blog

Trekkers Guide to the Transcaucasian Trail

Taking a break on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia | Gesine Cheung
Taking a break on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia | Gesine Cheung

The freshly mapped Transcaucasian Trail is still relatively unknown in mainstream trekking, which is a great thing if you prefer some privacy on your hike. It also means that you can contribute to establishing the Transcaucasian Trail simply by walking it.

Due to its newness, there is limited information about the Transcaucasian Trail for those considering hiking it - until now, that is. 

What is the Transcaucasian Trail?

The Transcaucasian Trail aims to be a world-class hiking trail, which has been in active development since 2015.

The trail, which is being built with the help of local and international volunteers, will connect the villages, valleys and more in the South Caucasus mountain range, which spans three countries on the edge of Asia and Europe: Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan. 

Upon completion, the Transcaucasian Trail will be more than 3000km in length, connecting roughly two dozen national parks and protected areas in this rarely travelled to region.

Hike through picturesque villages in Georgia on the Transcaucasian Trail |  <i>Gesine Cheung</i>

Why should you hike the Transcaucasian Trail?

The obvious reason is the dramatic landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains. If you love trekking, and are always on the lookout for new ideas before everyone else does, the combination of the spectacular landscapes and quiet trails (it remains relatively unvisited right now due to a lack of transport infrastructure) is hard to resist for avid walkers.

The Transcaucasian Trail is also a transcendental experience for history lovers. Relics of the Persian, Ottoman and Russian Empires are abundant due to a long history of invasion and occupation by successive imperial powers, as well as the region’s position as a major junction on the Silk Road trading routes of old. The region was also the first to adopt Christianity as a state religion - so be prepared to be surprised by the sheer amount of ancient temples, churches and monasteries - each stunningly unique.

Discover the diverse cultural heritage and distinct identity of the region, as well as countless ethnic groups and more than 40 indigenous languages – a density surpassed only by Papua New Guinea and the Amazon Rainforest.

How hard is the Transcaucasian Trail?

For experienced walkers, the trail should not present any difficulties. Even first time trekkers with reasonable fitness should be able to undertake sections of the Transcaucasian Trail with good preparation before the trek.

There is no altitude to contend with; however, there are some days that will seem tough as you could gain as much as 500m in ascent before coming back down again.

We offer two hikes along the Transcaucasian Trail in Armenia and Georgia, and they are both graded level 4, introductory to moderate.

Feeling alive on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia |  <i>Gesine Cheung</i>

What are the facilities like along the trail?

The trail is new, and the region has not been developed for tourism - yet. This means there are limited facilities, and in some places, accommodation and dining options could be quite basic. 

This rawness is an attraction for those that like to experience off-the-beaten-track destinations, but if you like your creature comforts, then perhaps this isn't the trail for you.

Should I hike the Transcaucasian Trail in Georgia or Armenia?

If you have the luxury of time, we suggest you do both to enjoy the complete Transcaucasian Trail experience. 

Most travellers may not have three weeks available to complete both, so which one you decide upon really depends on your personal interests and time frame. So, which section is right for you? Let's look at some of the highlights and key features of both.

Spectacular alpine scenery on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia |  <i>Gesine Cheung</i>
 

Georgia Transcaucasian Trail Hike:

  • Traverse between 82km - 87km (depending on your group's fitness) over 10 days.
  • Larger in landmass, better transport infrastructure.
  • Fewer, but more popular, trails. 
  • Explore the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe.
  • Hiking in the stunningly rugged and remote Svaneti region.
  • Architecturally focuses more on Christian churches and cathedrals.
 
Hikers in front of Garni Temple, Armenia |  <i>Gesine Cheung</i>
 

Armenia Transcausasian Trail Hike:

  • Trek just under 70km over 8 days.
  • Wilder and more rugged trails due to minimal trekkers.
  • Less infrastructure, including fewer airports, major cities and railways. 
  • Crosses the border into Georgia at the end of the trek.
  • Architecturally focuses more on monasteries and temples.  
Wildflowers, sunshine & fantastic hiking on the Transcaucasian Trail Traditional Armenian cuisine |  <i>Gesine Cheung</i> Enjoying lunch at the end of the Armenian section of the Transcaucasian Trail |  <i>Gesine Cheung</i> Haghartsin Monastery |  <i>Gesine Cheung</i> A refreshing waterfall on the Transcaucasian Trail Hikers walk on a patch of snow on the Transcaucasian Trail
 

Ready to trek the Transcaucasian Trail? Why a small group trip is best

As we mentioned, the infrastructure to support walkers along the Transcaucasian Trail is still being developed. You would need to be a very experienced traveller to organise an independent journey along the trail. 

The only option for many of us is to join a small group walk where you can benefit from local knowledge. Travelling with a group and an expert guide means you are supported every step of the way. 

On our small group walks along the Transcaucasian Trail you will:

  • Get a deeper understanding of the country & its people
  • Benefit from an English speaking mountain guide during hiking
  • Focus on your surroundings instead of route finding
  • Enjoy handpicked accommodation in cities & along the trail
  • Have all meals included
  • Receive private vehicle transfers
 
Transcaucasian Trail, Hiking in Georgia, Trekking in Armenia, Transcaucasus Trekking, Long Distance Hiking

Comment (0)

Your comment will be visible after the administrator's approval.







b i u quote


Save Comment
Join Newsletter
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ADS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Adventures South"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Adventure South</div>
Adventure South NZ is unrivalled in their geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of adventures holidays in New Zealand. Choose from walking, cycling, winter or multi-activity holidays, on either the North or South Island.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/AWH.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Walking Holidays"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Walking Holidays</div>
Australian Walking Holidays specialises in small group guided walking adventures. Since 1982 we have been guiding small groups of travellers on Australia's finest walks across our tropical, coastal or red centre landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GCT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Canadian Trails"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Canadian Trails</div>
Great Canadian Trails specialises in active holidays in Canada. With both guided and supported self-guided options available, our unique itineraries draw upon some of Canada's most inspiring parks, trails and landscapes from coast to coast.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/HUM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Humac Challenge"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Huma Charity Challenge</div>
Huma enables those with adventurous spirits to challenge themselves and make a difference for a cause close to their heart. Travel, fundraise and meet life-long friends on one of Huma's meaningful and unique challenges around the world.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WB.jpg?v2' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Walkers’ Britain"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Walkers' Britain</div>
Walkers' Britain (formerly Sherpa Expeditions) have specialised in walking and cycling trips in the United Kingdom and Europe since 1973. Explore iconic trails and destinations on a self guided or small group active holiday with Walkers' Britain.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TAS.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Tasmania Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Tasmanian Expeditions</div>
Tasmanian Expeditions is the most experienced operator of treks and adventure travel holidays in Tasmania. We own and operate the most comprehensive range of adventure holidays available across Tasmania's varied landscapes.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/UTX-new.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Utracks"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>UTracks</div>
UTracks are the active European holiday specialists. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2-star or 4-star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WYA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions Schools"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions Schools</div>
World Expeditions Schools is our specialist division dedicated to organising tailor made overseas school group adventures. Specialists in Service Learning projects, choose from more destinations than any other school group provider.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/YOM.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Yomads"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Yomads</div>
Yomads offers adventures for the 20s and 30s on six continents. Designed as a way to bring young and likeminded travellers together, Yomads caters to those interested in lightly structured and active trips that allow freedom to roam and explore.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/ACT.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Australian Cycle Tours"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Australian Cycle Tours</div>
Australian Cycle Tours specialises in high quality self guided and guided cycling experiences in a selection of the most beautiful regions in Australia.
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/WEX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="World Expeditions"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>World Expeditions</div>
The pioneers of original, worldwide adventure travel holidays since 1975
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/TJX.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Trail Journeys"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Trail Journeys</div>
Self-guided cycling experts on New Zealand's Otago Rail Trail and more
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/BMAC.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Blue Mountains Adventure Company"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Blue Mountains Adventure Company</div>
The original Blue Mountains canyoning, hiking, climbing and abseiling experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/GWNZ.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="Great Walks of New Zealand"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>Great Walks of New Zealand</div>
Explore New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness regions with the self-guided hiking experts
<img src='/portals/World%20Expeditions/Icons/brands/small/NAA.jpg' class='brandPopoverIcon' alt="North America Active"> <div class='brandPopoverBrandName'>North America Active</div>
USA Canada hiking & cycling tour specialists, choose from self-guided or guided trips