Mountain town in Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, Georgia
Healthcare in Mestia: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Mestia
Only basic care locally. Serious injuries need evacuation to Zugdidi or Tbilisi, several hours by road; helicopter rescue depends on weather.
Hospitals for foreigners in Mestia
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Mestia Referral Hospital | Basic care; serious cases go to Zugdidi or Tbilisi |
Key facts
- In Georgia: Tbilisi and Batumi have modern private clinics at moderate prices; rural care is basic. Insurance is compulsory, and mountain rescue can be slow.
- Pharmacies: Aversi and PSP pharmacies are everywhere, many open 24 hours; codeine products are banned.
- Health spending: US$554 per person a year (2023); 5.6 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: All emergencies 112.
Travel and health insurance
Required for entry: Mandatory for all visitors since 1 January 2026: health and accident cover of at least 30,000 GEL for the entire stay.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Mestia for foreigners?
Mestia Referral Hospital: Basic care; serious cases go to Zugdidi or Tbilisi
Do I need travel insurance for Georgia?
Mandatory for all visitors since 1 January 2026: health and accident cover of at least 30,000 GEL for the entire stay.
More about Mestia
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Georgia
- Georgian National Tourism Administration
- Roads Department of Georgia
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.