The Memuli Lakes

The Memuli Lakes (მემულის ტბები) are a group of stunning, high-altitude glacial lakes tucked away in the remote wilderness of Upper Svaneti, within the Mestia Municipality of Georgia. Located near the Chuberi community and associated with the Memuli Glacier, these lakes represent a pristine alpine environment far removed from urban centers like Tbilisi. Typically referred to as a system of at least three lakes situated at elevations exceeding 2700 meters, they were formed by glacial activity and are primarily fed by meltwater. Accessing the Memuli Lakes is a significant undertaking, involving challenging multi-day treks suitable mainly for experienced and well-prepared hikers. The reward for navigating the steep terrain, potential river crossings, and remote paths is the breathtaking beauty of untouched nature – crystal-clear waters reflecting the towering peaks of the Greater Caucasus, vibrant alpine meadows, and the raw grandeur of the Svanetian mountains. These lakes are less about developed recreation and more about wilderness adventure and appreciating a fragile high-mountain ecosystem.

Identification and Location

• Name: Memuli Lakes (English), Memulis Tbebi / მემულის ტბები (Georgian) – Usually referred to in the plural.
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • Region: Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti
  • Municipality: Mestia
  • Landmark: Located in the high mountains near the Chuberi community, in the basin of the Memuli River (a tributary of the Nenskra River), close to the Memuli Glacier. The area might be considered a border zone, potentially requiring permits. Located far northwest of Tbilisi.
  • Coordinates: Approximate location for the main (second) lake is around 43.15∘N, 42.13∘E.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: A system of glacial lakes feeding headwaters of the Memuli River.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: The lakes are individually small, typical of glacial tarns.
• Maximum Depth: Specific data not readily available, likely shallow to moderate.
• Average Depth: Shallow.
• Elevation: Very high altitude. The main (second) lake is around 2760 meters, and the third lake is even higher at approximately 2905 meters above sea level.
• Water Source(s): Primarily glacial meltwater from the Memuli Glacier, snowmelt, and precipitation.
• Outlet(s): Drain via streams that form the Memuli River.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Glacial origin, formed in cirques or valleys carved by past glaciation in the Greater Caucasus mountains.

Ecological Information

• Flora: Located above the tree line in a high-alpine zone. Vegetation consists of alpine meadows with specialized grasses and wildflowers, surrounded by rocky slopes and moraines.
• Fauna: Due to the high altitude, cold temperatures, and glacial influence, fauna is limited. Likely includes high-altitude insects, possibly cold-adapted amphibians, and resident or migratory alpine birds. Fish are highly unlikely to be present naturally.
• Trophic Level: Expected to be oligotrophic (nutrient-poor) due to cold temperatures, glacial meltwater input, and minimal organic matter.
• Water Clarity: Generally high, though may be affected by glacial sediment (glacial flour) at times.
• Water Temperature: Very cold year-round, partially ice-covered for much of the year.
• Unique Ecological Features: Pristine high-altitude glacial lake ecosystem directly influenced by the Memuli Glacier.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Part of the remote, historically isolated region of Upper Svaneti. The area has likely been used seasonally by shepherds for centuries.
• Current Uses: Primarily a destination for challenging, multi-day trekking and wilderness exploration by experienced hikers/mountaineers. Camping is possible near the lakes or at designated spots along the trail (like Zeda Memuli). No significant infrastructure or settlements exist at the lakes.
• Environmental Issues: Minimal due to extreme remoteness and very low visitor numbers. Potential sensitivity to climate change impacts on the glacier and water levels. Maintaining the pristine environment is crucial.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Located in a remote mountain area. Access may require coordination or permits due to proximity to border regions. Protection relies mainly on its inaccessibility.
• Local Communities: The lakes are within the traditional lands of the Chuberi community. They represent a potential asset for highly specialized adventure tourism but are not a source of regular local recreation or utility.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• The Memuli Lakes are a system of multiple (at least three) distinct glacial tarns formed relatively recently by the retreat of the Memuli Glacier.
• Access is notably difficult, often described as challenging (“Extreme hiking”) even for experienced trekkers, involving steep ascents/descents, difficult terrain, and river crossings.
• The area is located in a remote part of Upper Svaneti, potentially requiring border permits for access.
• They offer spectacular, wild, and pristine high-Caucasus mountain scenery.
• The lakes remain partially frozen or ice-covered for a significant portion of the year.