Mestia is a treasure trove for travelers craving authentic mountain adventures and cultural immersions. Its rugged landscape, medieval towers, and remote villages make it an ideal base for guided tours that unlock the secrets of this stunning region. We particularly love the Day tour to Ushguli from Mestia, which combines spectacular mountain views with visits to iconic towers and monasteries—a true highlight for any history or scenery enthusiast. The diversity of options means you can enjoy everything from glacier hikes to horse riding, all with knowledgeable guides to enrich your experience.
If you’re unsure where to start, this guide will help you navigate the top tours in Mestia, whether you want a quick half-day excursion or a multi-day adventure. Each offers a unique glimpse into Svaneti’s natural beauty and cultural richness, making it easier to pick the right fit for your interests and schedule.
Quick Overview
Mestia offers a wide variety of tours, including day trips to Ushguli, Chalaadi Glacier, and private visits exploring medieval villages. For those seeking outdoor activities, options like horse riding to Shkhara Glacier or Koruldi Lakes are perfect for adventure lovers. Budget travelers can enjoy affordable group transfers and scenic day tours, while those seeking more personalized experiences can opt for private or multi-day trips. Below, we detail each tour to help you choose the best fit.
1. Day tour to Ushguli from Mestia
This day tour to Ushguli combines comfort and stunning scenery, making it one of the most popular excursions in Mestia. Departing daily, the 6-hour trip takes you through mountain roads in a jeep or SUV, with a guided exploration of Europe’s highest village. Key highlights include the Tower of Love, the Tower of King Tamar, and the Lamaria monastery, along with unobstructed views of Ushba, Tetnuldi, and Shkhara mountains. The tour’s itinerary includes scenic stops and a 1.5-hour guided walk, giving you a taste of Svaneti’s architecture and natural beauty.
With a rating of 4.6/5 from 51 reviews, travelers praise the breathtaking mountain vistas and the smooth organization. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable day trip that captures the essence of Svaneti’s rugged charm. Whether you’re after stunning photo opportunities or just want to breathe in the mountain air, this tour offers excellent value for a half-day escape.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers short on time but eager for spectacular scenery and a taste of local history.
2. Chalaadi Glacier tour
For those who want a mix of scenic driving and light hiking, the Chalaadi Glacier tour is a perfect choice. Priced at just $33 per person, this 3-hour shared van trip takes you from Mestia in a comfortable SUV, with a 2-hour guided walk at the glacier. The highlight is the chance to stand close to the Chalaadi Glacier, observing its icy formations and surrounding landscape.
The tour emphasizes Breathtaking scenery and tranquility, making it excellent for nature lovers seeking a peaceful experience without strenuous activity. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.7/5 rating, noting the scenic drive, the refreshing atmosphere, and the opportunity to enjoy peaceful moments in nature alongside other travelers.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting an accessible glacier experience that combines scenic views with light hiking.
3. Day Tour from Mestia to Ushguli
This private day tour is perfect if you’d like a tailored experience. It offers organized transportation to the remote villages of Ushguli, with plenty of time to explore at your own pace. The itinerary includes a visit to the Tower of Love, and then an exploration of the medieval towers and churches with a knowledgeable guide.
Rated 4.5/5 from 11 reviews, travelers appreciate the time-saving, customizable itinerary, and local insights. The tour is especially suited for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of planning transport and prefer a personalized touch. The guide shares stories about Svaneti’s architecture and legends, enriching your visit.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those seeking a flexible, private experience with local storytelling.
4. Mestia – Kutaisi Shared Transfer
For budget-conscious travelers, the shared transfer from Mestia to Kutaisi offers a budget-friendly, hassle-free way to move between destinations. At around $34.39 per person, this 5-hour ride is comfortable and reliable, with all fees included. It’s a straightforward solution for those who want to relax and enjoy the scenery without the worry of navigating mountain roads on their own.
Rated 4.5/5 based on 8 reviews, travelers mention the professional driver and the convenience of door-to-door service. It’s perfect for solo travelers or groups who want an economical and straightforward transfer to Kutaisi or other sites.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers prioritizing ease and affordability over sightseeing en route.
5. Ushguli: Horse Riding Tour to Shkhara Glacier
If you’re craving a more immersive experience, this horse riding tour to Shkhara Glacier offers a unique way to explore Svaneti’s landscapes. Priced at $227 per person for four hours, it’s a private tour that combines horseback riding with spectacular views of the Greater Caucasus Mountains and the UNESCO-listed Ushguli.
The tour is perfect for adventure travelers looking for a physically engaging way to see the glaciers and mountains. The guide shares insights into Svaneti’s natural features and local traditions. Riders should be comfortable with horses, as the terrain can be uneven.
Bottom line: A memorable option for those wanting a hands-on experience of Svaneti’s wilderness.
$227 per person
6. Koruldi Lake Private Tour From Mestia
This private tour to Koruldi Lakes is a favorite, especially for its panoramic views. Starting from only $99 per person, you’ll be collected from any location in Mestia and taken to see crystal-clear lakes at 2850 meters. The lakes offer stunning reflections of the Ushba and Shkhara peaks, with views of Zemo Svaneti and more.
Rated 5.0/5 from one review, the highlight is the breathtaking scenery and the chance to take amazing photos. The tour is suitable for those seeking a more personalized, flexible day with plenty of photo stops and a small group size.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting an intimate, scenic experience with spectacular mountain views.
$99.00 per person
7. Mestia Ushguli private tour
This private tour offers a personalized day exploring medieval towers and UNESCO sites. Starting with a legend-filled visit to the Love Tower, then continuing to the Ushguli Ethnographic Museum, you’ll learn about Svaneti’s architecture and traditions firsthand.
Rated 4.5/5 from five reviews, travelers appreciate the informative guidance and the opportunity to see local legends. It’s best for those who enjoy a culturally rich experience at their own pace and are interested in local stories.
Bottom line: Perfect for history and culture enthusiasts who prefer a private experience.
8. 2-Day Svaneti Adventure from Batumi
This two-day tour from Batumi combines mountain scenery, Ushguli, and glacier hikes. Starting with a visit to the Enguri Dam and a boat ride, it includes a Chalaadi Glacier trek and a night in Svaneti.
Rated 4.7/5, travelers love the comprehensive itinerary that balances adventure with scenic relaxation. It’s suited for those with a couple of days to spare and a desire to see both natural wonders and mountain villages.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers wanting a multi-day deep dive into Svaneti.
9. Batumi: 2-Day Svaneti Adventure Ushguli, Mestia & Glaciers
For a well-rounded experience, this two-day tour from Batumi covers Ushguli, Mestia, and nearby glaciers. It includes transport in a 4×4 vehicle, visits to medieval towers, and optional activities like horseback riding.
Rated 5/5, it’s ideal for travelers who want a full immersion in Svaneti’s mountainous landscape without sacrificing comfort. The tour’s detailed itinerary ensures you won’t miss major sites.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a comprehensive two-day exploration in comfort.
10. From Tbilisi: Svaneti 4-Day Highlights Guided Tour
This four-day guided tour offers a deep dive into Svaneti’s architecture, glaciers, and villages. Starting from Tbilisi, it includes visits to the Dadiani Palace, Shkhara Glacier, and Hatsvali cable car rides.
Rated 3/5, it’s perfect for culture and nature lovers with several days to spare. The itinerary covers far more than just Mestia, giving you a broader taste of Georgia’s highlands.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a long, immersive experience with a guided group.
11. Mestia: Horse Riding Tour to Koruldi Lakes
For a hands-on horseback experience, this tour provides a four-hour ride to the Koruldi Lakes. You’ll enjoy scenic views of peaks like Ushba and Tetnuldi, and experience the traditions of Svaneti horseback riding.
Rated without reviews, it’s suited for adventure riders with at least basic riding skills. The tour offers a more intimate way to see the mountain scenery and experience local culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers wanting a personalized horseback adventure.
$290 per person
12. Private tour from Kutaisi: Svaneti and Mestia
This full-day private tour takes you through high mountain villages, the Enguri Dam, and the medieval towers of Mestia. With a flexible schedule, it allows a customized itinerary that suits your interests.
Rated 4.8/5, travelers value the personalized approach and the dynamic storytelling by the guide. It’s ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with learning about local culture.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers seeking a tailored, all-day experience with expert guidance.
13. Svaneti: a trip to medieval villages and picturesque nature
This four-day off-road adventure explores highest European settlement Ushguli, the Shkhara glacier, and ancient villages with traditional architecture. It’s designed for those wanting a deep dive into both nature and history.
Rated 4.6/5, it’s best for adventure travelers who enjoy longer trips and are eager to experience less accessible sites.
Bottom line: For the dedicated explorer, this tour offers an in-depth look at Svaneti’s living history.
How to Choose
When selecting a tour in Mestia, consider your budget, time availability, and specific interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick panoramic experience, the Day tour to Ushguli offers a stunning snapshot. For outdoor lovers, horse riding or Koruldi Lakes provide active ways to enjoy the scenery. Budget travelers will appreciate the shared transfer and affordable glacier tours. Those seeking a more personalized experience might opt for private tours, which often include more detailed storytelling and flexible schedules.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season (summer and early autumn), to secure your preferred dates and avoid missing out on popular excursions.
Final Thoughts
The tours listed above showcase the versatility of Mestia as a launchpad for mountain adventures, cultural discovery, and scenic relaxation. For travelers with limited time, the Ushguli day tour offers a perfect balance of scenery and history. If you’re after a more immersive and active experience, the horse riding or Koruldi Lakes excursions will satisfy your craving for adventure. For those interested in cultural insights, private tours that include ethnographic museums and legends are a great choice.
No matter which tour you pick, booking in advance will ensure you get the most out of your trip. With so many options, Mestia is ready to surprise and delight—so start planning your mountain adventure today.