Mount Ushba

With its two characteristic summits, the higher southern summit at 4700 m and the northern summit only 10 m lower, Mount Ushba is located in Svaneti and is one of the most beautiful peaks in the Greater Caucasus. The mountain can be seen from many points, but best of all from Mestia and Beshto. Geologically, the mountain consists of ancient granites and crystalline schists.

If you visit the area around Mount Ushba, you can look forward to a variety of exciting activities, including mountaineering and hiking.

Climbing on Ushba

The mountain is a popular destination for mountaineers from around the world. Since the mountain is only suitable for experienced mountaineers, we recommend always climbing it with a mountain guide. There are many different routes for mountaineers of different abilities. The classic route, taken by most mountaineers, is B2.

The history of climbing Ushba goes back to the 19th century. Many have tried, but it was not until 1888 that John Cockin and Ulrich Almer managed to climb the north summit via the Heart Glacier. The south summit was even more difficult to reach. It was not until 1950 that a German-Swiss group led by Adolf Schulitz managed to reach the summit after 16 attempts. These successes show how difficult it is to climb the Ushba.

There have also been attempts in Georgia. In 1934, the siblings Alexandra and Aljoscha Japaridse, Gio Niguriani and Jagor Kasalikhaschwili were the first Georgians to climb the Uschba. Alexandra Japaridse was the first woman to ascend the Uschba. In 1937, Gabriel, Beknu and Besarion Khergiani, Chichiko Chartolani and Maxim Gvarliani were the first to climb the most difficult wall of the southern Ushba. This laid the foundation for climbing on the Ushba. A total of 19 routes were climbed on the southern Ushba and 13 on the northern Ushba.

Hiking

Those who enjoy hiking can explore the numerous hiking trails around Ushba. There are numerous routes suitable for both experienced hikers and beginners.

• One of the recommended routes is from Mestia via the Guli Pass to Becho. This challenging route takes about 8 hours and is only suitable for experienced hikers.
• Another way to enjoy the magnificent view of Mount Ushba is to take the route over the Bach Pass from Ezeri to Becho, which is considered to be of medium difficulty.
• Another highlight for hikers is the route to the Shdugra waterfall. This route consists of two stages: the first stage ends at the waterfall and is of medium difficulty, while the second stage leads up to the mountain’s glacier and requires technical skill. Along all routes there are cosy cafes where you can get warm and cold drinks.

On our hiking tours in Svaneti, such as the 11-day hiking tour in Svaneti, the 7-day hike in Svaneti or the well-known 7-day Mestia – Uschguli route, our guests can enjoy and experience these directions.