A Trekker’s Paradise
in Mestia

Your journey begins the moment you arrive! To make things smooth and stress-free, we highly recommend arriving the night before. Your base for the week will be Mestia, in the Svaneti region. Although it’s not a short journey to the mountains it’s definitely worth it as the region is widely regarded as the most stunning in the Caucasus. The nearest airport is in Kutaisi but it’s also possible to arrive in Tbilisi. A direct transfer is available from both but we always recommend letting us arrange your tickets for the train on the morning of the first day, which will take you most of the way, and in much more comfort than on the road. The final leg of the journey can only be done by road and we’ll be waiting to collect you as your train arrives in Zugdidi.

After a scenic journey into the mountains, you’ll settle into your cozy guesthouse—your home for the next week. The best part? No need to carry all your gear from place to place! Mestia serves as your perfect adventure base, meaning after every day of hiking, you’ll return to a warm shower and a comfortable bed.

Distance – 12.4km, Elevation – 961m, Time – 5,5 Hours

Distance – 9.2km, Elevation – 614m, Time – 5 Hours

Today’s adventure takes you to Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited villages in Europe. Stepping into this remote settlement feels like travelling back in time, with its ancient stone towers, cobbled paths, and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Ushguli is the perfect place to soak up Svaneti’s rich history and unspoilt landscapes.

The hiking routes here are nothing short of spectacular. One of the most rewarding trails leads to the Shkhara Glacier, the mighty base of Mount Shkhara—Georgia’s tallest peak. The path winds through rolling green meadows, past traditional farms, and along crystal-clear rivers fed by melting glaciers. Every step offers another postcard-worthy view, with jagged snow-capped peaks towering above.

Reaching the glacier, you’ll be rewarded with an unparalleled close-up view of this icy giant, its deep blue crevasses and towering ice walls a stark contrast to the surrounding greenery. After taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying a well-deserved break, we retrace our steps back to Ushguli, where there will be time to explore the village’s fascinating history before heading back to Mestia.

This day is all about experiencing the untamed beauty of the Caucasus and the deep-rooted traditions of Svaneti, making it an unforgettable highlight of the trip.

Distance – 9.3km, Elevation – 269m, Time – 2,5 Hours

Today’s hike takes you to one of Mestia’s most striking natural wonders—the Chalaadi Glacier. This trail offers a perfect mix of forested paths, rushing rivers, and rugged mountain scenery, making it an unforgettable part of the trip.

The journey begins along the Mestiachala River, its fast-flowing waters providing a constant soundtrack as you make your way through the peaceful woodland. The well-marked trail gradually ascends, weaving through tall pines before breaking into more open terrain. As the trees begin to thin, the scale of the surrounding Caucasus peaks becomes fully visible, creating an awe-inspiring panorama.

The final stretch of the hike takes you into a wilder, more barren landscape, where rocky outcrops lead the way to the glacier itself. As you approach, the sight of the immense ice formation, framed by dramatic mountain ridges, is truly breathtaking. Standing before the glacier, you can take in its sheer size, with layers of ice and rock revealing the power of nature at work.

Distance – 5.3km, Elevation – 382m, Time – 2 Hours

In the afternoon we’ll do another short hike which rewards with stunning views. We’ll wind up through the forest until we reach the Heshkili Huts, offering stunning landscapes among the alpine meadows. Here you’ll find the iconic swings where you can get that Insta perfect shot. There is also a cafe to enjoy your refreshment of choice.

After days of hiking through the breathtaking landscapes of Svaneti, today is a chance to take it easy, explore Mestia at your own pace, or set off on another adventure.

Mestia is more than just a trekking hub—it’s a town rich in history, culture, and spectacular views. Wandering its streets, you’ll see the iconic Svan towers that have stood for centuries, offering a glimpse into the region’s fascinating past. A visit to the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography provides deeper insight into the traditions, artefacts, and stories that shape this unique mountain community.

For those still craving adventure, there are plenty of options. Take a ride on the Mount Hatsvali cable car, which lifts you above the valley for panoramic views of the Caucasus, or visit the Margiani Family Tower and House Museum to step inside a traditional Svan home. If you’d rather keep your hiking boots on, trails around Mestia lead to more hidden gems, offering new perspectives of the mountains.

Whether you choose to rest, explore, or hike, today is about soaking in the magic of Mestia before the next stage of your journey.

Distance – 12.4km, Elevation – 870m, Time – 5 Hours

The Ushba Falls Walk, also known as the Shdugra Waterfall hike, is a captivating journey through the heart of Georgia’s Svaneti region, offering hikers an immersive experience amidst some of the Caucasus Mountains’ most stunning landscapes. Commencing from the village of Mazeri, the trail meanders through verdant meadows and dense pine forests, gradually ascending alongside the Dolra River. After approximately 3 kilometers, adventurers are rewarded with the sight of Shdugra Waterfall, Georgia’s most voluminous cascade, plunging from a height of 135 meters (443 feet) . The waterfall’s thunderous roar and the mist it generates create a mesmerizing atmosphere, often accompanied by vibrant rainbows on sunny days. For those seeking a more challenging endeavor, the trail extends an additional 3 kilometers to the top of the waterfall, demanding a higher level of fitness and caution due to its steep and rugged terrain . Beyond the waterfall, the path continues towards the Ushba Glacier, a route that requires careful navigation and is best attempted in favorable weather conditions . Throughout the hike, panoramic views of the iconic twin peaks of Mount Ushba, often shrouded in clouds, serve as a constant backdrop, enhancing the trail’s allure. The journey is not only a test of physical endurance but also a feast for the senses, with the sights and sounds of nature providing a profound sense of tranquility and awe. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a nature enthusiast, the Ushba Falls Walk offers an unforgettable adventure into one of Georgia’s most picturesque regions.​

Distance – 11.7km, Elevation – 702m, Time – 5 Hours

Lakhiri is a picturesque village nestled in the Mulkhura River valley of Georgia’s Svaneti region, approximately 11 kilometers east of Mestia. Situated at an elevation of 1,760 meters, it is renowned for its remarkable concentration of traditional Svan towers—18 in total—making it a standout among the region’s settlements. These medieval stone towers, historically used for defense and as family dwellings, offer a glimpse into the area’s rich architectural heritage. The village’s location on the southern slope of the Greater Caucasus range provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Mount Ushba. Lakhiri’s serene atmosphere, combined with its cultural significance, makes it a favored stop for trekkers exploring the Mestia-Ushguli trail. Visitors can immerse themselves in the village’s timeless charm, where the echoes of history resonate amidst the enduring stone structures and the natural beauty of the highland landscape.

When you arrive in the village we have a special treat for you. You have the opportunity to visit a local family home, where you’ll help to make (and eat) some Georgian food as well as sampling some homemade wine or compot.

After an unforgettable week exploring the mountains of Svaneti, it’s time to pack your bags and begin the journey back to the city. Transport can be arranged to any of Georgia’s major destinations, including Tbilisi, Batumi, and Zugdidi, making it easy to catch your flight home or continue exploring this incredible country.

The transfers leave in the morning, offering a scenic drive back through the valleys and mountain passes. Once again we recommend booking flights for the following day, especially if you want to enjoy the comfort of the train on the way back too. If you’re planning to extend your stay in Georgia, there are plenty of incredible places to visit, from the historic streets of Tbilisi to the Black Sea coastline in Batumi. We’d be happy to provide recommendations to help you make the most of your time.

As you leave Svaneti behind, you’ll take with you memories of towering peaks, ancient villages, and the thrill of adventure in one of the most untouched corners of the Caucasus. Until next time!