Mestia is a fantastic base for exploring one of Georgia’s most stunning mountain regions. Its rugged landscape, medieval towers, and remote villages make it ideal for a variety of tours. We particularly love the Day tour to Ushguli from Mestia for its combination of breathtaking scenery and culture, and the Horse Riding Tour to Shkhara Glacier for a unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty. The tours here range from easy scenic drives to active glacier hikes, ensuring every traveler finds something suited to their interests.
In this list, you’ll find guided day trips, glacier hikes, horse riding adventures, private explorations, and shared transfers. Whether you’re after a quick scenic overview or an in-depth mountain experience, these tours highlight the best of Mestia and its surrounds. For a taste of Georgia’s highest villages and ancient towers, read on to see which of these options fit your style.
1. Day tour to Ushguli from Mestia
At number 1, this guided day tour to Ushguli offers a classic Svaneti experience. Departing daily, it covers the highest village in Europe, providing incredible views of Mount Ushba, Tetnuldi, and Shkhara. The tour includes stops at the Tower of Love, Tower of King Tamar, and the Lamaria Monastery, alongside panoramic mountain vistas. The itinerary involves a scenic Jeep ride lasting about 80 minutes each way, with a 1.5-hour guided walk through Ushguli’s ancient towers and churches.
What makes this tour special is its balance of convenience and culture. The guide shares stories of local legends and history, making the visit more meaningful. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with a perfect 5/5 for the breathtaking mountain views. It’s ideal for those short on time but eager to see the iconic mountain villages with minimal hassle.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, accessible option for travelers who want stunning scenery, cultural insights, and a manageable day trip.
2. Chalaadi Glacier tour
Number 2 on our list is the Chalaadi Glacier tour, rated 4.7/5. For $33 per person, you join a shared van from Mestia, making transportation straightforward and affordable. The tour includes a 30-minute SUV ride to the glacier and a 2-hour guided hike that winds through lush forests and along the ice. The scenery here is stunning, with views of the glacier, surrounding mountains, and the rushing Chalaadi River.
What makes this outing stand out is its combination of panoramic scenery and gentle hiking suitable for most fitness levels. The peacefulness of the glacier environment and the chance to walk close to ice formations make it memorable. The positive reviews highlight the scenery and the enjoyable company of fellow travelers, emphasizing it’s a great value for a short but impressive nature experience.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want an easy, scenic glacier walk without a long trek, and enjoy sharing the experience with other travelers.
3. Day Tour from Mestia to Ushguli
The Day Tour from Mestia to Ushguli offers a slightly longer, more private experience. Priced at $35.60 per person, it includes round-trip transport in a private vehicle with stops for photos, exploring medieval towers, and visiting UNESCO-listed churches. The tour lasts around 7 hours, making it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a relaxed pace and personalize their visit.
This tour’s highlight is its flexibility—your guide can adjust stops or extend visits depending on your interests. The focus on the traditional Svan architecture and mountain views makes it suitable for photography enthusiasts and culture lovers. Reviewers praise the guide, Dato, for sharing legends and stories that bring the region to life.
Bottom line: A private, customizable day trip suited for those seeking a deeper cultural connection and personalized attention.
4. Mestia – Kutaisi Shared Transfer
If your plans include traveling between Mestia and Kutaisi, the shared transfer offers dependable, cost-effective service. For $34.39 per person, you’ll ride in a comfortable vehicle with a maximum of 20 passengers, with fees included in the price. The ride takes about 5 hours, so it’s a good option for budget travelers or those with tight schedules.
The driver is professional, and the vehicle clean and A/C-equipped, making a long journey comfortable. Reviewers highlight the convenience and smooth ride, with mentions that the driver Toko made the trip more enjoyable.
Bottom line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking a straightforward, reliable transfer with minimal fuss.
5. Koruldi Lake Private Tour From Mestia
Number 5, the Koruldi Lake Private Tour, costs $99 per person and lasts about 3-4 hours. Starting from your chosen location in Mestia, the trip includes a visit to the iconic Koruldi Lakes at 2850 meters altitude. This area offers spectacular views of Ushba, Tetnuldi, and Shkhara peaks, with crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains.
What makes this tour stand out is its exclusivity—small group size or private arrangement ensures personalized attention. The lakes’ scenery, with dazzling blue waters and expansive mountain vistas, makes it one of the most photogenic spots in Svaneti. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed but deeply scenic experience and don’t mind a bit of altitude.
Bottom line: A premium choice for travelers seeking an intimate encounter with some of Georgia’s most stunning high-altitude lakes.
6. Mestia – Batumi Shared Transfer
Rated 5/5, the shared transfer from Mestia to Batumi is a comfortable solution for those heading to Georgia’s seaside city. At $35.92 per person, the 6-hour ride offers a relaxed experience with professional drivers and air-conditioned vehicles. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to avoid the hassle of taxis or arranging separate transport.
The reviews note the calm driving style and clean vehicles, making the journey smooth. It’s a practical choice for anyone looking to connect two key regions without stress or extra expense.
Bottom line: Great for budget travelers needing a reliable, comfortable transfer between mountain and coast.
7. Ushguli: Horse Riding Tour to Shkhara Glacier
For a truly memorable experience, the Horse Riding Tour to Shkhara Glacier offers a 4-hour adventure. At $227 per person, it’s a premium option, best suited for confident riders. You’ll journey on horseback through the scenic landscape of Ushguli toward the Shkhara Glacier, enjoying spectacular views of Mount Shkhara.
What makes this tour exceptional is the chance to see the mountains from a different perspective and connect with Svaneti’s equestrian traditions. The guide shares insights and stories about the region’s history and culture, adding depth to your ride.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for experienced riders eager for a scenic and active exploration of Svaneti’s highlands.
8. Mestia Ushguli private tour
At number 8, the Mestia-Ushguli private tour offers a deeply personalized journey. For $99 per person, it includes private transport, visits to Love Tower and the Ushguli Ethnographic Museum, and a flexible schedule. The tour features legends about the Love Tower and insights from a local guide, making it a rich cultural experience.
Rated 4.5/5, reviewers praise the guide Leo for professionalism and storytelling. The tour’s focus on medieval towers and local traditions makes it perfect for travelers seeking cultural depth and comfort.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who want a tailored, in-depth exploration of Svaneti’s historic sites with local flavor.
9. 2-Day Svaneti Adventure: from Batumi
Number 9, the 2-Day Svaneti Adventure from Batumi is a comprehensive tour rated 4.7/5. It covers the Enguri Dam, Hatsvali cable car, and Ushguli, with overnight stays included. Expect scenic boat rides, glacier hikes, and visits to UNESCO sites, making it ideal for active travelers.
This tour excels in offering multiple highlights over two days, with a good mix of adventure and cultural sites. It’s suitable for those with a week’s worth of time and a desire to explore the highlights thoroughly. The reviews emphasize the unforgettable views and well-organized itinerary.
Bottom line: A perfect pick for adventure-minded travelers wanting a wide-ranging Svaneti experience.
10. From Batumi: 2-Day Tour To Svaneti – Mestia – Ushguli
This 2-day tour offers a well-planned introduction to Georgia’s mountains. It includes highest peaks, village visits, and mountain views. Expect scenic drives, local cuisine, and memorable photo stops. It’s designed for travelers with limited time who want maximum scenery and culture.
The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive itinerary, combining transportation, guiding, and cultural stops. It suits those who prefer organized group travel over DIY excursions.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers with limited time seeking a full mountain experience.
11. Batumi: 2-Day Svaneti Adventure Ushguli, Mestia & Glaciers
Rated 5/5, this 2-day tour offers a deep dive into Svaneti’s most spectacular sights. Traveling by 4×4, you visit the old town of Mestia, Lamaria Church, and get a chance to hike or horseback ride to Shkhara Glacier. It’s perfect for those wanting a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Guests highlight the comfortable vehicles and the stunning mountain scenery, with the guide providing helpful details. This trip is suited for travelers who want a quick but rich experience of Georgia’s mountains.
Bottom line: A convenient, high-quality overview for a short trip that covers the highlights.
12. From Tbilisi: Svaneti 4-Day Highlights Guided Tour
Number 12 offers a 4-day guided tour from Tbilisi, perfect for fully enjoying Svaneti. It includes hiking to glaciers, visiting ancient towers, and relaxing in local villages. It’s tailored for travelers with a week to explore Georgia’s mountainous heart.
The itinerary combines cultural sights with outdoor activities, like riding the cable car at Hatsvali. Reviews note the comprehensive nature and the opportunity to experience local culture along with natural wonders.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want an in-depth, multi-day experience with guided insights.
13. Kutaisi: Ushguli, Waterfalls, and Zagari Pass Day Trip
Rated with no reviews yet, this full-day trip from Kutaisi combines waterfalls, mountain passes, and the village of Ushguli. It starts early and involves walking in a medieval village, visiting Ophitara and Rachkha waterfalls, and crossing Zagari Pass for panoramic views.
Priced for a full 14-hour day, it suits active travelers eager to see diverse landscapes without the need to arrange transport themselves. The highlight is the scenic mountain crossings and the chance to explore a less-visited part of Georgia.
Bottom line: A good option for those seeking a full-day, active exploration of mountain scenery with cultural stops.
14. Mestia: Horse Riding Tour to Koruldi Lakes
Rated for quality, the Horse Riding Tour to Koruldi Lakes costs $290 and lasts about 4 hours. The tour explores Koruldi Lakes on horseback, providing a different perspective of the white glaciers and mountain views. Riding with local guides, you experience the region’s traditions and natural beauty.
This tour is perfect for experienced riders looking for a scenic adventure. The emphasis on local culture and remote wilderness makes it an authentic experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for confident riders wanting a high-altitude horseback adventure with stunning scenery.
15. Mestia Ushguli day trip
Finally, the Mestia-Ushguli day trip offers a straightforward way to explore Ushguli’s untouched landscapes. This guided experience includes visiting the Church of Lamaria, hiking in the village, and discovering centuries-old watchtowers.
It’s ideal for travelers wanting a shorter, focused visit without the complexity of multiple days. The guided nature ensures you see the highlights and learn about local traditions.
Bottom line: A simple, effective way to enjoy the remote village of Ushguli in a day.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Mestia
When selecting a tour, consider your interest level, fitness and time available. For those seeking a quick taste of mountain scenery, the Day tour to Ushguli offers a straightforward experience. If you want to go deeper into local culture, the private tours or 4-day guided trip from Tbilisi will provide richer insights. Budget travelers will appreciate the shared transfers, while active adventurers might prefer horse riding or glacier hikes.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like horseback riding or multi-day adventures. Think about what scenery or cultural experience is most important—whether it’s the iconic Ushguli villages, the majestic Shkhara Glacier, or the scenic Koruldi Lakes—and let that guide your choice.
Final Thoughts
Mestia’s rugged charm and high-altitude beauty make it a must-see for anyone visiting Georgia’s mountains. Whether you prefer a quick scenic drive, a challenging glacier trek, or a horseback ride among ancient towers, the options are wide-ranging. For a family-friendly outing, the Chalaadi Glacier is perfect. For those wanting a cultural deep dive, the private tours provide personalized insights.
Remember, many of these tours require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Pick the one that best matches your interests, fitness level, and schedule, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Georgia’s stunning Svaneti region.
