Day 1: Arrive in Kutaisi and transfer to Mestia

13:00 – 21:00 | 8 hrs
Route: Kutaisi – Zugdidi (optional lunch stop) – Mestia (approx. 240 km, +1,500m / -300m)
Arrive at Kutaisi International Airport and meet your driver. Transfer to the remote mountain region of Svaneti via a long but spectacular drive into the Greater Caucasus. Along the way you’ll pass dramatic valleys, icy rivers, and iconic stone defence towers perched above villages. Optional lunch stop en route before continuing into the highlands. On arrival in Mestia, meet Nata, our guide, check equipment, and arrange any rentals needed for the week. Settle in and enjoy your first evening in the Svaneti mountains.
Overnight: Local guest house
Meals: D

Day 2: WARM-UP TOUR TO MAZERI

6–8 hrs | +900–1,100m
Route: Etseri – Ushba Ridge – Mazeri Valley
After breakfast and a safety briefing, begin your first day on skis. The route climbs gradually through pine forests and open meadows toward the ridge below Mt. Ushba (4,710 m), one of the most dramatic peaks in the Caucasus. Enjoy panoramic views before descending through fresh powder into the Mazeri Valley.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Mazeri.

Day 2: Mestia to Mazeri – Skills assessment and warm up tour

08:30 – 16:30 | 8 hrs
Route: Mestia – alpine training area – Mazeri (+900 to +1,100m / -900 to -1,100m)
After breakfast, our guide Nata will run a detailed trip briefing, followed by an avalanche safety session and full equipment checks. Today focuses on warm-up touring and confidence-building: short ascents, skills refreshers, and several practice descents on and off-piste (conditions dependent).
You’ll then begin your first proper touring day, climbing gradually through pine forest and open alpine terrain toward Mazeri, with big views building as you gain height.
Overnight: Hotel
Meals: B / L / D

Day 3: Mazeri to Mestia via Guli Pass

08:00 – 17:00 | 9 hrs
Route: Mazeri – Guli Pass – Mestia (+1,300m / -1,500m)
Pack your luggage after breakfast and set off into broad open bowls, skinning steadily toward Guli Pass (2,950m). From the top, enjoy a long scenic descent through the Mestiachala valley back toward Mestia, a beautiful ski line into Svaneti’s cultural heart.
Picnic lunch during the tour. Evening free to explore town and choose a local restaurant for dinner.
Overnight: Hotel
Meals: B / L

Day 4: Tetnuldi Area Touring and Hadishi Valley Descent

08:30 – 16:30 | 8 hrs
Route: Mestia – Tetnuldi area – Hadishi Valley – Mestia (+800 to +1,200m / -1,200 to -1,800m)
Transfer to the Tetnuldi area for a full touring day with big mountain scenery and long descents through glaciated terrain. If conditions allow, there may be optional short lift-assisted laps to maximise skiing and access higher lines.
Picnic lunch during the day. Evening free in Mestia.
Overnight: Hotel
Meals: B / L

Day 5: Transfer to Ushguli and Tour Mt Gvibari, Latphari Range Views

08:00 – 17:00 | 9 hrs
Route: Mestia – Ushguli – Mt Gvibari – Ushguli (+1,100m / -1,100m)
After breakfast, transfer to Ushguli (approx. 1.5 hrs), one of the highest continuously inhabited villages in Europe and a UNESCO-listed treasure. From this extraordinary alpine setting, tour toward Mt Gvibari, soaking up huge views across the Latphari Range.
Descend back into Ushguli and settle into your mountain guesthouse for a cozy evening and home-style dinner.
Overnight: guesthouse
Meals: B / L / D

Day 6: Dadiashi Ridge and Zagaro Pass Road Tour

08:30 – 16:30 | 8 hrs
Route: Ushguli – Dadiashi Ridge – Zagaro Pass Road – Ushguli (+1,030m / -1,030m)
Ski tour to Dadiashi Ridge (3,181m), then follow the winter-closed Zagaro Pass road with an outrageous panorama of the central Caucasus. On clear days, expect views across multiple major peaks and ridgelines, including the famous “Himalayas of the Caucasus” skyline.
Return via the same route. Picnic lunch during the tour.
Overnight: guesthouse
Meals: B / L / D

Day 7: Shkhara Glacier Area Tour and Return to Mestia

08:00 – 18:00 | 10 hrs
Route: Ushguli – Shkhara Glacier area – optional Kareta ascent or Lamaria traverse – Mestia (+1,005 to +1,324m / -1,005 to -1,324m)
A true highlight day: ski in the Shkhara Glacier area, dominated by the immense southern wall of Georgia’s highest peak. The main objective option is a bigger ascent with a rewarding descent; a less demanding ridge/traverse option may be offered depending on conditions and group energy.
After the tour, return to a 5 star mountain, spa hotel in Mestia for a celebration evening and a chance to properly unwind after a huge week in the mountains.
Overnight: 5 star mountain spa hotel
Meals: B / L / D

Day 8: Depart Kutaisi

05:30 – 12:30 | 7 hrs
Route: Mestia – Kutaisi Airport (approx. 240 km, +300m / -1,500m)
Transfer back to Kutaisi International Airport for your departure flight (timed according to flight schedules).
Meals: B

Important Note: Touring routes may be adjusted by your guide based on weather, snowpack, avalanche risk, and group ability to ensure safety and preserve the quality of the experience. In poor weather, alternatives may include a museum visit, a local cooking masterclass, or a resort day.

Accommodation is based on twin sharing throughout. A single room supplement of €100 is available for those who prefer their own space.

We’ve carefully selected a blend of welcoming local guesthouses and comfortable mountain hotels, finishing the journey in a luxury 5-star mountain spa hotel,  offering the perfect balance of authenticity, comfort, and indulgence.

• 6 nights in cosy guesthouses and well-located local hotels.
• 1 night in a 5★ mountain hotel, with access to a heated indoor pool, sun terrace, and sauna (sauna access may incur a small additional charge).

What’s included

What’s not included

Touring skis or splitboard with bindings that allow heel lift for uphill skinning and lock down for descents (e.g. tech/pin or hybrid frame bindings)

Climbing skins (cut to fit your skis/splitboard and in good condition)

Ski touring boots, lightweight with reliable walk mode, compatible with your bindings

Adjustable ski poles (telescopic or folding, with powder baskets)

Helmet (recommended, especially for descents)

Balaclava or lightweight face covering (optional but useful in wind/cold)

Thin ski socks (avoid thick socks—they reduce circulation and comfort)

Insulated gloves or down mitts with waterproof outer shell

Ski goggles with good visibility in flat light, rose, orange, or pink lenses are ideal; bring a second lens or spare goggles for brighter conditions (e.g. darker or mirrored lens). Avoid clear or overly dark lenses unless the forecast guarantees steady light conditions, good visibility is essential for safe skiing in backcountry terrain.

Optional but Recommended
Ski (splitboard) crampons for better grip on icy or steep ascents
Binding repair kit (specific to your setup, in case of minor issues)
A backpack with an integrated airbag for added safety

Avalanche Safety Gear – Mandatory
For your safety and that of the group, you must carry:

Modern digital avalanche transceiver (3-antenna only)
Analogue, single-antenna, or outdated transceivers are not allowed. If you arrive with an incompatible device, you will not be permitted to join the tour until it is replaced.

Avalanche shovel – must be metal (plastic shovels are not accepted)

Avalanche probe – minimum length 240 cm, and must fit in your pack

(Please note avalanche safety gear is not included in the tour price,
but rental options may be available upon request.)

Clothing & Personal Gear

Base & Mid Layers

Technical base layers (top & bottom – wool or synthetic)

Insulated mid-layers (lightweight down or fleece)

Thermal leggings (ankle length)

Extra warm gloves or mitts for downtime

Down or synthetic insulated jacket (for evenings)

Outerwear

Waterproof shell jacket and trousers (GORE-TEX or similar, with side vents/zips)

Warm hat and neck gaiter or buff

Wool or synthetic thick socks

Snow boots or insulated footwear

Nightwear suitable for mountain guesthouses

Swimwear (for the spa, sauna, and pool at the 5-star hotel)

Sun Protection
High SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Lip balm with SPF 30+

Sunglasses (Category 3 or 4 lenses recommended for high-altitude UV exposure)

Day Pack Essentials

Touring backpack (30–35L with ski/snowboard carry system)

Hydration system (CamelBak with insulated hose or water bottles in insulated sleeves)

Electrolyte tablets or energy gels (for sustained energy during touring days)

Other Useful Items

Head torch with charger (essential for early starts and emergencies)

EU plug adapter (2 round-pin type)

Slippers or indoor shoes (for comfort at guesthouses)

___

Our skis or yours?
We recommend bringing your own gear for the best fit and familiarity, but if that’s not possible, you can rent a full or partial ski touring setup. This includes skis with touring bindings, ski touring boots, climbing skins, and poles for €65 per day. Please let us know in advance so we can have it ready.

Bringing your own equipment?
If you are bringing your own gear, make sure it’s appropriate for ski touring in alpine terrain. Your setup should include:
– Touring skis with reliable touring bindings. Ideally, skis should be 95–110 mm underfoot, wide enough to handle powder and variable conditions but still efficient on the climb.
– Ski touring boots compatible with your bindings.
– Climbing skins that fit your skis edge to edge.

(Please note avalanche safety gear is not included in the tour price,
but rental options may be available upon request.)

A valid passport is required to travel, with at least 6 months before expiration.

Fly into & out of  Kutaisi Airport, Georgia. Full arrival details and meeting point will be available in your back office after booking.

Travel & health insurance is required. Please ensure your policy includes emergency medical care, trip delays or cancellations, backcountry skiing/boarding and active travel. See our section on INSURANCE for more details & useful contacts.

Visas. Many nationalities, including citizens of the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can enter Georgia visa-free for up to one year. However, entry requirements may vary, so we strongly recommend checking with www.visahq.com

The currency in Georgia is the Lari (GEL). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger restaurants, small villages and remote areas often require cash. It’s advisable to carry some GEL for purchases in these places. ATMs are commonly available in towns but may be scarce in the mountains.

Dietary Requirements & Allergies. We’re happy to cater for most dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free but please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly. In some remote areas, options may be limited, so we recommend bringing any essentials or snacks that suit your needs.

If you have food allergies, it’s essential you inform us ahead of time. Whilst we’ll do our best to avoid cross-contamination, we can’t guarantee allergen-free meals and cannot accept liability if accidental exposure occurs.

Travel Advice & Safety – Georgia

We closely monitor official UK travel advice and operate all ShePeaks trips in line with current regulations issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

The FCDO currently advises against travel to the Russian-occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and against all but essential travel to areas immediately adjacent to their administrative boundary lines.

Our itineraries do not operate in or near these regions.
All ShePeaks trips in Georgia take place in well-established travel areas that are widely visited and considered suitable for tourism.

Georgia continues to welcome international visitors, and tourism numbers remain strong across the country. As with any destination, we provide clear pre-departure information so guests can make informed decisions and travel confidently.

We encourage all travellers to review the official FCDO guidance and ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance before departure.

Travel Advice & Safety – Georgia

We closely monitor official UK travel advice and operate all ShePeaks trips in line with current regulations issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

The FCDO currently advises against travel to the Russian-occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and against all but essential travel to areas immediately adjacent to their administrative boundary lines.

Our itineraries do not operate in or near these regions.
All ShePeaks trips in Georgia take place in well-established travel areas that are widely visited and considered suitable for tourism.

Georgia continues to welcome international visitors, and tourism numbers remain strong across the country. As with any destination, we provide clear pre-departure information so guests can make informed decisions and travel confidently.

We encourage all travellers to review the official FCDO guidance and ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance before departure.

Is this the right trip for me?
This is an all-women ski touring skills camp for confident skiers who are comfortable off-piste and want to develop their backcountry skills and confidence. You should be in good physical condition and happy with full days in a high-mountain environment. The terrain ranges from intermediate to advanced, with progressive objectives and full guide support throughout.
Intermediate ski tourers are supported and coached, while more experienced ski tourers will still find plenty of challenge and technical terrain.

What about skiing to altitude?
Most ski touring takes place between 1,800–3,200m, with gradual acclimatisation built into the itinerary. While the Caucasus feel very alpine, we don’t reach extreme elevations, so altitude sickness is unlikely for most people. You may feel breathless on steeper ascents, particularly in the first few days.

Can I bring my own skis?
Yes, bringing your own skis is encouraged if you’re comfortable with your setup. Just ensure they are suitable for touring (bindings must allow heel lift for uphill travel), recently serviced & in good condition. Be aware of airline fees and baggage policies, which are your responsibility.

What kind of fitness do I need?
You should be in good physical condition, comfortable with sustained uphill ski touring for several hours per day. Technique coaching is provided, but you must already be confident skiing off-piste in variable snow conditions.

What will the conditions be like?
Expect a mix of powder, spring snow, and everything in between, conditions vary with weather and elevation. Mornings and high terrain can be cold, while valleys warm up quickly. You’ll need a flexible layering system to adapt.

The ski touring route may be adjusted by our guide Nata based on weather conditions, snow quality, or the fitness levels of the group to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment. If weather conditions are poor, alternative activities could a day at the Hatsvali ski resort or a visit to the National Museum of Mestia.

Will I have phone signal/Wi-Fi? Can I charge devices during the day?
Phone signal is generally reliable in towns, but coverage becomes patchy or unavailable in remote mountain areas. Most guesthouses and hotels offer Wi-Fi, though it can be slow or inconsistent. Power will be limited during the day, so bring a small power bank if you need to charge devices while touring. Most accommodations have sockets available for overnight charging (EU 2-pin plugs). For internet access on the go, consider buying a local Georgian SIM card at the airport upon arrival, unlimited data for one week costs around €10.

Can I do laundry?
Some accommodations offer laundry service or shared facilities. We recommend packing quick-dry clothing and a small travel detergent for hand-washing essentials along the way.

What if I get tired or injured?
Our guides are trained in advanced mountain rescue and will assess and respond to fatigue or injury on the mountain. In most areas, vehicle evacuation is possible, and the itinerary has flexibility to adapt if needed. If you need to take a day off, that’s absolutely fine, transport can be arranged so you can rejoin the group when ready. Comprehensive travel insurance covering off-piste skiing is required.

Do we need to tip?
Tipping is not mandatory in Georgia, but small tips (e.g. rounding up or ~10%) in cafés and restaurants are appreciated. A tip for your guide and local support team at the end of the trip is welcomed if you feel the service has been good.

Is English widely spoken?
In Tbilisi and larger towns, English is fairly common, especially amongst younger people. In rural areas and mountain villages, English is much less widely spoken, Nata, our ShePeaks guide will act as translator and cultural bridge throughout the trip. The national language is Georgian, a unique language with its own ancient script. While not expected, learning a few basic words or greetings is always appreciated by locals. Here are a few to get you started:

Hello – გამარჯობა (gam-ar-joba)
Thank you – მადლობა (mad-lo-ba)
Yes – კი (ki)
No – არა (a-ra)
Cheers! – გაუმარჯოს (gaumarjos!)