Svaneti Trekking

Embark on a trek through Georgia's most scenic trails

Detailed Description

Overview

Difficulty
Comfort
Imereti   Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti  
Destination
Active
Tour type
July — September
Period
9 days
Duration
4-8
Group
14+
Age
GT005
Program code

Embark on a journey to the stunning region of Svaneti in Georgia, starting from the bustling city of Kutaisi. Svaneti, surrounded by 5000 m majestic peaks, boasts breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty. Visit glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, historic churches, museums, and UNESCO-listed Ushguli & Mestia villages, surrounded by ancient Svanetian communities.

Stay in cozy family-run hotels and guesthouses, relish in delicious local cuisine, and enjoy a worry-free experience with lunch and snacks provided for your day trips. Let us take care of your luggage while you immerse in the beauty of Svaneti.

Leave rejuvenated, with a refreshed body, mind, and soul. Book your tour now for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Caucasus, surrounded by awe-inspiring peaks!

Itinerary

Day 1 — Welcome to Georgia

After gathering at the airport, we will embark on an excursion to the stunning high mountain region of Svaneti in Georgia. During our journey, you will be treated to breathtaking views of alpine meadows and dense forests. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to see one of the largest dams in Europe. After a satisfying meal surrounded by glaciers and towering mountains, we will make our way to the village of Mazeri, which sits at an elevation of 1660 meters above sea level. We will spend the night in Mazeri.

Route: Kutaisi — Private car | 215 km · 4 h 45 min — Mazeri

Accommodation: Included Cottages Shikhra * Or similar | Cottages | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: not included, lunch: not included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Enguri Dam, Bagrati Cathedral.

Day 2 — Svanetian Lake Meziri

On our second day, we will visit the picturesque Meziri Lake, situated 1660 meters above sea level. You will be able to admire the stunning view of Mount Ushba and the entire Great Caucasus mountain range. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the rich history and tradition associated with this lake. After that, we will take a leisurely walk through the mountains of Svaneti before returning to Mazeri. We will spend another night in Mazeri.

Route: Mazeri — Hiking | 4 km · 4 h — Lake Meziri — Hiking | 4 km · 2 h — Mazeri

Activities: Hiking | 6 hours

Accommodation: Included Cottages Shikhra * Or similar | Cottages | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Lake Meziri.

Day 3 — Discovering the Beauty of Shdgura Waterfall

On our third day, we will embark on a hike to the Shdgura waterfall, one of the most impressive and abundant waterfalls in Georgia. We will start our journey from the village of Mazeri and make the initial part of the trip by 4x4 vehicles. Afterward, we will continue on a trek, crossing a forest, until we reach the waterfall. At the end of the day, we will return to Mestia using the same 4x4 vehicles. We will spend the night in Mestia.

Route: Mazeri — Hiking | 6 km · 4 h — Shdugra Waterfall — Hiking | 4 km · 3 h — Mazeri — Private car | 50 km · 1 h 45 min — Mestia

Activities: Hiking | 6 hours

Accommodation: Included Mestia Plaza * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Shdugra Waterfall.

Day 4 — Majestic Koruldi Lakes at the Foot of Mount Ushba

Today, we will embark on an exploration of the renowned Koruldi Lakes, which are located at the base of Mount Ushba and are comprised of stunning alpine lakes. We will depart from Mestia and hike along the slopes of the iconic mountain. Upon reaching the lakes, you will be treated to a magnificent panoramic view at an altitude of 2850 meters above sea level. The peaks of the surrounding mountains, reflected in the mirror-like surface of the lakes, will leave a lasting and unforgettable impression. As we descend the mountain, the pull of gravity will take over, making you feel as though you are running down. We will have dinner in Mestia and spend the night there.

Route: Mestia — Hiking | 10 km · 4 h — Koruldi Lakes — Hiking | 10 km · 3 h — Mestia

Activities: Hiking | 7 hours

Accommodation: Included Mestia Plaza * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Koruldi Lakes, The Cross Over Mestia.

Day 5 — Discovering the Chalaadi Glacier

On this day, let's hike to the renowned Chalaadi glacier located in the Svanetian mountains. During this, brief trek, we will traverse picturesque valleys and dense forests until we reach the magnificent viewpoint near the towering mountain. You will be treated to a truly unforgettable vista that will be forever etched in your memory. After this enchanting experience, we will make our way down to Mestia, where you will have the opportunity to gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Svanetian people by visiting the town's ethnographic museum. We will spend the night in Mestia.

Route: Mestia — Hiking | 12 km · 3 h — Chalaadi Glacier — Hiking | 12 km · 3 h — Mestia

Activities: Hiking | 6 hours

Accommodation: Included Mestia Plaza * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Chalaadi Glacier.

Day 6 — Adishi Village: Exploring Svanetian Old Towers

Our journey takes us to the village of Adishi, where only a few families remain, residing together amongst the ancient Svanetian towers. The first portion of the trip will be completed by 4x4 vehicles to reach the Ughviri Pass, located at an altitude of 2480 meters. Afterwards, we will cross expansive valleys with stunning views of the Svanetian mountains. We will spend the evening at a local family's home, observing their daily way of life. Overnight stay will be in Adishi.

Route: Mestia — Private car | 20 km · 1 h — Ughviri Pass — Hiking | 12 km · 3 h — Adishi

Activities: Hiking | 6 hours

Accommodation: Included Hotel family Bachi * Or similar | Guest House | Twin or double room, shared WC & shower on the floor

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Adishi Glacier.

Day 7 — Historic Villages of Khalde and Iprari

Today is an important day as we head towards the historic village of Khalde. The initial part of the journey will be relatively easy. After that, we will reach the Chkhutnieri Pass and the Adishi Glacier, a significant landmark and an awe-inspiring sight. It is crucial to cross the Adyshistskali River as early as possible when the water level is low. In case the water level rises, we will utilize horses to cross the river. We will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Ushba, Tetnuldi, Shkhara, and the Adishi Glacier. Our journey will then lead us to the oldest village of Iprari, home to a 11th-century church. Dinner and overnight stay will be in Iprari.

Route: Adishi — Hiking | 10 km · 4 h — Iprari

Activities: Hiking | 4 hours

Accommodation: Included Iprari Family Hotel * Or similar | Guest House | Twin or double room, shared WC & shower on the floor

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Mount Ushba, Shkhara Glacier, Mount Tetnuldi.

Day 8 — Explore Ushguli: Europe's highest village & UNESCO heritage

Today our journey begins in the village of Iprari and leads us to Ushguli. We will pass through the village of Davberi and take a short walk through a beautiful forest to reach Ushguli, a mountain community known as the highest inhabited village in Europe, at an altitude of 2200 meters above sea level. The unique beauty of Ushguli has earned it protection by UNESCO. After visiting Ushguli, we will take a leisurely walk to explore the Svan towers in the village of Zhibiani, the temple of Lamaria (Virgin Mary), the Church of St. George, and the Church of the Savior. Overnight stay will be in Ushguli.

Route: Iprari — Hiking | 10 km · 4 h — Ushguli

Activities: Hiking | 4 hours

Accommodation: Included Guesthouse Ushguli Maspindzeli * Or similar | Guest House | Twin or double room, shared WC & shower on the floor

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Lamaria Church, Chazhashi Savior Church, St. George Church, Svaneti Ethnography Museum, Mount Ushba, Queen Tamar Castle.

Day 9 — The end of the tour

Our journey in the magnificent Svanetian Mountains has come to an end, and it's time to say goodbye to this stunning region. Although we will depart from this breathtaking landscape, the essence of Svaneti will always remain within us. On our way to the Kutaisi airport, we will hold onto the charm and wonder of this incredible place. Our tour has come to a close.

Route: Ushguli — Private car | 170 km · 4 h 15 min — Kutaisi

Accommodation: Not Included

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: None

Our tour program's list of attractions is a guide, not exhaustive. Unlisted sites may be visited, and listed ones might be viewed from a distance. Conditions like operating hours, weather, or local rules may affect access. Thank you for your understanding.

Departures

July 6, 2024 — July 14, 2024 € 2,600 EUR On sale
July 19, 2024 — July 27, 2024 € 2,600 EUR Guaranteed
Aug. 10, 2024 — Aug. 18, 2024 € 2,600 EUR On sale

What's included?

Accommodation

5 nights — Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

3 nights — Twin or double room, shared WC & shower on the floor

Meals

8 breakfasts, 7 lunch, 4 dinners.

Guide

8 days — Full day,

Transport

Hiking: ~94 km, Private car: ~455 km. *

Activities

Hiking: ~39 hours. *

Additionally included

Entrance fees to all sites according to the programm, English speaking guide, Breakfast, lunch, (dinner in guesthouses).

Not included

Plane tickets, Personal expenses and tips, Travel insurance.

The provided measures of total kilometers for transport, duration of guide services, and activities in our tour program are approximate and may vary depending on the program flow and terrain conditions. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these numbers, please note that they are intended as estimates. We make every effort to provide the most precise information possible to give you an idea of the overall tour experience.

Note

Hiking time depends on the steepness, the condition of the trail, the physical condition of the group and other factors.
Guide services can be provided in different languages, depending on the preferences of the group.
Please note that the indicated price is based on a group size of 8 participants. If the group size is smaller, the price can be adjusted accordingly.
If you're interested in extending the tour for more days, please let us know, and we'll be happy to provide options and prices upon request.

Equipment & Checklist

A hiking adventure in the Svaneti region of Georgia is a perfect way to experience the beauty of the country's mountainous landscapes. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures in Svaneti can range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), so it's important to pack accordingly.

Remember that you'll be at high altitude, so be sure to acclimate and stay hydrated. Enjoy your hiking adventure in Svaneti!

As you'll be hiking and your luggage will be transferred by a car, it's important to pack light and choose gear that's both functional and comfortable. Here's a comprehensive checklist for your hiking adventure in Svaneti:

Accommodation

The accommodations in this tour offer a unique blend of traditional character and modern conveniences, with the majority of nights spent in locally-run hotels or home-stays with shared facilities, and a few nights in good and clean 2-3 star city hotels with private facilities. Both types of accommodations, whether in family-run establishments or city hotels, are clean, good, and centrally located to maximize your time for exploring the sights. If a hotel name is marked with "* or similar," it means a similar hotel of equivalent or higher class may be provided based on tour dates, group size, and hotel availability. The itinerary section of the program description will specify the exact type of accommodation for each day.

Meals

Eating is an integral part of travel, and with Georgia.to, you will have the opportunity to savor the delicious cuisine that Georgia has to offer. While breakfast is included, some lunches and dinners may be held at local restaurants, giving you the flexibility to choose where, what, and with whom you want to eat. Although meals are not typically included in the trip price, food is generally inexpensive, with an average cost of 10-15 euros per person for dinner or lunch, including drinks. However, our group often eats together to allow for a diverse taste of dishes and for the enjoyment of each other's company, though this is not a requirement.

Food Arrangements During the Hiking Part

During the hike in the mountains, meals are typically organized as picnic-style lunches, with a variety of fresh, hearty, and filling items to fuel you throughout the day. The exact menu may vary depending on the day, but common options include sandwiches, fruits, nuts, and snacks. Water is provided to keep you hydrated. For dinner, you will have the opportunity to experience the local cuisine by dining with local families. If you have specific dietary requirements, please let your travel assistant know and they will do their best to accommodate them.

Transport

In this tour, all transportation is private and tailored to your group's needs. Depending on the size of the group, transportation options can range from a car, a mini-van, or a minibus. In areas with challenging road conditions, a 4x4 vehicle may be used to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. With private transport, you will have the flexibility to customize your itinerary and move around at your own pace.

Luggage Transportation During the Hike

During your hiking journey in the mountains, you'll be able to travel light with just your personal belongings. To ensure that your luggage is safe and secure, it will be transferred from one overnight point to the next by a reliable 4x4 vehicle. This means that you can focus on enjoying your hike and taking in the stunning mountain scenery, without having to worry about carrying your luggage. Rest assured that your luggage will be waiting for you at your next accommodation, so you can freshen up and relax after a day of hiking.

Guides

Our group tour leaders are the most experienced and knowledgeable individuals with excellent English language skills. If the common language of the group is different, we can provide guides in other foreign languages by coordinating with our travel assistant team. The guide will be available to the group for the entire duration of the trip, and their exact availability is marked in the Itinerary section of the program for each day. Please refer to the Itinerary section to know how long the guide will be available on each day.

Money

In Georgia, the currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Small exchange offices are omnipresent throughout Georgia and offer competitive exchange rates. Your guide will be able to advise you on the best place to exchange money, as exchange rates may vary depending on the location. You can also check the current exchange rates on www.xe.com

Bank cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and shops, but it is advisable to have some cash as a backup, in case there are issues with local ATM machines or credit cards. However, it is possible that in remote villages, bank cards may not be accepted, so it is best to have some cash on hand. The most widely accepted cards are Visa and MasterCard. We recommend exchanging only small amounts of money at a time, as exchange rates can fluctuate frequently. It is also advisable to inform your bank in advance of your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions.

Tipping

The Georgia.to travel team, including guides, drivers, cooks, etc., are paid a fair wage and do not expect tips. If you choose to leave a gratuity as a way of expressing your satisfaction, please note that damaged or adhesive coins or banknotes cannot be exchanged. Tips can be left at your discretion in envelopes. In restaurants, it is customary to leave 5-10% as a tip.

Health

For your health and safety, it's important to be in good health before traveling to Georgia. Consult with a doctor or travel medicine specialist for recommended vaccines and preventive measures. To prevent insect bites and follow food safety measures, it's best to drink only bottled or treated water and be mindful of what you eat.

Bring enough of your prescription medicine and ensure that it is legal in Georgia if you have a pre-existing medical condition. A basic first-aid kit, including pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and insect repellent, is also recommended in case of minor illnesses or injuries.

While Georgia has modern medical facilities in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, it's still wise to have travel insurance in case of unexpected medical expenses. There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it's important to prioritize your health and safety while traveling.

Visa Requirements for Georgia

Visa requirements for Georgia for foreign citizens vary depending on the country of origin. Citizens of most countries are eligible for a visa-free entry to Georgia for stays of up to one year. However, some countries require a pre-arranged visa, which can be obtained from a Georgian embassy or consulate. It is recommended to check the specific visa requirements for your country of origin before traveling to Georgia. Here is a short list of countries with citizens that do not need a visa to enter Georgia for a stay up to one year:

EU countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, Spain, France, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and more. Switzerland, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Israel, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico etc.

Please find the exhaustive information on the Ministry of Foreign Affaires of Georgia website: https://www.geoconsul.gov.ge/

Dress Code

When visiting Georgia, it is important to be mindful of the local customs and dress codes, especially when entering religious buildings. In such places, it is expected that visitors dress modestly with women covering their heads and legs. Shorts and skirts above the knee are usually not allowed. Outside of religious buildings, there is a more casual and relaxed dress code with no specific restrictions, and visitors are free to wear what they prefer. It is worth noting that Georgia is a modern and European-influenced country, so visitors may encounter a mix of styles from traditional and contemporary.

Laundry

Laundry service is available at most of our hotels for a reasonable fee, typically around 10 euros or less per load. If you need this service, please let your guide know in advance to arrange it. During the hiking portion of the trip when staying at family hotels or home-stays, you may need to do your own laundry at times. To ensure environmental safety, we recommend bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap for this purpose.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not a requirement to enter Georgia, but it is highly recommended. A comprehensive travel insurance policy can provide coverage for trip cancellations, medical expenses, lost or stolen belongings, and emergency evacuation. In case of unexpected events, having travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection. It is important to review the coverage and terms of your travel insurance policy before departing to ensure it meets your specific needs and provides adequate protection while traveling in Georgia.

Safety and Security

Georgia is considered one of the safest countries in the world and visitors can generally feel safe while exploring the country. Crime rates, including pickpocketing, are low and tourists can move around freely without major concerns for their safety. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of one's surroundings in busy areas.

Emergency Contact

In case of any emergencies, we are available for support. During office hours (Tbilisi time), you can reach us at +995 591 257 715 for any urgent questions. Additionally, upon booking, you will be provided with a 24/7 personnel travel assistant for the duration of your trip. They will be available to assist you with any needs or concerns.

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Last update: April 12, 2024, 6:02 a.m.