Day tour to Ushguli from Mestia

Key Points

• Duration: 6 hours, departing daily from Mestia at 10 a.m.
• Highlights: Visit the Tower of Love, Tower of King Tamar, Lamaria monastery, and enjoy panoramic views of Ushba, Tetnuldi, and Shkhara mountains.
• Transportation: Comfortable off-road jeep or SUV journey to and from Ushguli, with a total travel time of approximately 3 hours.
• Guided Tour: An English-speaking guide leads a 1.5-hour exploration of Ushguli’s ancient towers and architecture.
• Best suited for: Travelers seeking spectacular mountain scenery, cultural sights, and a manageable day trip from Mestia.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Explore Europe’s Highest Village: Ushguli from Mestia

The day tour to Ushguli offers an accessible way to experience one of Georgia’s most remarkable spots. The tour starts at 10 a.m. in front of Credo Bank in Mestia, making it convenient for travelers staying in the town. Over the next six hours, visitors enjoy a blend of scenic drives, cultural sites, and breathtaking mountain views.

This guided excursion is perfect for those eager to see Ushguli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient stone towers, historic churches, and towering peaks. The tour combines comfortable transportation with expert narration, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Starting Point and Transportation Details

The tour gathers at Credo Bank, located at #38 Tamar Mepe Street in Mestia. From there, a jeep or SUV takes the group on an approximately 80-minute off-road drive to Ushguli. This rugged journey is part of the adventure, offering glimpses of Georgia’s natural beauty and the mountain landscape along the way.

The return trip follows the same route, totaling about 160 minutes of travel time. The vehicle’s off-road capability helps access the remote village comfortably, ensuring a smooth but scenic ride through the Svaneti region.

Visiting the Tower of Love and the Scenic Village of Ushguli

The tour’s first stop is the Tower of Love, an iconic symbol representing forbidden romance. This site offers a striking view and a chance to take memorable photos. Afterward, the group continues to Ushguli, where the guided tour lasts 1.5 hours.

Once in Ushguli, a friendly guide introduces visitors to the village’s history and showcases its medieval towers and churches. These stone structures stand as a testament to the area’s architectural heritage and cultural significance. The guide explains the stories behind these ancient buildings, giving visitors a deeper appreciation of the village’s historical importance.

The Lamaria Monastery and Mountain Panoramas

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Lamaria monastery, a historic religious site nestled within Ushguli. This monastery adds a spiritual dimension to the visit and complements the exploration of the village’s architecture.

Throughout the visit, travelers are treated to spectacular views of the mountains, including Ushba (4700-4710m), Tetnuldi (4858m), and Shkhara (5200m). These peaks dominate the landscape, providing a dramatic backdrop to the stone towers and ancient churches. The scenery is especially striking from vantage points around the village, offering perfect photo opportunities.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Schedule, and Inclusions

The tour begins at Credo Bank in Mestia and ends back there at around 4 p.m.. The package includes transportation and guiding services in English, making navigation easy and informative.

Note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so travelers should arrange their own transportation to the meeting point. The entrance fee for the Tower of Love is just 2 GEL, payable on-site.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and explore uneven terrain. Since mountain weather can change quickly, bringing warm clothing is recommended—even on sunny days, temperatures can drop at higher elevations. Plus, dressing in comfortable clothes ensures ease during the tour.

Why Choose This Tour from Budget Georgia Kutaisi

This tour offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and scenic drive, all within a manageable six-hour window. The small group setting and English-speaking guide ensure a personalized experience. The visit to Ushguli’s ancient towers and monasteries stands out as a key highlight, alongside the breathtaking mountain vistas.

The tour is especially well-suited for travelers seeking an accessible day trip that captures the essence of Svaneti’s mountain scenery and heritage. The affordable price and flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay-later reservation, add to its appeal.

The Sum Up: A Scenic Journey into Svaneti’s Heart

The day tour to Ushguli from Mestia delivers a satisfying glimpse into Georgia’s highest village, combining spectacular views, historical sites, and cultural insights. The off-road drive to this remote location introduces travelers to the rugged beauty of the Svaneti region, while the guided exploration provides context and stories behind the ancient towers.

While the tour’s timing and duration are designed for convenience, travelers should prepare for some walking and variable weather. The limited entrance fee and inclusion of transportation and guide make this trip a good choice for those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Ushguli without overextending the day.

If you’re eager to witness mountain panoramas and medieval architecture in one of Europe’s highest villages, this tour offers a practical, engaging, and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the duration of the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 10 a.m. and returning by **4 p.m..

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins and ends at Credo Bank in Mestia.

• What is included in the price?
  The price covers transportation and guiding service in English.

• Are there any additional fees?
  Yes, a 2 GEL entrance fee is payable at the Tower of Love.

• Do I need to arrange my own transportation to the meeting point?
  Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included.

• Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
  The tour involves some walking and a rugged drive, so travelers should be comfortable with these conditions.

• What should I bring?
  Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, and bring comfortable clothes for varying weather.

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

• How scenic is the drive?
  The off-road journey offers stunning mountain views and a close-up look at Georgia’s natural beauty.

• Who is the tour provider?
  The experience is offered by Budget Georgia Kutaisi.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
  More Great Tours Nearby