Check out our newest adventure: festival season with nomads in Mongolia!
Check out our newest adventure: festival season with nomads in Mongolia!
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
TOTAL DISTANCE: 101km
MAX ALTITUDE: 3300 meters
TOUR DURATION: 14 days
LODGING: Mix of camping, local guesthouses
GROUP SIZE: 12 people Max
Tucked away deep in the Caucasus Mountains is an area far removed from the outside world. Home to some of the best mountain landscapes, whimsical villages, and culinary experiences to be found anywhere in the world, the Svaneti Region is arguably the highlight of any trip to Georgia.
This unique tour through the Svaneti takes you from one breathtaking scene to another. Although Georgia is already well off the mass tourist radar, we will take you even further, getting you truly off the beaten path, Epic-style, to discover another side of this fascinating country
Along the way, you will encounter ancient monasteries and remote villages, camp in lush green river valleys, take in views of towering peaks, eat delicious food, and learn about the ancient wine traditions of the country that claims to be the root of all wine production in the world!
This 14-day Svaneti trekking tour is designed for those looking for an active holiday that features a rewarding itinerary along well-worn and less-traveled paths while still bringing you the best of Georgia. This is the ultimate experience for those looking for something out of the ordinary and challenging.
In other words, it’s grade-A Epic Expeditions material.
Dates | Places | Deposit | Full |
|---|---|---|---|
| August 17th - 29th, 2026 | $600 | $3350 |
Whether you’re just curious about this trip or are ready to make a deposit, we’re here for you.
To submit an inquiry or make a trip deposit, please fill out and submit the form below.
An experienced trek leader and
IFMGA aspirant ski guide, avid alpine climber, devoted adventure photographer.
Organized and guided trekking expeditions, climbs and ski tours in Tajikistan’s Pamirs, Patagonia, Peru, Morocco, Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Georgian and Russian Caucasus and Kamchatka.
A full member and meets the organiser of the British Alpine Club. Visited over 40 countries, lived in the UK for four years. Certified first-aider.
Welcome to Georgia!
The team assembles on day one in Kutaisi —the 2nd largest city in Georgia.
Kutaisi, the second-largest city in Georgia, is located much closer to the mountains than the bustling capital of Tbilisi. The city is renowned for its stunning Bagrati Cathedral, an architectural gem dating back to the 11th century, and the enchanting Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kutaisi’s charming old town by the river with vibrant streets makes it worthwhile a day stop before heading out into Svaneti’s mountains for trekking.
Following our first team meeting and introductions at a hotel before heading into the mountains on the same day. After breakfast, we hit the road for a private 4-hour scenic transfer to Etseri, a small hamlet in the western part of Svaneti where our journey begins.
Along the way, we’ll stop at the impressive Enguri Dam— the world’s 7th largest — whose source we’ll soon be camping next to! The dam is a masterpiece of Soviet engineering and covers up to 40% of Georgia’s electricity demands.
The road winds along the roaring Enguri river gorge with sheer cliffs above and below, and primeval coniferous woods covering the banks.
Once in Etseri, we check into our family-run guesthouse and enjoy hearty dinner.
Our first day’s trail connects two stunning valleys of Upper Svaneti, offering sweeping views of Mount Ushba’s mighty glaciers, the Enguri River Valley, and the Svaneti Ridge. It is surprisingly off the radar for most tourists. It starts with a 1,000m climb to the panoramic Baki Pass (2,430m) with ruins of an 11th century church followed with a 800m descent to Mazeri through a really nice fir tree forest.
From the pass, an enormous twin tower of Mount Ushba comes into view soaring two vertical kilometers above the glacier The peak is as beautiful as it is deadly — it is known to climbers as ‘the Matterhorn of the Caucasus’ or ‘the Disaster Mountain’ and as ‘Coven of Witches’ to locals.
After crossing Dolra village over a bridge, we arrive into wide Mazeri valley at the foothills of towering Mt Ushba, where the warm hospitality of the village awaits. A hearty dinner caps off this rewarding day of exploration.
Today our journey kicks off as we traverse through the forest, tracing the upstream path of the resonant Dolra river. After a couple of hours on the trail, we cross the river via a wooden bridge, greeted warmly by the border guards stationed in their wooden huts, occasionally offering a smile and, if we’re lucky, a delectable traditional cheese flatbread—khachapuri!
Our route leads us straight to the base of Georgia’s loftiest waterfall—the awe-inspiring Shdugra.
Standing at the precipice, we witness masses of water cascading over a sheer 100-meter descent. While many trekkers opt to turn back at this point, we choose the more challenging path, ascending for a few additional hours until we conquer the summit of the waterfall, standing alongside the thunderous stream as it plunges into the abyss below.
Pressing onward, we reach the impromptu memorial dedicated to climbers who lost their lives attempting Mt. Ushba. Positioned a few hundred meters beyond, a beautiful viewpoint unfolds, revealing the reverse side of the mountain, complete with the Ushba glacier, the formidable icefall, and the ridgeline of the normal climbing route.
We return via the same route where we aim to sample some local trout baked in bread.
Total hiking distance: 12 km
Total vertical ascent: 1000m
We bid farewell to the guesthouse owner and his family. A 4×4 minivan takes us to Mestia, the heart of Svaneti, in about 40 minutes. Going past the village, we drive an exhilarating 1,300 vertical meters along a rugged dirt track to reach the famous Koruldi Lakes, perched on a grassy plateau at 2,750m.
Here, a breathtaking 360° panorama unfolds, showcasing the Svaneti range. Our trek then continues with a climb of 600 vertical meters, leading us in 2–2.5 hours to the narrow Koruldi ridge. This lofty perch offers unmatched views of Mount Ushba’s towering peak and the Chalaadi Glacier below — a spectacle rivaling the Alps’ most iconic vistas.
From the ridge, we scramble further, soaking in sweeping panoramas of the Svaneti and Great Caucasus ranges at an altitude of 3,300m. Turning south, we descend to Guli Pass, a popular crossing for hikers traveling between Mazeri and Mestia. Continuing onward, we reach Guli Peak (2,924m), offering striking views of the Enguri Valley down below.
The path leads into dense forests and past the charming Svan hamlets of Latali, with their iconic stone towers and glimpses of traditional life. Finally, the hike concludes in Lenjeri, a picturesque village near Mestia. We celebrate the day at a restaurant run by a Svan family that owned the place for generations, offering a fine interpretation of otherwise rustic Svan cuisine, including millet flatbread and kubdari — traditional juicy meat pie.
Distance: 15km, duration: 7 hours
Elevation gain: 700m
After a challenging hike yesterday, we unwind in Mestia’s bustling cafes, soaking in the charm of this mountain town. We’ll visit the fascinating Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography, which houses unique artifacts, ancient manuscripts, and medieval icons that reflect the rich culture of the region.
We also explore the famous Svan towers, iconic symbols of the region, offering a glimpse into the defensive architecture of medieval Svaneti. A visit to the Margiani Tower is particularly immersive, showcasing life in the ancient fortified dwellings. Strolling through the town, we’ll find cozy bakeries offering fresh khachapuri and local delicacies.
Via a chairlift and subsequent gondola ski lift, we effortlessly traverse from Mestia’s town center to the elevated Zuruldi ridge at 2,300m. Ascending roughly 900m above the valley floor, an awe-inspiring vista unfolds, showcasing the iconic two-horned Mount Ushba. At the valley’s terminus, the imposing white pyramid of Mt Tetnuldi commands attention, surpassing the height of Mont Blanc by a 50 meters. On the distant horizon, the towering summits of the Great Caucasus come into view, reaching an elevation of 5,000m, create a majestic backdrop.
Below us, the countless Svan towers of Mestia shrink to minuscule proportions.
Further along the valley, Mestia’s airstrip comes into view. If we are lucky, we might catch a glimpse of a turboprop plane from Tbilisi gracefully navigating through the deep valley.
Following the scenic ridge trail for a few hours, we descend into the enchanting Tsvirmi village, home to a 10th-century church.
We meet up with our van again and drive for under an hour, carries us along the resounding Enguri river to Iprari village, perched on an airy ledge above the rushing waters. Along the way, a brief stop introduces us to an 11th-century Svan church and a medieval dining hall in Khe village. Our accommodation for the night awaits in a guesthouse, where a hearty dinner prepares us for tomorrow’s upcoming trekking adventure.
Total hiking distance: 10km
Total vertical ascent: 300m, 770m down
With our tents and sleeping bags are entrusted to the porters or pack horses, we set out to reach tonight’s campsite via a dirt track at the valley bottom.
As we ascend beyond the woods and enter the alpine zone, the grassy ridge narrows, unveiling a striking ice face before us.
This marks the renowned ‘Bezengi wall’—the loftiest segment of the Caucasus mountains, dividing Georgia and Russia, adorned with several 5,000m summits. Our journey ascends the Chkhunderi ridge, tracing a faint trail through the woods once frequented by local shepherds, now seemingly forgotten.
Trekking along the airy ridge, we draw as close as possible to the massive wall before descending a steep grassy slope to a cozy wild campsite by a stream, separated from the glacier bedrock. Our porters, already at camp, await us with the tents, paving the way for a tasty dinner prepared on portable stoves.
Total hiking distance: 12km
Total vertical ascent: 1450m up, 1080m down
Today, we have an early morning breakfast and pack up the camp. Our porters prepare to transport our tents to the subsequent campsite.
Today is going to be an epic hike!
Navigating the Khalde glacier demands cautious steps, resembling more a scattered heap with intermittent patches of ice and pools of meltwater. Although we do not need crampons , the absence of a defined trail requires careful navigation (from your expert guides of course!), with only a handful of viable crossing points on the glacier.
Returning to the grassy trail, our trek continues towards Karetti pass, a saddle nestled in the neighboring ridge extending from the Bezengi wall. Upon reaching the saddle, we follow the ridge until we arrive at Lagem pass.
Descending from there involves a steep but well-trodden trail leading to Engiri valley, where we establish camp next to a summer café.
Our porters await us, with the tents all set up with the prospect of a well-deserved beer!
Connecting Karetti and Lagem pass, this stretch emerges as one of the most untamed yet astonishing segments of our Georgia trekking adventure in Svaneti.
Total hiking distance: 15km
Total vertical ascent: 1100m up & 1200m down
Following the exertion of the past two days, today’s trek carries a more relaxed pace and a shorter overall distance to cover.
Our route, maintaining a steady elevation gain, brings us closer to the majestic Mt Shkhara at 5,193m—the pinnacle of Georgia’s mountainscape. Traversing a grassy moraine ridge, we stand beneath a mountain face of Himalayan proportions, adorned with glaciers of staggering magnitude—a wonderful highlight of our trek through Georgia.
Returning to our camp, we hike alongside our porters, tracing the valley’s curve to the right, heading toward the source of the Enguri River.
Our tents find a picturesque camp site by Nuamquam lake, arguably the most enchanting in Svaneti.
Following dinner, we bask in the captivating display of sunset hues playing upon the hanging glaciers, witnessing the gradual emergence of stars in the night sky.
Total hiking distance: 6km
Total vertical ascent: 700m
Post breakfast, our tents are disassembled, with the porters transporting them down to the village. Our ascent takes us along Vakhushti ridge, attaining an elevation peak of 3,153m. Subsequently, we trek downhill, distancing ourselves from the imposing Shkhara wall, reveling in breathtaking vistas on either side of the expansive ridge.
Come afternoon, our descent leads us to the beautiful village of Ushguli, nestled within a confined valley defined by steep slopes.
Total hiking distance: 10km
Total vertical ascent: 700m up & 950m down
The journey begins in Chazhashi, a village in the Ushguli community, where we leave the Enguri River behind and ascend into the mountains. Passing by Murkmeli and its iconic stone towers, the trail climbs steadily alongside a mountain creek. Higher up, the ruins of Tamar’s summer castle and sweeping views of the Greater Caucasus begin to unfold. Peaks like Shkhara, Tetnuldi, Ushba, and even Elbrus emerge as the trail rises to a plateau at 2,600m, a perfect spot to take in the scenery.
As we approach Gorvashi Pass (2,972m), the ridge walk offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region. Small alpine lakes dot the trail, and the sightlines stretch to the Lechkhumi ridge in the south. Continuing along the undulating ridge, we pass through fields of wildflowers and reach a tranquil lake near Latpari Pass, an ideal place to set up camp.
At Latpari Pass, we’re rewarded with a panoramic view of the Caucasus ridge glowing in the sunset. With a lake nearby and a chapel adding a touch of serenity, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after the day’s adventure. Our tents and supplies, delivered by horse, ensure a comfortable night under the stars.
Distance: 12km, duration: 7 hours
Elevation gain: 1,400m.
After breakfast we descend to the main road in under 4hrs following a dirt track with seemingly infinite number of switchbacks. A minivan gives us a short ride back to Ushguli.
Our family-operated guesthouseis built in an authentic 12th-century structure nestled in the heart of Chazhashi—the sole facet of Ushguli designated as a UNESCO cultural heritage site. This elevated settlement, perched at 2,200m above sea level, holds the distinction of being one of Europe’s highest permanent abodes.
Amidst a well-earned rest day in Ushguli, we explore the 9th-century Lamaria church, adorned with impeccably preserved frescoes. A visit to the local museum reveals ancient crosses, icons, and wine goblets, while the ascent of a Svan tower lets us gain some views and cool perspectives of the village.
As night descends, we commemorate the conclusion of our week-long trek through Svaneti with the savory indulgence of piping hot traditional meat pies and maybe a glass of local wine or three.
We leave hospitable Svaneti driving a scenic road across Zagar Pass and reaching Tbilisi in little more than 10-11 hours, with stops at most breathtaking places.
The goal tonight is to have our final team dinner as a group in the capital city.
Accommodation will be in a hip part of Tbilisi with easy access to everything you need close by.
The final day where we say goodbye to one another and the amazing country that has hosted us.
Transfers from the hotel to Tbilisi International Airport will be arranged if you are flying out on this day.
The national language of Georgia is Georgian. It is an ancient language that uses a very particular script and structure that resembles nothing else.
If you want to learn a few phrases before visiting Georgia, it will only help you! Bonus points if you can write something.
Outside of Tiblisi, not much English is spoken, though each year this is changing for the better.
The weather in Georgia can vary depending on where you are in the country. Tbilisi in the heart of summer can feel sweltering and humid, whereas the mountain areas feel crisp and cool.
Although we will be using motorized transport at some points, trekking in the Svaneti is by no means a walk in the park.
This program can be demanding at times, with steep inclines and altitude gains over 1500 meters on some days. Ultimately, we view it as any other serious expedition in Epic’s portfolio.
Participants must be in good physical condition to undertake this trip. To learn more about what this means, we recommend reading our trekking fitness guide here.
While Georgia might seem comparable to other high-altitude regions in the world, like the Andes or Himalaya, it’s actually not quite as high as these. We only top out at 3300 meters while trekking in the Svaneti.
Granted, this is not considered “low altitude” by many standards, but it is not so extreme to run the risk of serious altitude-related issues. Participants might feel a little shortness of breath or trouble sleeping at night, but should not suffer from anything close to HAPE or HACE.
To learn more about altitude, read our acclimatization article.
Yes, Georgia is widely considered a very safe country to travel in. Political unrest is largely confined to the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which are far from the main tourist routes. While protests occasionally take place in Tbilisi, they are generally peaceful, and visitors can avoid any disruption simply by steering clear of the areas where demonstrations occur.
Travelers consistently remark on how safe they feel in Georgia, including solo female visitors who report being comfortable walking around cities late at night. American travelers, in particular, tend to be warmly received, as Georgia sees the U.S. as an ally. Crime rates are low, and petty theft is uncommon, though normal travel precautions still apply.
Georgian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and unique culinary techniques. Long story short – it is damn tasty stuff!
The food in Georgia reflects the country’s cultural heritage and history, combining influences from the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Georgian meals are often characterized by the generous use of herbs, spices, and a variety of fresh, local produce.
Typical Foods for Breakfast:
Khachapuri: A quintessential Georgian dish, khachapuri is a type of cheese-filled bread. There are different regional variations, but the most famous ones include Adjarian khachapuri (boat-shaped and filled with cheese, butter, and a raw egg) and Imeretian khachapuri (circular and filled with cheese).
Nadughi: A type of Georgian cottage cheese, often served with honey or jam for breakfast.
Matsoni: A traditional Georgian yogurt that is often consumed with honey and walnuts.
Typical Foods for Lunch:
Khinkali: These are Georgian dumplings filled with minced meat (usually beef or pork) mixed with onions and spices. They are traditionally eaten by hand, and the juice inside is often sipped before consuming the dumpling.
Mtsvadi (Shashlik): Grilled skewers of marinated meat, typically served with vegetables and sometimes accompanied by a spicy tomato sauce called adjika.
Lobio: A dish made from kidney beans, often cooked with herbs, spices, and onions. There are various types of lobio, including red bean lobio and white bean lobio.
Typical Foods for Dinner:
Satsivi: A rich, walnut-based sauce typically served with chicken or turkey. The sauce is flavored with garlic, coriander, and other spices.
Chakapuli: A traditional Georgian stew made with lamb or beef, tarragon, and other herbs. It is a spring dish often enjoyed during the celebration of Easter.
Ajapsandali: A vegetarian stew made with eggplants, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and various spices.
Five Most Popular Georgian Foods:
Khachapuri: This cheese-filled bread is a staple of Georgian cuisine and is loved both locally and internationally.
Khinkali: Georgian dumplings are not only delicious but also a fun and social eating experience.
Pkhali: A dish made from finely chopped vegetables, walnuts, and herbs, typically served cold. It can be made with various vegetables such as spinach, beetroot, or beans.
Satsivi: This flavorful walnut sauce, often served with poultry, is a staple in Georgian festive cuisine.
Tkemali Sauce: A sour plum sauce that is used as a condiment for various dishes, particularly with grilled meats.
Didn’t find the answer you working for? Send us a message!
Tucked into the upper reaches of the Greater Caucasus, Svaneti has long been one of Georgia’s most distinctive regions. Its rugged terrain and long winters kept it isolated for much of history, allowing local traditions, language, and architecture to endure with little outside influence.
The most visible symbols of this history are the medieval Svan towers, built mainly between the 9th and 12th centuries. These stone structures served practical and defensive purposes, protecting families from raiders and providing refuge during conflicts. Many still stand today, especially in villages such as Mestia and Ushguli, and continue to define the region’s skyline.
Because of its remoteness, Svaneti also became a safe haven for Georgia’s cultural and religious heritage. During periods of invasion in the lowlands, important icons, manuscripts, and relics were brought into the mountains for protection. Churches throughout the region still house centuries-old frescoes and artifacts, making Svaneti an important center of Georgian Orthodox tradition.
Life in the high valleys has always been shaped by the demands of the landscape. Seasonal herding across alpine pastures, combined with a strong oral tradition of stories, songs, and epic poetry, has helped preserve Svan identity over generations. While many aspects of daily life have modernized, these cultural foundations remain a defining part of the region.
Svaneti today offers a window into both Georgia’s history and its living heritage. Its towers, churches, and traditions reflect centuries of resilience, shaped as much by the mountains as by the people who have called them home.
Trip Leader
Noemi grew up in the mountains of German-Speaking Switzerland where she naturally developed a deep love and respect for mountain environments.
She is a talented photographer, aspiring climber, and speaks at least 5 languages fluently including Arabic (and probably a few more that we don’t know about), which she taught herself in a matter of months by watching YouTube videos.
Noemi has spent the last several years traveling, hiking, and photographing her way around many different countries in the Middle East, South and Central Asia, and Europe, and we could not be more stoked to welcome her to the Epic team!
Meet her during : Discover the Celestial Mountains | Island Peak Climbing Expedition
“Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem.
Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?”
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Our flagship Pakistani adventure tour. Road trip with some hiking and cultural immersion.
A trekking-style tour that features some very remote locations, inlcuding a K2 viewpoint.
Get exclusive trip updates, be the first to know when we launch a new itineraries and offer discounts, and stay up to date with what’s happening at Epic Expeditions!
