The mountain roads are why a Georgia trip needs planning rather than a brochure. Distances are short, but time is not, and the weather decides. This guide explains what to expect on the main high roads so that you can see why Rezo plans the way he does.
Tusheti: the Abano Pass
A dirt road climbs from the Alazani valley to the Abano Pass, at about 2,850 m, and drops into Tusheti. It is 4×4-only, about 100 km from Telavi, and takes four to five hours. It is usually open June to October, snow permitting. Snow decides the exact dates each year. More in the Tusheti guide.
Kazbegi: the Georgian Military Highway
The road north from Tbilisi passes Mtskheta, Ananuri and Gudauri on the way to Stepantsminda: about three hours without stops. It is a main road, but heavy snow or landslides on the high section can slow or close it, mostly in winter and spring. Rezo plans a margin into the day. More in the Kazbegi guide.
Svaneti: Mestia and Ushguli
The road follows the Enguri gorge from Zugdidi up to Mestia, about 225 km and 4½ hours from Kutaisi. Ushguli is a day trip from Mestia on a mountain road, and the vehicle is chosen for the conditions that day. More in the Svaneti guide.
What this means for your plan
- Drive times are estimates, and Rezo says so in every itinerary. Roads and weather can change them.
- Seasons matter: ask for Tusheti in summer, not in winter.
- The vehicle follows the route: that is why the fleet includes a short 4×4 Sprinter, and why long legs are split with a night in between.
- The plan can change: if conditions do, Rezo revises the day and tells you.
See the month-by-month guide to match your dates to the roads.