Situated in the north of the country Svaneti is bordered by both Karachay-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Bakaria in the Russian Federation. It is home to some of the highest mountains in the Caucasus. This historical region is brimming with ancient villages and the locals known as Svans have largely retained their culture and heritage for centuries. Characteristic of this region are the Svan towers (koshki) built in the medieval period to act as defense and signal towers against invading armies. Trek through the beautiful mountains to explore the medieval towers and Churches of Svaneti, be awe struck by some of the highest peaks in Europe and prepare to be immersed in local mountain culture.
DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | Tbilisi |
INCLUDED |
Airport transfers x2. Return transfer to Svaneti. 4x4 vehicle support throughout. English/ Georgian speaking guide and driver. All meals as in itinerary. All accommodation as in itinerary. (2 nights in Tbilisi, 4 nights in Svaneti) |
TOUR PRICE | 5300 GEL |
DEPOSIT | 600 GEL |
Transfer to hotel in Tbilisi
Free day to sightsee around Tbilisi
Overnight in Tbilisi
Transfer to Svaneti
Mestia sightseeing around mestia.
During a 7 hour transfer there are plenty of opportunities to visit regional and local sights such as Zugdidi local market, Enguri damn 2nd highest arch dam in the world and the Mestia ethnographic museum.
Overnight in Mestia
Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Private facilities
Trek from Jabeshi to Adishi.
The ancient village of Adishi is located several kilometers away from Ipari under Mount Tetnuldi. The village has four churches: the Church of Christ, the Church of the Archangel, and two churches of Saint George. The Church of Christ held icons from the 11th-14th centuries (now stored at a museum), as well as a manuscript of Shatberdi dating back to 897, which includes detailed artwork known as the fourchapter book of Adishi.
The trail leads from the valley Mulakhura to Adishischala. Trail ends at elevation 2100m.
Total distance: 10 km
Duration: 6-7 Hours
Altitude:
Start 1650m
Highest point: 2500m
End: 2080m
Overnight in Adishi
Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Shared facilities
Adishi - Iprali
Start trekking to the village of Ipari. The biggest and most decorated church in this community is the Nakipari Church, built in the 10th century. Theodore, King David the Builder’s painter, painted artwork in this church. The church also contains an 11th century icon of Saint George carved in gold and silver. Horse river crossing included.
Total Distance: 14 km
Duration: 6-8 hours
Altitude:
Start: 2080m
Highest point: 2722 m
End: 1950m
Overnight in Iprali
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Shared facilities
Iprali-Ushguli
Transfer to Ushguli by vehicle.
Ushguli’s medieval constructions are under the protection of UNESCO. A historical settlement located in the very East of Svaneti, Ushguli is one of the highest settlements in Europe (2,000-2,200m above sea level). It was part of the so-called “Free Svaneti” as for centuries the people here defended the region against numerous attacks. The Church of Saint Mary is located on one of the highest points in Ushguli and it is also the home to the remnants of one of the most ancient fortresses of Svaneti with 37 towers, dating back to the reign of Queen Tamar. The views and surrounding landscape are stunning.
We have a superb trek in the afternoon which takes us through the mountains to Shkhara Glacier where the Enguri River starts. After which we return to Ushguli.
Elevation gain and loss 300m (5-6 hrs)
Overnight in Ushguli
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Private facilities
Trek from Becho to Ushba Waterfalls.
In the morning we transfer from Ushguli and start our trek from Becho through woods to the foot of Mt.Ushba at (4700m). A beautifultrek will bring us to the waterfalls and we can enjoy the spectacular view of Ushba glacier. The first 2 hours is comparatively easy, but the next 3 hours gets a bit harder. On our way back we meet our local transport near a bridge and return to the guesthouse.
Military Base ↑↓ 400m,(walking time 4 hours) 12 km
1st Waterfall ↑↓650 m (walking time 5 hours) 16 km
Overnight Becho
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Private facilities
Transfer to Tbilisi
Arrival in Tbilisi approximately 5pm
Overnight in Tbilisi
Breakfast, Lunch included