1 day
duration
below average
difficulty
15 km
distance
↑↓750 m
elevation gain / loss
What you'll see on the trail
Samshvilde – one of Georgia's oldest cities and its largest archaeological site. This is an abandoned settlement about 2.5 km long and 400 meters wide. In its prime, it was a major political and religious hub. Samshvilde is unique for its geography – the city is literally "squeezed" between two deep canyons. The site is still an active spot for archaeological digs, and the lack of touristy stuff (no asphalt or cafes) keeps that mysterious ancient vibe alive.
The route kicks off with a walk through the gorge. We'll head through a lush, mossy forest along the Khrami River. It's a deep, rocky canyon that creates a rugged, stunning backdrop for the ruins of the ancient city. The gorge drops down 300 meters, and you can spot giant eagles soaring from the cliffs above.
The highlight of the trip is the ancient settlement itself, perched on a narrow rocky cape.
The most iconic monument here is the Samshvilde Sioni. The eastern wall with its apses is still standing, along with a unique Georgian inscription in the ancient Asomtavruli script that mentions Byzantine emperors.
The most iconic monument here is the Samshvilde Sioni. The eastern wall with its apses is still standing, along with a unique Georgian inscription in the ancient Asomtavruli script that mentions Byzantine emperors.
A clear street about 500–1000 meters long, lined with stone walls, leads from the city entrance to the citadel. We'll stop by the cozy little Church of the Assumption of the Mother of God there. Along the way, we might even run into Kolya, the elderly donkey :)
route details
During the tour, we'll explore the canyon and hike through forest trails. Expect some vines, moss, and rocks. We're heading to the bottom of the canyon, which means a pretty steep descent and then a climb back up. Your best bet is to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with a grippy sole and use trekking poles. Skip the sneakers with flat soles or sandals.
When it's warm outside, ticks wake up in the countryside, so keep that in mind and wear high socks and leggings or pants that you can tuck into your socks. It’s also a good idea to use tick repellent and check yourself once you get back home.
*Keep in mind that this is a hike — a trek along mountain or forest trails without an overnight stay, requiring comfortable shoes and a small daypack with snacks. A walk, on the other hand, is just a casual stroll, often in the city or developed parks.
The difficulty level is specified for this category of routes.
When it's warm outside, ticks wake up in the countryside, so keep that in mind and wear high socks and leggings or pants that you can tuck into your socks. It’s also a good idea to use tick repellent and check yourself once you get back home.
*Keep in mind that this is a hike — a trek along mountain or forest trails without an overnight stay, requiring comfortable shoes and a small daypack with snacks. A walk, on the other hand, is just a casual stroll, often in the city or developed parks.
The difficulty level is specified for this category of routes.
Html code will be here
how to pay?
Full payment is required to book your spot 100%
Pay in USD or EUR to a Georgian card TBC
Pay in RUB to a Raif card at the Zolotaya Korona rate
More details on cancellations, transfers, and refunds here
what’s included?
Guide support throughout the route
Round-trip transfer from Tbilisi
Tea
what to wear?
what to pack?
what to pack?
Proper gear is key to making sure your trip is all about good vibes. Check out this quick guide on clothes and footwear.
let’s stay in touch!
Follow us on social media
Ready for an adventure?
Sign up – we’ll take you on a hike you’ll be telling your friends about for ages!
Ready for an adventure?
Sign up – we’ll take you on a hike you’ll be telling your friends about for ages!