Baia is a Tbilisi-born travel journalist with bylines for Lonely Planet, National Geographic Traveller, Skyscanner as well as her own website, Red Fedora Diary, providing local insights and tips for Tiblisi, Georgia and beyond. You can follow her travels on Instagram and Facebook.
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: Two to three days
Start/end point: Drbo to Oni
Accommodation: Camping
This almost unknown trail connects two regions—Imereti and Racha—through dense forests, peaceful valleys, and towering alpine cliffs. It offers picturesque views, wildflower meadows, and isolation from populated areas.
The highlight of this hike is the panoramic views of Caucasus Mountain while walking on the ridge leading to the King Tamar cliffs, as well as extensive views over the Imerti plains.
The path goes through old shepherd trails, found and improved by the Transcaucasian Trail team, creating a longer Imereti to Racha route. However, the trek is still unmarked and not well maintained. Therefore, you need to navigate with GPS trackers.
Need to know
The path is mostly straightforward and not technical, with some steep stretches, river crossings, and leftover snow on higher slopes. However, prepare to spend an almost full day walking. The trail rejoins a dirt road several times for a short while and has substantial climbs uphill.
Many springs on the trail are seasonal, so it's essential to fill up with water at every opportunity. Also, be prepared to carry plenty between the undried springs. Be strategic where you camp, as there are limited flat areas to set up the tent.
May to July and September to October are preferred times to hike. You will need a tent, proper camping equipment, and food for the entire hike.
How to get to Drbo
First, get to Sachkhere, a 20-minute drive from Drbo, with a marshrutka from Tbilisi's Didube Bus Station. The first van leaves at 9 am. There are vans from Kutaisi, too. From Sachkhere, hire a taxi, hitchhike, or walk 10km to the trailhead.
How to leave Oni
Several marshrutkas go to Kutaisi daily, but one goes directly to Tbilisi. I recommend asking around or your host for the exact timings.
Arara Tour
Small group and tailor-made trips to the Caucasus
At a glance
Destinations
Racha
Activity
Adventure, Hiking & Trekking, Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Responsible Travel, Slow TravelPhysical Level
ModerateSeason
May - OctoberDuration
3 daysRelated Guides
Baia Dzagnidze
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Imereti to Racha trek
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