The guide is very thorough and I loved all the info. There is a fixed depoarture at 10:00 am but if you want to secure your spot, get there between 9:00 - 9:30 am. Mostly shorter days and smaller elevation gain (less than 1000 m). Most trekkers say that its best to cross the Adishi river early in the morning, when there is less glacial water runoff and melt. This 4 day itinerary for trekking Mestia to Ushguli takes an alternative route through Tsvirmi village. The village is quite small, there is only a handful of guesthouses and these mostly had no online presence so booking far in advance always posed a problem. I would love to know what you thought about it or if there are any route or trail update please let me know in the comments below! The best way to get to Mestita from Ushguli is to hop in aMarshrutka or find a shared car. Here, I collected (and answered) questions I get most often. Disclaimer: Theres a chance this post contains affiliate links, and I receive a small (but grateful) portion of the sale. Those camping may want to look for a spot before the village of Tsvirmi, as it is a little bit of a back track the next day to the Adishi trailhead. See my post onHow to Gain 5 Pounds in Tbilisi, Georgiaif you need some food and drink recommendations. Nowadays, most of the people trying to get to Ushguli hire a car or walk on the main road. But overall, this is the marvelous trail and I don't understand why more people don't take it. Next water will be in Tsvirmi. Wandern. This road will take you all the way to Tsvirmi. Required fields are marked *. A little bit before reaching cable car station the panoramic views start to appear on the right.. After the cable car is the best part with crazy views of the mountain range over Tsvirmi and the green plateau that the trail goes through. You want to go to booking.com and then search for the different villages on the nights you will be there. I spent quite a bit of time walking the ridges and savoring epic 360 views. I love SafetyWing. Hatsvali Ski Lift Logistics|Find the ticket booth and first section of the cable carhere|Round Trip Ticket:20 GEL ($6.75 USD)|Ticket valid for both liftsand is the same price whether or not both lifts are working|SummerHours:10:00 16:30|Some days the Mestia cable car does not run at all, verify at the Tourist Information Center or ask around town. Gone are the days of complete isolation. Gunter Avaliani guesthouse - Classic Adishi guesthouse, ran by Gunter, his wife Zaira and their daughters Nana and Jameki. One of great assets of this guesthouse are people running it - Temraz and Lela Nijaradze are very friendly and welcoming hosts and their daughter Mariam also speaks English. The hiking route to the untouched village of Tsvirmi is easy to reach from the Hatsvali ski life that is located right in the heart of Mestia Svaneti. Great views from the first day. So what to do? You need to turn left onto the small trail which leads uphill, it will soon improve. This day we noted a lot more trekkers than on days 1 and 2. You would help me as well as the other hikers. And, of course, both owners speak fluent English and do their best so their guests feel like at home. Another claim to fame is that Ushguli is one of highest continuously inhabited village in Europe at 6,900 ft (2,100 m). So, if you want to play it safe, you can book online several long time ahead - at the end of each day section, I included a couple of places which I recommend. The river is the runoff of the Adishi glacier, so it is literally freezing cold. The food was decent but not as plentiful or tasty as the night before. Two kilometeres before the Ushguli village, the trail merges with the main road. After a hearty breakfast, head towardsUshguli. I knew crossing a freezing cold river barefoot wasnt in the cards for me, so when our guesthouse offered to take us across for $10 per person the night before, we said yes. If you prefer walking, leave the concrete road and continue on the dirt road in the direction of Ieli village, there is also a pointer. . I suspect that the other way is the way down to the road. It's around a 3 hour round trip and the climb is challenging but it rewards you with some incredible ridge walking and stunning views. The hiking trail is well-enough marked with diamond trail markers, signboards, and markers painted on rocks. However, as the Mestia to Ushguli trek is gaining popularity, many of the communities are starting to charge entrance fees. My driver was happily passing around chacha(strong Georgian liquor) to passengersat 9:00 a.m. Those looking to immediately depart Mestia to explore more of Georgia will more than likely have to take a Marshrutka toZugdidi. It was actually super cute and about half the price (they didnt have a kitchen so no meals included), I would totally stay there again, if only I could remember the name- it is a three story building tucked in a small alley near the post office! Pass the new station and enter the forest - then follow the new road through until you reach a concrete road. If wild camping, make sure to leave no trace and pick up trash and waste. However, aways be weary of shepherd dogs. My sleeping bag was not warm enough. From the Hatsvili Ski Lodge(Zuruldi lift) appreciate the views and then head left along the stunning path in the direction ofTsvirmi. Oftentimes there are updates to the site, map platforms, and other things, which can cause a bug in downloading. The situation changed only in the past few years and nowadays, the village boasts at least 4 guesthouses. How much they might charge ? If you want to prolong your trek, you can cross into Lower Svaneti on foot via Latpari pass or Zagar pass. Guesthouse Miranda - small family guesthouse situated at the northeastern side of the village, cose to the Lamaria church. I am sure that most of the hikers will take a cable car (it costs 20 GEL) and there is nothing wrong about it, this "purists" route is here only for the sake of completeness (and for the times when the cablecar is under maintenance, which happens surprisingly often during the high season). The lodge was closed when I visited, but the observatory deck was filled with chairs to relax before you start trekking. The first day was in our opinion the hardest, but also the most rewarding. May 5, 2019 - Looking for a more difficult and scenic alternative to the Mestia to Ushguli trail, the most popular Georgian trek? As a solo hiker in September, it was easy to find a room. Sleeping at a guest house is a highlight of the Mestia to Ushguli trek in itself. In addition, the water levels are usually lower which makes it easier to cross on foot. You do a considerable amount of walking on roads this day (although there was very little traffic). Below is a short list of places where stayed either me or my close friends and can be recommended. The only disadvantages are that the final descent could be pretty hard on your knees and there are no bar on this route. 2022 Hidden Caucasus. Scarica la traccia GPS e segui il percorso su una mappa. The men with horses are usually waiting at the deeper section of the river, so follow other hikers leads. We would like to carry as little as possible so we would like to have a. walked the 30 minutes to our guesthouse, Bapsha, How to Gain 5 Pounds in Tbilisi, Georgia, Street Food and Hidden Bars: 36 Hours in Fes, Morocco, Wandering The Albanian Riviera With a Rental Car and No Reservations. I saw many hikers slipping down the dewy grass. Before I start, I need to stress one thing. All of the food is made with love and usually from scratch. She took us into a separate building where the kitchen was located, sat us down, and offered us tea and a variety of snacks. Heres the complete guide for the 4 day Mestia to Ushguli trek without a guide with an alternative route through Tsvirmi village. However, this route is not so scenic, so I prefer the higher trail. Once we were safely across, I was able to absorb the beauty of the Adishi Glacier. However, there is usually one guest house in each village that will be open in October, again depending on the weather and snow. Travelers not worried about budget can also hire a private driver or join organized tours from Tbilisi. 4-6 days in the Svaneti region, 4 of which are spent trekking. They also have gardens, patio tables, hammocks- it really is a backpackers paradise. Very friendly owners, food providing, overall good value for money. 2700 metres Hiking Season |July - September (possibly mid-June - mid-October) However, more travelers are opting to sleep in Ushguli to experience the village after the day trippers leave. The classic trek across Svaneti, with a twist. Dont forget to leave space in your backpack to carry your food! In case you want to go directly to Tsvirmi keep walking east. There is a short river crossing halfway along the route. Route From Mestia to Ushguli through Tsvirmi village - Mest'ia, Samegrelo and Zemo Svaneti (Georgia) Alternative of the most popular Georgian trek, which is by mine opinion even better than standard hike via Zhabeshi. So walk we did. The trail starts at Seti Square. Will you add the Mestia to Ushguli trek to your bucket-list? The hotel also offers several pairs of crocs for people to wear around the property (I realize this seems silly but they felt sooo good on my feet). You will cross several other pastures and belts of trees It was about 2 hours of going uphill. This trail is great for backpacking, camping, and hiking. It was spectacular. The Shkhara Mountain is also the highest point in Georgia, so it makes for a great day hike. The route is one of the most well-known trails in Svaneti. It was the second guesthouse on the right coming into town, possibly named Shovemba. Another alternative trekking option is to take the footpath through the forest at the village ofDavberi. There may be also others during the day if there are enough tourists, but I wouldnt rely on that. Guesthouse is known for delicious food, comfortable beds and modern bathrooms with hot water. Hey, my name is Megs! For those looking to take the low route into Adishi, turn right at the makeshift barTkharpel Hut Cafe. A good pair of hiking sandals helped mefordthe river on foot and not pay to cross with a horse. Thankfully, once you are in the valley after the pass, it is mostly a flat trail to Iprali. I'd suggest bringing at least 400 to 500 GEL per . Can you provide some tips on how to hire taxi from iprari to ushguli . Have you visited the Upper Svaneti region in Georgia? Along the way, we will pass through beautiful Svan villages and cross some spectacular landscapes. A woman came over and gestured for us to come inside their yard, then her 20-something year old son came over and punched into a calculator 50 gel/per person a night ($18), we nodded, and they took us into the house. Only a couple of families live here, running two guesthouses - older and smaller Guesthouse Khalde and newly opened, but also more expensive Qaldea Resort. . Keep the Khaldechala River to your left and follow the downhill trail. Depending on what time you arrive in Mestia, you could just start hiking. The standard Mestia to Ushguli trekking route takes 4 days. I have personally done each of these hikes, but it does not make me an expert by any means. Down in the valley, you will find a couple of huts which can provide shelter in case of rain. This was one of my favorite villages of the whole Mestia to Ushguli trek. It was clear that this was their actual house, so they must just give up their bedrooms when they have backpackers coming through. Open full screen to view more. The weather was pleasant, but the nights were cold. MESTIA TO USHGULI TREK QUICK FACTS Distance |55 - 60 km Duration |3 - 4 days Start/End |Mestia/Ushguli (or vice versa) Min Elevation |1400m (Mestia) Max Elevation | 2719 m (Chkhunderi Pass) Total Ascent |approx. Climb to the village and by a local church turn right onto the steeply climbing trail. At the time, the airline was having major issues selling tickets online, but we were able to snag tickets by having our hotel (Rooms Hotel Tbilisi) buy the tickets for us at their local office. Although still not heavily trafficked, I prefer this alternativeMestia to Ushguli trek via Tsvirmi. Few years ago, the best option used to be the overnight train to Zugdidi. The price is 30 GEL, so its quite cheap, but I cant recommend it since this uncomfortable journey takes grueling 9-10 hours - basically, it's just slower, marginally cheaper and less comfortable alternative for the day train. We have done some research and we are quite excited to be coming. This is such an extensive guide, I feel like you have really prepared and enticed your readers into doing it too! The best one yet! The family running it was really lovely and the food was good and plentiful. Great! With many guesthouse options, its possible to do the trek without a tent. We were early to bed that night, as we had a flight the next morning back to Tbilisi (Natakhtari airport), with some serious eating and drinking on our minds. It sounds like such an amazing experience! Alternative zum beliebten Mestia - Ushguli-Trek, der durch das Dorf Tsvirmi anstelle von Zhabeshi fhrt. Duration of the Mestia to Ushguli Trek. Heres some handy information when planning to hike Mestia to Ushguli. Dont get overwhelmed! Receive the latest content, tips, updates & more! We will enjoy a well-earned meal and a cosy bed, after our efforts on the trail. Street Food and Hidden Bars: 36 Hours in Fes, Morocco. For more info, pls check this excellent post about the flight (covers also flight from Kutaisi). This entire section of the Mestia to Ushguli trek boasts stunning views of theAdishi Glacier. I was happy to be heading downhill, although I did not realize that we still had about 2 more hours of hiking to do. Thank you, Heather!! Iprali is a very small village and the hike to Ushguli the next day will follow the main road. From Kutaisi, there are regular marshrutkas (5 6 hours) leaving for Mestia from the central bus station. More Georgia Travel Guides | 2 Day Tbilisi Itinerary with All the Highlights | Things to Do Near Majanishvili Street Tbilisi | Where to Eat in Batumi. This upper trail traverses the base of Tetnuldi mountain through the open grasslands. Besides the unique cultural aspect of the Mestia Ushguli trek, the nature is nothing short of spectacular. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 19 h 7 min to complete. To book in advance, you can use an online portal such as booking.com - (comfortable, but covers only a few places in smaller villages) or ask your landlord in Mestia to make the booking for you, they have the necessary contacts. Near the viewpoint of the glacier, theres a little cafe serving up beverages and meals. And even if this fails, you can always try to leave earlier in the morning and reach your destination before crowds arrive, so you will have more places to choose from. But it got cancelled when covid hit and not yet reinstated. There is also a good chance to find some companions for this enterprise here - highly recommended. Youre welcome Maggie! Tke first section is OK, but further stages are in a poor condition so I don't recommend it. Summary of recommendations for future trekkers: Do fly withVanilla Skyand skip the longgg drive, Do book lodging in Adishi and Iprali ahead of time onbooking.com, Dont worry aboutGeorgian sheep dogs(which you may read about), they do exist but just not along this specific trek. Just keep in mind that prices advertised on booking portals are not always consistent with what you will be charged, since almost all visitors take not just an accommodation, but also a full pension. Elisabeth speaks basic English and works hard to keep the place running and clean. TheMestia to Ushguli trekis a beautiful multi-day hike throughGeorgias incredible Upper Svaneti region. In the morning, we will have some time to explore the ancient towers and wonderful surroundings of Ushguli. The path crosses open areas with nice views and wildflowers and then slowly descends into the forest. There is actually a cable car that can take you from town to the top of the ridge. The tent fee is just a tad cheaper than a shared room inn the guesthouse. We kept walking since we didn't want to support this behavior and they even followed us half an hour by car. After 2 hours of climbing, you should make it to the Chkhunderi pass (2655m) - Theres no extra cost to you, and I only promote things that I use and love.. No matter which path you choose, both will merge again and you will have to climb 100 height meters to another transmitter. Its best to observe and see where hikers are crossing. Then you can stop looking - here, you will find detailed trail description for the route passing Tsvirmi which by mine opinion offers even better views than standard hike via Zhabeshi. Best time to visit: Summer, September. It seems like every other building in the small village is actually a Ushguli guest house or in some accommodating to visitors. Look for towering views ofMount Ushbaon the left hand side and a direct viewpoint of Mount Zuruldi to the right. The downhill to Adishi can have some pretty steep sections. Guest House Data Ushguli | Room Cost: 40 GEL with breakfast, opted out dinner | Hot showers and a huge bathroom | Friendly hosts | Fenced in Garden Space | Wi-Fi & Plug-ins | Book here. Ushguli village is actually a collection of five small communities, the first beingMurkmeli. . There are 2 ways to get from Mestia to Ushguli by taxi or car Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner. This one climbs onto Zuruldi massif, descends to Tsvirmi village and then follows a new road leading to Tetnuldi ski resort, where it merges with classic trail to Ushguli. ), most adventures climbing and descends, yet still very doable, even without hikingpoles. It was pretty miserable. For the first few days, we will also have fruit such as apples, bananas and tangerines. http://my.viewranger.com/route/details/MTMzODQwMg==?ref=43.04217913286402|42.724405028857404|16 If you miss them and there is none other direct bus available, look for a marshrutka to Zugdidi (price 7 GEL) - it's the same way and you can find there transport to Mestia more easily (especially if you notify your driver in Kutaisi that you need to continue to Mestia). Make sure to decide if you want your meals includes. Again, from my personal experience, I completed the Mestia to Ushguli trek in September, so the water levels were quite low. Shortly after cresting of the first hill, there is a hardly noticeable junction. Mestia to Ushguli hard (70) Mestia, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, Georgia Photos (302) Directions Print/PDF Map Check out this 34.7-mile point-to-point trail near Mestia, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti. You need to take the path to the right which is not so steep; the other way leads up the mountain. Its best to check in with current weather conditions and the tourist information in Mestia to see if guest houses and passes are open. How to find it? Only one of them can be booked online but even if its full, there are enough alternatives. Theres also nice views overlooking Davberi community and river valley. They don't speak English, but their son does. When you get back from Mestia, the shuttle van is sitting there waiting for you and drives everyone from Natakhtari back to Tbilisi. The place is clean and the owners Giorgi and Katia work hard to keep it that way, food is also very good. Descent from Mentashi is a bit tricky as the terrain is very steep and the path not always visible (to put it mildly). Wander through the village with goats, pigs, and silly puppies. You need to walk to the village of Davberi along the lnguri River basin and continue on the forest footpath route. Nature is unpredictable, so its best to take all the necessary precautions. Having a jeep was really nice because the first hour of the drive was very bumpy and there was a lot of construction. Its an amazing place and trek. Finally, it turns souths and then comes a steep descent to Adishi. Of all the villages (Mestia, Ushguli, Adishi), Tsvirmi is the least touched by tourism and I found it to be the most enchanting of them all. Dinner was more fun than it was delicious, since there was more than 30 guests at the hotel, we sat at huge tables and everyone chatted for a few hours. Thismulti day trekweaves through the remoteCaucasus Mountains and passes through traditional mountain hamlets dotted with iconic medieval Svan towers. The high route sees fewer hikers and the alpine views are simply incredible. This one is tricky :) But if you are trekking in July or August and have no camping gear, you should - and I am saying it as a person who loathes booking more than 2-3 days ahead. Try to leave early to enjoy the silence and epic views of the beautiful Caucasus mountains. The price of the ride starts at 16 GEL, which is less than 5 EUR. If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, please let us know during booking. Cant wait for the next one!! Taking the alternative routes along the Mestia to Ushguli trek was also a nice bonus. No one spoke English and we dont speak Georgian, so we were happy to just sit back and take it all in. It was still overcast but very pleasant hiking weather, and the flowers were in full bloom. Many drivers are lined along the bridge eagerly waiting to take people back to Mestia. Mentashi hill offers breathtaking views in all directions and is a great place for a break. Essentially it has several mini avalanches everyday. These towers were still used up until the not so distant past. Compared to the classic trail, it starts further uphill, some 200 elevation meters higher, conveniently close to the exit station of the lowest cable car line, the only one which works in summer. The trail from Mestia to Ushguli is the most popular in Georgia; we offer an alternative to the usual route which takes us along a wilder and more scenic path. It is possible to ride the entire 240+ miles from Tbilisi to Mestia, but it wont be the most comfortable decision youll make, especially before trekking in Mestia. I'm kind of obsessed with hiking in the mountains, soaking in hot springs, and seeking-out the most authentic travel experiences as possible! Several of my friends stayed here and while they weren't particularly impressed, it was "good enough". Sampling the food helps you understand these hearty people who have survived the test of time in these remote villages. Opened only in 2019, owners Tamara and Davit decided to bring services provided in Adishi up to the next level. After one hour the path ends in a river - you will have to ford it. Here comes the tricky part. My trekking bag was not full of gear, so the extra ankle support wasnt essential. I was pretty much alone during the full hike with incredible views. The Mestia to Ushguli trek with the upper path to Adishi and the alternative (not car road) path to Ushguli. However, with the growing popularity of the trek, also the opposite direction starts making more and more sense, especially if you don't like crowded trails.
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