By Nino Gelashvili, Travel News Editor · 17/10/2026
The only land route into Tusheti, the Pshaveli–Abano–Omalo road, has partially reopened after its seasonal closure, Georgian authorities have confirmed. Traffic has been restored between Lechura and Omalo, covering kilometre markers 12 to 72, but this stretch is accessible only to high-clearance 4×4 vehicles.
The first section of the road, from Pshaveli to Lechura (km 1 to km 11), remains open to all types of vehicles, including ordinary cars and minivans. Beyond Lechura, however, standard cars and minivans are barred from continuing toward Omalo over the Abano Pass, which is restricted to 4×4 vehicles only.
The Abano Pass is known for its steep, gravel sections and dangerous descents, and typically operates only through summer and early autumn before winter conditions force a full closure. Authorities have not yet set a final closure date for this season and warn that deteriorating weather could shut the road without advance notice.
What it means for travellers
Travellers planning to drive into Tusheti or Omalo can only proceed past Lechura (km 11) in a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle; ordinary cars cannot continue beyond this point. Check road conditions with a local driver or tour operator immediately before travel, as the Abano Pass may close abruptly once weather worsens.
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Source: SheniDasveneba (network tip-off, Georgian). Reported by the GTour desk; updated 17 October 2026, 00:52 (Tbilisi).
