TOUR OVERVIEW
The Marvelous Latali Tour is a cultural day trip from Mestia to the Latali community, one of the most traditional areas of Svaneti. It is designed for travelers who want more than a quick sightseeing stop: village life, local food, short hiking, old churches, family hospitality, and, by special request, the traditional search for gold in the Enguri River.
The tour takes you to Lakhushdi, a village in the Latali community where rural life still follows the rhythm of the mountains, the seasons, and family work. Here you can see a quieter side of Svaneti: stone houses, gardens, local farms, forested hills, and views toward the surrounding valleys. The day is not physically difficult, but it gives a rich impression of everyday life outside Mestia.
One of the highlights is the short hike to Tangili Church, an 11th-century church hidden on a forested hill above Lakhushdi. The walk is light and usually takes less than two hours. Along the way, the route passes through peaceful nature, with village views, forest paths, and a sense of old Svaneti that is harder to feel in the busier parts of Mestia.
After the hike, the tour continues with local hospitality. You return to the village for tea, lunch, and a cooking masterclass, where your hosts show how traditional Svan dishes are prepared. Depending on the arrangement, the masterclass can include dishes such as kubdari, khachapuri, chvishtari, or tashmijabi. This is not a staged restaurant activity; it is closer to spending time with a local family and learning how food is prepared in a Svan household.
Gold searching in the Enguri River can be arranged by special request. Local people still know traditional techniques used in the region, and when conditions allow, guests can see and sometimes participate in the process. This activity is not always available, as it depends on season, river conditions, and local availability.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families and visitors who want a softer day between longer hikes. It combines nature, culture, food, and village experience in one relaxed but meaningful day.
GALLERY
TOUR BY DAY
Start from Mestia
The tour begins in Mestia in the morning. Your guide and driver meet you at your accommodation or an agreed meeting point. After a short introduction, you drive toward the Latali community.
Drive to Lakhushdi village
The drive from Mestia to Lakhushdi is short, but it quickly brings you into a more rural part of Svaneti. The landscape changes from the busy center of Mestia to quieter villages, fields, old houses, and mountain views. After arrival, you meet the local hosts and get a first impression of village life.
Short hike to Tangili Church
From Lakhushdi, you start a short hike to Tangili Church. The church dates back to the 11th century and is located on a hill above the village, surrounded by forest. The walk is light, peaceful, and suitable for travelers with normal fitness. Along the way, you can enjoy nature, village views, and the quiet atmosphere of Latali.
Tea and lunch with local hosts
After the hike, you return to the village. Your hosts offer tea and a light lunch. This is a good moment to slow down, ask questions, and experience the hospitality of a Svan family.
Gold searching in the Enguri River by special request
If arranged in advance and available on the day of the tour, you can visit the Enguri River to see traditional gold searching techniques. Local people explain how gold was searched for in the river and how the old methods are still remembered and sometimes used. Participation may be possible, but this activity depends on river conditions, season, and local availability.
Cooking masterclass
Back at the guesthouse, the cooking masterclass begins. Your host shows how traditional Svan dishes are prepared. The exact menu can vary, but it may include kubdari, khachapuri, chvishtari, tashmijabi, or other local dishes. The focus is on real home cooking and the food culture of Svaneti.
Dinner and village evening
After the cooking class, dinner is served. Depending on the group and prior arrangement, it may also be possible to invite local singers or include a small introduction to Svan folk traditions. In some seasons, guests may also take part in simple agricultural activities, depending on what is happening in the village.
Return to Mestia
After dinner, the tour finishes and you return to Mestia. Overnight in Lakhushdi can be arranged separately on request.
ROUTE / MAP
Tour price details
Transport from Mestia to Lakhushdi and back
Local guide
Short guided hike to Tangili Church
Tea and local lunch
Cooking masterclass
Dinner with local hosts
Village experience in Lakhushdi
Assistance with arranging gold searching in the Enguri River by special request
Before you book
Fitness level
Moderate. You should be comfortable walking several hours per day on mountain trails.
Weather
Mountain weather can change quickly. Warm and waterproof clothing is recommended.
Accommodation
Guesthouses are authentic and simple. Private bathrooms may be limited.
Best time
Usually from June to October, depending on snow and trail conditions.
FAQ
Still have questions? Contact us →
PLAN YOUR SVANETI TREK
Send us your travel dates
We will check availability, recommend the best route format and explain what is realistic for your dates, group size and comfort expectations.
+995 577 748 793
tours@svanetitrekking.com
