Step into the Wild: Embark on an Svaneti Trekking Experience!

The complete Svaneti experience — an 8-day expedition from the foot of Mount Ushba to the towers of Ushguli, crossing two major passes and five medieval villages.

Most trekkers come to Svaneti for the classic Mestia to Ushguli route – and it’s deservedly famous. But what if you want more? This 8-day expedition adds what many consider the most spectacular section of Svaneti hiking: the Ushba Glacier approach and the Guli Pass crossing from Becho to Mestia. You’ll stand beneath the sheer walls of Mount Ushba (4,710m), Georgia’s most dramatic peak, before even beginning the classic route.

The result is the complete Svaneti experience. You’ll hike from the foot of Ushba to the foot of Shkhara, Georgia’s two most iconic mountains, crossing two major passes and staying in five different villages along the way. It’s more demanding than the 4-day route, but the rewards are proportional: wilder landscapes, fewer crowds on the Becho section, and the satisfaction of having walked the full length of Upper Svaneti’s greatest trails.

Duration: 8 days, 7 nights | Total Hiking: ~85 km over 6 trekking days | Max Elevation: 2,960m (Guli Pass)

Difficulty: Challenging | Tour Type: Guided trekking with guesthouse accommodation | Group Size: 2–12 persons

This trek suits: Experienced hikers seeking the definitive Svaneti experience rather than just the classic route. Those with good fitness who can handle 12-18 km daily over varied mountain terrain. Adventure travelers who want to walk from one iconic Georgian mountain to another. Anyone who appreciates fewer crowds and wilder landscapes — the Becho section sees a fraction of the visitors on the main trail. Photographers drawn to dramatic mountain scenery: Ushba’s twin peaks, Shkhara’s glacier, and everything in between.

This trek doesn’t suit: Complete beginners or those without multi-day trekking experience — this is a challenging 8-day route. Anyone uncomfortable with demanding pass crossings involving 1,000+ meters of elevation gain in a single day. Those who cannot wade through knee-to-thigh-deep glacial water (the Adishi River crossing). Travelers seeking luxury accommodation — this is family guesthouses with shared bathrooms. Anyone unable to commit to 6 full trekking days plus rest and transfer days.

The journey to Becho sets the tone for what’s to come. The road climbs from the lowlands into Upper Svaneti, passing the massive Enguri Dam – one of the world’s highest arch dams – before entering a landscape of deep valleys and snow-capped peaks.

Becho is quieter and less developed than Mestia, a collection of traditional villages clustered at the foot of Mount Ushba. Your guesthouse in Mazeri village offers the first views of this iconic double-peaked mountain – and it will dominate the next two days. The evening is free to explore the village, visit the local mineral springs, and enjoy your first taste of Svan hospitality: hearty cuisine, homemade wine, and warm welcomes.

Today’s hike follows the Dolra River valley deep into the mountains toward Mount Ushba. The trail begins gently, passing through beautiful pine forests and alpine meadows before reaching the Shdugra Waterfalls – several cascading streams flowing side by side down the mountainside, creating one of the most impressive waterfall displays in Georgia.

Beyond the waterfalls, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic. You’ll cross young forests, traverse boulder-strewn meadows, and finally reach the moraine at the foot of the Ushba Glacier. The views here are unforgettable: Ushba’s twin peaks rising nearly 3,000 meters above you, glacial ice gleaming in the sun, and the raw power of high-mountain landscape all around. A memorial to climbers who lost their lives on Ushba serves as a humbling reminder of the mountain’s reputation.

This is an out-and-back hike, returning to your guesthouse in Becho for dinner and rest before tomorrow’s challenging pass crossing.

This is the highlight of the Becho section and one of the most scenic days in all of Svaneti. The morning begins with a climb up the Gulichala valley, with Mount Ushba providing constant inspiration behind you. The ascent is steady and demanding, gaining over 1,400 meters to reach Guli Pass at 2,960 meters.

At the pass, the effort pays off spectacularly. The panorama is extraordinary: Ushba’s double peak dominates the north, Tetnuldi’s glaciated mass rises to the east, Mount Laila stands to the south, and the entire Mulakhi valley stretches below toward Mestia. On clear days, you can see mountain eagles circling on the thermals.

An optional side trip to the summit of Mount Gul adds about 30 minutes and offers even more expansive views. The descent follows a ridge before dropping through flower-filled meadows to Mestia, Svaneti’s main town. Tonight you’ll have access to restaurants, hot showers, and well-equipped guesthouses.

A well-earned rest day before the classic Mestia-Ushguli section begins. Mestia is the main town of Upper Svaneti – a base for exploring the region and a fascinating destination in itself.

Options for the day include: taking the Zuruldi cable car for panoramic views of the Caucasus range, a half-day hike to Chalaadi Glacier, visiting the excellent Svaneti History and Ethnography Museum, or simply wandering through town admiring the medieval towers that cluster among modern buildings. The Margiani Tower House offers insight into traditional Svan life.

For those wanting more activity, the walk to Koruldi Lakes (a 4×4 can handle part of the route) offers stunning views back toward Ushba and Tetnuldi. Otherwise, enjoy the cafes, stock up on supplies, and rest your legs for the journey ahead.

The classic Mestia-Ushguli trek begins. Today’s route follows a well-marked trail through the Mulakhi valley, passing several traditional tower villages. Mount Ushba reappears behind you, while ahead Mount Tetnuldi begins to dominate the view.

The trail is relatively gentle – a good transition day after the demanding Guli Pass crossing and rest day. You’ll pass through Lakhiri and Chuber before reaching Zhabeshi in the late afternoon. The village clusters around its defensive towers, and your guesthouse will serve hearty Svan cuisine: kubdari (spiced meat pie), khachapuri, tashmijabi, and homemade wine.

A spectacular day with Mount Tetnuldi (4,858m) as your constant companion. The trail climbs to a high point above Zhabeshi before dropping into the Adishischala valley. The Adishi Glacier comes into view – a dramatic river of ice pouring down from the peaks.

Adishi is wonderfully remote: no road reaches it, only foot trails and a rough 4×4 track. The village has a timeless quality, with ancient towers rising from meadows and the glacier filling the valley head. An afternoon visit to the 10th-century Church of St. George, with its medieval frescoes, adds cultural depth to the mountain experience.

The second major challenge of the trek, and one of the most memorable days. It begins with the famous Adishi River crossing – knee-to-thigh deep glacial meltwater that intimidates first-timers more than any other section. In normal conditions, it’s manageable with trekking poles; in high water, a horse ferry operates for a small fee.

After the crossing, the trail climbs steadily through alpine meadows toward Chkhunderi Pass (2,740m). The panorama at the top rivals Guli Pass: Shkhara’s glacier-covered mass dominates the east, Tetnuldi rises to the north, and the Greater Caucasus ridge stretches in both directions. The long descent to Iprali passes through flower-filled meadows with growing views of your destination: Ushguli.

⚠️ River Crossing Note: The Adishi River crossing is typically knee-to-thigh deep and cold but manageable. Water levels are highest in the morning and after heavy rain. Your guide will assess conditions and choose the safest crossing point. In high water, a horse ferry service operates for approximately 20 GEL per person.

The final hiking day brings you to the crown jewel of Svaneti. The trail follows the Enguri valley upstream, with Shkhara (5,193m) – Georgia’s highest peak – growing larger with each kilometer. Its glacier, one of the largest in the Caucasus, fills the entire valley head.

Ushguli is actually four villages clustered at 2,200 meters: Murkmeli, Chvibiani, Chazhashi, and Zhibiani. The setting is extraordinary – ancient towers rising from green meadows with Shkhara as backdrop. The UNESCO World Heritage designation is well-earned.

After time to explore (the Lamaria Church above Zhibiani, the tower clusters of Chazhashi, an optional hike toward Shkhara Glacier), a 4×4 vehicle takes you back to Mestia along the rough but scenic Enguri valley road. Your complete Svaneti journey ends where it began: in Mestia, with the satisfaction of having walked from one iconic Georgian mountain to another.

Fitness Requirements & Difficulty

This is a challenging 8-day trek requiring good physical fitness and mountain experience. You should be comfortable hiking 12-18 km daily over varied terrain, including steep ascents of 1,000+ meters. The two major passes (Guli at 2,960m and Chkhunderi at 2,740m) each require full mountain days.

Day 3 (Guli Pass) is particularly demanding with ~1,400m of elevation gain. The Adishi River crossing on Day 7 requires wading through cold, knee-to-thigh-deep glacial water – trekking poles are essential.

If you can comfortably hike 8-9 hours over mountainous terrain for consecutive days, you’ll manage this trek. Previous multi-day trekking experience is recommended.

Best Time to Trek

The season runs from late May to October. Late May to June brings wildflowers at peak, but expect higher river levels (snowmelt) and possible snow on the passes — fewer trekkers, excellent photography conditions, potentially challenging Adishi crossing. July to August is peak season with warmest, most stable weather; guesthouses fill up (book ahead) and conditions are best for both passes and river crossing. September to October sees crowds thin dramatically, autumn colors appear, and weather remains stable but temperatures drop — many experienced trekkers prefer this period.

What to Bring

Essential gear: Sturdy waterproof hiking boots (broken in), trekking poles (vital for river crossing and passes), rain jacket and warm layers, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), headlamp with spare batteries, basic first aid kit, water bottles (2 liters minimum).

For the river crossing: Sandals or water shoes, quick-dry pants.

Guesthouses provide bedding, but a silk liner adds comfort. Pack light – you’ll carry everything daily.

Accommodation & Food

All nights are in family-run guesthouses (approximately 50 GEL per person, including dinner and breakfast). Rooms are simple with shared bathrooms in most villages; Mestia offers private bathroom options. Hot showers are available but variable.

Meals are hearty Svan cuisine: kubdari (spiced meat pie), khachapuri, tashmijabi, fresh vegetables, and bread. Vegetarian options available with advance notice. Packed lunches provided.

Luggage Options

Luggage transportation is not included in the tour price. We recommend leaving your main luggage at your Mestia guesthouse and carrying only what’s necessary for the trek.

Luggage transport from village to village can be arranged for an additional $350 per vehicle (sufficient for groups of 2-8 persons).

Getting There

We can arrange private transfers: Tbilisi–Becho ($320), Kutaisi–Becho ($220), Zugdidi–Becho ($140), Batumi–Becho ($290). Prices per minivan (up to 6 passengers), one-way.

Alternatives: Public marshrutka from Tbilisi, Zugdidi, or Kutaisi to Mestia, then taxi to Becho. Train from Tbilisi to Zugdidi. Plane from Natakhtari (Tbilisi) or Kutaisi to Mestia (irregular service), then taxi to Becho.

This 8-day trek is the definitive Svaneti hiking adventure – combining the dramatic Ushba section with the classic Mestia-Ushguli route for the most comprehensive experience possible. You’ll cross two major passes, visit five different villages, and walk beneath Georgia’s most iconic peaks.

We’ve been guiding treks in Svaneti since the early days of Georgian tourism, and we know these trails, villages, and families intimately. Our guides are local Svans who grew up beneath these mountains and can share stories and insights no guidebook contains.

Ready for the ultimate Svaneti adventure? Contact us with any questions or to check availability for your dates. This trek can also be organized as a private tour with customized itinerary.