Hiking to the Abudelauri Lakes in Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains
The Abudelauri Lakes (also called Abudelaurebi) are a highlight of Georgia’s Greater Caucasus, in the Khevsureti region. This group of three glacial lakes—Green Lake, Blue Lake, and White Lake—stands out for their vivid colors from mineral sediments and glacial melt. Nestled at 2500–2800m beneath the dramatic Chaukhi Massif (often called the “Georgian Dolomites”), they offer stunning alpine scenery with meadows, rivers, and jagged peaks.
The main access is a day hike from Roshka village, about 6–7km one way (12–14km round trip, moderate difficulty). More experienced hikers can tackle the 2-day traverse from Juta over Chaukhi Pass (3341m).
Best Time to Visit (2025)
- June to mid-July → Ideal for full, vibrant lake colors and blooming wildflowers. Snow mostly clears by late May/early June.
- Late July to August → Still good, but lakes may shrink from evaporation.
- September/October → Possible, but cooler with early snow risks.
- Avoid before June or after September due to ice/snow.
How to Get There
Drive from Tbilisi (~4–5 hours) via Zhinvali Reservoir and the dirt road to Roshka (open June–early November; 4WD recommended for the final stretch). Public transport is limited—marshrutkas to Barisakho, then taxi/hitch. Day tours from Tbilisi or Stepantsminda are common.
The Roshka Day Hike (Most Popular Option)
- Distance: 12–14km round trip
- Elevation gain: ~800m
- Time: 5–8 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate (steep at start, river crossings, some scrambling to White Lake)
Route overview:
- Start at Roshka’s end (park near guesthouses).
- Follow the marked trail northwest along Abudelauri River gorge through meadows.
- Reach Green Lake first (smallest, emerald hue).
- Short walk to Blue Lake (largest, deep turquoise).
- Steeper scramble to White Lake (milky from carbonates, under Chaukhi Glacier—worth the effort).
- Return same way or loop via old trails.
Tips: Wear sturdy boots; bring water/snacks (no facilities on trail). Well-marked in 2025, with occasional snow patches early season.
The Juta to Roshka Traverse (Advanced 2-Day Option)
- Distance: ~18–20km
- Max elevation: 3341m at Chaukhi Pass
- Difficulty: Hard (steep scree ascent/descent)
Day 1: Juta → camp near Chaukhi base (~10km).
Day 2: Cross pass → Abudelauri Lakes → Roshka (~10km).
A new hut near the lakes (built 2024) may offer basic shelter in 2025. Camp at established sites.
Practical Tips
- Accommodation: Guesthouses in Roshka/Juta (~20–40 GEL/person, including meals).
- Guides/Tours: Recommended for traverse; local operators in 2025.
- Safety: Check weather (sudden changes common); carry offline maps (AllTrails/Wikiloc GPX available). No major issues reported in 2025.
- Combine with: Nearby Shatili towers or Kazbegi hikes.
This is one of Georgia’s most rewarding day/multi-day hikes—highly recommended for Caucasus enthusiasts! If planning for 2025, aim for July for peak colors. Safe travels!