Republic of Abkhazia
 

Has anyone been able to visit the Republic of Abkhazia in recent times? Any experiences to share?

Georgia is a nice place, if that's what you're asking.

I'm asking specifically about Abkhazia. Any experiences to share?

This post reminds me of the old Lonely Planet Thorn Tree forums in the nineties and noughties. I used to read them regularly when I was researching/doing my RTW trip.

There was always a lot of people asking about Abhkazia but no one ever answered with a trip report. Apparently that was the most bragworthy place for a "traveller" (not a tourist!) to have been (ie. the places where no one else ever goes).

Then one guy actually went there, sent a report back and acquired almost legendary status.

I checked a Facebook group I am in. Three recent (within the past six months) pieces of info. 1) One may not enter Abkhazia from Georgia at this time. 2) One may enter Abkhazia from Georgia if one has advance permission from Abkhazia (no mention of how to obtain the permission). 3) In any case, if one exits Abkhazia via Russia, one will not be allowed to enter Georgia ever again (I assume on the same passport).

I believe that was me.

Not recently but you can only enter from the Sochi side. You do need their special visa in advance and once there, you need to register with their local government office. I know someone who was there this past summer and it was all very straightforward, and it's a gorgeous place. But definitely cannot go in/out from Georgia