Trek in the Svaneti Mountains
In the heart of Svanétia, on the glacial trails of Europe's highest village
Duration
10 days
From
€698/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Itinerant travel
Comfort
budget
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
Welcome to Svanétie, a grandiose region located on the southern slopes of the central Caucasus! This is where the village of Ushguli (2,200 m) is found, considered one of the highest inhabited areas in Europe. This preserved territory, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, offers a spectacular setting where snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys and stone villages compose landscapes of breathtaking beauty.
The "pearl and pride of Géorgie" is a land of legends, where mountains and peoples are inseparable and where the scents of the noble life of Caucasian knights still linger between the medieval towers scattered throughout the valleys. Throughout this trek, you will discover an authentic region, isolated villages, majestic glaciers and exceptional panoramas that have made Svanétie famous.
Proud of its freedom, its traditions and its sumptuous beauty, Svanétie is ready to welcome you and amaze you throughout this unforgettable adventure.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Géorgie!
Tbilisi International Airport → Tbilissi
We land in Tbilissi, capital of Géorgie, where we are welcomed and transferred to our hotel. Rest of the day free for us to relax.
Towards the High Mountains of Svaneti
In the morning, transfer to the train station.
Tbilissi-Zugdidi train (08h25-14h10).
Arrival in Zougdidi, welcome from our local driver and departure for Mestia, in the mountainous region of Svanétie.
Mestia, a small town perched at over 1500m altitude, is the historical, cultural and religious center of Upper Svanétie. You will find many medieval stone towers, typical of the region. The mountain scenery is simply breathtaking.
Beginning of the trek
Departure from Mestia (1500m) on foot to the village of Zhabechi (1680m). Then, we move on foot to Ushguli. The first day of easy trekking towards Ushguli: we follow the river edges and the trail north of the mountain. The trail passes through the village of Mulakhi, where you can visit ancient churches if interested. After a 4-5 hour walk, we arrive at the village of Zhabechi (1680m.), surrounded by mountains, including the Tetnuldi peak (4852m), meaning "white" in French. The following day, we go around this peak.
Free time to visit the village and its typical houses.
Walking time: approximately 4-5 hours, 16 km,
Elevation gain +: 400m, Elevation loss -: 300m,
Difficulty level: moderate.
Lost village in the mountains
Early morning departure from Zhabechi (1680m) towards the village of Adichi (2040m), which is located on the other side of the 2500m pass. A more challenging day that begins with the climb towards the pass. The trail crosses the forested side of the mountain and climbs up to the ski slope of the Tetnouldi ski resort. Here we can rest a little and contemplate the breathtaking panorama of the peaks of the Great Caucasus.
Then we head towards Adichi, the village nestled in the mountains at the foot of Mount Tetnouldi (4852m). After a hike of 7-8 hours, we arrive at this beautiful village where the country's religious and cultural treasure was preserved during medieval invasions. Several churches in the village with their regional murals are absolutely worth visiting.
Hiking time: approximately 7-8 hours, 18 km,
Elevation gain: 850m, Elevation loss: 450m,
Difficulty level: difficult.
Panorama of the peaks of the Grand Caucasus
In the morning we depart from Adichi (2040m) towards the Chkhoutnieri Pass (2800m). We follow the Adichistskali river, cross it on horseback and finally, begin to climb the 800 m slope, embedded in alpine plants, quite difficult to walk.
Upon reaching the pass, we will find ourselves facing the peaks of the Great Caucasus, between 4000m and 5201m in altitude, as well as the Tetnouldi Glacier.
After a short break, we continue the descent on a winding path towards the village of Kahldé (2000m), an almost entirely ruined medieval village. After a difficult and emotionally intense day, we finally descend towards the village of Iprali to stay overnight.
Hiking time: approximately 7-8 hours, 16 km,
Elevation gain +: 850m, Elevation loss -: 850m,
Difficulty level: difficult.
Trekking highlight - Chkhara Glacier
In the morning we head towards Ouchgouli (2200m.), one of the highest villages in Géorgie. Oushgouli sits at the foot of Mount Chkhara (5201m), the highest peak in the Georgian Caucasus.
From the village we take a beautiful hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Chkara massif and the village of Oushguli. Along the way, you can visit the 10th century Lamaria church; we discover frescoes damaged by time, which immerse us in the history of this monument. The hike following the ridge towards the glaciers. The return by the path takes us back to Oushguli.
Walking time: approximately 7 hours.
Elevation gain +: 200m, Elevation loss -: 150m,
Difficulty level: moderate.
The Trek to Oushba Glacier
We head on foot towards Mount Ouchba. The trail offers us several adventures: crossing rivers on foot, alpine forests, climbing rocks and even crossing snow patches in less sunny areas.
The trail splits into two directions and we have the choice to discover several Ouchba waterfalls and/or continue to the Ouchba glacier (2700m). The climb to the waterfalls up to the glacier is quite difficult but the summit is so impressive that everything is rewarded. The descent to Mazeri village is longer and requires a lot of concentration.
Walking time: approximately 7-8 hours,
Elevation gain: 1100m, Elevation loss: 1100m,
Difficulty level: difficult.
Departure to the capital
Discovering Georgia's Capital
The day is dedicated to exploring the Georgian capital and more particularly its Old Town, whose small size on either side of the Mtkvari river makes sightseeing on foot very pleasant. We visit in particular the Metekhi Church, which dates from the 13th century and offers a magnificent panorama over the river, the synagogue, the Sioni Cathedral, built in the 12th century and a strong symbol of Georgian identity, and the city's last mosque. We don't forget of course the ancient Narikala fortress, built in the 4th century on a hill overlooking the city.
We then head towards the Abanotubani sulfurous baths before strolling through the charming streets of the Shardeni district with its many cafés and restaurants.
Free time. In the evening, possibility to take the famous sulfur bath, which is an ideal place for a health treatment or simply to relax (for an additional fee).
Have a good trip!
We take advantage of our last free time in Tbilissi before heading to the airport for our return flight.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Air (price depends on travel dates)
- Insurance
- Tips and personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Everything that is not mentioned in "Included"
- The sulfur bath in Tbilisi (on request)
- 4x4 vehicle for luggage delivery from one village to another
Included
- Accommodations (9 nights, double/twin room basis)
- 3 nights in Tbilisi - 3* Hotel
- 2 nights in Mestia - family hotel
- 1 night in Zhabeshi - homestay
- 1 night in Adishi - homestay
- 1 night in Iprali - homestay
- 1 night in Oushguli - family hotel or homestay
- 1 night in Mazeri - homestay
- Private airport-hotel - airport transfers
- Private transfers hotel - Tbilissi railway station and Tbilissi railway station - hotel
- Private transfers from Zugdidi train station to hotel in Mestia and hotel in Mazeri to Zugdidi train station
- Local 4x4 vehicle from Ushguli to Mestia
- The English-speaking guide for visiting the city of Tbilissi
- The local guide service for trekking stages
- Horse to cross the river in Svaneti
- Tbilisi-Zugdidi and Zugdidi-Tbilisi trains (class II)
- The meals mentioned in the day-by-day description
- Our agency's 24/7 support
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 30 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Georgia for tourism purposes. Entry requirements may change, so we recommend verifying information with official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Georgia, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay. It is however recommended that it remains valid for at least three months after your planned return date and contains at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Nationals of many EEA countries can also enter Georgia with a valid national identity card in place of a passport. We recommend verifying this possibility according to your nationality before departure.
Tourism without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from visa exemption for tourism stays.
This exemption allows a stay of up to 365 days (one year) on Georgian territory, without prior formalities. This is one of the most liberal entry policies in the world.
Authorities may nevertheless request:
an outbound ticket (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
an accommodation address in Georgia.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
When a minor travels without one of their parents or legal guardians, an exit authorization may be required depending on the regulations of the country of residence. It is recommended to have a parental authorization letter accompanied by a copy of the parents' identity documents, even if this is not systematically requested.
Health
No vaccination is mandatory to enter Georgia. However, certain vaccinations are recommended as a preventive measure, particularly against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid, depending on your travel profile and the areas visited.
It is advisable to consult your doctor or a travel medicine center before departure to obtain personalized recommendations.
Areas to avoid
The regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia are conflict zones under de facto control of separatist forces supported by Russia. Entry to these territories is strongly discouraged by consular authorities of most European countries and Canada. Any access to these regions other than through official Georgian crossing points is illegal under Georgian law.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire at the embassy or consulate of Georgia in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have assistance-repatriation and medical expense coverage abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partners CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for worry-free travel!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complementary Credit Card
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim notification procedures. The participant should therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To stay in Georgia, a valid passport for the entire duration of your stay is required. No visa is necessary under the current exemption regime. This exemption makes Georgia a particularly accessible destination. Before booking your trip, check the entry conditions applicable to your nationality with the Georgian consular or diplomatic authorities in your country of residence.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, plan for 100 to 170 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and activities. International flights (350-600 euros return from Paris) are additional. Georgia is one of the most affordable destinations in wider Europe.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget, and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and depart with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Mountain Svaneti
Guardian of the Caucasus Mountains, based in Géorgie
In the mountains of Georgia, each village has its character, its stories and its traditions. That's where you truly understand the strength and soul of the country.
— Shorena
