Location and surroundings
Geographically situated in Georgia within Western Asia, Mt’a Shavikide forms part of the expansive Caucasus Mountains system, specifically anchoring the Lesser Caucasus through the Trialeti Range. The topography surrounding the peak features a rugged upland terrain typical of this geographic zone, characterized by expansive ridgelines, alpine meadows, and weathered slopes that drop away into deep valleys.
Neighbouring peaks
The immediate surroundings of Mt’a Shavikide feature several notable summits and mountain passes at varying distances and directions:
- Ts’khratsqaro Pass (mountain pass, 2,454 m): 7.2 km NE
- Mta K’odiana (peak, 2,689 m): 9.1 km NW
- Sakvelmosmta (peak, 2,806 m): 10.7 km NE
- Mta Orta Tavi (peak, 2,513 m): 11.2 km W
- Mta Oshara (peak, 2,608 m): 15.8 km W
- Mta Shavnabada (peak, 2,929 m): 22.4 km E
- Shavnabada South (peak, 2,800 m): 22.8 km E
- Mta Tavk’vetili (peak, 2,582 m): 23.6 km E
Standing at 2,851 metres, Mt’a Shavikide surpasses almost all of these immediate neighbours, though it is slightly lower than the nearby Mta Shavnabada located 22.4 km to the east.
The view from the summit
From the high point of Mt’a Shavikide, climbers and observers can survey the surrounding landscape and spot several major summits within a 25-kilometre radius. The highest peaks within this range include Mt’a Samsari at 3,285 m, situated 23.9 km SE, and Sanislo at 2,748 m, located just 2.3 km W. Additional visible elevations in the vicinity comprise Dalitsavaryatag at 2,394 m (5.9 km NW), Navtlughi at 2,377 m (19.4 km SE), Sabaduri at 2,359 m (18.3 km W), and Kenchakaro at 2,349 m (15.8 km NE).
The range
Mt’a Shavikide is situated within the Trialeti Range, which forms a major section of the Lesser Caucasus within the broader Caucasus Mountains of Western Asia. This mountain system spans Georgia and features a total of 89 named peaks. Among all these summits, Mt’a Shavikide holds the distinction of being the highest point of the range at 2,851 metres.
Climate and weather
The climate at the elevation of Mt’a Shavikide is marked by typical alpine conditions for the Caucasus Mountains. Winters are long, cold, and accompanied by heavy snowfall, while summers remain short and relatively cool. Rapid weather changes are common at this altitude, with winds frequently increasing along exposed ridges and sudden cloud cover rolling in from surrounding valleys.
Best time to visit
The optimal period to visit Mt’a Shavikide typically spans the warm summer months from July through September, when snow cover on the upper slopes is at its lowest. During this window, stable weather patterns provide the safest conditions for navigation, whereas spring and autumn bring unpredictable storms, freezing temperatures, and slippery terrain.
Nature and wildlife
The environment around Mt’a Shavikide transitions from dense lower montane forests into alpine meadows and rocky terrain near the summit. Vegetation consists mainly of resilient grasses, low shrubs, and hardy mountain flora adapted to short growing seasons. Wildlife in this part of the Lesser Caucasus includes various birds of prey, small mammals, and occasionally larger fauna inhabiting the less disturbed valleys of Georgia.
Guides and organised ascents
Tackling an alpine peak of this elevation in Georgia calls for careful planning and navigational competence. Engaging a certified mountain guide holding IFMGA/UIAGM credentials is strongly recommended for those unfamiliar with the terrain or weather patterns of the Caucasus Mountains. Inquiries regarding guided ascents can be directed to national mountain guide associations or local tourist offices in the region. A standard guided package typically covers logistical support, safety equipment, and professional route leadership, with pricing contingent on the number of days, total group size, and specific gear requirements.
Safety and preparation
Ascending Mt’a Shavikide requires proper physical conditioning, sturdy footwear, and reliable waterproof outerwear to cope with sudden alpine squalls. Climbers must carry adequate navigation tools, emergency supplies, and sufficient provisions. Because weather conditions in the Lesser Caucasus can deteriorate rapidly, monitoring forecasts and turning back in the event of an incoming storm are critical safety measures.
Interesting facts
Mt’a Shavikide serves as the highest point of the Trialeti Range, outranking all 89 named peaks in this part of the Caucasus Mountains. The nearest higher peak is Mta Shavnabada, which reaches 2,929 metres and lies 22.4 km to the east. Known historically by several local names including Gora Shaviklde, ყარაყაია, შავი კლდე, and Shavi Klde, the mountain stands as a prominent geographic anchor within Georgia.
FAQ
What is the elevation of Mt’a Shavikide? Mt’a Shavikide reaches an elevation of 2,851 metres.
Where is Mt’a Shavikide located? It is located in Georgia, within the Trialeti Range of the Lesser Caucasus.
What is the rank of Mt’a Shavikide in its mountain range? It is the highest of the 89 named peaks in the Trialeti Range.
What are the nearest peaks and passes to Mt’a Shavikide? The closest features include Ts’khratsqaro Pass at 7.2 km NE, Mta K’odiana at 9.1 km NW, and Sakvelmosmta at 10.7 km NE.
Which higher peak is closest to Mt’a Shavikide? The nearest higher peak is Mta Shavnabada at 2,929 metres, located 22.4 km to the east.
Is there water on the way to Mt’a Shavikide? Natural water sources along the upper ridges of the Trialeti Range are scarce and unreliable, so climbers should carry 1.5 to 3 litres of water per person depending on weather conditions and exertion levels.