Martotis (Martotba) Lake

About this activity

Martoti Lake (მარტოტის ტბა) is a stunningly remote and high-altitude mountain lake situated in the Kakheti region of Georgia, specifically within the Lagodekhi Municipality. Perched at an elevation of approximately 2830 meters (around 9285 feet) on the main ridge of the Caucasus Mountains, it lies very close to the Georgian-Russian border. This proximity necessitates obtaining a permit from the Georgian Border Police before visiting, requiring visitors to present identification.  

The lake itself is relatively small, fed primarily by snowmelt and precipitation within its mountainous catchment. It is set amidst dramatic alpine scenery, offering a serene and wild atmosphere far removed from settlements. Access typically involves a challenging multi-day hike, often starting near the village of Uzuntala and ascending through the Kabali river gorge. While a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle might shorten the initial part of the journey to shepherd summer farms (around 1670m), the final significant ascent is on foot or horseback along marked trails.

Due to its remote, high-altitude location and the permit requirement, Martoti Lake is primarily a destination for experienced hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking pristine wilderness. Specific data regarding its physical dimensions (depth, volume, area) and detailed ecological characteristics are scarce in public sources. Its main significance lies in its dramatic natural beauty and its role as a feature within the challenging hiking routes of the Lagodekhi area, bordering the Lagodekhi Protected Areas. Camping is generally not permitted directly at the lake due to border regulations, but possible at designated spots along the trail.

Identification and Location:

• Name: Martoti Lake (მარტოტის ტბა)
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Kakheti
  • Municipality: Lagodekhi
  • Nearest Major Landmark: Lagodekhi Protected Areas; located on the main Caucasus range near the Georgian-Russian border.
  • Coordinates: The lake itself is approximately at 2830m elevation. Access trails involve coordinates around 41.84° N, 46.13° E (Note: These might refer to trail points, not the lake itself). Precise lake coordinates are not readily available in provided snippets.
• Relationship to other bodies of water: High mountain lake, likely headwaters for mountain streams flowing down into river gorges (e.g., Kabali River mentioned in access route). Fed by snowmelt and precipitation.

Physical Characteristics:

• Surface Area: Specific data not found, likely small.
• Maximum Depth: Data not available.
• Average Depth: Data not available.
• Volume: Data not available.
• Elevation: $\approx 2830\text{ m}$ (approx. 9285 ft) above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Data not available.
• Water Source(s): Snowmelt, precipitation, possibly springs.
• Outlet(s): Likely a stream originating from the lake.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Likely glacial (cirque lake) or tectonic origin within the Caucasus Mountains.

Ecological Information:

• Flora (Plant Life): Surrounded by alpine and subalpine meadows and rocky terrain. Specific aquatic vegetation unknown.
• Fauna (Animal Life): Specific fish or aquatic invertebrate data not available. The surrounding mountains host typical Caucasus fauna. Area used for seasonal sheep grazing (shepherds and dogs present).
• Trophic Level: Likely Oligotrophic (nutrient-poor) due to high altitude, cold temperatures, and remote location.
• Water Clarity: Expected to be high.
• Water Temperature: Cold year-round, likely freezes completely in winter.
• pH Levels: Data not available, likely near-neutral.
• Dissolved Oxygen Levels: Data not available, likely high due to cold temperatures.
• Unique Ecological Features: Pristine high-altitude lake ecosystem. Part of a remote wilderness area bordering Lagodekhi Protected Areas.
• Conservation Status: No specific designation found for the lake itself, but its location in a sensitive border zone and near protected areas implies ecological importance. Access is restricted (permits required).
• Invasive Species: Unlikely due to remoteness and altitude.

Human Interaction and Significance:

• Historical Significance: Likely known and used seasonally by local shepherds for centuries.
• Current Uses: Primarily trekking and nature tourism destination for experienced hikers. Seasonal grazing occurs in the surrounding mountains.
• Environmental Issues: Sensitive alpine environment vulnerable to potential impacts from hiking/camping if not managed properly. Accessibility challenges limit large-scale impact.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Access controlled by Georgian Border Police due to proximity to the border. No specific lake conservation plan mentioned, but likely falls under general environmental regulations and potentially influenced by proximity to Lagodekhi Protected Areas.
• Local Communities: Seasonal use by shepherds. Hikers may interact with shepherds at summer farms (pastures). Requires careful interaction regarding shepherd dogs.

Interesting or Unique Facts:

• One of Georgia’s high-altitude lakes, situated at approx. 2830 meters.
• Requires a special permit from the Border Police for access due to its location near the Russian border.
• Camping directly at the lake is generally prohibited.
• Accessible via challenging hiking trails, often involving significant elevation gain.
• Known for its remote, pristine environment and stunning mountain scenery.