7 Days in the Caucasus Highlands - Svaneti, Mestia & Ushguli

Overview
This journey explores the dramatic landscapes and ancient mountain culture of Svaneti, one of the most remote and fascinating regions of the Caucasus.
Over seven days, travellers walk through alpine valleys, glacier landscapes and medieval villages surrounded by the highest peaks of Georgia. The route follows traditional paths connecting Mestia, Ushguli and remote Svan villages, offering a balance of nature, culture and mountain exploration.
Stone towers, glacier-fed rivers and centuries-old traditions accompany every step of this journey into the heart of the Caucasus.

Day 1 – From the Border to the Mountains
Guests meet at Rize–Artvin Airport and travel to the Georgian border via Sarp Border Gate.
After a breakfast stop in Hopa, the journey continues north into the Caucasus Mountains.
Following a lunch break in Zugdidi, the landscape gradually changes from coastal plains to high mountain valleys.
By evening we arrive in Mestia, a historic mountain town known for its medieval stone towers and dramatic alpine scenery.

Dinner and overnight in Mestia

Day 2 – Mazeri Valley & Ushba Waterfalls
After breakfast we travel to Mazeri Valley, located beneath the dramatic peaks of Mount Ushba.
From Mazeri we begin our first mountain walk through pine forests and river valleys, gradually ascending towards the Ushba waterfalls.
The trail climbs from approximately 1600 metres to 2000 metres, offering spectacular views across the valley.
After reaching the waterfalls and enjoying a short break, we return along the same route.

Dinner and overnight in Mestia
Walking distance: 14–15 km
Duration: approx. 5 hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 3 – Koruldi Lakes & Alpine Meadows
Today we explore the mountains rising above Mestia.
Our hike leads us towards the scenic Koruldi Lakes, located high above the valley. As we ascend through alpine meadows, the peaks of Ushba and Tetnuldi dominate the horizon.
At around 2300 metres, the lakes reflect the surrounding mountains, creating one of the most spectacular landscapes in Svaneti.
After a rest and photo break we return to Mestia.

Dinner and overnight in Mestia
Walking distance: approx. 14 km
Duration: approx. 5 hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 4 – Ushguli & Shkhara Glacier
After breakfast we travel to Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited villages in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The village is famous for its medieval stone towers and traditional Svan architecture.
From Ushguli we continue towards the foot of Mount Shkhara (5193 m), the highest peak in Georgia. Our walk follows a wide valley trail leading to the Shkhara Glacier.
After reaching the glacier viewpoint we return to Ushguli and drive back to Mestia.

Dinner and overnight in Mestia
Walking distance: 8–9 km
Duration: 3–4 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Day 5 – Chaladi Glacier Trail
Today we explore the forests and glacier valleys near Mestia.
After a short transfer we begin our walk along the Chaladi Glacier trail, following a river fed by glacier meltwater. Wooden bridges and forest paths guide us through this scenic landscape.
At the end of the trail we reach the dramatic Chaladi Glacier, where ice, rock and mountain streams meet.

Dinner and overnight in Mestia
Walking Distance: 7–8 km
Duration: 3–4 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Day 6 – Traditional Svan Villages
Today’s walk focuses on the cultural landscapes of Svaneti.
Starting near Mazeri, we walk through traditional villages such as Lakhiri and Murshkeli, where stone houses, wooden balconies and pasture lands reflect the daily life of the region.
This route offers a quieter perspective of Svaneti, highlighting local culture rather than high alpine peaks.

Dinner and overnight in Mestia
Walking distance: 13–14 km
Duration: approx. 5–6 hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 7 – From the Mountains to the Black Sea
After breakfast we leave the mountains of Svaneti and begin our return journey.
Travelling south towards the Black Sea coast, we pass through valleys and rivers that gradually lead us back to the border.
After crossing into Türkiye, we continue to Rize–Artvin Airport, concluding our journey through the Caucasus.

Important Notes
- This journey includes multi-day hiking routes in mountainous terrain. Participants should have a reasonable level of physical fitness and previous hiking experience is recommended.
- Hiking distances range between 8–15 km per day, depending on the route and weather conditions.
- The programme may be adjusted by the guide depending on weather conditions, trail safety or operational needs.
- Border crossings between Türkiye and Georgia may involve waiting times depending on border procedures.

General Risk Notice
This tour includes hiking activities in high-altitude mountain terrain under changing weather conditions. By joining the tour, participants acknowledge and accept the following potential risks.

Altitude and Physical Risks
- Hiking takes place at altitudes between approximately 1500–2300 metres.
- Possible effects of altitude may include headache, fatigue or shortness of breath.
- Long and steep trails may place strain on knees, ankles and lower back.
- Participants are responsible for their own health conditions. Guests with heart conditions, asthma, high blood pressure or orthopaedic issues are advised to consult a doctor before joining.

Weather and Natural Conditions
- Weather in the Caucasus Mountains can change rapidly.
- Fog, rain, wind, hail and sudden temperature drops may occur.
- Trails may be muddy, slippery or rocky.
- Landslides or falling rocks may occur in mountainous areas.
- The itinerary may be revised for safety reasons.

Glacier and Mountain Terrain
- Ground conditions near glacier areas may be unstable.
- River crossings and rocky terrain carry a risk of slipping or falling.
- Although the routes do not require technical mountaineering skills, mountain environments still involve natural risks.

Transportation
- Mountain roads are narrow, winding and sometimes unpaved.
- Border crossings may involve waiting times and participants are subject to Georgian border regulations.

Wildlife and Environmental Conditions
- Wildlife may be present in the area.
- Insect bites or allergic reactions are possible.
- Drinking water and hygiene conditions in remote mountain areas may differ from city standards.

Accommodation Conditions
- Accommodation is provided in regional mountain hotels.
- Occasional interruptions in electricity, internet or hot water may occur.
- Room standards may differ from city hotels.
- Abuviçe works with reliable accommodations; however, hotel standards may vary during peak season or unforeseen circumstances.