Explore one of the most unique and ancient cultures in the world with our 4-day Svaneti tour. Some travellers say that the tour is worth visiting for the road experience from Zugdidi to Mestia alone. Stunning nature scenery on the Inguri pass already makes this trip so different from other tours in Georgia. But this is true only before you arrive in Svaneti. Magnificent mixture of Caucasus mountainous nature and authentic architecture is something visitors will keep in their memories forever.
Please note that the overnight train Tbilisi-Zugdidi-Tbilisi is currently suspended. Alternative transportation will be offered instead.
Tour itinerary:
Our driver will meet you at Zugdidi train station to drive you up to Mestia (about 130 km), one of the oldest towns in Svaneti region of Georgia. This region is a birthplace of the Svans, a unique ethnic group, who are distinguished by their amazing and old culture and traditions. Svaneti is also famous for its original and authentic architecture and is dubbed as a “land of thousand towers”. Those towers used to play an important economic and defensive role in the history of Svaneti. There are still dozens of the towers – Middle Ages stone houses with fire watchtowers; and churches (10-14th cc). In the evening visit the Mestia Ethnographic museum, with an original Svan house “machubi”, and “koshki” tower. Dinner and overnight at the hotel or local guesthouse.
After the hotel breakfast drive to Ushguli village, the highest standing settlement in Europe (2200 m). The Ushguli architectural complex is a valuable architectural and historical monument, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List for its exclusiveness. There are about 70 families living in Ushguli (around 200 people). Spend time in Ushguli strolling through the old narrow streets. Visit Lamaria Church, complex with impressive 12th century wall frescos. Locals believe that Queen Tamar was buried under this church. Enjoy picturesque view of the Mount Shkhara. Return to Mestia to enjoy delicious dinner made of Svan traditional dishes.
After breakfast check-out from hotel. Free time to walk around Mestia. At 18:00 drive to Zugdidi train station to take an overnight train back to Tbilisi. Departure at 22:15, arrival on the next morning at 06:30. Transfer to your hotel. End of Svaneti Tour by Train.
- Transfer to/from Tbilisi train station;
- Accommodation in Mestia (based on double/twin room sharing; breakfast included);
- All transfers in Mestia as per itinerary;
- Guide to accompany travelers;
- Entrance tickets on sights as per itinerary;
- Return train tickets Tbilisi-Zugdidi-Tbilisi on “Compartment for 2” cabin;
- Separate 4x4 wheel return drive to Ushguli village;
- Dinners in Mestia on Days 2-3;
- Mineral water (0,5 l. per person a day).
- Full board;
- Additional Hotel expenses;
- Tips are not included, but would be appreciated;
- Personal travel and health insurance.
Accommodation:
| Mestia - 2 nights | ||
| Bapsha guesthouse, Chubu, Villa Mestia or similar guesthouse | Posta, Banguriani, Sunset Terrace | Posta, Banguriani, Sunset Terrace |
