Chalaadi Glacier: An Accessible Ice Giant
Hike to the Chalaadi Glacier near Mestia for an unforgettable adventure amidst Georgia's stunning Caucasus Mountains.
Chalaadi Glacier, near Mestia, Georgia, is a stunning, easily accessible glacier. A moderate hike leads to the glacier's icy terminus, offering breathtaking views of the Caucasus Mountains and the powerful Mestiachala River.
A brief summary to Chalaadi Glacier
- 4PG8+9PV, Mestia, GE
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots or sneakers for the trek, as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and avoid hiking in rainy or foggy conditions.
- Be cautious of falling rocks, especially near the ice cave.
- Visit during the summer months (July and August) for the best weather conditions.
Getting There
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Walking
From Mestia, the most common way to reach the Chalaadi Glacier trailhead is by taxi or private car. The drive is approximately 15 minutes to the suspension bridge over the Mestiachala River, which marks the start of the trail. From the bridge, follow the well-marked path. The hike to the glacier is roughly 6 kilometers roundtrip and takes about 2-3 hours. The trail is easy to moderate, passing through a forest and over some rocky terrain. Cost: A taxi from Mestia to the trailhead and back typically costs around 80 GEL, including waiting time.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transport to the Chalaadi Glacier trailhead, you can take a marshrutka (minibus) from Mestia towards the village of Tskhakazagaro. Ask the driver to drop you off at the turnoff for the Chalaadi Glacier road. From there, it's approximately a 3-kilometer walk to the suspension bridge and the start of the trail. Follow the well-marked path. The hike to the glacier is roughly 6 kilometers roundtrip and takes about 2-3 hours. The trail is easy to moderate, passing through a forest and over some rocky terrain. Cost: The marshrutka fare from Mestia to the turnoff is around 5 GEL. You will also need to factor in the walking time to the trailhead.
Discover more about Chalaadi Glacier
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Mestiachala River
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WinterFell LLC
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Ioska's House
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Svaneti Travel Guide
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Guesthouse data
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Laghami Church
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Mikhail Khergiani House Museum
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Margiani's House Museum
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Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography
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Sour Springs
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Hatsvali Cable Car - Mestia
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Hikers Cafe
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Essential places to dine
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Trattoria Svaneti
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Restaurant Nikala
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Old House
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Ailama
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Mestia Chali bridge
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