How to Get to Ushguli, Georgia & Things to Do
Visit one of the most secluded villages in Europe! The town of Ushguli in Georgia is an extraordinary destination for those seeking the best gems off-the-beaten-path.
One of the most remarkable things that can happen to you while traveling is finding a hidden gem. A quiet, gorgeous, and unspoiled place that makes you think “why aren’t more people visiting this amazing place?”
Although this particular destination may not be everyone’s cup of tea, this is exactly the reason why it’s been able to maintain its state of being wonderfully uninterrupted, genuine, and one of the most remote villages in Europe.
Ushguli, a magical village at the base of the largest peak in Georgia (the country), remains as one of our favorite places we’ve ever visited.
In this guide, discover more about the remote village of Ushguli and how you too can experience this one-of-a-kind place.
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The Essentials for Visiting Ushguli, Georgia
🛌 Don’t expect fancy hotels and resorts in Ushguli. Book a humble and cozy family operated guesthouse or cabin (we stayed here) if you plan on spending the night.
🥾 The hike from Mestia to Ushguli typically spans over four days. If you don’t want to attempt it alone, book a guided trekking tour.
🏔 An easy day trip to Ushguli can be booked in Mestia. You’ll see many 4×4 vehicles in Mestia ready to take you to the secluded village, which usually costs under €30 for the round trip.
❄️ Do not plan on visiting Ushguli after October as the entire village “shuts down” for the winter, which is usually inaccessible due to the snow.
Where Is Ushguli, Georgia?
The secluded village of Ushguli is located in Georgia, a country situated in both Eastern Europe and West Asia. Specifically, Ushguli is found in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region, also known as Upper Svaneti.
The historic province of Svaneti is situated in the northwestern section of Georgia. Like the rest of Upper Svaneti, Ushguli offers views of the mountains, which serve as a natural border between Georgia and Russia. The mountain peak of the Russian border from Ushguli is less than 12 km (8 miles) away.
The closest major town to Ushguli is Mestia, where you’ll find the most number of hotels and tourist attractions. Mestia is located less than 50 km (31 miles) from Ushguli, but due to the nature of the road, it takes nearly 1.5 hours to drive there.
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is located in the southwest corner of the country and is nearly 400 km (248 miles) south of Ushguli. If you were to drive from Tbilisi to Ushguli, it would take 7 hours.
Ushguli, Georgia on a Map
- Red pin = Ushguli
- Blue pin = Tbilisi
- Green pin = Kutaisi
How to Get To Ushguli in Georgia Without a Car
The biggest allure to visiting one of the most remote villages in Europe is just that, it is perfectly secluded. Reaching it is a journey in itself and not necessarily available to the masses.
Candidly, we hope Ushguli remains this way because the way it feels so undiscovered is its most beautiful feature. For hikers, off-road enthusiasts, and anyone who likes to stay off the beaten track, getting to Ushguli is just another adventure.
🚗 Driving your own car to Ushguli? Click to skip ahead.
Despite what many Western tourists may think, the entire continent of Europe is not easily connected by passenger trains. The Georgian Railway does connect many major cities and towns but does not cover the Svaneti region and, therefore, Ushguli. However, there are still ways to reach Ushguli with as much use of public transportation as possible.
If you are not driving, do not designate Ushguli as your final destination because this will limit results and options. When planning a visit to Ushguli, you’ll want to first plan your journey to Mestia, which is considered the most notable town of Svaneti.
Below are a few common routes that are taken to the village of Ushguli from other places in Georgia.
Shared Taxi Vans in Georgia
Travelling by public transportation in Georgia will require you to become familiar with the marshrutka. These are shared taxis, typically in the form of vans. They drive along pre-determined routes and are easily identified by a sign of the direction or destination they’re headed to, located on the windshield or dashboard.
As a fair warning, they may look “sketchy” to tourists that are in Georgia for the first time but they are completely legitimate.
Kutaisi to Mestia
To find a shared taxi van, you’ll need to depart from Kutaisi Central Bus Station (here) where the marshrutka drivers wait for passengers. Official timetables are always an estimate, but a good rule of thumb is to assume any morning bus leaves by 9 am or 10 am.
Then, additional taxi vans will depart once per hour, assuming it’s not winter. Marshrutka will usually depart once their vans are full.
It is very unlikely to find a marshrutka headed directly to Mestia, so you will need to change buses and drivers in Zugdidi. The marshrutka ride from Kutaisi to Zugdidi will take about 3 hours and cost ~10 GEL (€3.50).
Upon boarding a marshrutka in Kutaisi, communicate to your driver ahead of time that you want to end your overall journey in Mestia. They will very likely try to help you and arrange the marshrutka you’ll need to take from Zugdidi to Mestia.
This is especially common and easy to accomplish during the summer. Alternatively, consider spending the night in Zugdidi and depart the following morning for the 4-hour ride to Mestia.
Overall, taking a marshrutka from Kutaisi to Mestia will take just under 8 hours in total and should cost under 80 GEL (€28).
Not interested in a self-guided journey to Mestia? Book a tour with Viator that includes transportation from Kutaisi to Svaneti and even a guide.
Tbilisi to Mestia
Travellers have a couple more options when it comes to getting to Svaneti from Tbilisi, the state’s capital. The most cost effective route to Mestia from Tbilisi begins with a train ride from Tbilisi Railway Station to Zugdidi station in just under 6 hours.
This train ride will typically depart Tbilisi in the morning and arrive in Zugdidi in the afternoon. A standard ticket should cost around 16 GEL (€5.50). Use the Georgian Railway website to research timetables and tickets directly.
Upon arriving in Zugdidi, reaching Mestia will need to be completed by looking out for a marshrutka to hop in. Again, you can attempt to find one that same afternoon in order to complete your journey on the same day or spend the night in Zugdidi and find a marshrutka to Mestia in the morning.
The marshrutka ride from Zugdidi to Mestia will cost around 40 – 50 GEL (€14 – €17) and take roughly 4 hours.
If you are staying in a hotel in Tbilisi (or Airbnb with a helpful host), they’ll likely be able to assist with arranging a marshrutka ride directly to Mestia. Do not be afraid to reach out for help as the Georgians are very hospitable and gracious.
How to Get From Mestia to Ushguli
Upon finally arriving in Mestia (and hopefully spending some time there as well), it’s then possible to reach Ushguli village with one last step. At this point, you essentially have two options on how to get from Mestia to Ushguli.
- Delica group tour (or private transfer)
- Hike
Immediately upon entering the Svaneti region, you’ll notice a particular type of car everywhere – the Delica. Georgians love the Mitsubishi Delica, primarily for its four-wheel-drive capability, ground clearance, and the space for passengers. They are the perfect vehicle for navigating the unpaved, unsealed, and bumpy roads of Svaneti.
🇯🇵 Fun Fact: Almost all of the Delica vans you’ll see are right-hand drive since they are imported from Japan.
The drive to Ushguli in anything other than a 4WD/AWD car can be challenging. Typical shared taxi vans do not tend to make the trip from Mestia to Ushguli, which is why you’ll need to book an off-road group tour or private transfer.
The off-road vehicle you’ll likely be riding in will be… a Delica. You’ll drivers to Ushguli for hire available at the Mestia Bus Station (here).
The 4WD/AWD transfers to Ushguli from Mestia shouldn’t typically cost more than 60 GEL (€20) roundtrip. The expedition to Ushguli takes around 1.5 hours, and drivers will usually include a wait time in Ushguli while you explore for a few hours before returning to Mestia.
You can also arrange a one-way ride if you want to spend the night in Ushguli instead. Do NOT pay for a return ride for the following day in advance.
Hiking From Mestia to Ushguli
The trek from Mestia to Ushguli is admired among avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. For how low-key of a destination that Ushguli is, it’s actually surprising how frequented the trail is by hikers. Naturally, hiking from Mestia to Ushguli isn’t recommended as a leisurely activity and should be completed by experienced hikers or with a local guide.
Most hikers have reported that by following the hiking trail that’s marked from Mestia to Ushguli, the trek spans over four days and just under 60 km of walking.
Departing from Mestia, the journey to Ushguli is marked by yellow signs which begin here. To ensure full visibility and safe trekking conditions, it’s best to perform the hike during the dry season.
This way, you’ll be able to stay on the clearly marked hiking trail and follow the yellow signs and trail markers on trees/rocks.
This is the outlined itinerary that’s recommended and based on the experiences of the majority of hikers who have completed the trek from Mestia to Ushguli:
- Mestia to Tsaldashi/Zhabeshi
- Tsaldashi/Zhabeshi to Adishi
- Adishi to Iprali
- Iprali to Ushguli
As many locals will advise, sleeping at guesthouses throughout the hike is recommended. You certainly can bring a tent, but it’s less complicated to simply find a bed at one of the many accommodations available to hikers along the route.
Furthermore, guesthouses will almost always offer modest yet delicious home-cooked meals.
By Car: Driving The Mestia to Ushguli Road
The entire country of Georgia is a playground for off-road and overland enthusiasts. There are many parts of the Svaneti region where you won’t make it far without a 4WD/AWD car. Travelers who are excited to discover Ushguli with their own cars should only attempt to do so if they have an off-road capable vehicle.
Although the road to Ushguli from Mestia is not risky, it’s not paved and at times will have you think “this can’t be the only road to Ushguli”. There are sections of the journey that are flat and manageable. Then, the road squeezes into being narrow enough for just one car while hanging over a ravine.
At one point during the drive from Mestia to Ushguli, you’ll even cross an unintentional river caused by heavy rainfall. The point is, be prepared for the worst, especially if you’re visiting before June and after September.
Each year, the road requires repairs after the weather takes its toll and creates some massive potholes.
Driving within the actual town of Ushguli is a completely different story. Do not turn into any of the village streets unless you have enough ground clearance and a vehicle that can drive over large rocks.
Furthermore, if you are not experienced with off-roading, it’s best to just not attempt it. You can still drive your 4WD/AWD car to Ushguli, park outside of the village, and walk wherever you need to go.
What Is Ushguli, Georgia Known For?
The remote village of Ushguli is quite the title holder despite its small size and hidden location. As part of the Upper Svaneti region, the combined community of Chazhashi and Ushguli is the reason behind the region’s UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition.
Among the historic area are over 200 stone towers, known as Svan Towers, that have been incredibly preserved over the course of hundreds of years. Originally built as defensive watchtowers, they were also used as multi-level homes and currently for agricultural use or livestock.
The Svan Towers are unique to the region and an exemplary symbol of medieval architecture.
Ushguli is also renowned for its geographical location, which happens to be within a stone’s throw of the Russian border. The village of Ushguli is impressively the highest inhabited town in Europe.
Located at the base of the tallest peak in Georgia, Mount Shkhara, the village is an astounding 2,200 meters above sea level. The physical demands of its extreme location have unquestionably led to shaping Ushguli’s authentic heritage.
Naturally, the relationship between the Ushguli community (both past and present) and the challenging landscape of such high altitude is a remarkable feature of its own.
As everyday life in such a place must be performed a little differently than most are used to, even the most regular of details of an average day have become a wondrous distinction to Ushguli.
What to Do While Visiting Ushguli, Georgia
Wander the Village
Components such as the watchtowers and chapels of the Ushguli and Chazhashi villages have been dated back to the 9th century. However, their origins are believed to have existed since prehistoric times.
Ushguli looks (and feels) ancient, and its cobblestone paths sure have stories to tell. To this day, it feels like time has stood still in both villages, and to walk through them is truly surreal.
Give yourself some time to wander and you’ll notice that each layer of history has left a little something behind. Everything from the Orthodox churches, Golden Age fresco paintings to rusty Soviet-era cars, the village’s ornaments are best discovered on foot. Places in Ushguli that are a must see include:
Stay in a Cozy Guesthouse
One of the best and easiest ways to support a remote village from completely burning out is to stay in one of the family owned guesthouses. The number of Ushguli’s permanent residents is low and a majority of the functional buildings you do see standing are actually operating guest rooms for tourists.
The entire atmosphere of Ushguli is magical, everything from the location to the views just embodies a “cozy” stay. Find a lovely cabin or traditional guesthouse to spend at least one night in, and you’ll be welcomed with remarkable hospitality and unforgettable experience.
Meet the Georgian Shepherd
Any like-minded dog lovers will appreciate one of Georgia’s best contributions, the Georgian Shepherd. Also known as the Georgian Mountain Dog, the Svaneti region is particularly full of them. For the most part, they are seen as a working piece on a farm or in a household.
Whether they’re herding sheep or guarding the chickens, the shepherd is a normal part of Ushguli life. If you’re walking through the village, you’re bound to run into at least one roaming freely. They are gentle giants, incredibly majestic, beautiful, and shockingly huge.
Get To Know the Locals
One of the greatest advantages of staying at a guest house is the convenient opportunity to connect with the people of Ushguli. Whether they live there permanently or not, it’s guaranteed they have valuable and interesting stories to share about their beloved village.
You can read one article after another, but there’s simply no better way to learn about a place than to strike up a conversation with a person who has firsthand knowledge. Naturally, much of what we’ve shared in this very guide was learned from our interactions with people in Ushguli.
The people of Ushguli (and Georgia in general) are gracious, eager to share their hidden gem with the world, and overall lovely people. Our recommendation is to not be shy, ask questions, and be surprised at how much the locals want to share with visitors enjoying their heritage.
Eat Traditional Food
Svaneti regional cuisine is hearty with a lot of emphasis on carbs. Historically, this makes sense as we’re sure nobody was concerned about keeping their weight down when staple dishes were being created hundreds of years ago.
Back then, the only concern was to have a supply of hearty food for the upcoming winter. Many of the traditional foods you’ll come across in Ushguli are meant to fill you up quickly and for long.
They are also made from ingredients that are available year-round, such as wheat which would have been harvested to last the entire winter.
The theme of rationing and creating calorie-dense food is still seen in local and home cooking to this day in Ushguli.After a day of exploring the village or trekking through the mountains, the traditional dishes are extremely satisfying and downright comforting. Some dishes in Ushguli you must try include:
- Khachapuri (flat bread with with potato, cheese or both!)
- Chvishtari (cheese and corn flour bread)
- Kubdari (stuffed bread with meat)
- Tashmijabi (cheesy potatoes)
- Narchvi cheese
- Jams and preserves
Hit the Trails
Surrounded by one of the most beautiful sceneries in the world, taking a hike or two while visiting Ushguli is a must. The great part about walking anywhere near Ushguli is that you don’t have to spend four hours summiting a peak for a grand view, it’s already all around you!
Travelers who want to take a hike but aren’t looking for anything difficult can walk along the “main road” away from Ushguli and towards Zagari Pass. It is a gravel road without serious inclines and offers mountain views from all sides.
The most popular serious trail near Ushguli is the one that leads to the Shkhara glacier, which is a bit more strenuous. The 16 km round trip hike takes you from Ushguli village to the slope of the Shkhara mountain.
Along the route, you’ll trek through the picturesque valley and follow the Inguri river all the way to the base of the mountain. Visitors who still want to experience the glacier without walking can consider horseback riding instead.
Explore the Svan Towers
Ushguli’s most notable claim to fame is its large number of watchtowers, which are native to the Svaneti region. Ushguli has more than 200 stone towers, also known as the Svan Towers, that still stand in beautifully preserved condition.
The historic structures mark the pinnacle of medieval architecture and were initially built out of necessity.
As a form of defense against invaders, the stone towers stand four or five stories tall and are slightly tapered towards the top for optimal construction. Their existence was meant to serve each family as an escape or refuge from natural disasters and even war.
While you’re walking around the hamlet of Chazhashi, locals may see you gazing up at the watchtowers and offer you a tour of one. If you get so lucky, accept their gesture and take a peek inside.
The Weather in Ushguli
Ushguli is located at the base of one of the highest summits of the Caucasus mountain range. Being over 2,000 meters (6,500 ft) above sea level, Ushguli gets really cold in the winter. This is something you can count on being part of each year’s forecast.
During our visit to Ushguli in mid-October, we even experienced a light snowfall. Our host mentioned that it was completely normal for it to start snowing so early in the year and that it’s possible to continue through April.
Back country skiing is very popular during the snowy months in Ushguli.
Given how isolated the village is, Ushguli is can be empty during the months of severe cold or snow. The road becomes difficult to maintain and therefore, the village is inaccessible from Mestia.
Aside from the high possibility of snow, visiting from November – April can be too wet and therefore, a little miserable if you plan on taking hikes.
Since trekking is one of the biggest attractions that Ushguli offers, most travelers will visit within the months of June – September. Peak temperatures may reach over 30°C / 86°F in August, but because of the altitude, there is a breeze that keeps the days comfortable.
Ushguli Hotels and Guest Houses
Travellers will not find spa resorts, boutique or luxury hotels in Ushguli, Georgia. Instead, the community is comprised of family-run guest houses, homey cabins, and modest rooms for rent.
🛌 Nizharadze’s Tower – CHECK PRICES
🛌 Gaul Gavkhe Hotel – CHECK PRICES
🛌 Mshvidoba – CHECK PRICES
🛌 Guesthouse Nora – CHECK PRICES
More Georgia Travel Posts:
The Best Adventurous Things to Do in Georgia
Ushguli, Georgia Travel Resources
☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage
✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Kiwi.com
🚙 CAR RENTALS: Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com
🚊 TRAINS & BUSES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio
🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago
☎️ ESIM: Airalo
📸 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator
