Abano Pass is a high mountain pass located in the region of Tusheti, Georgia, in the central part of the Great Caucasus Mountains, at an elevation of 2.850m (9,350ft) above the sea level. Abano Pass is the highest drivable mountain pass in the Caucasus. The pass is driveable only by 4x4 cars. Conditions can change quickly and be harsh. Road closures can be frequent, so check conditions before traveling to this area.
The road over the pass was built in 1978, and is only open during the summer months from around May until to October, but it can be closed anytime when the access is not cleared of snow. Avalanches and heavy snowfalls can sometimes block some sections of the road and can be extremely dangerous due to frequent patches of ice. The main settlement in the region is the Omalo Village (1850 m.s.l.) Due to Omalo's high mountain location on the northern slopes of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range and the absence of well-maintained roads, it is largely isolated from the rest of Georgiafor most of the year. Don’t stuff your belly too much. Eventually, you might feel vomiting temptations while climbing circuitous roads at higher altitudes.
This trail passes through remote areas, so you need to be prepared. Tusheti can be reached with a 4WD vehicle and only a 4WD. Note for travellers: some homestays are often only open from July but a bit a preplanning will always ensure you have somewhere to stay. 4 wheeling is an inherently dangerous activity and shouldn’t be attempted without the appropriate training and equipment. Tusheti's scenery is a spectacular mix of high, snow-covered peaks, deep gorges of Pirikiti, Gometseri and Chanchakhovani and steep, grassy hillsides with flocks of sheep and horses running wild through fields of irises.
(Source: www.dangerousroads.org)
