENZA BOUTIQUE
38.4 km
Explore Enza Boutique in Telavi for unique clothing and accessories that blend modern styles with traditional Georgian flair.
Miniso Georgia
38.4 km
Discover Miniso Georgia in Telavi, where affordability meets style in a diverse selection of home goods, appliances, and unique gifts.
Biblusi
38.5 km
Explore Biblusi, Telavi's enchanting bookstore, where literature meets the heart of Georgian culture in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Telavi Mall • თელავი მოლი
38.5 km
Explore Telavi Mall – your one-stop shopping destination in Georgia for fashion, food, and fun!
Carrefour Telavi
38.5 km
Explore the vibrant Carrefour Telavi for a delightful shopping experience, offering local products and international goods in the heart of Georgia.
Elit Electronics
38.8 km
Explore the latest gadgets and electronics at Elit Electronics, the premier tech destination in Telavi, Georgia.
Gallery Telavi
38.9 km
Explore the artistry of Georgian craftsmanship at Gallery Telavi, where unique furniture and decor tell stories of culture and creativity.
ევრო მარტი • Euro Mart
38.9 km
Explore a delightful shopping experience at Euro Mart in Telavi, offering local produce, international products, and a taste of Georgian culture.
მოდის სახლი• Fashion House
39.1 km
Explore local fashion at Fashion House in Telavi, where trendy styles and unique designs come together in a vibrant shopping experience.
MODICOFFEE - მოდიკოფი
39.1 km
Discover MODICOFFEE in Telavi, a coffee lover's paradise with exceptional brews and a cozy atmosphere perfect for travelers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wine Bar Odila Tusheti
15.0 km
Discover Wine Bar Odila in Upper Omalo, Tusheti – a cozy retreat for wine lovers amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Old Bar
24.1 km
Discover Old Bar at Lopota Lake Resort, where stunning views and refreshing drinks create unforgettable moments of relaxation and enjoyment.
100% ცოცხალი ლუდი
38.9 km
Discover the lively spirit of Georgian beer culture at 100% ცოცხალი ლუდი, a must-visit bar in Telavi for beer enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Shiukashvili’s Wine Cellar
38.9 km
Explore the essence of Georgian wine culture at Shiukashvili’s Wine Cellar in Telavi, where tradition meets taste in an unforgettable experience.
Beer Alkhanaidze- ლუდი ალხანაიძე
39.3 km
Discover Beer Alkhanaidze in Telavi for an authentic taste of local craft lagers paired with delicious dried fish, perfect for any beer lover.
Gevelli LLC
39.4 km
Experience the rich heritage of Georgian wines at Gevelli LLC, a charming wine bar in the heart of Telavi, perfect for every wine enthusiast.
Vine and Wine
39.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Georgian wine and cuisine at Vine and Wine in Telavi, where tradition meets breathtaking vineyard views.
Hofbrau telavi
39.5 km
Discover Georgian hospitality at Hofbrau Telavi, where local wines and vibrant nightlife await you in the heart of Kakheti.
Owl Bar
39.6 km
Experience the charm of Owl Bar in Telavi, where cozy ambiance meets delightful Georgian cuisine and a unique beverage selection.
გიორგის საპარკინგე ზონა
39.6 km
Experience the unique blend of convenience and local hospitality at Giorgi's Parking Zone in Telavi, where drinks and culture meet.
Alco Test Telavi
39.6 km
Discover the heart of Telavi at Alco Test, a vibrant bar where local wines and friendly faces create unforgettable memories.
Mareli
39.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mareli in Telavi, where local flavors and lively evenings create unforgettable memories.
Tavsatekhi Bar & Games/ თავსატეხი
39.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Tavsatekhi Bar & Games in Telavi, where karaoke, live music, and great drinks come together for an unforgettable night out.
ლუდის ჰაბი
39.9 km
Experience the Best of Georgian Craft Beer and Lively Atmosphere at ლუდის ჰაბი in Telavi.
Schuchmann Wine Bar
41.4 km
Discover the rich flavors of Georgian wines and cuisine at Schuchmann Wine Bar in Kisiskhevi, a haven for wine lovers and food enthusiasts.
