Zeskho-Lapuri Pass - Sasvano Lakes - Ghebi trail
Trail details
Duration
3 days
Distance to be covered
43 km
Difficulty level
Difficult terrain with high altitude passes.
Hiking itinerary
Day 1: Zeskho - Lapuri Pass - Lapuri Camp (approx. 5 hours)
Day 2: Lapuri Camp - Vatsistsveri Pass - Sasvano Lakes (approx. 6-8 hours)
Day 3: Sasvano Lakes - Ghebi Village (approx. 7-8 hours)
Seasonality
Late June - Early September
The trail is best hiked starting from late June through to early September. This is when snow at high elevations has mostly melted, high passes like Lapuri Pass (~2,526 m) and Vatsistveri Pass (~2,900 m) are generally clear, and conditions are most stable for a full 3-day trek. During this window you’ll have the best chance to reach Sasvano Lakes without deep snow or technical ice crossings.
The Zeskho – Lapuri Pass – Sasvano Lakes – Ghebi trail is a spectacular multi-day trek connecting the highlands of Lower Svaneti with the wild mountain landscapes of Racha.
Starting in the remote village of Zeskho, the route gradually ascends through alpine meadows, traditional shepherd camps, and dramatic river valleys toward the panoramic Lapuri Pass (approximately 2,800 m). From the pass, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views over the Greater Caucasus range and a camping spot for rest. After regaining strengths, the trail descends toward the pristine Sasvano Lakes, a cluster of high-altitude glacial lakes surrounded by untouched nature and seasonal grazing pastures.
The trail continues through open alpine terrain and rugged valleys toward the mountain village of Ghebi, one of the highest permanently inhabited settlements in Racha.
This trek offers an authentic wilderness experience, far from crowded routes, combining cultural encounters with shepherd life and breathtaking Caucasian scenery.
It is considered a challenging route due to its length, elevation gain, and remote conditions, typically completed in 3 days (or 4 days for more relaxed hike). The best season is from July to early September, when snow has cleared from Lapuri Pass and river crossings are safer.