While the United States boasts several of the world’s most dangerous tourist attractions, Georgia—the country at the intersection of Europe and Asia—has also gained notoriety for certain perilous destinations and activities that pose significant risks to travelers. In recent years, one spot in particular has repeatedly been highlighted as among the most dangerous for tourists: the treacherous mountain roads leading to remote regions like Tusheti, and the broader risks associated with adventure tourism in Georgia’s highlands.
Why Are Georgia’s Mountain Roads So Dangerous?
- Extreme Terrain: The road to Tusheti, often cited as one of the most dangerous roads in the world, is carved into steep mountainsides with sheer drops and little to no guardrails. The route is narrow, unpaved, and frequently affected by landslides, rockfalls, and sudden weather changes.
- Poor Road Conditions: Outside of Tbilisi and major cities, many Georgian roads are poorly maintained, with unpaved surfaces, raised manholes, and insufficient signage. This is especially true in rural and mountainous areas, where hazards like stray livestock and a lack of lighting further increase the danger.
- Aggressive Driving Culture: Local driving habits amplify the risks. Speeding, overtaking on blind corners, and a general disregard for traffic rules are common. The prevalence of old, poorly maintained vehicles adds another layer of unpredictability.
- High Accident Rate: Georgia sees well over 5,000 reported traffic accidents each year, with road fatalities being one of the leading causes of death in the country. Major accidents involving tourists are reported every season, and the cost of injuries and damage from road accidents accounts for a significant portion of Georgia’s GDP.
Adventure Tourism Risks
Georgia’s rugged landscape attracts adventure seekers for activities like trekking, rock climbing, skiing, and paragliding. However, these activities come with their own set of dangers:
- Unregulated Adventure Sports: Until recently, adventure tourism in Georgia was largely unregulated. For example, paragliding was temporarily banned in 2022 after a fatal accident in Gudauri. New safety standards and mandatory liability insurance for high-risk tourism providers were introduced only in 2024/2025.
- Challenging Natural Hazards: The country’s mountainous regions are prone to landslides, avalanches (in winter), earthquakes, and flash floods. These natural hazards can strike with little warning, particularly in spring and summer or after heavy rainfall.
- Poorly Marked Trails: Trekking routes and adventure trails are not always well-marked or maintained. Weather conditions can change rapidly, increasing the risk of hikers getting lost or injured.
Specific Sites of Concern
- Tusheti Road: Frequently closed due to snow or landslides, this road is only open a few months a year. Even experienced drivers are at risk, and tourists are strongly advised not to attempt the journey without a skilled local driver and a suitable vehicle.
- Gudauri and Other Ski Resorts: Avalanches and sudden weather changes are a real threat in Georgia’s ski regions. Following local advice and avoiding restricted areas is essential.
- Heritage Sites: Popular attractions like Vardzia, Uplistsikhe, and Martvili Canyon often lack safety barriers or rails, making falls a real danger, especially for children.
Safety Measures and Advice
- Travel Insurance: From January 2026, all international visitors to Georgia will be required to have health and accident insurance. Even before this mandate, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, especially for those engaging in high-risk activities.
- Choose Reputable Operators: When booking adventure tours, opt for companies that comply with the new safety standards and have professional liability insurance.
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather advisories, avoid traveling after dark in rural areas, and never venture into hazardous zones alone or without proper guidance.
- Political Unrest: While rare, demonstrations and political tensions can occur, especially near border zones like South Ossetia. Tourists should avoid these areas and keep a safe distance from protests.
Georgia’s natural beauty and adventure opportunities are undeniable, but they come with significant risks—especially on its infamous mountain roads and during adventure sports in the highlands. The road to Tusheti stands out as one of the most dangerous tourist attractions in the region, demanding caution, preparation, and respect for the unpredictable forces of nature. Travelers who heed local advice, choose reputable tour operators, and maintain situational awareness can enjoy Georgia’s wild side more safely.
Sources:
- https://daytripnomad.com/most-dangerous-tourist-attractions/
- https://wander-lush.org/is-georgia-safe-country-europe/
- https://www.vigilios.com/destinations/georgia
- https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/destinations/these-are-americas-most-dangerous-tourist-attractions/photostory/103839704.cms
- https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/georgia
