Zaal Magradze, 55 years old, hometown ― Tbilisi, mechanical engineer, guide
About career choice
I have been hiking since 1984. In 2012 I became a mountain guide. I worked with locals, taught them the necessary skills for mountain hiking and since 2015 I have been working with foreign tourists. I accompany tourists on mountain trekking and mountaineering ascents, as I have the first category of mountaineering.
About routes
One of the most popular routes:
― Kazbek mountain
― Tetnuldi mountain
― Laila Peak.
In addition climbing areas of Chaukhi and the passes for hiking of Svaneti, Tusheti, Khevsureti are popular.
I take into account the abilities and experience of the participants when I organize groups for the routes. I choose a place based on these facts. I conduct a conversation about safety before the tour.
I do not give my consent until I check the experience and skills of customers at the individual order. If their preparation does not correspond to the route, I refuse the order.
Everyone can go to the mountains, but you need to have the desire, stable mental health and minimal physical training. For all, you can find a suitable route. However, people must understand that the mountains have their own rules, and you have to listen to them and get used to.
However, people must understand that the mountains have their own rules, and you have to listen to them and get used to
The cost of guide services depends on the length and complexity of the route. On average, prices from $100 to $300.
About plans
I plan to keep going to the mountains. For me, it is more than work and I want to share with everyone a piece of my love for the mountains.
Georgy Yakobashvili, 35 years old, hometown ― Tbilisi, hiking guide
About career choice
When I was 25 years old, I went to the Khevsureti mountains. Then I had to walk 25 km of difficult terrain, but I liked it. Later I founded my own company for organizing and passage of hiking tours.
About routes
Georgia is not only Mtskheta, Sighnaghi and Kazbek. There are many beautiful and unfamiliar places to the discerning tourist. My favourite is lake Kelitsad.
I offer tourists different routes, for example:
― three and five-day tour to Kelitsad lake, the length of 35 km with difficult terrain
― three-day tour to Tanie lake, the length of 30 km
― three and four-day tour to Svaneti, including an extensive cultural program
— one day tour to lake Cakici, the length of 23 km.
I do not take newcomers for long distances when I form a group. On big distances, I take only those, who went on small tours with me. I'm selecting to minimize the risks.
The main thing in the mountains ― psychological stability
The main thing in the mountains ― psychological stability, you need to win a mental fight with the mountain, and then the route will obey you.
I work for my pleasure, and money is not important to me. My prices are lower than in other companies.
About plans
I like to give people joy and show that they can overcome difficult routes. It is an invaluable pleasure which I want to share.
