Medieval Svan towers in Ushguli below Mount Shkhara, Svaneti

Upper Svaneti

Svaneti trek: Mestia to Ushguli

The most famous multi-day hike in Georgia: four days on foot from Mestia to Ushguli past glaciers, high passes and medieval Svan towers.

  • Duration6–7 days (4 hiking days)
  • DifficultyModerate
  • Group sizemax. 12 people
  • RegionUpper Svaneti
  • Tour languagesEnglish, Russian, Georgian, and German

Upper Svaneti is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular mountain regions of the Caucasus. Hundreds of medieval defensive towers stand in its villages, surrounded by glaciers and peaks of more than 4,000 metres.

The classic trek leads in four stages from Mestia to Ushguli. Each day ends in a village with a family guesthouse, where Svan hospitality and home-cooked food await you. The route passes through flower-filled meadows, larch forests and the small village of Adishi, from where the path crosses the glacier river – often on horseback – and climbs to the Chkhunderi Pass with a breathtaking view of the Adishi glacier.

The final day leads through the valley of the Enguri river to Ushguli, where stone towers stand in front of the snow-covered wall of Shkhara, at 5,193 m the highest mountain in Georgia.

Who is this trek for?

The trek is suitable for hikers with good basic fitness; daily stages are about 5–7 hours. We recommend combining it with a day in Mestia (e.g. hike to the Chalaadi glacier). The best season is from late June to September.

Highlights

  • Mestia with its defensive towers and the Svaneti Museum
  • Village-to-village hiking via Zhabeshi, Adishi and Iprali
  • Adishi glacier and the Chkhunderi Pass (about 2,700 m)
  • Ushguli – one of the highest inhabited villages in Europe
  • Views of Shkhara (5,193 m), Georgia’s highest peak

Included

  • Experienced local mountain guide
  • Overnight stays in family guesthouses (on request)
  • Luggage transport and transfers can be organised

Questions about this tour

How can I book the tour “Svaneti trek: Mestia to Ushguli”?

There is no online booking. Send us a non-binding enquiry via the contact form, by phone or WhatsApp (+995 551 07 87 82) – we will reply personally with availability and an individual offer.

When is the best time for this tour?

Late June to September. We are happy to help you find the ideal dates.

How difficult is the tour?

Difficulty: Moderate. Good fitness and experience on multi-day hikes are required – daily stages usually take several hours.

What should I bring?

Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots, warm and waterproof layers, sun protection, water and snacks. Before multi-day hikes you receive a detailed packing list from us.

Can the tour be private or adapted to my wishes?

Yes. Every tour can be done privately or in a small group (up to 12 people), and dates, pace and stops can be adjusted to your wishes.

In which language is the tour guided?

In English, Russian, Georgian, or German – just tell us your preferred language in your enquiry.

How much does the tour cost?

The price depends on group size, date and services. Send us an enquiry and you will receive an individual offer in US dollars.

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