Imagine 5,000m peaks piercing blue skies, villages guarded by 1,000-year-old stone towers, and trails winding past roaring glaciers. Welcome to Svaneti – Georgia’s most dramatic mountain realm.
Whether you have 3 days or 7, this itinerary unlocks Europe’s last great wilderness.
Fly into Kutaisi International Airport (flights from Tbilisi $50–$100 one‑way). From the airport, shared minibuses (marshrutkas) depart at 9 AM, 1 PM, and 5 PM to Zugdidi ($8, 3 hrs). At Zugdidi station, catch a marshrutka to Mestia ($12, 4 hrs), leaving every two hours between 6 AM and 6 PM. For flexibility, rent a 4WD in Kutaisi ($60/day)—the scenic 230 km drive to Mestia takes around 6 hrs.
Visit between mid‑June and early October for clear trails and verdant meadows. July and August bring warm days (20–24 °C) and the Doghvi horse race in Mazeri (free spectator entry). Autumn (late September–October) electrifies the forests in amber hues. Winter snows cloak the region from December to March, ideal for experienced skiers with guided tours ($70/day).
From Mestia, hire a local taxi to Mazeri ($25 round‑trip, 45 min). Drop bags at a guesthouse ($30/night, breakfast included). Tackle the Shdugra Waterfall trek—8 km return, 5 hrs, guide optional at $30. Pack a picnic lunch ($8) or dine on khachapuri at the village café ($6). Return by 6 PM for sunset over Mount Ushba.
Morning shuttle ($1, 10 min) to the Svaneti Museum of History & Ethnography (entry $5, open 10 AM–6 PM). Wander exhibits of medieval artifacts and local calligraphy. Back in town, grab coffee at Safari Lodge ($3) before climbing the Niguriani Tower ($2 entry) for 360° vistas. Evening cable car to Hatsvali Ski Resort ($7 round‑trip) reveals glowing peaks at dusk.
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Hotel Ushba ($7). Then head 10 km north by shared van ($5) to the Chalaadi Glacier trailhead. The 2.6 km hike takes 2–3 hrs round‑trip. Guides charge $25 and provide crampons if needed. Lunch back in Mestia at Café Laila ($10), serving local trout and stews. In the afternoon, shop for hand‑woven Svan belts ($15) in town.
Opt for a 4WD excursion to Koruldi Lakes ($60 half‑day, departs 8 AM), or trek 12 km round‑trip in 5–6 hrs. At 2,300 m, the twin alpine ponds mirror the sky. A picnic lunch ($8) on the shore beats café prices. Return by 4 PM for pastries at Twin Peaks Bakery ($4) and a relaxed evening under Svan stars.
Set off at 9 AM by shared van to Ushguli ($20, 2 hrs via newly paved road). UNESCO‑listed Ushguli dazzles with over 200 medieval towers. Stay in a homestay ($35/night, dinner and breakfast). Explore Lamjurishi and Zhibiani villages on foot—5 km loop (2 hrs). Dinner at Café Murkvam ($12) features Svan salt cheese and mountain honey desserts.
Morning minibus back to Mestia ($20, 2 hrs). En route, stop at Queen Tamar’s Fortress ruins—($2 entry). Continue to Sasashi via shuttle ($8, 1 hr). Wander the abandoned Muashi sanatorium and meadows. Lunch at Café Svaneti in Mestia ($9) serves freshly baked khachapuri. Afternoon free for spa visits at Spa Ushba ($15 for 1 hr).
Depart Mestia by marshrutka at 8 AM for Zugdidi ($12, 4 hrs). Break the journey in Lentekhi for fresh pastries ($2) at a roadside bakery. From Zugdidi station, catch your airport shuttle to Kutaisi ($8, 3 hrs) or board your Tbilisi‑bound bus ($15, 4 hrs). Plan flights after 6 PM to allow for delays.
Whether you have 3 days or a full week, Svaneti immerses you in time‑tested traditions, soaring summits, and genuine hospitality. With clear travel options, transparent pricing, and flexible itineraries, crafting your perfect mountain adventure is easier than ever. Pack your backpack, Lykkers—the Caucasus awaits!