Tbilisi to Mestia Private Scenic Multi Day Tour

The Tbilisi to Mestia Private Scenic Multi Day Tour offers an immersive journey into Georgia’s breathtaking Svaneti region, designed for those eager to explore mountain landscapes, ancient villages, and cultural highlights. Priced at $140 per person, this 4-day adventure features a combination of scenic stops, hiking opportunities, and local experiences with private AWD transportation, making it ideal for travelers seeking comfort and flexibility.

The tour provides three customizable options, allowing guests to choose a transfer-only service, a 3-day exploration with key sites like Ushguli and Koruldi lakes, or a 4-day experience that includes additional museum visits, Hatsvali cable car, and local cuisine. The comprehensive itinerary balances nature, culture, and leisure, though it requires moderate physical fitness, especially for hikes and outdoor activities.

While the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and stunning views, travelers should note the long ride times and the need for early starts to make the most of each stop. The tour’s flexibility, combined with its focus on scenic highlights, makes it a compelling choice for those wanting an authentic experience of Georgia’s mountainous north.

Key Points

• Private 4-day tour from Tbilisi to Mestia with customizable options
• Includes scenic Prometheus Cave, Martvili Canyon, and the Enguri River reservoir
• Hiking at Koruldi Lakes and Chalaadi Glacier with 4×4 vehicle support
• Visit to Hatsvali cable car, Khergiani Museum, and Heshkili huts
• Optional 2-night or 3-night hotel stays in Mestia and Ushguli
• Comfortable private AWD transportation with Wi-Fi included

Starting Point and Group Size

This private tour begins at Liberty Square, Tbilisi and ends back at the same location. Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour features pickup service, with the convenience of group discounts and mobile tickets.

Day 1: Exploring the Caves, Canyon, and Reservoirs

The journey kicks off with visits to Georgia’s impressive Prometheus Cave, where a 1.5 km tunnel walk reveals stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes illuminated by rainbow-colored LED lights. The entrance fee of $7 is included in the overall package, and the cave visit lasts around 2 hours.

Next, the tour proceeds to the Martvili Canyon, where visitors can enjoy a boat ride across the canyon’s calm waters. The ticket price of approximately $6 is optional but highly recommended for a closer view of the striking rock formations and waterfalls. The canyon visit takes about 2 hours.

The tour then continues to the Enguri River reservoir, a shiny green lake that provides perfect photo opportunities. This stop is quick, about 1 hour, with no additional fees. The first day concludes with a transfer to Mestia, where guests check into their booked hotel for the night.

Day 2: Mountain Hikes and Scenic Lakes

Day two is dedicated to outdoor adventures in the Svaneti mountains. The highlight is the visit to Koruldi Lakes, accessible via a 4×4 vehicle. The lakes are famous for their panoramic views and crystal-clear waters, with an outing lasting about 3 hours.

Following this, the tour features a hike to the Chalaadi Glacier, recognized as one of the best hiking spots in the region. The 3-hour hike offers incredible scenery of ice formations and mountain vistas, perfect for photography and nature lovers.

After the hikes, the group returns to Mestia for a relaxed evening, with plenty of time to explore the town or enjoy local cuisine.

Day 3: Museum Visits, Huts, and Cable Car Rides

The third day invites guests to explore cultural and mountain village sites. The Hatsvali Ski Resort offers an optional cable car ride, providing spectacular views of the surrounding peaks—though the ticket is not included in the tour price.

A visit to the Khergiani Tower introduces the story of Georgia’s renowned alpinist, with a 2-hour stop at the museum and tower. This offers insight into local mountaineering history and the region’s daring climbers.

Next, the tour visits Heshkili huts, where visitors can enjoy traditional Svanetian meals and taste the famous Kubdari bread. The big swing at Heshkili provides a fun, scenic photo op, and the visit lasts around 2 hours.

The day wraps up back in Mestia, allowing time for dinner and relaxation.

Day 4: Visiting Ushguli and the Zagari Pass

The final day is dedicated to reaching the highest inhabited village in Georgia, Ushguli, famous for its medieval towers and stunning mountain backdrop. The 3-hour visit offers plenty of time to stroll through the village and soak in the views.

Next, the group visits LaMaria Church, an important religious site with about 1 hour of exploration. The church’s architecture and mountain setting are particularly striking.

The journey concludes with a scenic return to Tbilisi via the Zagari Pass. On the way, a stop in Kutaisi, Georgia’s old capital, allows for brief sightseeing before completing the 3-hour drive back to the capital.

Practical Details and Inclusions

This tour includes a private AWD vehicle for the entire trip, ensuring comfort and capability on mountain roads. Passengers enjoy Wi-Fi on board and the fuel surcharge is covered. Accommodation for the guide and hotel stays in Mestia (and Ushguli if booking the 4-day option) are part of the package.

The tour does not include lunch, hotel costs, or entry tickets for certain activities like the cable car or museums. Travelers should be prepared for some physical activity, especially on hikes and outdoor visits.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The customizable options allow travelers to tailor their experience, whether they prefer a short transfer or an extended exploration. The inclusion of scenic spots like Koruldi Lakes and Chalaadi Glacier offers breathtaking mountain vistas, while the visits to museums and local huts deepen understanding of the region’s culture.

The tour’s emphasis on comfort and flexibility, with private transportation and group discounts, makes it appealing for those seeking an organized yet personalized adventure.

Limitations and Considerations

The journey involves long rides, and the start time should be early to maximize sightseeing. While the tour is praised for its guides and views, travelers must have moderate physical fitness for hikes and outdoor activities. Weather can impact certain activities, especially outdoor hikes and the cable car; in such cases, rescheduling or refunds are available.

The Sum Up: A Scenic Journey through Georgia’s Mountain Heart

This 4-day private tour from Tbilisi to Mestia offers an authentic glimpse into Georgia’s majestic Svaneti region. The combination of scenic vistas, outdoor hikes, and cultural attractions makes it ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded experience of mountain life and natural beauty.

The option to customize the itinerary ensures that each guest can focus on their specific interests, whether that’s hiking, museum visits, or simply enjoying the mountain scenery. The private transport and knowledgeable guides help navigate the long drives and ensure comfort throughout.

While the tour involves some long travel days, the stunning landscapes and unique cultural insights make this a worthwhile adventure. It suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of outdoor activity, cultural exploration, and scenic relaxation in Georgia’s highlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It requires moderate physical fitness, especially for hikes like Koruldi Lakes and Chalaadi Glacier.

Can I choose specific activities or stops?
Yes, the three main options allow customization, from transfer-only to full exploration with museum visits and additional nights.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch and hotel costs are not included, but local cuisine and cafes are available at stops like Heshkili huts.

What should I bring for outdoor activities?
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and possibly a camera for scenic vistas and hikes.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trip?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided on the private AWD vehicle for the entire tour.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, subject to weather conditions.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized experience, scenic stops like Prometheus Cave and Koruldi Lakes, and the cultural insights from museum visits.

How do I book this tour?
Through the provider Karlo-Georgia with options for hotel stays, guided visits, and flexible scheduling.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it caters to individuals and families comfortable with outdoor activities and mountain travel.