Hiking Georgia's Caucasus Mountains

Hiking Georgia's Caucasus Mountains

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10 Days From

$2499

$2420

Hiking Georgia's Caucasus Mountains

10 Days Starting and ending in Tbilisi, Georgia

Visiting: Tbilisi, Zugdidi, Mestia, Ushguli, Kutaisi, Georgia

Tour operator:

YellowWood Adventures

Tour code:

GE-CM

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Hiking, Sightseeing

From: $2499 $2420 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$79

NB: Prices correct on 14-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Georgia's stunning Caucasus Mountains. Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Tbilisi, exploring its rich history and modern charm. Travel to the picturesque region of Svaneti, where you'll hike through breathtaking landscapes, visit ancient watchtowers, and experience the warm hospitality of local families. Discover the dramatic Ushba Waterfalls, the serene Koruldi Lake, and the highest village in Europe, Ushguli. Marvel at the natural beauty of Martvili Canyon and delve into the historical wonders of the Uplistsikhe troglodyte settlement. Conclude your trip with a taste of Georgia's renowned wines and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Mtskheta. This tour promises a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Highlights

  • Guided tour of Tbilisi, including Metekhi church and Narikala Fortress

  • Train journey to Zugdidi and visit to the Greater Caucasus in Svaneti

  • Hike to the waterfalls of Ushba with views of the Dolra River

  • Exploration of the village of Mulakhi with its ancient towers

  • Walk to Koruldi Lake with panoramic views of the Greater Caucasus

  • Visit to Ushguli, the highest permanent village in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Boat ride through Martvili Canyon and visit to Kutaisi

  • Tour of the Uplistsikhe troglodyte settlement and wine tasting in Kaspi

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrival In Tbilisi

Location: Tbilisi

Accommodation Name: Hotel Zeg

With group members arriving throughout the afternoon, evening and night, today is a 'free' day for you to arrive, be transferred to the start hotel, and to shake off any travel fatigue and get your bearings. Your adventure starts in earnest, tomorrow, after breakfast - so please book flights / transportation that will get you to Tbilisi in time for Breakfast at the latest!If you are able to arrive earlier in the day, please feel free to ask us for guidance on how to spend this free day, where to eat and what to visit (or to try to save for the tour). We are on hand to help!Accommodation: Hotel Zeg

Day 2: Tbilisi

Location: Tbilisi

Accommodation Name: Hotel Zeg

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Welcome to Georgia! After breakfast, today you can enjoy a guided tour of Tbilisi. We will begin at Metekhi church which dates back to the 13th century and offers wonderful views of Tbilisi Old Town. Explore the winding, narrow streets and admire a blend of modern and traditional architecture. Our tour continues from above, with a cable car experience offering panoramic views of the city. It drops us off at the Narikala Fortress, known as the Mother Fortress of Tbilisi, one of the oldest and most important buildings of the city. Descending from the Fortress we will pass the historical sulphur bath quarter - Tbilisi has hot springs running under the city and has a number of thermal baths. Tonight you will have the chance to experience one of Tbilisi’s many delicious restaurants. Make sure to try khachapuri, a boat-shaped bread filled with butter, cheese and egg.Accommodation: Hotel Zeg

Day 3: Zugdidi & Becho

Location: Zugdidi

Accommodation Name: Family Hotel in Becho

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast we will head to the railway station to catch a train to Zugdidi. Located in Western Georgia, it is the biggest city in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region and a gateway to the beautiful mountains of Svaneti. We will enjoy true Georgian hospitality at a late lunch with a local family. With energy restored, we can now head to Svaneti to visit the Greater Caucasus, the mountain range which offers breathtaking dramatic views and is the natural land border to Russia. Svaneti is home to snow-covered glaciers, towers from the Middle Ages and beautiful waterfalls and lakes. We will stay in a family-run hotel in the village of Becho, located at the foot of Ushba Mountain (4700m). Accommodation: Family Hotel in Becho

Day 4: Ushba Waterfalls & Mestia

Location: Mestia

Accommodation Name: Family Hotel in Mestia

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we will get to witness the spectacular natural scenery of the Greater Caucasus. After breakfast we will drive to the village of Shikhra which will be the starting point for our walk to the waterfalls of Ushba. Hike through the forest along the Dolra River before getting your first view of the waterfalls, with several cascades of water flowing downwards side by side on the mountain slope creating an unforgettable panorama. From here we have the option to visit the base or head to the top to get spectacular views of the valley.  After our visit we will return to Becho before continuing our adventure to Mestia, the main town of Svaneti and our base for the next few nights. Hiking options:Military Base: Stage 1 (easy)/ walking time: 2-3 hrs totally; ↑↓ 250 m; 8 km. 1st waterfall: Stage 2 (medium)/ walking time: 4-5 hrs totally; ↑↓ 550 m; 10 km. 2nd waterfall: Stage 3 (hard)/ walking time: 6-7 hrs totally; ↑↓ 1100 m; 12 kmAccommodation: Family Hotel in Mestia

Day 5: Mulakhi

Location: Mestia

Accommodation Name: Family Hotel in Mestia

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning we drive to the village of Mulakhi to enjoy a hike around the area which offers beautiful views from any way you look. Walk past wild mountain meadows and spot its famous ancient towers which are dotted across the landscape. Walking time: 4-5 hrs. 14 km. ↑320 m. ↓500 m.Return to Mestia for dinner at the family-run hotel. Accommodation: Family Hotel in Mestia

Day 6: Koruldi Lake

Location: Mestia

Accommodation Name: Family Hotel in Mestia

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast we will take 4WD cars to Jvari Point (2170m) and start our walk to Koruldi Lake. On the way, enjoy views of countless summits and glaciers, as well as the gigantic mountains arising out of each other: Tetnuldi (4,800 m.), Laila (4,008 m.), Chatini (4,012 m.), Banguriani (3,838 m.). On arrival at the beautiful mountain lakes, admire the spectacular 360 degree panorama view of the Greater Caucasus. From Mestia to Jvari point: 30 min. driving time 9 km. From Jvari point to Koruldi lakes: 3-4 hrs. totally; ↑↓ 600 m. 8 km. Later, we will descend back to Jvari Point for the return journey to Mestia where a hearty dinner will be served.Accommodation: Family Hotel in Mestia

Day 7: Ushguli

Location: Ushguli

Accommodation Name: Family Hotel in Mestia

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we drive to the highest permanent village in Europe - Ushguli (2200m). Ushguli and generally the whole Upper Svaneti region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is famous for its abundance of watchtowers. We will visit the 12th century complex of Lamaria and wander the twisting ancient alleys between houses. Our adventure continues, driving towards Mt. Shkhara where we will walk to the foot of the mountain. After our morning activity we will return to Ushguli for a well-deserved traditional Georgian lunch, hosted by a local family. Enjoy a delicious meal and have some time to interact with your hosts learning about life in Georgia and the family recipes that have been served! Later, return to Mestia to relax for the evening. Accommodation: Family Hotel in Mestia

Day 8: Martvili Canyon & Kutaisi

Location: Kutaisi

Accommodation Name: Family Hotel in Kutaisi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning we leave Mestia and drive to Martvili to visit the Martvili Canyon. Enjoy a walking trail of the gorge before having the option to take a boat along the Abasha River into the canyon itself. Later we will drive to Kutaisi, the second largest city in Georgia. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy and you can visit some of the many sites including Bagrati Cathedral, a beautiful, historic cathedral which offers wonderful views of the city. Tonight dinner is served at the family-run hotel. Accommodation: Family Hotel in Kutaisi

Day 9: Gori, The Uplistsikhe Troglodyte Settlement, Kaspi, Mtskheta & Tbilisi

Location: Tbilisi

Accommodation Name: Hotel Brim

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning we drive to Gori and visit the Uplistsikhe troglodyte settlement. It dates back to the 1st millennium BC and is the place where the Great Silk Road used to pass. It is a fascinating complex with a number of structures cut from rock including dwelling quarters, wine cellars, bakeries, a three-nave basilica church and even an ancient amphitheatre. After our visit, we will drive to Tbilisi but on the way make a stop in Kaspi. No trip to Georgia would be complete without tasting delicious Georgian wine. Visit a local wine cellar and learn about the history of wine making, with deep-rooted traditions being continued by the younger generations. The method of wine-making in Georgia is inscribed in the UNESCO intangible heritage list. After sampling the local wines we will continue to the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia - Mtskheta - and enjoy a tour of its historical sights including Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Our adventure concludes back in Tbilisi where you will have a final night in this wonderful city. Accommodation: Hotel Brim

Day 10: Departure Day

Location: Georgia

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today your adventure in Georgia comes to an end. It's time to return home, rejuvenated!

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at various hotels and family-run guest houses throughout the tour.

  • Meals

    Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on most days of the tour.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours are provided in Tbilisi, Zugdidi, Becho, Mestia, Ushguli, Martvili Canyon, Kutaisi, Gori, and Mtskheta.

  • Transportation

    Transportation is provided for all transfers and excursions mentioned in the itinerary.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to all included sites and attractions are covered.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from Tbilisi are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all participants.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel by train to Zugdidi, enjoy scenic drives to various locations, and experience a cable car ride in Tbilisi. 4WD cars are used for the journey to Jvari Point.

Accommodation

Stay in a variety of accommodations including boutique hotels in Tbilisi, family-run hotels in Becho and Mestia, and a guest house in Kutaisi, offering a blend of comfort and local hospitality.

Check out our Q&As

  • What should I do if I arrive in Tbilisi earlier on the first day?

    If you arrive earlier in the day, you can ask for guidance on how to spend your free time, including recommendations on where to eat and what to visit. The tour organizers are available to help you make the most of your free day.

  • What kind of views can I expect during the guided tour of Tbilisi?

    During the guided tour of Tbilisi, you can expect wonderful views of Tbilisi Old Town from Metekhi church, panoramic views of the city from a cable car, and a visit to the Narikala Fortress. You will also pass through the historical sulphur bath quarter.

  • What is special about the village of Becho where we will stay on Day 3?

    The village of Becho is located at the foot of Ushba Mountain (4700m) and offers breathtaking views of the Greater Caucasus mountain range. It is home to snow-covered glaciers, medieval towers, and beautiful waterfalls and lakes.

  • What are the hiking options for visiting the Ushba Waterfalls on Day 4?

    There are three hiking options for visiting the Ushba Waterfalls: Stage 1 (easy) with a walking time of 2-3 hours and a 250m elevation change over 8 km, Stage 2 (medium) with a walking time of 4-5 hours and a 550m elevation change over 10 km, and Stage 3 (hard) with a walking time of 6-7 hours and a 1100m elevation change over 12 km.

  • What can I expect during the hike around the village of Mulakhi on Day 5?

    During the hike around the village of Mulakhi, you can expect beautiful views from all directions, wild mountain meadows, and ancient towers dotted across the landscape. The walking time is approximately 4-5 hours covering 14 km with a 320m ascent and 500m descent.

  • What will I see on the way to Koruldi Lake on Day 6?

    On the way to Koruldi Lake, you will enjoy views of countless summits and glaciers, including the gigantic mountains Tetnuldi (4,800 m), Laila (4,008 m), Chatini (4,012 m), and Banguriani (3,838 m). Upon arrival at the lakes, you will be treated to a spectacular 360-degree panorama view of the Greater Caucasus.

  • What is unique about the village of Ushguli visited on Day 7?

    Ushguli is the highest permanent village in Europe at 2200m and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Upper Svaneti. It is famous for its abundance of watchtowers and historical sites, including the 12th-century complex of Lamaria.

  • What activities are available at Martvili Canyon on Day 8?

    At Martvili Canyon, you can enjoy a walking trail of the gorge and have the option to take a boat along the Abasha River into the canyon itself.

  • What historical sites will we visit on Day 9?

    On Day 9, we will visit the Uplistsikhe troglodyte settlement, which dates back to the 1st millennium BC, and the ancient capital and religious center of Georgia, Mtskheta. In Mtskheta, we will tour historical sites including Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

  • What can I expect during the wine tasting in Kaspi on Day 9?

    During the wine tasting in Kaspi, you will visit a local wine cellar and learn about the history of wine making in Georgia. You will also sample local wines and learn about the traditional methods of wine-making, which are inscribed in the UNESCO intangible heritage list.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 2015

  • Risk Assessment

    YellowWood operates a Safety Management System which encompasses a planned, researched, implemented and reviewed approach to your Health & Safety. A risk assessment is a careful examination of what could cause harm (hazards) and the assessment of likelihood of hazards occuring, as well as the severity of the outcome of a hazard.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for our latest Covid-19 policies

  • Experienced Leaders

    On all of our adventures you will benefit from the daily presence of an experienced, English speaking local guide. You will also have additional guides at various points during the trip (see itineraries for details).

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    As a visitor to a foreign country, we inevitably leave our mark. At YellowWood Adventures, we are determined that this ‘mark’ will be a positive one. Tourism is not always beneficial and we are conscious of treading lightly in the lands we explore.

Reviews of this operator

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From guiding us through the crowded alleys of Lalibela at Genna to clambering up the dizzy heights of Abuna Yemata this was a trip that surpassed all expectations! Yellowwood hits the right balance of organised small group travel with adventurous, 'off the beaten track' experiences all the while making you feel as if you've travelling with a small group of your friends. Ethiopia is truly a beautiful country with wonderful friendly and generous people throughout. I highly recommend this trip and am already planning for my next Yellowwood adventure!

Ethiopia Adventure, 2020
Sophie  

Absolute trip of a lifetime

2019

This trip was one of the best I've ever done. Getting into the Tian Shan mountains was really quite magical; experiencing the scenery and feeling isolated from the rest of the world, thanks to the personalised feel of the trek, was unrivalled. The quality of the food was also a highlight, and I was catered for as a vegetarian (in a very non-vegetarian place!). Kyrgyzstan is a relatively undiscovered gem, and it was lovely to do a road-less-travelled style trip. Thanks to Sam and YellowWood for taking us on a genuine adventure with a fantastic itinerary. I look forward to joining some more non-traditional trips when possible!"

Kyrgyzstan Adventure, 2019
Ken  

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Oman Adventure, 2022

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  • Low Deposit

    YellowWood Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of yellowwood adventures charges.

    Up to 57 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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