TRAIL RIDE
9 days | 8 nights

FIXED DATES
Jun - Oct

FULL BOARD

NOT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS

Overview

Georgia is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where the semi-desert landscapes of Vashlovani meet the vineyards and villages of Kakheti before rising into the dramatic peaks of the Greater Caucasus. This unique Xperience follows the ancient routes of the Tush people, whose seasonal migration between the lowlands and the mountains has been part of their way of life for centuries.

Riding through two of Georgia’s most spectacular national parks, you will Xperience a remarkable variety of landscapes, from wide-open grain fields and vineyards to rugged mountain trails and remote valleys. The ride takes place with traditional Tushetian horses, a hardy and sure-footed breed perfectly adapted to the long distances and varied terrain of the region.

The pace naturally changes with the landscape — from energetic trots, canters and occasional gallops across the lowlands to quieter mountain riding as you climb towards Tusheti. Along the way, discover traditional villages, ancient monasteries, local wine and the genuine hospitality of Georgia, while experiencing a rare glimpse of the Tush nomadic way of life.

Itinerary

Day 1
Pick up from the hotel in Tbilisi and transfer to Dedoplistskaro, register at Visitors’ Center of Vashlovani Protected Areas, lunch, visit the local bazaar and transfer to Vashlovani National Park. Arrive and be welcomed at the farmhouse at around 4 p.m. You are welcome to have a 2 hours introductory ride to adjust equipment and get acquainted to the horses wander around the farm and meet the horses. Before dinner we’ll outline your itinerary for you on your arrival and discuss your riding Xperience. Overnight in tents 4 hours’ drive by 4x4 van.

Day 2
Your first riding day. You gather up the herd, stallions, mares, foals, and young horses which you will bring up to the summer pastures and start off. You can sense the happiness of the free-running horses as we are heading towards the highland. Your ride takes you through the grain fields of Shiraki plain which is considered as a barn of Georgia. The terrain is soft and you’ll enjoy galloping along the road between the wheat fields and a breath-taking view of the greater Caucasus mountain range beyond the wheat fields. The pace is mostly canter to not let horses scatter in the field and take them out of the area as fast as possible. Overnight in tents close to Dedoplistskaro.
• Total distance – 50km (5hrs)
• Difficulty – difficult (mostly trot and canter through the grain fields).

Day 3
You leave the camp and ride alongside the villages of Kakheti - the primary wine region where you’ll have a chance to Xperience the Kakhetian hospitality and try homemade wine too. You spend the night again in tents close to one of the Kakheti villages - Ozaani, Arboshiki, Anaga, Kitaani, etc.
• Total distance – 55km (7 hrs)
• Difficulty – difficult (mostly trot and canter).
Overnight at the guesthouse with shared bathrooms.

Day 4
The last day of exploring the beauty of the vineyards and lowland villages. You finish the day with an exciting sightseeing tour to Alaverdi monastery close to your overnight destination - Alvani where you spend the night at a local cozy guest house.
• Total distance – 55km (7 hrs)
• Difficulty – difficult (mostly trot and canter).

Day 5
Horses need to take a day break before they head to the mountains. This is an opportunity for you to explore some historical and cultural sites of the region. In the morning you'll visit Ikalto and Alaverdi monasteries. In the afternoon you'll have late lunch and wine tasting at the small family winery.
Overnight at the guesthouse with shared bathrooms.

Day 6
You leave your guest house and head towards the mountains. You ride alongside the bank of the Stori River. You spend the night again in tents at the campsite above tree level.
• Total distance – 43km (7 hrs)
• Difficulty – difficult (mostly trot and canter)

Day 7
You ascend towards the highest derivable pass in Europe – Abano pass. As you move higher to the pass the landscape gets rougher. There you have the lunch break of the day. The strong riding horses bring you safely through the ancient highland paths. You can see how the vegetation is changing into lush green colors, created by rich soil and water. After crossing the 2930m high pass and start the descent to Tusheti. A truly fascinating mystical place of silence and tranquility you will never forget. It is peaceful and beautiful to see the horses enjoy their freedom as you leave them on the Omalo Plateau and continue your trip with your riding horses to your guest house. Overnight at the guesthouse with private bathrooms.
• Total distance – 32km (6 hrs)
• Difficulty – medium (while descending from the pass you’ll have to dismount and lead your horse)

Day 8
The day of exploring the area. Your ride brings you to discover one of the valleys of Tusheti. After discovering villages Shenako and Diklo you’ll head back to Omalo to your guesthouse for the goodbye dinner with the farmer and his crew and spend your last night in Tusheti. Overnight at the guesthouse with shared bathrooms
• Total distance – 26km (6 hrs)
• Difficulty – medium

Day 9
You’ll take the same way back to the lowland as you did by horse. It’s a 6-hour drive back to Tbilisi.

Additional information

Airpot Gateway
Tbilisi - TBS

Transfers not included.

No alcohol is consumed until the riding day is over.