Volcanoes of Georgia. Are they dangerous?

Georgia is a country gaining popularity among tourists. Many are attracted by impressive mountains, unearthly landscapes, hospitable residents and the relative price availability of tours.

It is unlikely to be possible to explore the country in a few days, because traveling among the rocks can be dangerous and unpredictable if you do not prepare for them. Going to the Caucasus mountains, be sure to study the area for possible dangers.

In this article we will look at the famous volcanoes located in Georgia and find out how dangerous they are for tourists and residents of the country.

Kazbek

The first and most popular volcano for excursions is Mount Kazbek. The activity of Kazbek was last recorded as early as 650 BC, so it is not for nothing that it is considered an extinct volcano. True, seismologists still note daily micro-tremors, but explain this by the special location of the mountain at the point of convergence of two tectonic plates.

The absence of seismological danger allows tourists and climbers to explore the mountain and its surroundings without fear. And there is something to see!

At an altitude of about 4000m (the mountain itself is more than 5000 m) is the Betliem monastery. It has been located in a man-made cave for several thousand years. It was discovered not so long ago, and was a real treasure trove.

Also in the vicinity of Kazbek is the most beautiful place by its nature - Stepantsminda. Magnificent landscapes are caused by ancient volcanic activity. After all, there are petrified glaciers and healing mineral waters all around, making their way from the depths of Mount Kazbek.

Kabargin

Southwest of Kazbek, on the territory of Georgia and South Ossetia, there is a whole complex of volcanoes. It is considered not an active volcano, although daily tremors are noted as well as at the Kazbek volcano.

The slopes are dotted with slag and lava cones formed as a result of ancient eruptions.

Active excursions are not carried out due to inaccessibility.

Didi-Abuli

One of the easiest hiking trails to climb is climbing Didi-Abuli Mountain in the Samtsve-Javakheti region. The volcano went quiet during the ice age. Currently, the peak has lost its shape, and the slopes are strewn with volcanic glaciers. There are many small glacial lakes at the foot, alpine meadows are scattered everywhere with greenery.

Samsari

In the northeast of Didi Abuli, the extinct volcano Samsari opens to the eye. More than 3000 meters from sea level, a three-kilometer crater. Lakes have formed on its bottom, which indicates the absence of any volcanic activity.

Tavkevtila

In the northern part of the same Samsara range is Tavkvetila - a headless volcano. The mountain got its name because of the well-defined preserved cone of the crater.

At the foot is the deepest salty volcanic lake Tabatskuri, where rare species of fish are found.

Vashlovani

A whole park of volcanoes has been discovered in Kakheti. They were annexed to the Vashlovani National Park in 2003. Tourists are attracted not only by the amazing landscape consisting of scattered stone rocks covered with grass and deep sudden ravines in the middle of the plains, but also by sources of healing mud.

Clay, gas and oil erupt from the depths of volcanoes, the properties of which help to cure various skin diseases. Mud craters with clay are scattered throughout the park of volcanoes.

The bubbling is naturally caused by volcanic activity, but there is no danger of an eruption, since the volcano itself has been extinct for several million years.

These are not all volcanoes of Georgia, but the most studied. They do not pose a danger to tourists or residents of the country by the threat of an eruption. But it is important for everyone who goes to the mountains to remember that this is an unpredictable and little-known territory that does not forgive disrespect for itself.

Use the services of guides, local help, get ready for the trip, and be sure - the impressions will be unforgettable and incomparable!