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Trekking in Racha mountains
Price for one tour per person
$
tour features
Tour Duration: 5 Days
Tour Location:Racha-Lechkhumi
Tour highlights:
Tour is available
Racha is Georgia’s best-kept secret – a mountainous region often called the “Georgian Switzerland” for its pristine alpine meadows, enormous glaciers, and untouched wilderness. While tourists flock to Svaneti, Racha remains wonderfully empty, offering trekkers the Greater Caucasus at its most authentic: no crowds, no commercialization, just you, the mountains, and some of the friendliest villagers in Georgia.
This 5-day trek is based in Ghebi, the northernmost village in Racha, sitting at 1,700 meters beneath a wall of glaciers and 4,000-meter peaks. Over three trekking days, you’ll explore two of the region’s most impressive glaciers – Kirtisho (the largest in the entire Rioni River basin) and Zopkhito – plus dramatic views of the Shoda-Kedela Ridge, a 59-kilometer mountain barrier rising to 3,600 meters. The landscapes here are raw and powerful: abandoned villages, roaring rivers, endless alpine meadows, and ice fields that few foreigners ever see.
Tour at a Glance
Tour Highlights
- Trek to Kirtisho Glacier – the largest glacier in the Rioni River basin (6.5 km long)
- Explore the massive Zopkhito Glacier beneath 4,000m peaks
- Panoramic views of the Shoda-Kedela Ridge (3,600m) stretching 59 km
- Visit the abandoned village of Gona – “Georgian Switzerland”
- Stay in the authentic Ghebi village at the foot of the Greater Caucasus
- Drive the scenic Nakerala Pass with views over the Colchis Lowland
- Stop at beautiful Shaori Lake, surrounded by spruce forests
- Cross from the Rioni watershed toward the Russian border zone
- Experience Racha’s famous hospitality and local wine
- Trek through landscapes virtually untouched by tourism
Why Trek in Racha?
Racha is often called the “Switzerland of the Caucasus” – but unlike Switzerland, you’ll likely have these mountains to yourself. Tucked between Svaneti to the west and South Ossetia to the east, with Russia’s border running along the northern ridge, this is one of Georgia’s most remote and least-visited regions. The main valley follows the Rioni River, Georgia’s largest western river, from its source high in the glaciers down through forests and villages.
Ghebi village is Racha’s trekking capital – similar to how Mestia serves Svaneti, but far less developed. From here, multiple glaciers are accessible as day hikes: Kirtisho to the north, Zopkhito and Edena to the northeast, and the dramatic Shoda-Kedela ridge to the south. The village itself sits at 1,700 meters, with 4,000-meter peaks visible in every direction.
What makes Racha special goes beyond landscapes. This region is famous throughout Georgia for its wine (especially Khvanchkara), its hospitality, and its food. Your evenings in the Ghebi guesthouse will feature traditional Rachan cuisine, local wine, and hosts who consider guests a blessing. The combination of challenging mountain treks and warm village nights creates an experience unique to this corner of Georgia.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
We depart Tbilisi in the morning, driving west through the Likhi Range that divides eastern and western Georgia. The route takes us through Kutaisi and then north into the Racha highlands.
The first scenic highlight is Nakerala Pass, where we stop to take in panoramic views over the Colchis Lowland – the ancient Greek name for western Georgia’s coastal plains. From here, you begin to understand why Racha was so isolated for centuries: the mountains form a natural fortress.
Continuing into Racha, we stop at Shaori Lake, a stunning reservoir surrounded by spruce forests and mountain peaks. This is one of the most beautiful lakes in Georgia, particularly in late afternoon light when the mountains reflect on the calm water.
The final stretch takes us up the Rioni Valley to Ghebi, the northernmost village in Racha. You’ll arrive in late afternoon to your guesthouse – a traditional stone house where your hosts have been preparing dinner. Tonight is for settling in, enjoying Rachan hospitality, and preparing for the treks ahead.
Today’s trek heads south from Ghebi toward the Mukhameshi area, offering your first full views of the Greater Caucasus panorama. The trail follows old shepherd paths through meadows and light forest before emerging onto open alpine grasslands.
Within 30 minutes of leaving the village, the views open dramatically: the eternal snowy peaks of the Caucasus stretch across the horizon, with the glaciers of Racha and neighboring Svaneti gleaming in the morning light. You can see Zopkhito, Zeskho, and Edena glaciers from here – a preview of the terrain you’ll explore in coming days.
The highlight is reaching the viewpoint of the Shoda-Kedela Ridge. This massive mountain barrier stretches 59 kilometers and rises to 3,600 meters – a wall of rock and ice that separates Racha from the valleys to the south. The views from Mukhameshi, at the foot of this ridge, are among the most impressive in all of Racha: undulating alpine meadows carpeted with wildflowers, waterfalls cascading down cliff faces, and the ridge itself towering overhead.
This is an acclimatization day – challenging enough to prepare your body for the longer treks ahead, but with time to enjoy the scenery rather than racing to a distant goal. We return to Ghebi for dinner and a good night’s rest.
Today’s trek takes us north toward the Russian border and Kirtisho Glacier – the largest glacier in the entire Rioni River basin. At 6.5 kilometers long and 600 meters wide, this river of ice descends from the peaks that mark Georgia’s northern frontier.
We leave Ghebi heading north along the Chveshuri River gorge. The trail passes through the abandoned village of Gona – often called “Georgian Switzerland” for its stunning mountain backdrop. Only a handful of families live here seasonally; in winter, the village is completely cut off by snow. Note: there is a border police checkpoint at Gona where you’ll need to show identification (passport required).
Beyond Gona, the landscape transforms. The green cover gradually disappears as we climb into the alpine zone, replaced by rocky terrain and the increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. Streams cascade down from cliffs above, and the scale of the mountains becomes almost overwhelming – peaks rising to over 4,000 meters on either side.
The trail ends at the tongue of Kirtisho Glacier, at around 2,500 meters elevation. Standing at the edge of this massive ice field, with the peaks of Tsitela (4,259m) and Laboda (4,313m) towering above, you understand why so few tourists make it to this corner of Georgia. The return follows the same route, arriving in Ghebi by evening.
Our final trekking day heads northeast from Ghebi toward the Zopkhito Glacier – the largest and most spectacular of the glaciers accessible from the village. The route also passes near the Loboda and Edena glaciers, giving you a sense of just how many ice fields surround this valley.
The trail follows the Rioni River gorge upstream, the same river that you’ve been following since entering Racha. Here at its source, the Rioni is a young, powerful mountain stream fed by the glaciers above. The trail passes abandoned summer settlements and through beautiful birch forests before emerging onto the alpine meadows that lead to the glacier.
The views today are arguably the finest of the trip. Enormous summits rise on all sides, their cliffs reflecting the sun. The glacier itself sits at 2,500 meters, a massive tongue of ice beneath peaks that exceed 4,000 meters. The setting is almost surreal – a sun-kissed amphitheater of rock and ice, often with not another person in sight.
This is the longest trek of the tour at 20 kilometers round-trip, but the terrain is moderate and the scenery rewards every step. We return to Ghebi for our final evening in the mountains – a chance to celebrate the trek with your hosts over traditional food and Racha’s famous wine.
After breakfast in Ghebi, we begin the return journey to Tbilisi. The drive gives you time to process five days of mountain experiences as the landscapes gradually shift from alpine to lowland.
We can make stops along the way for any sights missed on Day 1, or visit additional Racha highlights like the 11th-century Nikortsminda Cathedral with its remarkable carved stone decorations, or the regional center of Oni with its historic synagogue (Racha had a significant Jewish community until the 20th century).
The tour concludes with drop-off in Tbilisi in the late afternoon, giving you time to rest before evening plans or onward travel.
Tour Pricing
Fitness Requirements & Difficulty
This trek is rated moderate. Days 3 and 4 are the most demanding with 18-20 km distances and 800m elevation gain/loss. You should be comfortable hiking 6-8 hours on mountain trails and able to handle some steep sections on rocky terrain. The maximum elevation is 2,500m – low enough that altitude sickness is rarely a concern.
No technical climbing or special equipment is needed. If you can hike a full day in mountains with a daypack, you’ll manage this tour.
Best Time to Visit
The trekking season in Racha runs from June through September. June offers wildflowers and fuller streams, but some snow may remain at higher elevations. July and August provide the most reliable conditions with warm days and stable weather. September brings autumn colors and fewer flies, but days are shorter and nights colder.
Note: The Kirtisho glacier trail passes through a border zone. We handle all necessary permits, but be aware that conditions near the Russian border can sometimes affect access.
What to Bring
Essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots with ankle support, rain jacket and layers, sun protection, small daypack (25-35L), water bottle (1.5L minimum), headlamp, trekking poles (recommended), and basic first aid/medications.
No camping equipment needed – you return to the same guesthouse each night. Pack light; you can leave extra luggage at the guesthouse.
Accommodation & Food
All four nights are at a family guesthouse in Ghebi village. Accommodation is simple but comfortable: private rooms, shared bathrooms, hot water available. The atmosphere is authentic – you’re staying with local families, not in a hotel.
Food is a highlight of this trip. Racha is famous throughout Georgia for its cuisine, and your hosts take pride in preparing traditional dishes. Expect fresh bread, local cheese, grilled meats, vegetable dishes, and homemade preserves. Racha wine (including the famous semi-sweet Khvanchkara) is available. Vegetarian options can be arranged with advance notice.
Is Racha safe for trekking?
Yes, Racha is very safe. The trails are established, wildlife encounters are rare, and the local population is exceptionally welcoming to visitors. The main safety considerations are weather (which can change rapidly in the mountains) and the border zone near Kirtisho – both are managed by your guide. Crime against tourists is virtually unheard of.
Do I need a permit for the border zone?
Yes, the Kirtisho glacier trek passes through a border zone near Russia. We arrange all necessary permits in advance. You’ll need your passport for the checkpoint at Gona village. Border guards are professional and the process is straightforward.
How does this compare to trekking in Svaneti?
Racha offers a similar Caucasus experience but with far fewer tourists. The glaciers are equally impressive, the mountains just as dramatic, but you’re unlikely to see other trekking groups. Svaneti has more developed infrastructure and famous medieval towers; Racha offers authenticity and solitude. Think of Racha as what Svaneti was 20 years ago.
What if the weather is bad?
Mountain weather is unpredictable. If conditions make a trek unsafe, we’ll adjust the itinerary – perhaps doing a shorter hike, visiting cultural sites in lower Racha, or rescheduling treks within the 5-day window. Safety always comes first, but we work to ensure you see the best of the region regardless of weather.
Can the tour start/end in Kutaisi instead of Tbilisi?
Yes. Kutaisi is only 140 km from Ghebi versus 340 km from Tbilisi, making it a more convenient starting point if you’re already in western Georgia. The tour price is lower for Kutaisi departure due to reduced driving. Contact us to arrange this option.
Is this suitable for photography?
Absolutely. Racha offers exceptional photographic opportunities: dramatic mountain landscapes, glaciers, traditional villages, and authentic rural life. The best light is typically early morning and late afternoon. Days 3 and 4 (glacier treks) offer the most spectacular scenery.
What about mobile phone coverage?
Coverage in Ghebi village is limited and often unreliable. There is no mobile signal at the glaciers or on most of the trails. Consider this a chance to disconnect – or bring a satellite communicator if you need to stay connected.
Are the guesthouses comfortable?
Guesthouses in Ghebi are simple mountain homes, not hotels. Expect private rooms with basic furnishings, shared bathrooms (Western-style toilets), hot water for showers (sometimes limited), and excellent homemade food. The hospitality more than compensates for the basic facilities.
Can I extend the trek with more days?
Yes. Racha offers additional trekking options, including the Notsara Valley, Udziro Lake, and multi-day routes connecting to Svaneti. Contact us to discuss extended itineraries.
What’s the group size?
This tour runs for groups of 1-6 persons. Larger groups can be accommodated with advance arrangements. Most of our Racha treks are private bookings, meaning you’ll have a guide to yourself or your group.
Discover Georgia’s Hidden Mountain Kingdom
Racha remains one of the last unspoiled corners of the Caucasus. While tourists crowd Svaneti’s trails, you’ll have Racha’s glaciers virtually to yourself. This 5-day trek combines challenging mountain hiking with genuine cultural immersion – staying with families who still live by traditions unchanged for generations, eating food prepared from ingredients grown in their own gardens, and exploring landscapes that few foreigners ever see.
If you’re looking for an authentic mountain experience away from the crowds, Racha delivers. Contact us to check availability or to customize this trek to your interests.
