An epic 9-day journey connecting Georgia's two most spectacular alpine regions: Kazbegi and Svaneti. Walk among medieval towers, glaciers and the highest peaks of the Caucasus.

Itinerary

DAY 1: Transfer from Tbilisi Airport to the capital

We will transfer from the airport to the hotel with the assistance of our guide, who will accompany you throughout the journey.

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*

18 km | 00:25 by car

DAY 2: Tbilisi - Guided tour

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our cultural immersion on the vibrant Rustaveli Avenue, the beating heart of Tbilisi. On this elegant boulevard, we will admire architectural gems such as the imposing Parliament and the neo-Moorish Opera Theatre, as well as the distinctive Rustaveli Theatre and the beautiful Kashveti Church. Our tour will then take us to Metekhi Square, where the historic church and the equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali offer privileged views over the Mtkvari River. The experience will reach new heights as we ascend by cable car to Narikala Fortress, the ancient 4th-century defensive citadel offering the best panoramic views of the capital. We will then venture into the picturesque Abanotubani district, world-renowned for its historic sulfur baths and charming medieval alleyways. Finally, we will conclude this unforgettable day by visiting the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in the city.

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*

2 km | 00:26 by car

DAY 3: Tbilisi - Ananuri - Kazbegi - Tbilisi

After a comforting breakfast at the hotel, we will begin a spectacular day delving into the deep history and wild nature of Georgia. Our first major stop will be the imposing Ananuri Fortress, a medieval architectural complex located 66 kilometers from the capital. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore its defensive towers and centuries-old walls, which offer an unparalleled panoramic view over the turquoise waters of Zhinvali Reservoir. Continuing our route towards the heights, we will head north to discover the emblematic Gergeti Trinity Church. This sanctuary, standing majestically at 2,170 meters above sea level, rests under the watchful gaze of the mighty Mount Kazbegi. In this magical setting, surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus range, you can breathe pure air and admire the solemn beauty of this ancient monastic complex.

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*

321 km | 06:00 by car

DAY 4: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi

We will leave Tbilisi to first visit the ancient capital and religious center of Georgia, Mtskheta. There we will explore its UNESCO World Heritage treasures: the panoramic Jvari Monastery and the sacred Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Next, we will travel through ancient history at Uplistsikhe, an impressive rock-hewn city from the Iron Age where we will walk among caves and temples carved into sandstone. Our next stop will be in the nearby city of Gori, where we will visit the Stalin Museum to learn about the birthplace and trajectory of the Soviet leader. Finally, we will continue our journey westward, entering the legendary land of Colchis, until we reach Kutaisi.

Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*

267 km | 04:44 by car

DAY 5: Kutaisi - Okatse - Martvili - Mestia

Today's journey is a spectacular ascent from fertile valleys to the peaks of the Caucasus. We will begin in the Imereti region visiting the impressive Okatse Canyon, where we will challenge vertigo by walking along its metal walkway suspended in the air, enjoying uninterrupted views of waterfalls and virgin forests beneath our feet. Next, we will head to the neighboring Samegrelo region to discover the paradisiacal Martvili Canyon. In this fairy-tale setting, if water levels permit, we will navigate by boat through its calm emerald waters and walk trails among moss-covered rocks and crystal-clear waterfalls. The second half of the day will mark a dramatic change in landscape: we will leave the lowlands behind to venture onto the mountain road to Upper Svaneti. Surrounded by giant peaks and wild nature, we will finally arrive in Mestia, the heart of this mysterious region, where ancient defensive towers will welcome us.

Accommodation: Hotel Posta Mestia 4*

253 km | 05:35 by car

DAY 6: Mestia - Chalaadi - Hatsvali - Mestia

We will start the day in Mestia with an immersion in wild nature, heading towards the Chalaadi Glacier. We will cross the bridge over the Mestiachala River and walk along a trail through forests and moraines until we reach the base of the eternal ice, feeling the fresh breeze from the glacier. After this invigorating hike, we will transfer to the Hatsvali mountain station. Here, if weather conditions are favorable, we will take the cable car to gently ascend to the Zuruldi ridge. This viewpoint is famous for offering one of the most impressive panoramas in the region. Once at the top, and whenever visibility permits, we will have the privileged opportunity to admire the imposing silhouette of the mythical Mount Ushba with its two characteristic peaks, as well as the elegant Mount Tetnuldi. After enjoying this alpine spectacle, we will descend from the heights to return to our accommodation in Mestia.

Accommodation: Hotel Posta Mestia 4*

34 km | 01:11 by car

DAY 7: Mestia - Ushguli - Kutaisi

We will begin the day with one of the most memorable experiences of the trip: the expedition to Ushguli. Located at 2,200 meters altitude, this remote settlement is recognized by UNESCO and considered one of the highest inhabited villages in Europe. Upon arrival, we will feel transported to the Middle Ages, surrounded by dozens of ancient stone defensive towers profiled against the impressive backdrop of Mount Shkhara, Georgia's highest peak. We will explore its narrow alleyways, visit the Lamaria church and enjoy views towards the glacier, breathing the pure air of the high mountains. After this deep immersion in Svan culture and wild nature, we will bid farewell to the snowy peaks. We will undertake the long but scenic descent through the Caucasus gorges until we finally reach the historic city of Kutaisi.

Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*

208 km | 05:20 by car

DAY 8: Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Prometheus - Tbilisi

We will begin our day in Kutaisi climbing Ukimerioni hill to visit the imposing Bagrati Cathedral, a medieval masterpiece from which we will enjoy panoramic views of the city. We will continue our journey through time at the nearby Gelati Academy, a monastic complex declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its impressive frescoes and educational legacy. Later, we will head to the spectacular Prometheus Cave, an underground labyrinth of stalactites and stalagmites where, if water level conditions are favorable, we will enjoy a boat ride through its hidden river. Before leaving the city, we will immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Kutaisi Agricultural Market. In this space full of life, aromas and colors, we can taste local products and observe authentic Georgian daily life. Finally, we will take the road east until we reach Tbilisi.

Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4*

292 km | 05:08 by car

DAY 9: Transfer from Tbilisi to Tbilisi Airport

We will transfer from the hotel to the airport according to the scheduled flight time, with the assistance of our guide, who will accompany you throughout the journey.

18 km | 00:25 by car

About this trip

Follow the Mountain Trails on an epic 9-day journey connecting Georgia's two most spectacular alpine regions: Kazbegi and Svaneti. Starting in Tbilisi, we will first head north along the Georgian Military Highway to Kazbegi.

After admiring Mount Kazbek, we will cross west to venture into Svaneti. In Mestia and Ushguli, we will walk among medieval towers and glaciers. This itinerary is unique because it allows you to compare the two faces of the Greater Caucasus: the volcanic east and the alpine west.

The trip also includes visits to the Okatse and Martvili canyons, adding a touch of aquatic adventure. We will finish with the monasteries of Kutaisi before returning to Tbilisi. The ultimate option for lovers of hiking, landscape photography and pristine nature.

Included

  • Accommodation: 8 nights in selected hotels
  • Meal plan: Bed and breakfast
  • Transport: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel
  • Guide: Professional English-speaking guide
  • Logistics: Staff expenses (guide/driver)
  • Water: 1 bottle per person/day
  • Taxes: Local fees
  • Entrances: Monuments according to itinerary

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunches and dinners (unless indicated)
  • Alcoholic beverages and tips
  • Personal expenses