Self-Guiding/Hiking Tour in Georgia
7 Days

- 7 unforgettable hiking days in Georgia
- Flexible start: Tbilisi or Kutaisi
- Option to explore Georgia independently after the tour

Discover Georgia at your own pace on this Self-Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia, specially designed for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. This carefully curated itinerary takes you through breathtaking landscapes, quiet mountain trails, and authentic villages, offering a genuine experience of Georgia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The journey begins in Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital. Alternatively, participants can start in Kutaisi, a convenient option thanks to direct flights from several German airports (including Memmingen, Baden-Baden, Dortmund, and Berlin).

Your package includes accommodation, meals, all transfers, and luggage transport, ensuring a seamless and comfortable hiking adventure.

In the remote region of Svaneti, accommodation is provided in cozy, family-run guesthouses. While these are not luxury hotels, they are clean, authentic, and warmly furnished, with most offering en-suite bathrooms. Hosts will treat you to delicious homemade specialties from the region, giving you a true taste of Georgian hospitality.

At the end of the Self-Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia, you’ll have the unique opportunity to continue your journey as a self-driver and explore the country on your own.

Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Svaneti

Your Self Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia begins with a comfortable transfer from your hotel in either Tbilisi or Kutaisi to the breathtaking mountain region of Svaneti. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a fascinating stop at the impressive Enguri Dam, home to the second-highest arch dam in the world. Built in the 1980s, it still provides much of Georgia’s electricity today – a remarkable glimpse into the modern side of this ancient land.

By evening, you’ll arrive in the welcoming village of Etseri, nestled in the heart of the mountains. Here, you’ll stay in a cozy family-run guesthouse where warm hospitality meets authentic Georgian charm. Your hosts, who moved to Svaneti out of love for its pristine nature and stunning landscapes, will make you feel right at home. The day concludes with a hearty homemade dinner, giving you your first taste of the region’s culinary delights.

Distance from Kutaisi: approx. 250 km
Distance from Tbilisi: approx. 450 km

Family-run guesthouse in Etseri (shared bathroom facilities)
Meals included: Dinner

Day 2: Hike to Baki Pass

After breakfast, your Self Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia continues right from the charming village of Etseri. Today’s adventure takes you on a scenic hike to the Baki Pass (2,430 m) and onward to the sparkling Mezeri Lake.

From both the pass and the lake, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Layla mountain range. The highlight of the day is the sight of the legendary Mount Ushba, with its striking double peaks rising dramatically into the sky. This awe-inspiring view is one of the most memorable experiences for nature enthusiasts and mountain lovers alike.

A freshly prepared picnic box will be provided for you to enjoy along the way – the perfect break to savor the stunning alpine surroundings.

In the evening, you’ll continue to the picturesque village of Betscho, where a cozy family-run guesthouse awaits you. Your hosts will treat you to a delicious regional dinner, rounding off an unforgettable day in the mountains.

Hiking distance: approx. 12 km
Elevation gain/loss: ↑ 960 m / ↓ 800 m
Walking time (with breaks): approx. 6 hours

Family-run hotel in Betscho (private bathroom, free Wi-Fi)
Breakfast, Lunch, dinner

Day 3: Crossing the Guli Pass to Mestia

Today’s stage of your Self Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. You’ll set out on a long but unforgettable hike that brings you closer than ever to the dramatic peaks of Svaneti. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of snow-covered summits and the towering Mount Ushba, one of the most iconic mountains in the Caucasus with its striking glacier.

The highlight of the day is the ascent to the Guli Pass, standing proudly at almost 3,000 meters above sea level. Reaching this panoramic vantage point is a true achievement and an unforgettable experience for mountain enthusiasts. From the viewpoint near the Koruldi Lakes, you will be picked up by car and transferred to Mestia, the lively capital of Upper Svaneti and famous for its centuries-old defense towers.

After your demanding but awe-inspiring hike, you’ll be warmly welcomed at your family-run guesthouse. A hearty regional dinner and a refreshing beer will help you relax and reflect on the day’s adventures in the comfort of authentic Georgian hospitality.

Hiking distance: approx. 16 km
Elevation gain/loss: ↑ 1,300 m / ↓ 600 m
Hiking time (with breaks): approx. 7 hours

Family-run hotel in Mestia (private bathroom, free Wi-Fi)
Breakfast, Lunch, dinner

*** Alternative Route Option

If you prefer an easier hike, or in case of bad weather, an alternative route from Betscho to Latali is available:

Distance: approx. 7.7 km
Elevation gain/loss: ↑ 350 m / ↓ 450 m
Hiking time (with breaks): 3–4 hours
Difficulty level: Easy to medium

This scenic alternative offers a gentler experience while still allowing you to enjoy the charm of Svaneti’s landscapes.

Day 4: From Mestia to Mulakhi

Since today’s stage is relatively short, we recommend starting the morning with a cultural experience in Mestia. You may choose to visit the Mikheil Khergiani House Museum, dedicated to Georgia’s most famous mountaineer, or the Svaneti Ethnographic Museum, where you’ll gain fascinating insights into the region’s unique history, traditions, and art.

Afterward, your Self Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia continues as you head towards the municipality of Mulakhi, a charming region dotted with traditional villages nestled on sunny southern slopes. Many of these villages still preserve their impressive 12th- and 13th-century defense towers, silent witnesses of Svaneti’s storied past.

The hike begins gently, with around 5 kilometers across lush, flower-filled meadows, offering splendid views of the surrounding glaciers. A more demanding ascent of about 500 meters follows, rewarding you with a breathtaking panorama of the majestic Tetnuldi Mountain (4,858 m).

After approximately 5–6 hours of walking (with breaks), you’ll arrive in the picturesque village of Mulakhi, where you’ll be welcomed into a simple but cozy family-run guesthouse. The warm hospitality and authentic atmosphere will make you feel right at home, and a hearty homemade dinner will complete your day.

Hiking distance: approx. 13 km
Elevation gain/loss: ↑ 600 m / ↓ 450 m
Walking time (with breaks): approx. 5 hours

Family-run guesthouse in Mulakhi (shared bathroom facilities)
Breakfast, Lunch, dinner

Day 5: The Defence Towers of Adishi

After breakfast, your Self Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia continues with a descent to the village of Jabeschi, the starting point for today’s hike to the remote and historic village of Adishi.

The trail begins through dense forests, gradually opening up to flowering alpine meadows adorned with vibrant rhododendron bushes. You’ll ascend to the Adishi Pass at approximately 2,460 meters, where the reward is nothing short of spectacular: panoramic views of the towering peaks of Ushba (4,710 m), Laila (4,010 m), and Tetnuldi (4,858 m). This breathtaking scenery is a highlight for both mountain enthusiasts and photographers alike.

From the pass, the trail descends into the Adischiszkhali Valley, leading you to the medieval village of Adishi in the late afternoon. This charming village is renowned for its well-preserved defence towers, offering a glimpse into Svaneti’s rich history. You’ll spend the night in a simple, cozy family-run guesthouse, experiencing warm Georgian hospitality and authentic local life firsthand.

Hiking distance: approx. 13.5 km
Elevation gain/loss: ↑ 990 m / ↓ 700 m
Walking time (with breaks): approx. 7 hours

Overnight stay: Guesthouse in Adishi (simple accommodation)
Breakfast, Lunch, dinner

Day 6: UNESCO Heritage Site of Ushguli

Today, your Self Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia leads you to the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ushguli, the highest permanently inhabited village in Georgia and all of Europe.

The hike begins along the serene Adischishkhali River, gradually ascending to the Chkutnieri Pass (2,750 m) in about two hours. From the pass, enjoy breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and expansive high valleys, a true feast for nature lovers and photographers.

The descent winds through lush green mountain pastures dotted with colorful alpine flowers and secluded valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass charming mountain huts and the historic fortified village of Chalde, known for its courageous uprising against the Russian Empire in 1876.

After this memorable stage, a short one-hour drive brings you to Ushguli, nestled at the foot of Georgia’s highest mountain, Shkhara (5,200 m). Here, the village’s centuries-old fortified towers and authentic alpine atmosphere offer a truly unforgettable highlight of your hiking tour.

Hiking distance: approx. 14 km
Elevation gain/loss: ↑ 770 m / ↓ 800 m
Walking time (with breaks): approx. 7 hours

Overnight stay: Family-run hotel in Ushguli
Breakfast, Lunch, dinner

Day 7: Ushguli’s Local Peak

Today promises one of the most memorable highlights of your Self Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia. Before sunrise, around 4:30 am, you’ll set off with headlamps, warmly dressed, to ascend Ushguli’s local peak. Rising to nearly 3,000 meters, the summit rewards you with stunning panoramic views of glaciers and Georgia’s highest mountains – an unforgettable experience you’ll cherish long after your journey ends.

After your early-morning adventure, return to your guesthouse for a refreshing shower and hearty breakfast, preparing for the scenic drive across the Zagaro Pass. From there, you’ll continue to Lentekhi and onward to Kutaisi, where your Self Guiding Hiking Tour in Georgia officially concludes.

For travelers who began their tour in Tbilisi, a complimentary transfer back to Tbilisi is available upon request. For those wishing to extend their adventure, you are free to continue exploring Georgia at your own pace, either as a self-driver or with a hired driver. Please note that additional overnight stays are not included in the tour price.

Hiking distance: approx. 8.5 km
Elevation gain/loss: ↑ 800 m / ↓ 800 m
Hiking time (with breaks): approx. 4.5 hours

Driving distance: Kutaisi – 160 km Tbilisi – 330 km
Breakfast

*** After completing the self-guided tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the country as a self-driver.

Included Services

Complete Organization by Enjoy Georgia
All transfers during your trip are included
Luggage Transport 

Meals: 6× breakfasts, 5× Lunches 7× Diner
dinners featuring delicious regional specialties.

Cozy family-run guesthouses, with basic or private facilities.
Local Support
Itinerary Guidance

Exclusive / Not Included

Flights
Personal expenses
Individual sightseeing or excursions
Drinks and any meals not specified
Single room supplement
Travel insurance or other optional insurances