Mestia

There is exactly one road from Kutaisi to Upper Svaneti. There is a small airport. Flights are in a small propeller plane and only twice a week, but are provided free of charge, from the Georgia Police as of June 2009 between Kutaisi and Mestia.

There is a 'marshrutka' small bus running from Tbilisi for 35 Lari, but it takes 12 hours mostly on twist. The scenery is wonderful.

In the summer time a plane flown by the Georgian military will give you a ride between Kutasi and Mestia. The plane will only work on "perfect" days. This is a very fun experience! The cost is free to the locals, or ~$15USD for foreigners. It will take off from a grassy field in Mestia, and land in Kutasi in less then an hour! This will cut off about 6-8 hours of travel time to the capital! The plane fly's on Saturdays and leaves Kutasi at 9. The pilot's name is Leri - 877-199-689.

A new airport in Mestia has recently opened, and flights between Mestia and Tbilisi are now available 5 times a week for 75 lari each way. Reserve tickets at least a week in advance.