Trekking in Georgia: Glaciers of Caucasus

Discover the wild beauty of Mountainous Georgia, where the Caucasus rises above ancient villages and sweeping glacier valleys. This program blends relaxed trekking with authentic cultural experiences in the stunning region of Svaneti.

Easy day tours to the beginning of the glaciers. Hike to the glacial moraine or to the point where the view of the glacier opens. Let’s see the glaciers while they still exist. Beauty in white…

We star our journey in the morning in Mestia, our base for exploring the mountains. We warm up with a hike to the Chaaladi Glacier and stroll through the old town with its iconic Svan towers. In the following days, we trek from Adishi toward the Adishi and Khalde glaciers, cross a river with horse support, and climb to the Chkhunderi Pass (2,655 m) for spectacular views. The journey continues to Ushguli, one of Europe’s highest inhabited villages, where we experience true local life.

The itinerary is active yet accessible, offering daily hikes, time in nature, and the unique atmosphere of Georgian mountain culture. Note, that there is no need for crampons, since we will not hike on the glaciers.

Tour Type: Trekking / Active Exploration
Duration: ~6 days
Group Size: Small group
Accommodation: Guesthouses

Experience the raw beauty of Georgia’s Caucasus Mountains on a trekking tour that leads you through ancient Svan villages, dramatic valleys, and some of the most accessible glaciers in the Caucasus. This active journey is perfect for hikers and nature lovers seeking pristine alpine scenery, authentic culture, and unforgettable mountain views.

We hike to the mouth of the glacier, not on the glacier, so journey is perfectly safe and there is no need for crampons or any other mountaneering equipment.

Why Choose the Glaciers of the Caucasus Tour?

• Explore Svaneti, a UNESCO-listed region famous for medieval stone towers and high-altitude settlements.

• Hike to iconic glaciers such as Chaaladi Glacier, Adishi Glacier, and Khalde Glacier.

• Visit Mestia and Ushguli, two of Georgia’s most picturesque mountain communities.

• Enjoy panoramic views from Chkhunderi Pass (2,655 m), one of the most breathtaking lookouts in the region.

• Travel in a small group for a more personal and immersive experience.

DAY 1: MESTIA – CHAALADI

We begin our journey meeting in guesthouse in Mestia, where we meet a guide and rest of the group. We head out on an acclimatization hike to the Chaaladi Glacier. The trail follows the Mestia–Chala River, passes through a pine forest, and continues toward the glacial moraine, where views open up to Chaaladi—one of the most accessible glaciers in the region. Upon returning, we explore the old town of Mestia, admire the beautiful Svan towers and the local museum, and enjoy dinner at our guesthouse.

Distance: 6 km
Ascent: 280 m
Descent: 280 m

DAY 2: MESTIA – USHBA GLACIER – MESTIA

On the second day, a more challenging hike awaits us beneath the mighty Mount Ushba, often called the “Matterhorn of the Caucasus.” Early in the morning, we set out from the village of Mazeri toward the Ushba Glacier. The trail leads us through forests along the Dolra River and past Shdugra, the highest waterfall in Georgia, before a moderately steep ascent brings us to an elevation of 2,492 meters. The view of Ushba’s north face, its glacier, and the surrounding ice fields is truly breathtaking. After about seven hours, we descend back into the valley, where a transfer takes us to Mestia for dinner in a cozy mountain atmosphere.

Distance: 12 km
Ascent: 700 m
Descent: 700 m

DAY 3: MESTIA – TVIBERI GLACIER – ADISHI

On the third day, we say goodbye to Mestia and drive to the village of Zabeshi. From there, we begin a hike to the Tviberi Glacier, located beneath the Banguriani mountain range. The trail is moderately challenging and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. After completing the hike, we drive to the village of Adishi, one of the most remote and authentic villages in Svaneti, where we stay in a family-run guesthouse and get to know the locals.

Distance: 14 km
Ascent: 600 m
Descent: 600 m

DAY 4: ADISHI – ADISHI AND KHALDE GLACIER – IPRALI/USHGULI

On this day, we trek from Adishi to Iprali. In the morning, we follow the Adishchala River toward the Adishi Glacier. Crossing the river on horseback is a unique experience in itself. We then ascend to the Chkhunderi Pass, situated at 2,655 meters above sea level. Along the way, we enjoy views of the Adishi and Khalde glaciers, and at the top of the pass, we climb to a viewpoint at 2,800 meters. After a short rest, we descend into the Iprali Valley, from where we are transferred to the famous village of Ushguli, one of the highest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe.

Distance: 18.7 km
Ascent: 860 m
Descent: 1,069 m

DAY 5: USHGULI – SHKHARA AND LEKHZIRI GLACIER

In the morning, we drive to the starting point for today’s beautiful hike. The trail follows the river across meadows to Lake Namkhami, where views open up to the cliffs of Georgia’s highest mountain, Shkhara, and its numerous glaciers. After a short break, we ascend the Namkhami Ridge to an elevation of 3,160 meters, where the views are even more spectacular. We then descend along a circular route back to the lake and the starting point. after a short brake we can walk also toward Skhkara glacier (easy hike). Afterwards, we return to Ushguli for dinner and another evening in this stunning mountain village.

Distance: 10.3 km +6 km
Ascent: 900 m
Descent: 900 m

DAY 6: USHGULI – KUTAISI

On the final day, we spend the morning strolling through Ushguli and visiting the Lamaria Church, the village’s symbol, which offers magnificent views of Shkhara. We then drive to the Zagari Pass and hike to a viewpoint overlooking both the upper and lower Enguri Valley, taking in one last glimpse of the Caucasus’ glacial giants beneath Shkhara’s towering cliffs. We descend along a scenic road through Lower Svaneti to Kutaisi, where we conclude our journey with a farewell dinner.

Distance: 3 km
Ascent: 200 m
Descent: 200 m

• Daily hikes through glacier valleys and alpine meadows

• Scenic river crossings and dramatic mountain ridges

• Rich cultural encounters in remote Georgian villages

• Comfortable guesthouses and warm local hospitality

• Perfect balance between active exploration and relaxation

Trek to the spots, from where you can adore glaciers of the Caucasus in Georgia’s Svaneti region. Explore remote villages, stunning peaks, and breathtaking alpine scenery in a small group adventure.