Imagine riding through the towering Caucasus Mountains, where the landscape shifts from lush green valleys to jagged peaks—sounds epic, right? This is exactly what you get with the Horse Riding Tour to Koruldi Lakes near Mestia in Georgia. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve looked into it thoroughly, and it strikes me as a fantastic choice for anyone craving a mix of adventure, culture, and jaw-dropping scenery.

What really appeals to us about this experience are the stunning mountain views and the chance to connect with local Svan culture while exploring remote, less-trodden paths. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the relatively short duration of four hours, which might leave some wanting a bit more time on the saddle. Still, this tour seems well-suited for those who want a manageable yet memorable mountain adventure, especially if you love being outdoors and soaking in nature’s grandeur.

If you’re comfortable with riding horses and eager to see some of Georgia’s most iconic mountain vistas, this tour looks like a smart pick. It’s perfect for travelers craving an active experience that’s not overly long or strenuous, and for anyone keen to learn about local traditions along the way.

Key Points

Stunning Mountain Vistas: Ride through diverse landscapes with incredible views of the Caucasus.
Authentic Culture: Experience the unique traditions of the Svan community.
Guided by Local Experts: Enjoy the knowledge of experienced horsemen supporting your journey.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
Value for Money: At $290 per person, it offers a blend of adventure and cultural insight in a beautiful setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This four-hour adventure kicks off with a pickup from your accommodation in Mestia, which makes it easy to get started without fuss. Once you’re on board, the real magic begins. You’ll ride through a variety of Georgia’s mountain landscapes, from lush, green valleys to rocky outcrops, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views.

The trail is designed to highlight the most scenic and untouched parts of the area, giving you a sense of remote wilderness that’s becoming harder to find these days. The route takes you from Mestia toward the famous Koruldi Lakes, a series of high-altitude glacial lakes that offer some of the most iconic photo ops in the region.

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The Landscape and Scenery

The landscape is one of the main reasons to do this tour. We love the way the Caucasus Mountains seem to transform before your eyes—craggy peaks in the distance, peaceful valleys below, and the chance to gaze at some of Europe’s tallest, most rugged mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass through Svan villages, where local traditions and architecture remain alive and vivid.

The Cultural Aspect

You’ll get a taste of local Svan culture, which is a highlight for many travelers. The Svans have their own language, customs, and unique mountain architecture, which you can observe in the villages along the trail. The tour offers a chance to see a side of Georgia that’s distinct from Tbilisi or Batumi, providing a more authentic, less commercial experience.

The Ride and Guides

Guided by local horsemen, the tour combines professionalism with local knowledge. Although their English may be limited, the English-speaking coordinator ensures smooth communication, so you’ll always know what’s happening and what to expect. The horses are described as well-behaved, and the trail is suitable for those comfortable on horseback.

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Duration and Group Size

The four-hour length is quite manageable—enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling exhausted. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) helps create an intimate, relaxed atmosphere, which is ideal for taking photos, soaking in the views, or just enjoying the ride.

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Breaking Down the Experience

The Pickup and Start

Expect a pickup from your hotel, which is hassle-free. Once you arrive at the riding base, you’ll meet your guides and horses. The safety briefing and equipment check happen here, so don’t worry if you’re new to horseback riding; the guides are experienced and supportive.

The Ride Through Valleys and Peaks

The trail to the Koruldi Lakes is relatively untouched, emphasizing remote wilderness. Since the tour is guided by local experts, they’ll point out interesting features, share stories about the area, and perhaps even introduce some local traditions.

The terrain varies, and while some parts are gentle, others are more rugged. The horses are trained to handle these conditions, and the pace is generally relaxed, suitable for most riders with some experience. However, those with back problems or who are pregnant should consider their comfort beforehand.

The Koruldi Lakes and Views

The highlight is reaching the lakes themselves. Here, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks—truly some of the most striking scenery in Georgia. Many reviews mention the breathtaking vistas and how they make the ride worth every moment.

Returning and Wrap-Up

After taking plenty of photos and soaking in the scenery, you’ll head back to Mestia. The return journey offers a different perspective of the landscape, often with softer light and quieter surroundings.

Is it Worth the Price?

At $290 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural exposure, and guided comfort. The price reflects the exclusivity of small group sizes, the expertise of local guides, and the unique landscapes you’ll explore.

Compared to other similar experiences in Georgia, it’s a moderately priced offering that’s likely to deliver high value, especially if you’re eager to see the mountains from horseback and appreciate local traditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers who are comfortable on horseback and eager to see Georgia’s mountainous regions from a different perspective. It’s also great for travelers who want a taste of local culture and enjoy scenic outdoor activities without committing to a multi-day trek.

If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo (the small group makes it easy to connect), you’ll probably find this tour rewarding. Not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with back problems, so be sure to consider those factors.

The Sum Up

The Horse Riding Tour to Koruldi Lakes in Mestia offers a fantastic way to see some of Georgia’s most spectacular mountain scenery while engaging with local culture. The combination of expert guides, manageable duration, and stunning vistas makes it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a memorable outdoor experience without overdoing it.

While it’s not a lengthy or intense ride, it provides enough time to enjoy the landscape and make lasting memories. If you’re someone who loves mountains, authentic local atmospheres, and gentle adventure, this tour could be just what you need.

For those seeking a scenic, culture-rich outing that’s easy to fit into a busy schedule, it’s hard to go wrong. Just be prepared for some altitude and variable terrain, and you’ll find yourself with a story to tell for years.

Ready to Book?

Mestia: Horse Riding Tour to Koruldi Lakes

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It depends on your comfort level on horseback. The horses are well-behaved, and guides support the ride, but some experience is recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for riding.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, intimate group.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 4 hours, including pickup, riding, and returning.

Are kids under 8 allowed?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old.

What is the difficulty level?
It’s suitable for most riders with some experience on horseback; it’s not overly strenuous but involves varied terrain.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled in case of bad weather, so check ahead.

Do I need to know Svan culture to enjoy the tour?
Not at all, but the cultural insights add a nice touch if you’re interested.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of stunning mountain views, remote wilderness, and local Svan culture makes it a unique experience worth considering.

If you’re after a memorable way to explore Georgia’s mountains that goes beyond just hiking or sightseeing, this horseback adventure could very well be your highlight.