Frequently asked questions
Seasons, transfers, booking and safety in Svaneti — the practical answers, in plain terms.
What does Svaneti Tours run?
Winter: freeride, heliski, catski, ski touring, lessons, rental, servicing and transfers. Summer: hiking, the Mestia–Ushguli trek, horse riding, paragliding, mountain biking, climbing, basecamp and cultural evenings. All based in Mestia, Upper Svaneti.
Do you only work in winter?
No. We run trips year-round. Winter is roughly December to April; summer is May to October. Each season has its own set of programs.
Are trips private or group?
Both. Guided days usually run in small groups of four to six; private guiding is available on any program for an added cost. Multi-day trips can be built for your own group.
Can beginners join?
Yes. Ski lessons, easy day hikes, tandem paragliding and beginner horse rides suit first-timers. Freeride, heliski, ski touring and alpine climbing need prior experience and fitness.
How do I get to Mestia?
We arrange transfers from Kutaisi (about 5 hours), Tbilisi (about 8 hours) and Zugdidi (about 2.5 hours). Private cars and shared seats on every route.
Can you arrange accommodation?
Yes. We run our own mountain hotel in Mestia and book partner guesthouses along the trekking and ski-touring routes.
How do I book and pay?
Send an enquiry by WhatsApp or email with your dates, group size and interest. We reply within a day with a plan and quote; a deposit confirms the booking and the balance is due before or on arrival.
What is the best time to visit?
February and March give the most reliable powder; June to September is the walking season. Our month-by-month guide breaks down snow, trails and road access.
What's included in a guided day?
Guiding, route planning and the transfers stated on each page. Winter tours include avalanche safety gear (transceiver, airbag, shovel, probe). Lift tickets, personal clothing and insurance are not included unless stated.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance with mountain rescue and, for winter, off-piste and backcountry cover is required. We can advise on what your activity needs.
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Svaneti Tours — frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before booking an adventure in Svaneti. Still have questions? Contact us and a local guide will help.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Svaneti?
For skiing and freeride, mid-December to early April (February–March for the best snow). For hiking and trekking, June to early October (July–September most reliable). May and late October are quiet shoulder seasons with variable high-mountain weather.
How do I get to Mestia in Svaneti?
Most people fly into Kutaisi or Tbilisi, or take the train to Zugdidi, then continue by road: about 4–5 hours from Kutaisi, 3 hours from Zugdidi, or 8–9 hours from Tbilisi. There are also small flights to Mestia. We arrange private transfers from any of these.
Do I need to be very fit or experienced?
It depends on the activity. We run easy family day hikes and beginner ski lessons as well as demanding treks, freeride and mountaineering. Tell us your level and we match the trip to you.
Is it safe? Are your guides certified?
Safety is our priority. Our guides hold mountain and avalanche qualifications and first-aid training, we keep groups small, and we adapt or cancel plans when conditions require. On freeride and touring days we carry and provide avalanche safety equipment.
What's included in a tour?
Typically guiding, planning and safety equipment; we also arrange accommodation, meals, gear rental and transfers as needed. Each quote spells out exactly what is included for your trip.
Do you offer heliskiing in Svaneti?
Classic multi-drop heliskiing in Georgia is based in Gudauri. In Svaneti we focus on freeride, catski and ski touring, and can arrange heli-assisted big-mountain days for experienced groups on request.
What languages do you speak?
English, Georgian and Svan.
How far in advance should I book?
In peak winter and summer seasons, book as early as you can — guides and guesthouses fill up. Off-peak, shorter notice is usually fine. Contact us and we will advise.