Tobavarchkhili lakes : one trek to discover the wonders of the little Caucasus!

If you are lucky enough to stay in Mukhuri, you probably know that the village is one of the starting points of a beautiful hike : "Tobavarchkhili Lakes Trek" or "Silver Lakes Trek".

This trek connects the village of Mukhuri to Khaishi in Svaneti, the trail is about 70 kilometers and can be completed in 4 or 5 days.
The path is only accessible at the heart of the summer period.

An alternative to this long trek is possible with a 3-days round trip from Mukhuri to Ochodze lake (also called Tsashkibuli Tobavarchkhili). This way you can spend a whole day chilling and enjoying the lake views.

It is a good option for those who do not have the time or the courage to do the whole trek. It also allows you to leave some of your stuffs at the village to walk lighter !

The first step connects the village to the Natipuru hut. If the beginning of the path is rather pleasant and leads you in the gorge of the river Khobis Tskali with small waterfalls, very quickly it becomes sinuous and complicated. You can hire a jeep in the village that will take you to the Natipuru hut, you will gain 1 to 2 days of walk (about 30 kilometers).

Some people from the village can drop you to this hut. Regularly woodworkers go to the mountain with big truck and can pick you up in Mukhuri. They are often cheaper but the journey will be less comfortable aboard an old Soviet Kamaz truck !

The second step to the lake covers a distance of 10 kilometers. It is a very beautiful hike which offers magnificent views of the Caucasus mountains. The path leads in varied landscapes passing from flowered meadows, to forest passages until a mountain pass of 2750 meters. You will meet on your way shepherd huts, hives and their bees.

This path is not well known yet but you will still meet walkers on your way, mainly Georgians.

Near the pass, you will probably meet the snow. After the last physical efforts to get to the top, let you slip down until Ochodze lake.

Enjoy the second day around the lake, go explore many panoramas and landscapes. You will find several water points and waterfalls, it's such a beautiful place !

The third day go back to Natipuru.

Good to know !

• We can help you find a driver who will drive you to the Natipuru hut.
  We also have local contacts who can guide you along 3 days and carry your backpack on a horse.

• The path is well indicated by signs, however without guide we strongly advise you to take a GPS.

• You have to know that even in summer some places and especially the pass can be covered by snow, we advise you the greatest caution and trekking poles could be very useful.
  Take a good equipment (tent, sleeping bag, warm jacket...) to spend a warm night !

• Even if you choose our alternative to hire a jeep til Natipuru, this trek is difficult, the distance is short but the elevations are quite important. You must be in good physical condition and equipped.