The Lesser Caucasus

The Lesser Caucasus, also known as the Little Caucasus, is one of the two main mountain ranges of the Caucasus. It extends across the countries of Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Iran. It runs parallel to the Greater Caucasus, about 100 km south of the Lichi Mountains in Georgia.

It is connected to the Greater Caucasus by the Lichi Mountains and is separated in the west by the Colchis Lowland (Georgia) and in the east by the Kura-Arax Lowland (Azerbaijan).

With an impressive length of about 600 km and a height of up to 3724 m (the summit is in Gami on the Murovdagh ridge), the Lesser Caucasus offers breathtaking panoramas. The Meskheti, Trialeti, Loki, Bazum, Shahdagh, Murovdagh and Karabagh mountain ranges belong to this mountain system.

The climatic conditions in the Lesser Caucasus are diverse: humid subtropical forests dominate in the western lowlands, while xerophytic forests and shrubs prevail in the eastern part. Lush mountain forests can be found at mid-altitudes, and picturesque mountain meadows extend into the higher regions. The southern slope is characterised by steppes, Meskheti forests and scrub.

The Lesser Caucasus extends across the southern part of Georgia and includes the Samtskhe-Javakheti region and the Ajarian highlands. A small part of Lower Kartli is also included.

This region is known for its numerous volcanic mountains, impressive plateaus and picturesque mountain lakes, such as Paravani and Saghamo. Javakheti National Park, a paradise for ornithologists and nature photographers, is also located here.

Due to its unique scenic beauty and the diversity of its cultural monuments, we have integrated the Lesser Caucasus into many of our travel offers. On our tours, for example:

• Round trip of Georgia – 14 days
• Round trip in Georgia and Armenia – 14 days
• Hiking in the Caucasus – 14 days
• Photo tour in Georgia – 20 days
• Photo tour in Georgia – 14 days
• Cycling holiday in Georgia – 11 days
• Day trip to Vardzia – 2 days
• Jeep tour in Georgia – 14 days

you can discover and enjoy this fascinating region.