After lambs are born, the sheep are released to the region´s mountain pastures, large boundless alpine areas that aren’t fenced at all. Depending on the area, the round up can take up to a week and is hard work on foot. There is a lot of diversity in this tour starting with beautiful semi-desert winter pasture landscapes to the views from the Greater Caucasus.
This tour provides the unique experience of participating in the Tushetian sheep drive. This is a hardworking adventure that allows the participant to experience the two totally different National Parks’ nature and the sheepherder soul – both guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. It is for sure a unique sight to witness thousands of sheep on their way back home after spending the winter down in the lowland followed by over 10 shepherds with pack horses and donkeys! You can feel the joy and the excitement as this is their last day and everyone is on their way back home.
Being amongst the farming community and lending a helping hand in this age-old tradition of the spring sheep drive is as close as you can get to the heart and soul of this nation.
As participants, you are joining an annual tradition and not a customized tour. Therefore an open mind, good physical health and the ability to work as a team are essential. Expect to be treated as one of the crowd, be prepared to pull your weight each day and enjoy the camaraderie of all those participating.
When you participate in the Round ups you are experiencing the Real Thing! You will be one of the group to herd and sort the animals. Of course, that means long hours outside in sometimes cold weather.
Day 1 begins with our journey to the Samukhi Valley, located in the southeasternmost corner of Georgia, where the transhumance tradition kicks off in Vashlovani National Park that usually takes 8-9 days depending on the weather conditions. The journey from the starting point to Alvani, a village where the sheep will rest and receive special anti-parasite treatments (a process typically lasting a day or two), will take approximately 10 days. Along the way, you’ll traverse diverse landscapes, including semi-deserts, grain fields, vineyards, and charming Kakhetian villages, making this a truly memorable experience.
From Alvani, we’ll begin your hike toward the mountains. The first overnight camp will be set up after entering the Stori River Valley. On the second night, we’ll camp above the tree line at an elevation of 2,100 meters. On the third day, we’ll set off early, around 3:00 or 4:00 AM, to cross the pass at 2,900 meters. This part of the hike involves trekking mostly on snow along a narrow footpath behind the herd. The path may be frozen, so it’s highly recommended to bring hiking crampons. The day’s hike is relatively long, potentially lasting up to 10 hours, until you reach the campsite on the other side of the pass. After descending to the foot of the pass, you’ll camp there for the night. The following day, the journey continues toward Omalo, where you’ll have the chance to rest and spend the night in a hotel. The final day involves a hike to the summer farm destination in one of the picturesque valleys—either Pirikiti or Gometsari.
To get back from Tusheti you’ll need a day hike to go across the pass and the car will pick you up from the highest point possible.
| Package | Trip Status | Price PP In a Group | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Confirmed Dates | Min.participant Number 3p / Max.participan Number 10p | 5-7 People | 8-10People |
| April-May | Bookable |
€985 |
€820 |
Tour price includes:
* Overnights
* Transport
Tour price excludes:
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