Horseback riding in Georgia
Horseback riding in Georgia
Horseback riding in Georgia
Horseback riding in Georgia
Horseback riding in Georgia
Horseback riding in Georgia
Horseback riding in Georgia

A wild horseback riding adventure, riding 125km through the stunning Tusheti mountains, staying in guesthouses along the way. Visit traditional villages and old ruins, enjoy a relaxing bath in the natural hot sulphur water baths, then finish the trip at a family winery and a visit to the Alaverdi monastery. This is a point to point horseback trail that you won't forget. Designed for intermediate riders and above. While there are opportunities to trot and canter, it is the tricky mountain terrain that requires a confident rider with a good seat.

Accommodation is in basic family run guesthouses, serving delicious Georgian food that will leave you very satisfied.

Sometimes lunches on the trail can be a little late so feel free to pop a snack into your saddle bag.

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from JB of Den Haag on 24/01/2025

Ride Summary
Georgia is a stunning country, absolutely beautiful. Its a wild mix of eastern European orthodox and pagan cultures, hot dry cities and alpine meadows in the north. It also has some of the best food of any trek Ive been on.
The horses were very fit and managed the high mountain tracks better than i did. Some of the roads we took could be a little tedious as there are frequent mudslides meaning whole stretches of road are under constant construction.
What was your overall impression of the holiday
Overall impression
Unicorn Trails sales staff

Riding tour leader

Additional Comments
Our ride leader was from a different region in Georgia but was generally really knowledgeable about the Tusheti. Fascinating culture means that this trek is both fun and informative!
Horses and Tack

Additional Comments
My horse was 17, and by the end of the 5 or so days was noticeably tired even though Im a light rider myself. He had a beautiful nature though and I really liked him.
One or two of the horses were a bit crazy and i would have been skeptical at riding them on the high mountain paths. Most of the other riders seemed well-matched with their horses bar one change-up during the ride.
Meals

Accommodation

Miscellaneous

Was this trip accurately described to you beforehand?
NO
Please give more details to explain your response:
Georgian food is to die for. Incredible kachapuri breads and dumplings. Lots of fresh tomatoes and fruits, wild honey and tea. I really loved the little deep fried pancake things at the first guesthouse. I ate 7 on for breakfast! Make sure you buy fruit at some of the local markets along the way :)
Was there anything you should have known and were not told? YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
The only thing to note is that the drive up to Tusheti is long and it can be treacherous. One of the most dangerous roads in the world for landslides. In fact we came across a few landslides which took an hour or two of clearing before we could progress. I would have liked to have known this beforehand, but worth noting that the drivers are excellent and very experienced.
What could we do to improve this ride?
Please just let ppl know - riders should not be bringing electrical appliances like hairdryers. One lady brought a hair dryer and short circuited the entire guest house for the whole night. We lived in the dark :(
How would you rate the difficulty of this ride out of 10 where 1 is very easy and 10 is very advanced?
8
Please explain why you scored it as you did:
One or two very long days in quite bad weather made this a challenge even for fit people. The ride is mostly walking pace but the altitude will change drastically even within a day. You may feel a little more tired than usual from the altitude.
Not too many places for a canter. No galloping
Would you recommend Unicorn Trails to your friends?
YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
Ive ridden with Unicorn Trails for quite a few years. They always have something exciting to offer
May we use you as a reference for other people wishing to go on this ride?
YES
Any other comments:
Unicorn comments: Thank you for your feedback. Glad you had a great time! :)

Due to the early start time we recommend arriving the day before, a few hotels near to the meeting point are listed below, in the extra notes. Tbilisi is a beautiful city with a mix of historical and modern architecture and well worth a visit.

** Please note that the itinerary below is a guide and may change at short notice in response to the changeable mountain weather conditions**

Day 1
Tbilisi – Alvani - Omalo (200km drive): Meet the guide at the Big Bicycle Monument at 9am to pick up the transfer and leave for Kakheti region, renowned for its wines. A quick stop at the Telavi bazar to collect some ingredients for lunch provides the perfect opportunity to purchase any alcohol required. Continue to Omalo via the Abano pass (2930m) and take in the spectacular views. This is a 75km long mountain road that takes around 5 hours from the village of Alvani, there will be opportunities to stop to take some pictures on route before arriving in Omalo. Unpack, then join the guide for a welcome dinner before settling in for the night. Overnight stay in Omalo at the guest house.

Day 2
Omalo - Shenako – Diklo: After breakfast, meet the horses and be allocated the perfect mount for the day's introduction ride. Although not a long ride, it will give the group a taste of Tusheti’s natural beauty. The area around Shenako have trails perfect for a canter through green pastures dotted with local livestock. It is fascinating blend of tradition and nature and riders will see one of the few Christian churches as well as a Chati, a pagan temple adonred with animal antlers. Head to Diklo, known for its unique architecture with its 19th century wooden balconies. Stop for a quick snack before heading through the woods to the Old Diklo Fortress. Sitting on a rocky outcrop, this was once a formidable stronghold along the Russian border. Riders will be treated to views of the rugged landscape that stretch from Chechnya to Dagestan. Overnight and dinner in a guesthouse in Diklo. (13km riding)

Day 3
Diklo - Chigo – Dartlo: Leave Diklo after breakfast on a beautiful day ride through Chigo and onward to Dartlo. In Chigo, the group will encounter large flocks of sheep being guarded by massive shepherd dogs. After passing through Chigo, riders have the opportunity to visit the shepherds that will give an insight into their tough, isolated way of life. Dartlo, one of Tusheti’s most famous and sizable villages, is notable for its numerous fortresses and defense towers which have been restored with World Bank funding since 2010. Some of Tusheti’s most iconic and tallest defense towers are located in Dartlo and Parsma. Overnight stay and dinner in a family hotel in Dartlo. (16km riding)

Day 4
Dartlo - Kvavlo - Dano – Chesho: Begin the riding day by heading to Kvavlo. This isolated summer village was chosen for its defensible position during the frequent summer raids from the northern tribes. From here there are sweeping views of the rugged mountains and surrounding gorges. The ride continues to the neighboring village of Dano, known historically for the wild spirit of the local Tusheti people, and hometown of the celebrated Tusheti folk singer, Lela Tataraidze. From Dano, descend to Chesho for a canter across meadows wile crossing several small rivers on horseback. Here, nestled in a curve of the Pirikiti Alazani River, the group take a break and soak in the beautiful surroundings. A further 5km ride brings the group to Parsma, and an overnight stay and dinner in the tiny settlement of Baso, consisting of just 2 houses and a fortified tower. (17km riding)

Day 5
Parsma - Nakaicho Pass - Jvarboseli – Koklata – Alisgori: This day’s ride leads from Parsma across the river to the high Nakaicho Pass (2,950m) and links Gometsari and Pirikiti Tusheti. The landscape here shifts dramatically, with dense forests and few inhabitants. Relish in the tranquil and nearly deserted valley of Tusheti Alazani. Keep an eye open for hunting falcons and, with a bit of luck, massive vultures gliding overhead. During winterthe valley is completely empty, home only to the hibernating bears. Rumor has it that even leopards roam these remote mountains. Overnight and dinner in Alisgori. (18km riding)

Day 6
Alisgori - Bochorna - Omalo: This last riding day leads to Bochorna, the highest permanently inhabited village in Georgia (2,345m). In Old Omalo, the group have the chance to visit a restored Tushet tower house, offering a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. In the afternoon, say goodbye to the horses before dinner. (27km riding)

Day 7
Omalo – Tbilisi: After breakfast, start the return jouney via the Abano Pass, heading back to Tbilisi through the scenic Kakheti region. An optional wine tasting (not included) is available with lunch in Kakheti after descending from the mountains. The journey from Omalo to Tbilisi is about 200 km

Due to the early start time we recommend arriving the day before, a few hotels near to the meeting point are listed below. Tbilisi is a beautiful city with a mix of historical and modern architecture and well worth a visit. Some suggested hotels within a short walk of the Big Bicycle Momument:
Zemeli Boutique Hotel
Hotel British House
Boutique Hotel Day Inn

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

Horses & Riding

There are approximately 10-12 horses in the herd to choose from. The horses are a local breed, Tushetian horses, used to traveling as a herd. They are calm, exceptionally strong, very clever, and well used to the mountain terrain.

The tack used is traditional Causasian saddles with a leather cushion for added comfort, great for the long hours in the saddle. Stirrups are similar to English iron stirrups.

Hard hats are highly recommended and while there are some available onsite, it is recommended that riders bring their own where possible. The ride moves through different valleys in the Tusheti mountains.


Rider requirements

For this ride you will need a sense of adventure and good general fitness.
You should be confident at walk trot and canter, riding in open spaces and on steep terrain and have a good head for heights.
Expect to cover between 15-30km per day across 4-6 hours riding.

Weight Limit

The weight limit for this ride is 220 lb/100 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

During the trail guests will stay in simple guesthouses with 2-3 people sharing a bedroom. The guesthouse in Omalo has rooms with a private bathroom, while most offers rooms with a shared bathroom. The trip has 6 guesthouse nights.

Breakfasts are hearty - expect omelettes or fried eggs, homemade jams and bread and pancakes, cheese, cucumber and tomatoes. Evening meals will offer a variety of Georgian dishes, including salads, meat dishes, fish, cheese, pasta and fried potatoes.


Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Documents - Visa and Consulate Info

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip.

If Visa’s are required the requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country.

Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate on request.

General information: As a British National you may enter Georgia for up to 90 days without a visa. You may extend your stay in Georgia beyond 90 days by applying for a temporary or permanent residence permit from the Civil Registration Agency of the Ministry of Justice of Georgia.

The British embassy in Tblisi can be found at GMT Plaza, 4 Freedom Square, Tbilisi, 0105. Telephone + 995 32 274747 (Main Embassy Switchboard) or + 995 32 274775 (Visa/Consular Enquiries) Their website is www.britishembassy.gov.uk/georgia.

In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/georgia

In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Georgia.html

In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/georgia

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restriction


Climate Summary

The Tusheti region has a typical mountain climate with short summers (July-August) and long and freezing winters. In summer, the weather can be variable with the sunshine quickly changing into storms or rainfall. The climate can be harsh, in summer average temperature reaches up to 14 Celsius, while in winter it drops to -18 Celsius. Use the links below to check the weather before you go.
https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/week/omalo_georgia_612600
https://www.holiday-weather.com/tusheti-national-park/forecast/

Climate Chart

Health

Medical facilities in Tbilisi are available but can be expensive. Outside of Tbilisi, medical facilities are limited. There continues to be outbreaks of rabies in Georgia. Tap water should be avoided. Bottled water is widely available.
You should seek medical advice before travelling and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date. NHS Direct (0845 46 47) can provide you with advice on the vaccination requirements for Georgia.

Health (ride specific)

Unfortunately is it very difficult to to cater for gluten free or lactose intolerant diets on this horse drive but we can cater for vegetarian diets.
Non-prescription medicines containing codeine are illegal in Georgia. If you intend to travel with prescription medicine, you must carry a doctor’s prescription and ideally the original packaging. For further advice on restricted medicines please consult the government website. www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/georgia

Electricity

220V 50Hz; two pin plugs are utilized

Mobile, WiFi and charging

There will be opportunities to charge phones/ cameras at the guesthouse on the route but not on the tent nights so it is advisable to bring bring batteries / power banks. If using a GoPro please ensure to have the permission of the group to be filmed.

Packing List

Best to bring lots of layers of clothing as you will be riding in the mountains and weather can change quickly.

It is useful to take a smaller soft duffel bag as part of your luggage in case the horses need to transport gear up/down the mountains. Pack light if you can! (larger suit cases can be left with the luggage van.)

- Riding Helmet - we strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted riding helmet of the current standard which is PAS015 or BSEN1384 we recommend you bring your own)
- Gloves
- Clothing for horseback riding (resistant fabric pants, fast drying shirts, long sleeve shirts to protect from the sun)
- Jodhpurs - jodhpurs, breeches or other comfortable trousers (jeans may rub and can also be quite hot)
- Chaps
- Riding Boots - it is important to have correct shoes or boots for horse riding. Jodhpur or ankle boots with a rubber sole are recommended but sturdy shoes with a definite heel are acceptable (such as walking boots)
- Warm waterproof jacket for up in the mountains (temperatures can be below zero especially in the wind chill)
- Waterproof trousers
- Warm/ thermal clothes for riding in the mountains
- Warm socks, gloves, neck warmer
- Short sleeve tops
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Personal Items - toiletries, any medicines you require and please be sure to take insect repellent
- Refillable Water Bottle - it's very important to drink a lot of water when it's hot, especially when doing physical activities
- A small supply of sweets for a sugar boost during the long riding hours.
- Camera, spare Batteries/Chargers - an absolute must! It is also a good idea to take a camera case you can strap around your waist or onto a belt for whilst you are riding

Provided by hosts:
Saddlebags. Although they are provided, you may not have a saddle bag on your horse so we suggest bringing a clip on water bottle/ bum bag or a small clip on saddle bag to ensure you have constant access to water/ tissues/ sweets etc.

Programmes

7 day / 6 night programme with 5 riding days. Some set dates but also available on request.

Departure Dates

2025: 22 June; 13 July; 17 August; 14 September; 1 October
Other dates available on request for groups of 3+ between mid June and end of September.

Pricing
No single rooms available (on some or all nights). Riders must be prepared to share with someone of the same sex.
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description £
20257d/6n5double pp 3-5 pax1,595
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description
20257d/6n5double pp 3-5 pax1,875
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description US $
20257d/6n5double pp 3-5 pax2,055
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description SEK
20257d/6n5double pp 3-5 pax22,389
Recommended Reading

For the equestrian traveller who would like to see what is possible on horseback visit www.thelongridersguild.com 

Also a fantastic place to acquire your equestrian travel books is www.horsetravelbooks.com


Wildlife

The Causcasus Mountains harbour some 6400 species of higher plants, 1600 of which are endemic to the region. Its wildlife includes Persian leopards, brown bears, wolves, bison, marals, golden eagles and hooded crows. At night, you'll hear the howling wolves in the mountains though you are unlikely to see the animals up close as they tend to stay hidden in the trees.

Other Information

Tbilisi is the nearest city.

Travel Summary

Meeting-point (getting there):
Big Bicycle Monument, Tbilisi. A short transfer from the airport (20-30min).
Transfer:
Included - Car transfer from Big Bycycle monument to Tusheti mountain+/-7hrs, Not included - Airport transfers (30min)
Flight Guide:
2025: London to Tbilisi (TBS) International Airport return from £290pp (Season Dependent)
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