The short version
These are the kinds of routes we send our guests on, from gentle to serious. We also have a detailed map of the surrounding area we share with everyone who stays.
Trails to know
Notsarula Valley
Full day · long · from Chiora
A long day walk into the Notsarula (Notsara) valley with some of the finest views in the area — glaciers, high passes, and the Greater Caucasus range laid out in front of you.
Trail guide (Georgian Tour Adviser)Udziro Lake (from Shovi)
Full day · hard · from Shovi / Glola
A demanding climb through pine and beech forest into high alpine meadows, finishing at a glacial lake at about 2,800 m. A roughly 8–9 hour day — best for fit walkers and an early start.
Trail guide (Caucasus Trekking)Buba Glacier (from Shovi)
Full day · moderate · from Shovi
Following the Bubistskali river out of Shovi, the track narrows through spruce forest before opening onto alpine meadows and the tongue of the Buba glacier (~2,500 m). Around 13 km return, and not too demanding for a fit hiker.
Trail guide (Caucasus Trekking)Village walks around Chiora
1–3 hours · easy · from the door
Gentle walks straight from the guesthouse through meadows and along the valley — perfect for an easy afternoon or a first day at altitude. Our area map (below) shows the routes around the village.
Our map of the area
We've put together a map of the trails, viewpoints, and spots around Chiora — the same one we share with everyone who stays. Open it to plan your walks:
Practical notes
The hiking season runs mid-June through September. Bring layers, a rain shell, and proper shoes — and an early start for the long days. For the longer mountain routes a local guide is worth it; guides operate from Oni and Shovi, and you shouldn't go onto the glaciers without one. For a broader look at the area, see our best-time-to-visit guide.
Base yourself in the mountains
Stay at Chiora and walk straight from the door. See our rooms and book direct, or email us to plan your hikes.
Questions
Frequently Asked
What are the best hikes near Chiora?+
From Chiora you can do easy valley walks straight from the door, or full-day treks such as the Notsarula valley, and from nearby Shovi the routes to Udziro Lake and the Buba glacier. Tell us your fitness and time and we'll point you to the right one.
Do I need a guide to hike in Racha?+
Easy valley walks around Chiora you can do on your own. For the longer mountain routes a local guide is a good idea — guides operate from Oni and Shovi — and you shouldn't go onto the glaciers without one.
How do I get to the trailheads?+
Some trails start right from Chiora; others begin near Shovi, a short drive away. A car helps, and from Oni you can also reach trailheads by taxi.