3-Day Private Mestia and Ushguli Tour From Kutaisi

Set out on a captivating 3-day private tour from Kutaisi, delving into the stunning landscapes of the Caucasus Mountains. Explore the rich cultural heritage of Mestia, marvel at the breathtaking views from the Hatsvali cable car, and discover the awe-inspiring Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave. With hearty Georgian cuisine and cozy accommodations, this tour promises an authentic experience. But the real adventure lies in what awaits beyond the itinerary.

Key Points

• Explore the Caucasus Mountains starting from Mestia, featuring the Mestia Museum, Hatsvali cable car, and hiking opportunities to the Ushba glacier.
• Marvel at the stunning natural beauty of the Martvili Canyon, with its towering limestone cliffs, emerald pools, and cascading waterfalls.
• Discover the awe-inspiring Prometheus Cave, a vast underground world filled with stalactites and stalagmites, and explore its serene, cathedral-like spaces.
• Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Svaneti region at the Mestia Museum, showcasing Svan architecture, artifacts, and traditional customs.
• Savor hearty Georgian cuisine and enjoy cozy, locally-owned accommodations throughout the 3-day tour, providing an authentic cultural experience.

Exploring Mestia

Nestled in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, Mestia serves as the starting point for this captivating 3-day tour.

Guests will explore the Mestia Museum, showcasing the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. The Hatsvali cable car provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Guests will explore the Mestia Museum, showcasing the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. The Hatsvali cable car provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Visitors can also hike to the iconic Ushba glacier, one of the most challenging and sought-after climbs in the Caucasus.

With its traditional Svan towers, charming streets, and stunning natural scenery, Mestia offers a truly immersive experience in the heart of Georgia’s mountainous landscape.

Visiting the Martvili Canyon

After exploring the charming town of Mestia, the tour heads to the breathtaking Martvili Canyon.

Carved by the Abasha River, this natural wonder features towering limestone cliffs, emerald pools, and cascading waterfalls.

Visitors can enjoy a boat ride along the serene turquoise waters, which offer a unique perspective of the canyon’s stunning beauty.

The tour includes tickets for both the canyon entry and the boat ride, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

Prepare to be awed by the canyon’s raw, untamed magnificence as you navigate its serene waterways and admire the surrounding natural splendor.

Discovering the Prometheus Cave

The tour then ventures to the captivating Prometheus Cave, a vast underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and natural wonders.

Visitors board boats and explore the cave’s subterranean chambers, marveling at the intricate limestone formations and mesmerizing reflections on the still waters.

The tour includes admission tickets, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Guests wander through the cave’s cathedral-like spaces, their senses immersed in the serene, otherworldly atmosphere.

This unique geological site offers a glimpse into Georgia’s rich natural heritage, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness its beauty.

Touring the Mestia Museum

Following the awe-inspiring experience at the Prometheus Cave, the tour continues to the Mestia Museum, a cultural gem nestled in the heart of the Svaneti region.

This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the Svan people. Visitors can explore:

• Unique Svan architecture and lifestyle artifacts

• Impressive collection of medieval manuscripts and religious icons

• Traditional Svan musical instruments and costumes

• Exhibits on the region’s history, including the Svan language and culture

• Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Caucasus Mountains

The Mestia Museum provides an enriching and immersive experience, allowing travelers to deepen their understanding of Georgia’s remarkable heritage.

Riding the Hatsvali Cable Car

Next, the tour group boards the Hatsvali cable car, which whisks them up the mountainside, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Caucasus range.

The cable car ride lasts around 10 minutes, taking visitors to an elevation of 2,350 meters (7,710 feet). At the top, the group can stroll through the scenic alpine meadows and forests, breathing in the crisp mountain air.

They may even spot some local wildlife, like the endangered Caucasian chamois. After exploring the area, the group boards the cable car again for the descent, with the opportunity to take in the stunning vistas one more time.

Discovering Ushguli

After descending the Hatsvali cable car, the group embarks on the drive towards the ancient village of Ushguli.

Situated at an elevation of 2,200 meters, Ushguli is renowned for its stunning beauty and well-preserved medieval architecture.

The tour explores:

• UNESCO-listed Ushguli village, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe

• Towers and stone houses dating back to the 9th-12th centuries

• Local markets and shops selling traditional Georgian crafts

• Hiking opportunities with breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains

• Witnessing the daily life and customs of the Svan people, an ethnic group indigenous to the region.

Enjoying Meals and Accommodations

During the 3-day tour, travelers enjoy hearty Georgian meals and comfortable accommodations.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, showcasing the region’s cuisine. Meals feature local specialties like khinkali (dumplings), sulguni cheese, and Adjarian khachapuri (cheese-filled bread).

Accommodations are clean, cozy, and locally-owned, providing an authentic experience. Travelers stay in charming guesthouses or small hotels, enjoying views of the Caucasus Mountains.

The tour ensures a balance of culture and creature comforts, allowing visitors to fully experience the beauty and hospitality of the Mestia and Ushguli region.

Cancellation Policy and Accessibility

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the tour experience starts.

This policy provides peace of mind and flexibility for those with unpredictable schedules.

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.

Here are some key accessibility details:

• Not suitable for wheelchair users

• Requires moderate physical fitness

• Involves some walking on uneven terrain

• Suitable for most travelers with reasonable mobility

• Participants must be able to board and disembark the vehicle

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Any Stops Made on the Way to Mestia?

Yes, the tour includes stops at several notable locations on the way to Mestia. These include the Prometheus Cave, Martvili Canyon, and the Mestia Museum, where visitors can explore Georgia’s natural and cultural heritage.

Is There an Option for a Solo Traveler in This Tour?

This tour is priced per person, so solo travelers can book it. However, the tour is private, so it’s only your group participating. The price may vary depending on the total group size.

Can the Tour Be Extended to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include additional activities. Travelers can customize the itinerary by adding optional stops or experiences, subject to availability and additional costs. The tour provider is flexible in accommodating guest requests.

What Is the Dress Code for the Cable Car Ride?

The dress code for the cable car ride is casual. Comfortable walking shoes and light, layered clothing are recommended to ensure a comfortable experience during the scenic journey up the mountain.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour includes meals, so bringing your own food and drinks isn’t necessary. However, you’re welcome to bring snacks or water if you’d prefer. Just keep in mind that the tour price covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The Sum Up

This 3-day private tour from Kutaisi to Mestia and Ushguli offers an unforgettable journey through the stunning Caucasus Mountains. Explore the rich cultural heritage, marvel at the breathtaking landscapes, and learn about the authentic Georgian hospitality. Whether hiking the Martvili Canyon or marveling at the Prometheus Cave, this tour provides an unparalleled experience in one of Georgia’s most captivating regions.