Hungarians Make History on Hale-Shkhara Peak

Photo: gyorplusz.hu

Albert Kovács and his team of Hungarian climbers have made history on Hale-Shkhara, a 4,350-meter peak in Georgia. Departing on September 15, 2025, Kovács and Szabolcs Pekker, joined by Péter Mógor and Barnabás Demény, initially aimed to summit Shkhara (5,200 m) – Georgia’s highest mountain. However, extreme weather forced a responsible change of plans.

Despite the setback, the climbers safely conquered Hale-Shkhara, marking the first Hungarian ascent of this peak. “We are proud to be the first Hungarians to climb this four-thousander!” Kovács shared. The route wasn’t overly technical, but loose, crumbly rock made progress tricky.

The expedition also offered heartwarming moments of companionship with local mountain dogs. One black-and-white dog stayed with the team the entire climb, navigating snow, ice, and obstacles alongside them. Kovács remarked on the dog’s loyalty: “Its claws broke off, it made the snow and us bleed, but it came with us non-stop.”

The descent was equally challenging. A snowstorm dropped up to 30 centimeters of wet snow, forcing the team to carefully analyze conditions and ultimately abandon the Skara summit attempt. Kovács emphasized the importance of teamwork and responsible decision-making: “Mountaineering is teamwork. We assess the situation together… There is nothing more important than that.”

Returning safely to their camp, the team celebrated the successful Hale-Shkhara ascent and the lessons learned in preparation, skill, and respect for the mountains. Their journey highlights not only physical endurance but also thoughtful leadership and camaraderie, both human and canine.

Photo: gyorplusz.hu