Georgia is a beautiful country with many scenic routes and picturesque landscapes. While it's tempting to rent a car in Georgia and explore all corners of the country, there are certain areas where it's not recommended to drive a rental car. In this article, we'll take a closer look at these areas and why you should avoid them.
Tusheti
Tusheti is a mountainous region in northeastern Georgia, known for its rugged terrain and stunning views. However, the roads in Tusheti are narrow, winding, and often unpaved. The region is only accessible by 4x4 vehicles, and even then, driving in Tusheti can be a challenging experience. The roads are often steep and slippery, with many sharp turns and blind corners. The risk of getting stuck or damaging your rental car is high, and it's not recommended to drive there unless you have prior experience with off-road driving.
Shatili
Shatili is another mountainous region in Georgia, located in the north of the country. It's a remote and isolated place, with little infrastructure and few amenities. The roads in Shatili are unpaved and winding, with steep inclines and sharp turns. It's easy to get lost or stuck, and the risk of damaging your rental car is high. Additionally, the area is prone to landslides and rockfalls, which can make driving even more dangerous.
Omalo
Omalo is a small village located in Tusheti, and it's another place where driving a rental car is not recommended. The roads in Omalo are narrow and winding, with many sharp turns and steep inclines. The area is also prone to landslides and rockfalls, which can make driving even more hazardous. Unless you're an experienced off-road driver, it's best to avoid driving in Omalo altogether.
Mestia-Ushguli-Lentekhi-Kutaisi Route
This route is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning mountain views and scenic landscapes. However, it's not recommended to drive a rental car on this route, especially during the winter months. The roads can be steep and slippery, and the risk of getting stuck or damaging your rental car is high. Unless you have prior experience with off-road driving and a powerful 4x4 vehicle, it's best to avoid this route altogether.
In conclusion, while Georgia is a beautiful country with many scenic routes to explore, there are certain areas where it's not recommended to drive a rental car. Tusheti, Shatili, Omalo, and the Mestia-Ushguli-Lentekhi-Kutaisi route are all places where driving can be hazardous and challenging, and it's best to avoid them unless you have prior experience with off-road driving and a suitable vehicle. It's important to prioritize safety and avoid taking unnecessary risks, especially when it comes to driving in unfamiliar terrain.
