Backcountry ski touring in Georgia’s Svaneti region with PowderQuest. 1500 meter touring days, IFMGA guides and an overnight in the medieval village - Ushguli.
Step into the raw, untamed mountains of Georgia’s Caucasus on an immersive backcountry journey designed for experienced skiers and riders seeking something truly different. PowderQuest’s Svaneti program combines full-day ski touring with a deep connection to one of the most culturally rich and visually dramatic alpine regions on earth.
From the trip description by PowderQuest
On-snow support
- Independent: Below this trip's level of support
Ski or ride independently, without trip staff accompanying you on the mountain.
- Hosted: With your guide
Trip hosts ski or ride with the group, help everyone get oriented, and share local knowledge.
- Guided: Included
Professional guides lead the group and select suitable terrain and routes based on conditions and ability. Instruction is not included.
- Coached: Not confirmed
Professional coaches lead the group, select suitable terrain, and provide instruction and personalized feedback to help you improve.
- 7 days on snow with staff
- Backcountry guidingTwo full-time, certified IFMGA guides lead the entire trip, one of them a native of Mestia
Terrain, ability and who it is for
- You should be in very fit and confident skiing steep and varied terrain and snow conditions, including powder and hard pack.
- Participants must ski ungroomed black diamond runs without hesitation and have strong ski touring or splitboarding experience, including efficient transitions, skinning steep terrain, and executing kick turns.
- You should be comfortable climbing 1500 meters (5000 feet) per day at high altitude.
- From the high glaciated terrain of Tetnuldi to the perfectly spaced tree skiing around Hatsvali and into remote, seldom-visited valleys, each day delivers big mountain descents, varied terrain, and a true sense of exploration.
- This is our most demanding itinerary, featuring consecutive full touring days, significant vertical gain, and a strong emphasis on efficient movement in the mountains.
- Sport
- Ski + Snowboard
- Max group size
- 6 guests
From the trip description by PowderQuest
What the price includes
Included
- Lodging
- Lift pass
- Meals
- Transfers
- Expert Support Two full-time, certified IFMGA guides lead the entire trip, combining deep local knowledge with a strong focus on mountain safety and cultural insight. (In the rare case of fewer than 4 guests, the trip may be guided by one guide).
- Seamless Travel Airport pick up and drop off.
- 2 private 4x4 vehicles for the duration of the adventure.
- Skiing 7 guided backcountry days.
- Lift tickets included if we use any ski resorts for backcountry access.
- Accommodations Handpicked lodges chosen for comfort, character, convenient locations and authentic Georgian hospitality.
- Dining & Wine Daily breakfast
- Authentic Georgian dinners paired with wine each evening.
- Thoughtful Extras All gratuities for hotel staff and restaurants are covered, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy the adventure.
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flight to Georgia
- Personal expenses such as lunches, drinks outside of the included wine, and discretionary gratuities for your guides.
Not confirmed by the company: Lesson.
Day by day
- Day 1: Arrival in Georgia & Transfer to MestiaArrive at Kutaisi Airport (KUT), meet the guides and 4x4 team, and travel to Mestia. Check into the lodge and join the welcome dinner.
- Days 2–6: Backcountry ski touring in the stunning Mestia RegionFive full touring days around Mestia, including high alpine Tetnuldi terrain and lower Hatsvali tree-skiing options. Lifts may be used to access larger backcountry objectives. Expect sustained climbs at altitude and long descents; evenings return to Mestia.
- Day 7: Ushguli - Remote Touring in a UNESCO World Heritage VillageDrive to Ushguli after breakfast for a backcountry touring day and an overnight in a guesthouse in the historic village.
- Day 8: Ski, Return to Mestia & Farewell DinnerAfter the final mountain day, return to Mestia by 4x4 for a farewell dinner and overnight stay.
- Day 9: Departure dayBreakfast and private transfer to Kutaisi Airport.This is a sample itinerary: guides select final daily objectives according to weather, conditions and logistics.
From the trip description by PowderQuest
Where you stay
Mestia: A welcoming, family-operated lodge set in the heart of Svaneti, blending the warmth of Georgian tradition with the comforts travelers appreciate. Housed in a historic building, surrounded by dramatic peaks and crisp alpine air.
Ushguli: A simple yet atmospheric mountain guesthouse in the heart of Ushguli, offering a cozy retreat at the edge of the high Caucasus. Rooms are straightforward and comfortable, many with views of medieval towers and dramatic valley landscapes.
7 ski days; 8 nights of lodging in mountain guesthouses and comfortable hotels.
Getting there
There are two main options to arrive: Fly into Kutaisi (KUT) direct from many European cities using Wizz Airlines. Or an international flight to Tbilisi, Georgia's capital city, followed by a domestic connection or ground transfer to Kutaisi (KUT).
Airport pick up and drop off are included.
From the trip description by PowderQuest
Pins show the approximate main trip area—not a route, meeting point, or full itinerary. Confirm exact locations in the company's trip details.
Dates and prices
- Mar 4 – Mar 12, 20272026/27 · 9 days · 8 nights4,595 USD$4595 per person, shared twin room with private bathAvailableChoose these datesBook on company website
- Mar 12 – Mar 20, 20272026/27 · 9 days · 8 nights4,595 USD$4595 per person, shared twin room with private bathPrivate InquiryChoose these datesEnquire on company website
Prices, taxes and fees, required extras, inclusions, availability, and booking terms can change. Confirm the current price and trip details on the company website; details as of September 2, 2026.
Good to know
When is the best time to come for good snow? January through April with March ideal for a combo of good snow and more stable weather.
This adventure is best suited for travelers who embrace the unknown and enjoy stepping far outside the typical ski-trip comfort zone. Georgia — especially Svaneti — is raw, remote, and wonderfully unpolished.
Lodging is very comfortable in Mestia and a bit more rustic for our one night stay at a cozy guest house in Ushguli.
How much currency should I bring for extras? Plan on around USD $20 per day for lunches, snacks, and après-ski. Credit cards are accepted in most places, but having some Georgian Lari (GEL) is handy for smaller stops.
Pricing Details: (in USD) $4595 per person, shared twin room with private bath.
From the trip description by PowderQuest
