Skip to main content
Taking a break on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia - Transcaucasian Trail Hike Georgia, Georgia
Taking a break on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia  | Gesine Cheung
Feeling alive on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia - Transcaucasian Trail Hike Georgia, Georgia
Feeling alive on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia  | Gesine Cheung
Hiking through remote villages in Georgia - Transcaucasian Trail Hike Georgia, Georgia
Hiking through remote villages in Georgia  | Gesine Cheung
Ushguli, a community of four villages located at the head of the Enguri gorge in Svaneti, Georgia. - Transcaucasian Trail Hike Georgia, Georgia
Ushguli, a community of four villages located at the head of the Enguri gorge in Svaneti, Georgia.
Group on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia - Transcaucasian Trail Hike Georgia, Georgia
Group on the Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia  | Gesine Cheung
Witness stunning alpine landscapes on the Transcaucasian Trail in Georgia - Transcaucasian Trail Hike Georgia, Georgia
Witness stunning alpine landscapes on the Transcaucasian Trail in Georgia  | Gesine Cheung
Mountain scenery on the Transcaucasian Trail in Georgia - Transcaucasian Trail Hike Georgia, Georgia
Mountain scenery on the Transcaucasian Trail in Georgia  | Gesine Cheung

Transcaucasian Trail Hike Georgia

A breathtaking hike through a diverse range of cultural and natural landscapes

Georgia

 79 reviews

11 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: THG
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 11 Days
Activities
  • 5 days hiking
Accommodation
  • 2 nights hotel
  • 6 nights simple hotel
  • 2 nights basic guesthouse on multi-share basis
Meals
  • 10 Dinners
  • 8 Lunches
  • 10 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
4 / 10

Introductory to Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

55kg of CO2-e PP per day

(491kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Georgia Transcaucasian Trail Trip highlights

  • Traverse sections of the Transcaucasian Trail through the soaring Greater Caucasus Mountains
  • Walk to Ushguli, a remote UNESCO village and Europe’s highest permanently inhabited settlement (2,200m/7218ft).
  • Explore Uplistsikhe, an extraordinary 3,000-year-old cave town once a vital Silk Road trading hub
  • Savour home-cooked Georgian feasts, sample regional wine, and experience the warmth of traditional Svan hospitality
  • Behold the mighty peaks of Mt Tetnuldi (4,858m/15,938ft) and Mt Shkhara (5,201m/17,060ft) as you hike beneath towering glaciers and over high passes
  • Spend two nights in Georgia’s eclectic capital, Tbilisi - with its Old Town lanes, ancient sulphur baths, carved wooden balconies, and the Narikala Fortress

Overview

This 11-day guided group hike traces the second stage of the Transcaucasian Trail, immersing you in the wild beauty and rich traditions of Georgia’s Svaneti region.

Your journey begins in Georgia’s eclectic capital, Tbilisi, where Persian, Ottoman and Soviet influences collide with bold modern design, vibrant cafés and natural wine bars. Enjoy a guided exploration of the city’s historic heart and the comfort of your 4-star hotel, where you’ll return to unwind at the end of the trip.

Head west to explore UNESCO-listed cathedrals, the ancient cave town of Uplistsikhe, and a family-run winery where you’ll enjoy a home-cooked lunch and taste Georgia’s legendary qvevri wines. Walk the dramatic limestone cliffs of Okatse Canyon before heading into the rugged Greater Caucasus Mountains.

Over five days of hiking, follow remote trails through glacier-fed valleys, alpine meadows and traditional Svan villages. Stay in characterful guesthouses and experience Georgia’s warm hospitality. Climb to scenic passes with breathtaking views of the country’s highest peaks, explore Ushguli, the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe, and reach the spectacular Shkhara Glacier.

With all meals included, you’ll enjoy plentiful Georgian fare even on the trail, from fresh vegetables and local cheeses to generous picnic spreads that reflect the country’s rich culinary traditions. Whether taken on its own or as part of the full Transcaucasian Trail Hike, this is a rewarding and culturally rich trek through one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring mountain regions.

Itinerary

Expand all | Collapse all

Welcome to Georgia! On arrival at Tbilisi International Airport, you will be met by your World Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel. If you are joining us after completing the Transcaucasian Trail Hike in Armenia, you will be provided with details on where and when to meet the group. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore Tbilisi at your own pace. Set along the banks of the Mtkvari River and surrounded by picturesque hills, Georgia's vibrant capital is a fascinating blend of history, culture and architectural charm. With a history of settlement stretching back thousands of years, Tbilisi captivates visitors with its cobbled streets, colourful balconies, historic churches and elegant, timeworn Art Nouveau buildings. This evening, meet your guide and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing, where you'll learn more about the adventures ahead. Afterwards, enjoy a welcome dinner together, a wonderful introduction to Georgian hospitality and the journey to come. Accommodation: Clocks Hotel or similar

Meals: D

Today, we journey west through Georgia, visiting ancient cities and remarkable historical landmarks that showcase the country's rich cultural heritage. Our first stop is Mtskheta, Georgia's ancient capital and spiritual heart, with a history stretching back some 3,000 years. Here, we visit the 6th-century Jvari Monastery, perched above the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers, and the magnificent 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where Christ's robe is believed to be buried. Both form part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historical Monuments of Mtskheta. Continuing towards Gori, we stop at a local winery to learn about Georgia's traditional winemaking methods, sample local wines and enjoy a delicious homemade lunch. We then explore Uplistsikhe, an extraordinary rock-hewn cave town dating back to the first millennium BC. Once an important trading centre along the ancient Silk Road, its fascinating network of chambers includes dwellings, wine cellars, bakeries and a basilica church carved into the rock. Afterwards, we continue through the Georgian countryside to Kutaisi, one of the country's oldest cities, arriving in the evening. Driving: Approximately 4 hours Accommodation: Local guesthouse, Kutaisi

Meals: B,L,D

This morning, we visit the historic Bagrati Cathedral, a former UNESCO World Heritage Site, before enjoying some free time to explore Kutaisi's lively farmers' market, where stalls overflow with fresh produce, local cheeses, spices and traditional Georgian specialities. We then travel to the village of Gordi to explore the spectacular Okatse Canyon. A series of elevated walkways and iron steps leads us along the canyon's dramatic cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the lush forest and deep gorge below. From here, we continue towards Svaneti, one of Georgia's most spectacular mountain regions. Nestled on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, this remote region is surrounded by towering, snow-capped peaks rising between 3,000 and 5,000 metres. Home to four of the Caucasus' ten highest mountains, Svaneti is renowned for its dramatic alpine scenery, traditional villages and rich cultural heritage. Our journey takes us along winding, often bumpy mountain roads before arriving in the village of Becho, where we settle into our local guesthouse. Hiking: Approximately 1.5 hours (iron steps and elevated walkways) Driving: Approximately 6–7 hours (rough and bumpy roads) Accommodation: Local guesthouse, Becho

Meals: B,L,D

Today, we set out on our first mountain hike in the spectacular Svaneti region, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Greater Caucasus. After a short drive to Shikhra village, we begin our hike towards the impressive Ushba Waterfalls. The trail winds through lush forest, with some muddy sections, before following a rushing mountain river fed by the glaciers of Mount Ushba. As we continue, the waterfalls come into view, with several cascades tumbling down the mountainside against a dramatic alpine backdrop. We enjoy a packed lunch amidst the beautiful mountain scenery before retracing our steps to Shikhra. Afterwards, we drive approximately 45 minutes to Mestia, where we can relax and enjoy a delicious dinner featuring traditional Svanetian dishes, a rewarding end to our day in the mountains. Hiking: Approximately 4–5 hours, 16 km, 450 m ascent/descent Driving: Approximately 45 minutes to Mestia Accommodation: Local guesthouse, Mestia

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we drive approximately 45 minutes to Mulakhi village, where we begin today's rewarding hike along the slopes of Mount Tetnuldi, surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the Greater Caucasus. The trail climbs steadily to an altitude of approximately 2,500 metres, offering magnificent views of surrounding glaciers and the towering peak of Mount Ushba (4,700 m). From here, we descend through beautiful alpine landscapes towards the remote village of Adishi (2,050 m), one of Svaneti's most traditional mountain settlements. Home to just a handful of families, Adishi offers a wonderful glimpse into life in this isolated mountain region. Tonight, we stay in a simple local guesthouse, where our hosts welcome us with traditional Svanetian hospitality and a hearty home-cooked dinner. Due to its remote location and rugged access road, Adishi can be difficult to reach by vehicle, particularly following heavy rain. If our support vehicles are unable to access the village, you may need to carry an overnight bag with your personal essentials. Please note: Accommodation tonight is basic, with multi-share rooms and shared bathroom facilities. Hot water is available at the guesthouse. Hiking: Approximately 5–6 hours, 15 km, 1,070 m ascent, 530 m descent Driving: Approximately 45 minutes Accommodation: Local guesthouse, Adishi (multi-share rooms with shared bathrooms)

Meals: B,L,D

Today is one of the most memorable and challenging days of our trek, taking us through spectacular alpine landscapes beneath the towering peaks of the Greater Caucasus. Setting off early, we follow the Adishura River through a beautiful mountain valley before crossing the river on horseback. Continuing towards the impressive Adishi Glacier, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of its vast ice formations beneath Mount Tetnuldi (4,800 m), surrounded by green alpine meadows and colourful wildflowers. Our trail then climbs steadily towards Chkhutnieri Pass (2,730 m), where sweeping mountain panoramas reveal the dramatic peaks of Tetnuldi and Ushba. From the pass, we take time to appreciate the magnificent scenery before beginning our descent through the rugged mountain landscape towards the village of Iprari. After a rewarding day on the trail, we settle into a welcoming local guesthouse and enjoy another evening of traditional Svanetian hospitality. Please note: Tonight's accommodation is basic, with multi-share rooms and shared bathroom facilities. Hiking: Approximately 7–8 hours, 20 km, 620 m ascent, 800 m descent Accommodation: Local guesthouse, Iprari (multi-share rooms with shared bathrooms)

Meals: B,L,D

Today, we hike through the spectacular landscapes of Svaneti towards Ushguli (2,200 m), one of Europe's highest permanently inhabited communities and part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Upper Svaneti region. Surrounded by towering peaks, Ushguli is renowned for its medieval stone watchtowers, traditional houses and remarkable mountain setting. From the village, we enjoy magnificent views of Mount Shkhara (5,201 m), Georgia's highest mountain, rising dramatically above the surrounding valleys. After approximately four hours of walking, we arrive in Ushguli, with the option to extend our hike up the steep hillside to Queen Tamar's Tower for panoramic views of the village and surrounding mountains. The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore Ushguli at your own pace. Wander through its narrow lanes, admire the centuries-old watchtowers or visit the 10th-century Lamaria Church, known for its beautiful ancient frescoes and traditional Svanetian religious art. Tonight, we stay in a local guesthouse, enjoying the warm hospitality of this remote mountain community. Please note: Accommodation tonight is basic, reflecting the remote location and traditional character of the village. Hiking: Approximately 4–5 hours, 13 km, 440 m ascent, 175 m descent (excluding the optional hike to Queen Tamar's Tower) Accommodation: Local guesthouse, Ushguli

Meals: B,L,D

Today, we set out on a spectacular hike towards Shkhara Glacier, nestled beneath Mount Shkhara (5,201 m), Georgia's highest peak and one of the most impressive mountains in the Greater Caucasus. Following the Enguri River through a beautiful alpine valley, we walk across open meadows dotted with wildflowers, surrounded by towering peaks and dramatic mountain scenery. Along the way, we may encounter some of the region's unique alpine flora and fauna. As we approach Shkhara Glacier, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, revealing a vast expanse of ice beneath the rugged slopes of Mount Shkhara. The glacier is one of the sources of the Enguri River, and its impressive scale makes this a memorable highlight of our trek. We enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by magnificent mountain views, with time to appreciate the beauty of this remote alpine setting before retracing our steps to Ushguli. From here, we travel by 4WD vehicle along rugged mountain roads to Mestia, where we settle into our local guesthouse after another rewarding day in the Caucasus. Hiking: Approximately 4 hours, 10 km, 320 m ascent/descent Driving: Approximately 1.5 hours by 4WD Accommodation: Local guesthouse, Mestia

Meals: B,L,D

Today, we bid farewell to the magnificent mountains of Svaneti and begin our journey south towards Kutaisi, travelling through the scenic landscapes of western Georgia. Along the way, we make several stops to stretch our legs, including a visit to the spectacular Prometheus Cave, renowned for its impressive limestone formations. Here, we explore a fascinating underground world of towering stalactites, stalagmites and beautifully illuminated caverns, shaped by nature over thousands of years. After our visit, we continue to Kutaisi, where we settle into our local guesthouse for the evening. Driving: Approximately 7 hours Accommodation: Local guesthouse, Kutaisi

Meals: B,L,D

Today, we leave Kutaisi and travel east to Tbilisi, Georgia's vibrant capital, where we spend the afternoon exploring the city's fascinating history, diverse architecture and rich cultural heritage. Our sightseeing tour takes us through the atmospheric Old Town, where narrow cobbled streets wind between colourful wooden balconies, elegant 19th-century buildings and historic places of worship. We visit some of Tbilisi's most notable landmarks, including its beautiful Orthodox churches, mosque and synagogue, reflecting the city's long history of cultural and religious diversity. We also explore the famous sulphur bath district, admire the historic Narikala Fortress and visit the striking Bridge of Peace, which spans the Mtkvari River. Our tour continues to Freedom Square and Rustaveli Avenue, one of the city's main thoroughfares, lined with grand buildings and cultural landmarks. This evening, we gather with our guide and fellow travellers for a farewell dinner, a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our memorable journey through Georgia and the spectacular mountains of the Greater Caucasus. Driving: Approximately 3–4 hours Accommodation: Clocks Hotel or similar

Meals: B,D

After breakfast, your adventure through Georgia comes to an end. You will be transferred to Tbilisi International Airport for your onward flight, taking with you wonderful memories of the spectacular Caucasus Mountains, ancient villages, rich cultural heritage and warm Georgian hospitality. We hope you leave with lasting memories of this remarkable country and the experiences shared along the way.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

6 scheduled departures between 1 Jun 2027 and 21 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 1 Jun 2027 – ends 11 Jun 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 17 Jun 2027 – ends 27 Jun 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 13 Jul 2027 – ends 23 Jul 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 10 Aug 2027 – ends 20 Aug 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 7 Sep 2027 – ends 17 Sep 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 21 Sep 2027 – ends 1 Oct 2027 (11 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 10 dinners
  • Accommodation in comfortable hotels on a twin-share basis in cities
  • Small family run hotels & guest houses on a twin-share basis, 2 nights on a multi-share basis
  • English speaking local guides & mountain guide during trek
  • Internal transport by private vehicle
  • Local sightseeing & entrance fees to monuments as listed in itinerary
  • Arrival and departure airport transfers on days 1 & 11, and when additional hotel nights at the group hotel are booked with our office.
  • Group medical kit

Not included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Bottled water
  • Aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
  • Tips

Reviews (79)




The guide was good - reliable, careful, knowledgeable and watchful of the group. The scenery was stunning and the walking with our friends was memorable. We stayed in a variety of accommodation that gave me an appreciation of Georgian rural life. Hot shower every night was also appreciated.

Graham|Western Australia, Australia
13 Oct 2026


Friendly, knowledgeable and attentive host who did her best to please our group.

Antony|Western Australia, Australia
6 Oct 2026


We had a wonderful tour guide who went out of her way to ensure my trip was as enjoyable as possible.

Fiona|Western Australia, Australia
30 Sep 2026


We had a very good guide who managed our large group of 13.

Sandra|Victoria, Australia
29 Sep 2026


Spectacular hiking in the Caucasus mountains.

Michelle|Maryland, United States
21 Sep 2026


Some of the most beautiful walking I have experienced.

Stephen|Victoria, Australia
20 Sep 2026


Long trip to get to Mestia but the trekking days were wonderful. The day from Adishi to Ipari I would rate the finest day's walking I've ever done. Accommodation in Adishi was basic but otherwise was way above expectations. Learning about Georgian history makes Australian history look very bland.

Patrick|Victoria, Australia
20 Sep 2026


Unforgettable trek in the Caucasus - spectacular scenery, first-hand experience of village life and an informative guide.

Deborah|Victoria, Australia
20 Sep 2026


Fabulous trip, well organised, guide was brilliant and driver was amazing navigating the mountain roads.

Amanda|Victoria, Australia
20 Sep 2026

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?Why Book With Us

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

  • We've been providing active and immersive adventures since 1975.
  • An all inclusive program - private transport, sightseeing, plentiful meals and entrance fees.
  • Experienced local guides offering deep knowledge of the Svaneti region, culture, and mountain terrain.

Guaranteeing A Great Georgia Trip

Pioneering World Firsts
Quality equipment
Quality accommodations
Innovative itineraries
Custom built, reliable transport
Our all inclusive approach

Multi Award Winning Adventures

Responsible Travel

Adventure Experts Since 1975

Search Filters