Ushguli: Horse Riding Tour to Shkhara Glacier

Traveling through Georgia’s remote Svaneti region offers an adventure like no other, especially if you’re into mountain scenery, ancient villages, and a touch of outdoor thrill. I’ve come across this horse riding tour to the Shkhara Glacier, and it sounds like a memorable way to soak in the breathtaking landscape — all from the back of a sturdy horse. While I haven’t done it myself, the reviews and details make it clear this is a solid choice for travelers craving a unique mountain experience.

What really caught our eye are the stunning panoramic views of the Greater Caucasus Mountains and the chance to explore Ushguli, which is recognized as the highest inhabited village in Europe. Plus, the opportunity to see the Shkhara Glacier at close range is pretty special. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour lasts just four hours, which might feel a bit short if you’re craving a full-day adventure. This experience is best suited for those comfortable on horseback and eager to get off the beaten path.

If you’re considering something active but manageable within a half-day, and you’re interested in authentic mountain scenery with friendly local guides, this might just be perfect. Just remember, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 9, pregnant women, or people with back problems — so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Ride through the Svaneti region with views of the Caucasus Mountains and Shkhara Peak.
• Unique experience: Explore the UNESCO site of Ushguli on horseback, combining culture and nature.
• Expert guides: Local horsemen lead the tour, supported by an English-speaking coordinator for smooth communication.
• Time-efficient: Four hours is enough to get a solid feel for the landscape without it taking up your entire day.
• Limited group size: Small groups of up to 10 participants make for a personalized experience.
• Value: At $227 per person, it’s a well-priced chance to get close to Georgia’s mountain highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Ushguli and the Shkhara Glacier by Horseback

When you think about the high mountains of Georgia, the Shkhara Glacier and Ushguli often come to mind as symbols of rugged beauty and tradition. This horse riding tour offers a chance to experience both in a relaxed, yet adventurous, way. The ride starts in Ushguli, which claims the title of the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe. With its ancient stone towers and traditional architecture, it’s a place that feels frozen in time.

From there, the journey takes you along the Enguri River, a waterway sourced from the Shkhara Glacier. The views are what you’d expect — majestic peaks rising sharply into the sky, with the Shkhara Peak itself towering at 5,201 meters (17,059 feet). The combination of mountain vistas and historic settlement makes every moment feel special. Riders report that the guides are knowledgeable, which adds a layer of trust and comfort, especially if you’re new to mountain riding.

What the Tour Entails

The four-hour tour is designed to balance riding and sightseeing, with the focus on adventure and scenery rather than technical riding. You’ll start in Ushguli and follow a trail that’s suitable for most riders with basic experience. The ride offers spectacular views of the glaciers and snow-capped peaks, with plenty of photo ops.

One of the highlights is seeing the Shkhara Glacier itself, which is just at the foot of the highest mountain in Georgia. The glacier’s icy formations and the vastness of the snowfield make for dramatic scenery. According to reviews, the local guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge, even if their English isn’t perfect, and the coordination from the English-speaking support team helps keep things on track.

The Experience and Atmosphere

While the scenery is the main event, the cultural aspect of riding through Ushguli shouldn’t be overlooked. The village’s ancient architecture and quiet traditions give an authentic feel. Some reviews mention the guides’ friendliness and their ability to show the best spots, even if language barriers exist.

The tour is supported by a small group setting, ensuring that everyone gets attention, and the limited group size (up to 10) keeps the experience intimate and relaxed. The ride itself is not overly strenuous, but it does require comfortable shoes and a basic level of riding confidence.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Pricing at $227 per person seems quite reasonable considering the remote location, scenic payoff, and the personalized nature of the group. Compared to other tours in the region, this offers good value for a half-day adventure that combines physical activity with sightseeing.

What to bring is straightforward: comfortable shoes, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothes. The tour departs from Ushguli, and the exact start times are flexible — you simply request a time that suits you.

The tour duration of four hours includes riding time and some stops for photos and explanation, making it an easy addition to your day without feeling rushed. The ride might be especially appealing if you’re someone who appreciates a bit of outdoor activity without committing to an all-day or multi-day experience.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This horse riding tour is ideal for travelers who are comfortable on horseback and are eager to see Georgia’s high mountain scenery from a unique angle. It’s suited for those who enjoy small group experiences and want to learn from local guides. Because it’s only four hours, it’s perfect if you’re balancing other activities or have a tight schedule.

It’s not for families with young children under 9, pregnant women, or those with back issues, but otherwise, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and cultural insight. If you’re a nature lover or seeking a memorable experience that’s more active than a walking tour but less demanding than multi-day hikes, this could be a great fit.

The Bottom Line

If you’re after a truly special way to experience Georgia’s mountains, this horse riding tour offers a wonderful combination of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor fun. The views of the Caucasus, the chance to explore Ushguli’s historic streets, and the thrill of riding near the Shkhara Glacier make it a worthwhile splurge. The knowledgeable local guides, small group atmosphere, and straightforward logistics contribute to a smooth experience.

While it’s not a lengthy tour, it’s packed with enough stunning sights and authentic mountain atmosphere to make it feel like a meaningful adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities and want to combine physical activity with sightseeing.

This ride is a solid choice for those looking to see some of Georgia’s most iconic landscapes from a different perspective — atop a horse, with fresh mountain air and spectacular views all around.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the tour is accessible to most riders with basic experience, it’s best if you’re comfortable on horseback. The guides are experienced, but the ride isn’t overly technical.

How long is the ride?
The total tour lasts 4 hours, including riding and stops for sightseeing and photos.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the four-hour horse riding experience with a local guide and English support.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 9 years old.

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

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and appropriate clothing for mountain weather.

Is transportation provided?
The departure and return are from Ushguli itself, so plan to get there on your own or arrange transport.

What about language barriers?
Guides are local and may have limited English, but an English-speaking coordinator supports the tour to facilitate communication.

How scenic are the views?
Absolutely breathtaking — think snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and ancient village scenery, all at your eye level from horseback.

Who would you recommend this to?
Travelers seeking a moderate outdoor adventure, stunning mountain scenery, and a taste of local culture, especially those comfortable with riding.

In summary, if you’re craving a combination of outdoor activity, culture, and spectacular scenery, this horse riding adventure from Ushguli to the Shkhara Glacier could be just what you need. It’s a chance to see Georgia’s high country in a way that’s both engaging and memorable, making for a story you’ll be telling long after your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: