Tbilisi: 3-Day Tusheti Mountains Tour with Meals and Hotel

If you’re dreaming of a trip that combines rugged mountain landscapes, charming villages, and authentic local culture, this 3-day Tusheti Mountains tour from Tbilisi might just be what you need. As someone who loves sharing honest travel tips, I’ll tell you this experience looks like a fantastic way to see a side of Georgia few travelers get to enjoy.

What really appeals to me is how the tour balances adventure with culture—you get to feel the thrill of a 4×4 ride through the Caucasus while also soaking up traditional Tushetian life. Plus, with the opportunity to enjoy delicious Georgian meals and warm hospitality in family-run hotels, it feels like a well-rounded escape.

Of course, the road to Tusheti isn’t for everyone—it’s demanding and suited for those comfortable with off-road driving. If you’re not into bumpy rides or high-altitude mountain passes, this might be less enjoyable. But for those craving adventure and breathtaking scenery, this tour is likely to hit the mark.

This trip is perfect for travelers who love nature, culture, and a bit of excitement, especially if you’re keen to explore Georgia’s less-traveled mountain corners.

Key Points

• Stunning views at high altitudes, especially during the ascent over Abano Pass.
• Cultural immersion in traditional villages like Shenako, Dartlo, and Parsma.
• Authentic Georgian hospitality in family-run hotels and dinners.
• Adventure with a challenging 4×4 journey through demanding mountain roads.
• Unique stops like Bochorna, Europe’s highest settlement.
• Balance of activities—exciting drives, scenic walks, and delicious food.

We’ll start with the basics — this 3-day tour takes you into the heart of Georgia’s Caucasus mountains, with a focus on Tusheti, a region known for its old-world charm and raw natural beauty. The tour is operated by Jeep Tour Georgia, a name you can trust for a small, personalized experience.

You’ll meet your group and guide at a designated spot in Tbilisi, with the car marked clearly with Jeep Tour Georgia stickers. From there, the adventure begins with a scenic drive, but the real highlight is the trip over Abano Pass, which at 2,950 meters above sea level, offers panoramic views that make the climb worth every bump.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: Into the Mountains

The journey kicks off with a visit to Alaverdi Cathedral, a beautiful religious site that adds a touch of history and serenity early in the day. Afterward, the real off-road excitement begins as you start ascending toward Tusheti. The road to Tusheti is demanding and best suited for those who are comfortable with off-road driving — it’s not a smooth highway but a rugged adventure through mountain passes.

Once you reach Shenako, you’ll find yourself in a village that’s famous for its defensive towers and traditional architecture. Here, the tour includes a stop at the Visitor Center, which provides context about the region’s unique culture and history. Travelers have noted that staying in a family-run hotel adds a layer of warmth and authenticity to the experience, making the visit more than just sightseeing.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a hearty Georgia-style Supra dinner, a traditional feast with local wines. The hospitality in Tusheti is often praised, with reviews mentioning how welcoming the hosts are and how much guests appreciate the opportunity to taste homemade dishes.

Day 2: Exploring Village Life and Scenic Spots

The second day begins with a local breakfast—something simple but satisfying before heading out for more exploration. Your first stop is Dartlo, a village renowned for its traditional architecture and picturesque setting. The preserved stone houses and defensive towers provide perfect photo opportunities and a tangible sense of history.

From Dartlo, you’ll travel to Kvavlo, a spot known for its breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains. Many travelers highlight how these views are worth the sometimes strenuous climb or walk involved. Then, a visit to Parsma, an old village with authentic charm, continues to deepen your understanding of Tushetian life.

One of the highlights, as noted by reviewers, is the chance to enjoy wine tasting in the region. The tour emphasizes local wines—a key part of Georgian culture—and some travelers have praised the wines’ quality, describing them as “excellent” and “well-curated.” It’s a great way to relax after a day of walking and sightseeing.

In the evening, you’ll return to your hotel for dinner, where you might enjoy a glass of wine with fellow travelers. The experience of sharing stories over traditional dishes often garners positive comments about the warm, communal atmosphere.

Day 3: High-Altitude Villages and Return

On the final day, the focus shifts to Bochorna, which is claimed to be Europe’s highest settlement at 2,345 meters. Visiting such a remote, high-altitude village is a highlight, offering a sense of stepping back in time. The journey includes a stop at Dochu, a historic village, giving you a chance to wander through local homes and streets.

The ride back to Tbilisi is scenic and offers more chances to marvel at the rugged beauty of Tusheti. Many reviews mention feeling a sense of achievement after completing the demanding drive and exploring such a pristine part of Georgia.

The tour ends back in the city, leaving you with unforgettable memories of dramatic landscapes, warm hospitality, and authentic culture.

Transportation is provided in a 4×4 vehicle, and the roads to Tusheti are challenging. If you’re prone to motion sickness or not comfortable with bumpy rides, this might be a tough trip. The tour is designed for those who are experienced off-road drivers or comfortable with rugged terrain.

Weather can vary, especially at high altitudes, so packing weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and good hiking shoes is wise. Remember, the road conditions can be demanding, so comfortable, durable shoes are key.

The small group size—limited to six participants—means a more intimate experience, but it also means flexibility and a chance to ask lots of questions.

Meals and accommodations are included, which simplifies planning and ensures you get to relax and enjoy the local cuisine without worrying about logistics. The dinners, especially the Georgian Supra, are highly praised, often described as hearty and delicious.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, or those with epilepsy because of the physical demands and high-altitude environment.

If you’re after a combination of adventure and cultural discovery, this trip hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy off-road drives, scenic hikes, and exploring remote villages. The wines and local meals add to the authentic experience, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

The small-group setup ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the personal touch from local hosts makes the experience warm and genuine. However, if you prefer flat, smooth roads or are sensitive to altitude, you might want to consider if this is the right fit.

The tour gives a rare glimpse into Georgia’s mountainous interior, an area often overlooked but breathtakingly beautiful. It’s perfect if you want to escape the city and learn about the natural and cultural tapestry of Georgia.

Is the road to Tusheti suitable for all travelers?
No, the road is demanding and best suited for experienced 4×4 off-road drivers. The terrain can be bumpy and challenging, especially over the Abano Pass.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and travel insurance. Pack layers to adjust to changing weather at high altitudes.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes local breakfast and dinner, giving you a taste of genuine Georgian cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The information doesn’t specify, but given the demanding nature and off-road driving, it may be better suited for adults or older children comfortable with mountain roads.

How many people will be in the group?
The group is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more personalized, relaxed experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans are uncertain.

This 3-day Tusheti Mountains tour offers an authentic slice of Georgia’s remote mountain life, balanced with adventure, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality. It’s a great pick for those wanting an active, culturally rich escape into one of the country’s most breathtaking regions.

If you’re comfortable with rugged roads and eager to see a side of Georgia few travelers experience, this trip is well worth considering. The combination of unparalleled views, delicious local wine, and the chance to stay in genuine family-run hotels makes it a memorable journey.

For travelers craving adventure mixed with authentic culture, this tour promises a rewarding experience that leaves you with stories to tell long after you return home.

You can check availability for your dates here: