Trek to Lake Udziro in Racha

The hike to Lake Udziro is a true adventure. It is a hidden gem where the mountains feel endless, the air is pure, and adventure awaits far from the crowds.
  • 600₾

    Cost per Person
  • Difficult

    Difficulty
  • 19 km

    Distance
  • 2088/2200 m

    Elevation Gain/Loss
Hidden in the highlands of Racha, Lake Udziro is one of the most beautiful spots in the Caucasus, often called “Georgian Switzerland”. This glacial lake is located at nearly 2,800 m, surrounded by rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and rocky ridges. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the majestic summits of Kazbek, Shkhara, Tetnuldi, and Ushba, making it seem as if the mountains are floating in the lake.

The trek to Udziro goes through dark spruce forests, green valleys, and passes with panoramic views. Every step brings you closer to the moment everyone comes here for — the first glimpse of the lake. It appears suddenly, beyond the rocky ridges, and captivates immediately: deep turquoise waters, complete silence, and only mountains and sky all around.

Camping at the lake is a unique experience. As the sun sets, the peaks glow golden, and the starry sky feels infinite and close. In the morning, the water becomes a perfect mirror, reflecting the beauty of the mountains.

Included in the price: tents, transfers, guide services, meals (breakfasts and dinners on the route, snacks).

TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1
Distance: 7 km, Elevation Gain ~1100 m, Elevation Loss ~107 m
Transfer to Shovi – set up camp before crossing Katitsvera Pass

Early departure from Tbilisi (05:30) on a comfortable transfer.
The drive to Racha is a journey itself: mountain switchbacks, pine forests, rushing rivers, and ever-changing landscapes.

Trek start: 12:00 from the village of Shovi (≈1,470 m).
Hike along the trail, first through cool pine forests, then cross open green subalpine meadows with the first views of the mountains. By evening, reach the Chkauri Valley (~2,500 m), where we set up camp and have dinner under the stars and overnight in the peaceful highlands.
Day 2
Distance: 3 km, Elevation Gain ~600 m, Elevation Loss ~250 m
Katitsvera Pass Lake Udziro

After breakfast by the lake, break camp and begin descending toward Shovi. The trail offers more panoramic views of the Racha mountains, alpine meadows, and rushing rivers. Along the way, make stops for photos, short walks, or just to enjoy the peace of the highlands.

By early afternoon, reach Shovi, where the transfer back to Tbilisi awaits. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive as we return to the city, reflecting on the adventure and stunning landscapes of Racha.
Day 3
Distance: ~7 km, Elevation Gain ~150 m, Elevation Loss ~1600 m
Lake Udziro → перевал Glola → деревня Глола

Early morning at Lake Udziro
Wake up to the magical silence of Udziro, with the mountains mirrored perfectly in the lake. After breakfast, break camp and make a short climb to Udziro Pass (~2,900 m), enjoying our last panoramic views of “Georgian Switzerland.”

Then we descend along the ridge, passing alpine meadows and blooming rhododendrons, down to the village of Glola (~1,300–1,400 m).

Our transfer back to Tbilisi awaits here. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive — we arrive in the evening after about 5–6 hours long drive.
What to Bring
- Hiking poles
- Hiking boots/shoes
- Hiking backpack from 55 L (smaller packs are not recommended — it will be difficult to fit everything). The backpack must have a hip belt!
- Sleeping bag (comfort temperature: ideally +8 °C. +10 °C is acceptable, but in that case, make sure to bring thermal underwear and warm socks)
- Foam sleeping pad
- Sit pad
- Thermal underwear and warm socks for sleeping
- Warm wool hat/beanie cap and neck gaiter/buff
- Camping utensils
- Headlamp (LED) + extra batteries
- Power bank + charger and cables
- Slippers/crocs
- Windbreaker
- Warm but light jacket
- Extra clothes and underwear (it’s better to bring two sets of clothes — one for the second day, and one for the return trip to Tbilisi. You can leave the second set on the bus)
- 3 pairs of socks
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Towel
- Personal hygiene kit (tooth brush and paste, toilet paper, Female hygiene products, wet wipes)
- Personal medical supplies + diarrhea medicine, antihistamines, painkillers, motion sickness medication (if needed)
- plastic bags of different size (вещи в рюкзак желательно упаковать в пакеты заранее; спальник — обязательно в пакет!)
- Lighter
- Rain jacket/coat (It is a must! The weather in the mountains is unpredictable)

❕You MUST bring:
- Passport/ID/or a copy (pack in a zip-lock bag)
- Insurance (send it to us in advance or bring a printed copy, also in a zip-lock bag)
You Can Rent
- Tent
- Backpack
- Sleeping bag
- Foam sleeping pad
- Sit pad
- Headlamp (LED)
- Rain jacket
- Small dry bag
- Utensils
- Hiking poles
Вопросы о туре