Svaneti is one of the most remote areas of Georgia. The region is located at the northwestern part of the country and is divided into Upper and Lower Svaneti. Additionally, its nested on the southern slopes of the central Caucasus Mountains and is home to four out of the 10 highest peaks of the Caucasus. The highest of them all, Mount Shkhara is at 5,201 meters above the sea level. Other important mountains of the region are Tetnuldi (4,974m), Ushba (4,710m) and Ailama (4,525m). The backdrop of those mountains creates an unbelievable landscape, especially when their tops are still covered with snow.
Contact Us
Itinerary
Arrival and overnight in Tbilisi
You’ll start your trip with learning more about the Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi. You’ll be able to visit some of its iconic landmarks, such as a 4th century Narikala Fortress, famous sulfur bath neighborhood Abanotubani, the Freedom Square, the oldest Basilica - Anchiskhati, Metekhi Church, walk on pedestrian bridge called the Peace Bridge, and visit Rike Park. You’ll listen to the history of the city, how it came to be and why it’s called Tbilisi.
Tsalka is home to one of the most beautiful canyons called Dashbashi. The natural monument is beautiful all year round. In summer, water is emerald green, while in winter the waterfall freezes up looking like a winter wonderland. The whole canyon is distinguished by rarity and biodiversity.
Afterward, you’ll continue your way to Tabatskuri to visit a blue lake of volcanic origin. It’s maximum depth is about 40.2 meters. From Tabatskuri, you’ll continue your way to Bakuriani, one of the ski and summer resorts of Georgia located on the northern slope of Trialeti Gorge.
The day starts with a visit to Vardzia, one of the most magnificent cave towns of Georgia. This man-made town dates back to the 13 century and was built by the order of Queen Tamar to serve as a fully functioning town during the various invasions Georgia was facing back then.
Afterword, you’ll continue your way to Akhaltsikhe, another very important historical town of Georgia. It is home to Rabati Fortress, a somewhat newly renovated castle complex played an important part in Georgian history back in the day. Originally built in the 9th century with a different name, the area was completely rebuilt by Ottomans and most of the buildings you’ll see today, date back to the 17th-18th centuries.
From Akhaltsikhe, you’ll continue your way towards Kutaisi, the former capital and second largest city of Georgia through Zekari Pass. This pass is a high mountain road located at the elevation of 2,174 meters above the sea level. It’s right on the border of Samtskhe - Javakheti and Imereti regions. Get ready for a tough road that boosts your adrenaline!
The day starts by visiting Bagrati Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stroll down the streets of the city. Later, you’ll drive to Samegrelo region and its main town - Zugdidi. Here, you’ll visit the market and Dadiani Palace Museum, who were the royal family ruling over the region. From here, you’ll drive to Mestia, the central city of Upper Svaneti.
On this day, you’ll be able to explore the sights of Mestia, visit it’s Ethnography and History Museum and admire the local architecture of medieval defense towers. Afterward, you’ll drive to Ushguli, another UNESCO World Heritage Site nested under the root of Mount Shkhara. Additionally, Ushguli is considered one of the highest settlement in Europe, located at 2,200 meters above the sea level.
The seventh day of the tour takes you through the Lower Svaneti and Lendekhi Pass to Ratcha Region and then to Kutaisi to overnight.
This day is the shortest as it brings you back to Tbilisi to catch your flight back.