The lake lies in the valley of the Dzama River, on the territory of Zguderi village, Kareli Municipality, among the natural attractions of the region, at an elevation of 1,313 metres. The lake formed as a result of a landslide from the southern slope of the Trialeti Range. Its surface area is only 0.02 square kilometres, maximum depth reaches 12 metres, and its shape is roughly triangular, with a maximum length of about 200 metres.
The water is clear and fresh, surrounded by coniferous forest that in places extends right down to the shore. From December through March the lake freezes over completely. It's home to the endangered Caucasian newt (also called the near-East newt), listed in Georgia's Red Book, making the site of interest to those keen on rare wildlife.
For more on the lake and the Dzama gorge, see the article on Lake Bateti.
It's worth setting realistic expectations honestly. According to independent sources, a good number of spruce trunks have sunk in the water, there are no organised beaches, and one visitor notes the water feels stagnant and the surroundings insufficiently maintained. Swimming here is more for dedicated enthusiasts than for a comfortable lakeside dip. Reviews suggest being prepared to take your rubbish with you.
The road to the lake takes effort: after driving an unpaved road along the Dzama gorge, the final stretch, a steep climb, must be covered on foot, taking roughly two hours. According to reviews, the trail becomes noticeably harder after rain, so those with less experience should allow extra time or use a 4x4 to shorten the walking portion. On weekends, tents are often pitched around the lake, making it a popular spot for day hikes and camping. The Dzama gorge also holds numerous historical monuments along the way, including churches, monasteries and fortresses.
