Mestia is a prime destination for those eager to explore Georgia’s stunning mountainous landscapes. The town’s remote location and rugged beauty make it an ideal base for a variety of tours. We love the day trip to Ushguli, which offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery and cultural insights—think towering medieval towers against dramatic mountain backdrops. If you’re into hiking or horseback riding, the Chalaadi Glacier and Shkhara Glacier tours provide unforgettable adventures with breathtaking views. This region isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about connecting with the land and its history. For a longer immersion, the 4-day Svaneti tour from Tbilisi offers a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights, while private tours from Kutaisi give you personalized attention. Whether you want a quick day trip or an in-depth exploration, Mestia’s tours cater to diverse interests and schedules.
Quick Overview
The list below highlights some of the top tours based on their unique features, reviews, and value. From scenic day excursions to active horseback rides, each offers a different way to experience Svaneti’s rugged charm:
– A 6-hour guided trip to Europe’s highest village with mountain views.
– A 3-hour scenic hike to a stunning glacier, perfect for nature lovers.
– A four-hour horseback ride through remarkable mountain scenery.
– An immersive four-day tour covering glaciers, towers, and local culture.
– A full-day personalized experience exploring key sites.
– A four-hour horseback ride to scenic mountain lakes.
1. Day tour to Ushguli from Mestia
At number one, the Day tour to Ushguli from Mestia offers a compact but memorable experience. This 6-hour guided excursion takes you to Europe’s highest inhabited village, perched at 2,000 meters above sea level. The tour includes a scenic drive in a jeep or SUV, giving travelers a chance to relax and enjoy the incredible mountain vistas. Once in Ushguli, you’ll explore notable sites like the Tower of Love, the Tower of Queen Tamar, and the historic Lamaria Monastery. The views of Ushba, Tetnuldi, and Shkhara mountains are spectacular, and the tour’s highlights are well-chosen for their cultural and natural significance.
This tour is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to experience one of Svaneti’s crown jewels. The reviews highlight the breathtaking mountain scenery and the smooth, informative guide. The roughly 80-minute drive each way adds to the sense of adventure without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, well-organized taste of the region’s dramatic landscapes and ancient architecture.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if your schedule is tight but you still want an authentic glimpse of Svaneti’s highest village and iconic peaks.
2. Chalaadi Glacier tour
The Chalaadi Glacier tour is a solid pick for nature lovers. For just $33 per person, this 3-hour trip includes a scenic drive in a shared van, followed by a manageable 2-hour hike to the glacier, which is a striking mass of ice and rock. The tour offers plenty of chances to enjoy breathtaking scenery along the way—think rushing mountain streams, lush forests, and towering cliffs.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of ease and adventure—it’s accessible enough for most fitness levels but still delivers impressive glacier views. The guided nature walk emphasizes the region’s natural beauty and provides a relaxing, peaceful experience. The reviews praise the well-organized logistics and the chance to enjoy the glacier without a strenuous trek.
This tour is suitable for travelers who want a quick, scenic outing with a focus on glacier scenery. The 30-minute drive each way keeps it manageable for a half-day adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a quick, scenic hike with easy access to one of Svaneti’s most striking glaciers.
3. Ushguli: Horse Riding Tour to Shkhara Glacier
Number three on our list is the Horse Riding Tour to Shkhara Glacier, which promises a truly immersive experience. For $227 per person, this four-hour private tour takes you through the stunning landscapes around Ushguli on horseback. Riding through fields and mountain trails, you’ll get close to the towering Shkhara Glacier, one of the most impressive natural features in the Caucasus.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of adventure and serenity. Horseback riding allows you to move at a gentle pace, taking in the mountain air and panoramic views of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. The guide, a local expert, shares insights into the region’s history and traditions along the way. Guests rave about the quality of the horses and the personalized attention, making it suitable for both experienced riders and those new to riding.
The experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine outdoor activity with cultural discovery, and the private format ensures a tailored trip. Keep in mind, the price is higher than other tours, but the exclusivity and personal connection make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: A memorable, active way to experience Svaneti’s spectacular mountain scenery on horseback, ideal for those seeking adventure with comfort.
4. From Tbilisi: Svaneti 4-Day Highlights Guided Tour
The Svaneti 4-Day Highlights Guided Tour is perfect for travelers who want to deeply explore Georgia’s mountain region. Over four days, you’ll visit the ancient Dadiani Palace, hike to the Shkhara Glacier in Ushguli, and ride the cable car at Hatsvali Ski Resort for panoramic views. This tour offers a rich mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and local culture, providing a comprehensive Svaneti experience.
The itinerary emphasizes active exploration, with opportunities to hike, walk through ancient villages, and learn about local traditions. Though the reviews are mixed, the tour’s value lies in its breadth, allowing you to see more of the region than a day trip could. The guide’s knowledge helps make sense of the remote mountain villages and towering medieval towers.
This tour suits travelers with a bit more time and interest in culture and outdoor activities. It’s a good choice if you want an all-in-one experience, but be prepared for some long days and variable weather.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting an in-depth, multi-day tour combining history, hiking, and mountain scenery.
5. Private tour from Kutaisi: Svaneti and Mestia
Number five is the Private tour from Kutaisi, offering a full-day personalized experience. Starting early from Kutaisi, you’ll visit key sites like the Enguri Dam and the Mestia towers, with flexible timing and tailored stops. The tour is perfect for travelers who prefer a custom pace and want to avoid crowded group tours.
What sets this apart is the private format, which allows for more personalized storytelling and spontaneous stops. The tour includes a 20-minute visit to the Enguri Dam, one of the tallest arch dams in the world, and a 1.5-hour exploration of Mestia’s central attractions. The driver and guide are well-reviewed for their flexibility and local knowledge, making the experience more engaging and less rushed.
This option is best suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing with comfort and flexibility. Given the 13-hour duration, it’s ideal for those with a full schedule and a love for tailored experiences.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting a private, flexible day exploring both Svaneti and Mestia with a knowledgeable guide.
6. Mestia: Horse Riding Tour to Koruldi Lakes
Finally, the Horse Riding Tour to Koruldi Lakes offers a four-hour journey through some of the most scenic landscapes around Mestia. Riding from the town, you’ll traverse lush valleys and ascend toward the famous Koruldi Lakes, which sit at high altitude with views over the peaks. The tour emphasizes the local Svan culture, with guides who share insights into traditions and regional history.
This experience is perfect for those who want to combine physical activity with stunning scenery. The guides are experienced, and the ride takes you through different terrains, making it a dynamic adventure. The cost is $290 per person, reflecting the personalized attention and quality horses.
The ride is more than just sightseeing; it’s about experiencing the mountain environment in a way that few other tours offer. It’s best suited for riders with some experience and those eager for a full immersion in the landscape.
Bottom Line: A rewarding horseback adventure to some of the most iconic mountain lakes, fitting for active travelers wanting an authentic experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, time, and travel style. For a short but scenic taste of high mountain villages, the Ushguli day trip hits the spot. If you’re after active outdoor experiences, the horse riding tours, Koruldi Lakes, or Shkhara Glacier ride might be your best fit.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Chalaadi Glacier for its affordability and scenic value. Those looking for a comprehensive experience can opt for the 4-day guided tour, which combines sightseeing, hiking, and cultural insights. For a personalized journey, the private tour from Kutaisi offers flexibility and comfort.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, as tours fill quickly and weather can be unpredictable. Consider your fitness level, interest in local culture, and how much time you want to dedicate to your Svaneti adventure.
Final Thoughts
Mestia’s tours open a window into Georgia’s most dramatic mountain scenery. Whether you prefer a quick cultural fix, a scenic glacier hike, or an active horseback ride, there’s a perfect tour for you. The day trip to Ushguli is a top pick for its combination of ease and scenery, while the horse riding adventures provide a more immersive experience.
For those with more time, the 4-day Svaneti tour offers a detailed look at the region’s highlights, and private tours allow for tailored experiences. Whatever your travel style, careful planning and early booking will ensure you make the most of your time in this stunning part of Georgia.