Abano Pass
Unpaved pass at about 2,850 m on the only road into Tusheti, one of the highest and most demanding drivable passes in the Caucasus.
Abano PassPhoto: Chaoseli, CC BY-SA 4.0The Abano Pass carries the only road into Tusheti over the main ridge of the Greater Caucasus, at about 2,850 m (published figures range from 2,826 to 2,864 m). The dirt road climbs from Pshaveli, near Kvemo Alvani in the Alazani Valley, up the Stori valley and a long series of steep switchbacks above the treeline, then drops into Tusheti to Omalo, about 70 km in all. Gradients reach about 17 percent, there are no guardrails, and the drops into the gorges are long.
The views are the reward: forested gorges, bare ridges and, on clear days, peaks far into the Caucasus. The road is usually open only from June to early October, depending on snow, and landslides or washouts can close it for a day or more. Only high-clearance 4x4s should attempt it, and most travellers ride with experienced local drivers. Allow about 4 to 6 hours from Kvemo Alvani to Omalo with stops. The name means 'bath' in Georgian, and there are warm springs below the pass on the Kakheti side.
History
The road over the pass was built in 1978 and has never been paved. Before it existed, Tusheti was reached only on foot or on horseback over the mountains, and the region was cut off for most of the year. Repair and upgrade projects have been announced in recent years, but in most seasons it remains a rough mountain track, so check current conditions before you travel.
What to see and do
- Switchbacks climbing far above the treeline
- Views over the Stori gorge and into Tusheti
- Wildflowers in early summer
- Gateway to Omalo and the Tusheti villages
How to visit
Getting there
The road starts at Pshaveli, about 35 to 40 minutes from Telavi via Kvemo Alvani. The top of the pass is roughly 3 hours from Kvemo Alvani and about 2 hours above Omalo.
When to go
July–September; usually open June to early October. Plan 4–6 hours to cross here.
- Do not drive it yourself unless you are experienced on mountain dirt roads; hire a local 4x4 driver.
- Check the weather and road status the day before; heavy rain and late snow close the road.
- Carry warm layers; it is cold at the top even in August.
- Take motion-sickness tablets if you need them; the road is long and winding.
Abano Pass: FAQ
Is the road to Tusheti dangerous?
It is one of the most demanding roads in Georgia: unpaved, narrow, steep and without guardrails, and serious accidents happen. In good weather, with a high-clearance 4x4 and an experienced local driver, many visitors make the trip each summer.
When is the Abano Pass open?
Usually from early or mid-June to early October, depending on snow. The dates change every year, so check locally before you go.
Tours that include Abano Pass
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Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Abano Pass.
