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Tusheti National Park: A Remote Paradise in the Caucasus

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Discover Tusheti National Park: Untouched wilderness, ancient villages, and breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Georgian Caucasus.

Tusheti National Park, nestled in the eastern Georgian Caucasus, is a haven of untouched wilderness and cultural heritage. This remote and stunning landscape features dramatic mountains, deep gorges, alpine meadows, and ancient villages with unique stone towers. It's a paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking an escape from the modern world.

A brief summary to Tusheti National Park

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tusheti National Park.

  • The best time to visit Tusheti National Park is between June and early October for favorable weather and clear skies.
  • Arrange transportation in advance, as there is no public transport within Tusheti. Consider hiring a 4WD vehicle or a local driver.
  • Pack for all types of weather, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots.
  • Respect local traditions, such as the prohibition of pork products and restrictions on women entering sacred shrines.
  • Carry cash, as there are no ATMs or banks within Tusheti National Park.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Tusheti National Park, begin by taking a marshrutka (minibus) from Tbilisi's Ortachala Bus Station to Telavi. The journey to Telavi takes approximately 2-3 hours and costs around 10 GEL. From Telavi, take a taxi or another marshrutka to Kvemo Alvani, a 30-minute ride. At Kvemo Alvani, shared 4x4 taxis are available to take you to Omalo, the main village in Tusheti National Park. This 4-5 hour journey costs approximately 100-120 GEL per person in a shared taxi or 500-650 GEL for the entire vehicle. Be prepared for a challenging ride on unpaved mountain roads.

  • Driving

    Driving to Tusheti National Park from Tbilisi involves a journey to Kvemo Alvani via the Gombori Pass, roughly 130 km, taking about 1.5 hours. From Kvemo Alvani, the road to Omalo is approximately 80 km and requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle due to the unpaved and rugged terrain. This final stretch can take around 4-5 hours. Be aware that the road, known as the 'Death Road', is only open from late May/early June to October due to snow. Factor in fuel costs for the approximately 207 km trip from Tbilisi. There are no petrol stations in Tusheti, so fill up in Alvani.

Discover more about Tusheti National Park

Tusheti National Park, established in 2003, is a protected area in the eastern Caucasus Mountains of Georgia, bordering Chechnya and Dagestan. Encompassing 83,007 hectares, the park showcases alpine meadows, glaciers, and peaks reaching up to 4,800 meters. It's a land of diverse ecosystems, from birch and oak forests to rare pine stands, sheltering endemic plants and animals like the East Caucasian tur.The park's history stretches back to the 3rd century BC, with the Tush people inhabiting the region and practicing transhumance, moving between highlands and lowlands with their herds. The Tush culture is unique, with sheep farming at its heart, reflected in their cheese, rugs, and traditions. Villages like Omalo, Dartlo, and Shenako dot the landscape, their medieval fortresses and stone houses whispering tales of the past.Visitors can explore the park through 11 marked hiking trails, ranging from day trips to multi-day treks. Horse riding, cycling, and bird watching are also popular activities. The park's remoteness and lack of crowds offer a sense of solitude and connection with nature. Popular attractions include the Keselo Fortress with its Ethnographic Museum, the stunning Chaukhi Massif, and the ancient village of Dartlo. Be aware that certain traditions are still observed, such as the prohibition of pork products in the area.

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