Travel Guide to Svaneti Range

Getting There

• Car

  If you are traveling by car, start your journey from the town of Zugdidi, which is the main access point to Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti. From Zugdidi, take the E60 highway heading north towards Mestia. This scenic drive will take you through picturesque landscapes. Continue on the E60 for about 50 km (approximately 1 hour) until you reach the village of Lentekhi. Once in Lentekhi, follow the signs to the Svaneti Range. The last stretch is on rural roads, so be prepared for some rough terrain. Make sure you have a reliable vehicle, preferably a 4x4. Parking is available at various points along the route for short hikes into the mountains.

• Public Transportation

  To reach the Svaneti Range using public transportation, start from Zugdidi. Look for a marshrutka (minibus) heading to Mestia; these run frequently and can be found at the main bus station. The journey to Mestia will take about 2-3 hours. Upon arrival in Mestia, you can either take another marshrutka or a taxi to get closer to the Svaneti Range. The taxi will take you directly to the hiking trails or viewpoints in the area. It’s advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand, as prices can vary. Expect to pay around 20-30 GEL for the taxi ride. Alternatively, you can ask locals for recommendations on guided tours that can take you deeper into the range.

• Hiking

  For those already in Mestia, you can hike to the Svaneti Range. There are several trails that start from the outskirts of Mestia, leading into the mountains. One popular route is the hike to Koruldi Lakes, which offers stunning views of the Svaneti Range. The hike is moderately challenging and takes about 4-5 hours one way. Make sure to wear appropriate hiking gear and carry enough water and snacks. The trail is marked, but it's advisable to download a map or use a GPS app to navigate.