Svaneti is one of Georgias best kept treasures.
The self sufficient Svan people have been living high in the Caucasian mountains for thousands of years and they could preserve their ancient traditions and culture, but also the beautiful virgin nature of this region.
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Enjoy the ultimate short tour to the scenic region of Svaneti and discover breath taking views, unspoiled landscapes and an authentic culture.
The Okatse canyon offers a true vertiginous experience with its wooden bridges and platforms hanging along the high rocks of the canyon. The walk up and down the 800m long trail is at times thrilling and always scenic with a beautiful river running at the bottom of the gorge.
Kinchkha offers a different perspective on the canyon with its three step waterfall, springing from an altitude of up to 80m and forming an astonishing natural site.
Next stop is the picturesque Martvili canyon. Once the bath place of the local royal family, today it still attracts thousands of visitors with its blue green water, old moss covered trees and relaxing boat trips.
The beautiful garden of the Dadiani palace invites for a nice morning walk before the long drive to Mestia and if you wish you can also visit the museum and the treasury of the most famous royal family in Western Georgia.
With its 271 dam the Enguri dam is the world sixth highest dam and offers impressive views from its top platform. The "gate to Svaneti" holds a unique position among the dams of the world, as it requires two parties to operate - the region of Samegrelo and the breakaway region of Abkhazia.
Last stop of the day is Mestia, the picturesque "capital" of Svaneti and the cultural center of the highlands. Located high in the Caucasus mountains, Mestia is a place where history comes alive and where ancient family towers coexist with modern ski lifts.
One of the highest settlements in the world, Ushguli offers an even more authentic experience of Svanetian culture. Here, the modern has not reached yet and the wild nature surround the secluded village deep in the Caucasus. The thousand years old towers are filled with stories of honor, battles and love.
On a lonely hill at the end of the village stands the ancient church of Lamaria. Loaded with mysticism it is one the main sanctuaries of Svan people and is a beatiful example of their culture and beliefs. Lamaria was a local goddess, unique to Svan culture, who gradually turned into Holy Mary as Christianity reached Svaneti and locals still believe that the legendary Queen Tamar is buried below this church.
In warm season it is possible to do an intermediate hike to the Shkhara glacier, from where the Inguri river springs. The hike takes about 5 hours round trip. As an easier alternative you can chose a short but steep hike to the tower of Queen Tamar located on a hill edge above Ushguli or a hike to the Chubedishi mountain, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Ushguli and Caucasian mountain range/
Before departure for a long drive back to Tbilisi, we recommend to visit the view point of Zuruldi mountain, that is used as a ski resort in winter times and a panoramic platform in summer season. The ride in the open ski lift and the beautiful view of the two horned Ushba mountain are a perfect way to start this day.
The medieval monastery of Gelati, next to Kutaisi is a perfect place to take a break on a long ride to Tbilisi. The UNESCO listed monastery was built by one of the most famous and respected Georgian kings, David the Builder and was a cultural hub of Georgian renaissance.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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