Georgia and the Caucasus

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~~$1609~~

$1529

Georgia and the Caucasus

9 Days Starting and ending in Tbilisi, Georgia

Visiting: Tbilisi, Mtskheta, Kakheti, Lagodekhi Nature Reserve, Ananuri Fortress Complex, Gudauri View Point, Gergeti Trinity Church, Stepantsminda, Truso Gorge, Juta

Tour operator:

Culture Trip

Tour code:

GEO

Recommended For:

Couples, Singles

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

25-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Private Available:

From:

$1609

$1529 (USD) The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$80

Tour Overview

Whether hiking in the Caucasus Mountains or whipping up a feast from a farmer’s market, this nine-day journey yields an immersive Georgian experience. You'll begin in the Old Quarter of Tbilisi and visit Unesco World Heritage sites at nearby Mtskheta. See the ancient wine-making – and drinking – traditions of the region before exploring Lagodekhi National Park. The spectacular Truso Gorge, a hike up to Gergeti Church and a ramble beyond remote Juta village showcase the best of the High Caucasus. Return to earth with a visit to sulphur baths in Tbilisi, wrapped up with an invigorating massage. All of our trips are flightless in destination, with 100% of all carbon emissions offset. It's just part of how we see the world while being good to it.

Highlights

Explore the Caucasus Mountains and trek to a remote church
Visit Mtskheta, a Unesco World Heritage site
Taste Georgian wine and learn to cook traditional dishes
Hike the lush hilly forests of Lagodekhi National Park
Soak in the famed sulphur baths of Tbilisi
Experience warm Georgian hospitality

Places You'll See

Georgia And The Caucasus

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive In Tbilisi

Location: Tbilisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Folk Boutique Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Touch down at Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) and make your way to your central hotel, where you’ll meet our Local Insider who will accompany the group throughout the trip. At 6pm, they will introduce you to your fellow travellers over an informal welcome drink. Get to know each other during dinner before turning in for an early night; tomorrow will be a jam-packed day.

Activities included:

Welcome dinner

Day 2 : Explore Tbilisi Old Quarter And Enjoy A Typical Georgian Lunch

Location: Tbilisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Folk Boutique Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Old Tbilisi's tangle of narrow streets and pretty houses huddle beneath a cliff, topped with the walls of a fourth-century fortress. After strolling the lanes, catch a cable car up to the fortress for panoramic views across the city before heading down to a cluster of medieval bathhouses. Adjourn for a well-deserved lunch of khachapuri, a scrumptious cheese-filled bread and the Georgian national dish. In the afternoon you’ll visit the Museum of Georgia, where you can look out for gold artifacts; many believe this is the mythical Land of the Golden Fleece – something to mull over with evening drinks in a local pub.

Activities included:

Guided Tbilisi walking tour
Traditional Georgian lunch

Optional activities:

Museum of Georgia visit

Day 3 : Visit A Farmer's Market And The World Heritage Monuments In Mtskheta

Location: Mtskheta, Tbilisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Folk Boutique Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Tbilisi hosts a range of incredible markets, each a colourful cornucopia of fresh produce, spices and pickles, usually selling home-brewed wine and spirits too. It's at a local farmer’s market where you'll meet your host, chef Teona, to buy ingredients, before decamping to her home for a convivial masterclass in hearty Georgian cooking. Enjoy your creations for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll head to nearby Mtskheta, a former fortified capital, to tour an atmospheric clutch of Unesco World Heritage monuments, including the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.

Activities included:

Guided farmer’s market tour
Cooking lesson
Guided Mtskheta tour

Day 4 : Experience The Wine And Baking Traditions Of Georgia

Location: Kakheti

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Royal Palace Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Georgia is referred to as the cradle of wine, as it’s where the first-known wine was fermented in 6,000BCE. Today you'll see these traditions in the Kakheti region, east of Tbilisi. Wine here is still made in qvevri, large clay egg-shaped vessels, usually buried in the ground, and you'll watch a master craftsman showcase the process. Following a pause at the 16th-century citadel of Gremi, join a local family for home-baked bread and churchkhela, a sausage-shaped sweet made from nuts and thickened grape juice. Like most Georgian feasts, lunch is conducted by a traditional tamada, or toastmaster.

Activities included:

Qvevri wine workshop
Bread baking and churchkhela experience
Lunch with wine and a traditional toastmaster

Day 5 : Hike In Lagodekhi National Park And Sample Georgian Wine

Location: Lagodekhi Nature Reserve, Tbilisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Folk Boutique Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Step outside your hotel and you're at the gates of Lagodekhi National Park, a small protected reserve in the Caucasian foothills that border Russia and Azerbaijan. You'll enjoy a five-hour hike in the tranquil forests, which are veined with rivers and twitching with birds – an ideal prelude to the higher Caucasus in the coming days. Returning to Tbilisi, you’ll stop by a local winery to sample some of the country's incredible array of distinctive wines, many of which are made in limited quantities by small-scale producers.

Activities included:

Lagodekhi National Park hike
Picnic lunch
Traditional Georgian wine tasting

Day 6 : Head Into The Caucasus Mountains And Trek To Gergeti Church

Location: Ananuri Fortress Complex, Gudauri View Point, Gergeti Trinity Church, Stepantsminda

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Intourist Kazbegi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Belt up for the drive north into the Caucasus Mountains on the Georgian Military Highway. This ancient trading route between Georgia and Russia wriggles across the Jvari Pass before joining the Terek River valley, all the way to the town of Stepantsminda. En route you'll pause at Ananuri Castle and the Gudauri View Point before reaching the 2,438m (8,000ft) high pass and spectacular Caucasus landscapes beyond. Stepantsminda is hemmed in by rugged mountains, including the snow-clad Mount Kazbegi. You'll need to boot up for the superb three-hour hike to the medieval Gergeti Trinity Church, which sits on top of a grassy ridge.

Activities included:

Ananuri fortress visit
Guided hike to Gergeti Church

Day 7 : Drive Through Truso Gorge And Visit Remote Juta Village

Location: Truso Gorge, Juta, Stepantsminda

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Intourist Kazbegi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

It's another day of exhilarating scenery. Backtracking down the Terek valley, you'll follow the Terek River as it veers west into ever wilder country before arcing through the Truso Gorge to time-forgotten hamlets and their lonely chapels. Heading back towards Stepantsminda, take a detour to Juta, one of the highest villages in the region. A short optional walk up the valley brings you to meadows with awesome views of the Chaukhi Massif, a jagged mountain with more than a passing resemblance to the Dolomites in Italy. Head back to Stepantsminda for dinner and a well-deserved sleep.

Activities included:

4WD Truso Gorge tour
Juta village visit

Optional activities:

Guided Chaukhi Massif mountain hike

Day 8 : Return To Tbilisi For A Final Farewell Dinner

Location: Tbilisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Folk Boutique Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Returning along the Military Highway, you'll have time to snap those photos you may have missed on the way in. Back in Tbilisi, enjoy some pampering time in the celebrated sulphur baths which, together with hot springs, anchor the legend of the city's foundation in the fifth century. If all that steam and soaking make you drowsy, a kisa massage with exfoliation is sure to revitalise the senses in time for a farewell dinner.

Activities included:

Farewell dinner
Tbilisi sulphur baths visit
Kisa massage experience

Day 9 : Depart From Tbilisi

Location: Tbilisi

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a leisurely breakfast in the pretty hotel garden, it's time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers. At midday, head for the airport for the return trip home – or extend your stay in Georgia.

What's Included

Local Insider
Private and local transport
Meals described in the itinerary

Eight breakfasts, four lunches, two dinners
Accommodation

Five nights boutique hotel accommodation Three nights mountainside hotel accommodation
Guided Tbilisi walking tour
Museum of Georgia visit
Guided farmer’s market tour and cooking lesson
Guided Mtskheta tour
Wine workshop
Wine-tasting
Bread baking and churchkhela lunch with traditional toastmaster
Guided Lagodekhi National Park and Gergeti Church hikes
Ananuri fortress visit
4WD Truso Gorge tour
Juta village visit
Tbilisi sulphur baths visit with massage

What's Not Included

Meals not in the itinerary
International flights
Visas (if required)
Airport transfers
Resort fees (If applicable)

Optional Extras

Arrival Transfer Tbilisi Airport (TBS) - Folk Boutique Hotel

Private Transfer for up to 3 people

Accommodation

Folk Boutique Hotel
In the heart of Old Tbilisi, this modern four-star property stands on the site of a celebrated 18th-century battle. The museum-like displays in the lobby of traditional 18th-century garments are echoed in the room decor and lend a quirky folk atmosphere.

Chemodann
In a rugged valley at the foot of Mount Kazbegi, the family-run Chemodann Kazbegi restful accommodation with panoramic views over the nearby mountains. The centre of Kazbegi can be reached within 10 minutes' walk of the property and the 14 rooms are clean and comfortable. Home-cooked breakfasts here are a thing to behold so don't miss out!

Royal Palace Hotel
The Royal Palace stands just where the Georgian plains give way to the lushly forested Caucasian foothills of Lagodekhi National Park. Resembling a country villa, the property has extensive gardens and a large pool offering a restful stay.

Please note that, while unlikely, the accommodation indicated may be subject to change (see T&C’s). On a rare occasion, alternative arrangements may be necessary – this may be due to a lack of availability at our preferred accommodation, or other reasons outside our control. We’ll do everything we can to prevent this from happening; however, in cases where it is unavoidable, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.

Check out our Q&As

When will I know if my trip is guaranteed?

We usually wait until we have a few travellers booked on a trip before we guarantee it will run. The latest we will guarantee a trip is 60 days ahead of departure, often it will be long before.
What happens if I need to amend or cancel my booking?

You can change the date of your tour up to 60 days prior to departure and cancel at any time, although cancellation conditions may apply.
Are airport transfers included?

Your arrival transfer from Tbilisi International Airport to your hotel is not included. If you would like to add a transfer onto your booking, you can contact our Travel Experts who will be able to assist. If you would prefer to make your own way to the hotel, taxis are available at the airport. The hotel is located 15 kms (9 miles) from the airport and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes. Your departure transfer from the Folk Boutique hotel back to Tbilisi Airport (TBS) is not included. If you would like to add a departure transfer onto your booking, you can contact our Travel Experts who will be able to assist. If you would prefer to make your own way back to the airport, your Local Insider or the hotel reception will be able to arrange a taxi for you. The hotel is located 15 kms (9 miles) from the airport and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes.
What is the group size?

Our maximum group size is 16, although our average group size is 10-12 people. Group travel is a great way to meet other people, and you will have the safety of travelling with a group, but you can also decide how much time you want to spend by yourself.
What kind of transport do you use on your trips?

We use a mix of public and private transport on our trips, but usually a small and comfortable minibus, so we can access more remote destinations that larger groups can’t get to.

Can I book extra nights accommodation before or after my trip?

Yes, call or email one of our Travel Experts who will be able to add accommodation to your booking.
Are flights / transport to the destination included?

No - our travellers come from all over the world so flights and / or transport to the start destination are not included.
What kind of luggage should I bring?

It depends on the type of trip you have booked, but we usually recommend a soft sided bag or case as they are easier to handle on a trip.
Do I need to buy travel insurance?

Yes - all travellers must have travel insurance before they join one of our trips. You are strongly advised to take out your policy at the time of booking to protect your holiday payments in the event of cancellation.
Is there any age limit on the Trips?

You must be 25 or over to travel on our trips, however there is no upper age limit. You just need a sense of adventure.
Do I need to tip?

Tips are not included in the price of your trip but are entirely optional and at your discretion.
Why should I travel with Culture Trip?

We know the world's best bits – our award-winning content proves it. Now we’re using that expertise to bring you curated trips that combine thoughtful planning with authentic experiences and hand-picked accommodation. Led by Local Insiders, our trips bring together small groups of curious travellers who embrace the value of shared experiences, cultural immersion and travel that never feels rushed.
Do I need any vaccinations?

As a tour operator we are unable to give medical advice, however we suggest you contact your doctor, a professional medical travel clinic or check out the World Health Organisation website for more details.
How many meals are included?

Breakfast is included daily and then depending on your itinerary, some lunches and dinners. This is clearly indicated in the trip details or ask your Travel Expert to confirm.
What happens if I am travelling on my own?

Most accommodations on our trips are reserved on a twin share basis. Therefore, if you are travelling on your own you will be sharing a room with another Culture Trip traveller of the same sex. However, most of the time it is possible to pay a supplement for your own room. Please ask your Travel Expert for more information.
What visas do I need?

Depending on your passport and your destination, you may need a visa to travel on one of our trips. It is up to you to ensure you have any and all necessary visas before you travel. We recommend you check with a specialist visa agency at least 6 weeks before you travel.
What is not included in the trip?

We don’t include the following in our trips: insurance (however you must have insurance to travel on one of our trips), flights, tips for local guides, optional activities and other meals and services not mentioned in your itinerary.
How fit do I need to be to take one of your trips?

We offer a variety of different trips, most of which do not require a specific level of fitness. Some of our trips are more active, but we include details on each specific trip information page. If you are unsure please don’t hesitate to ask one of our Travel Experts.
Will there always be a guide on the trip?

Absolutely yes. We pride ourselves on our expert Local Insiders - they are an integral part of what makes our trips so special. Your Local Insider will accompany you throughout the trip and is there to help and assist in any way possible as well as ensure everything works to time.
How much money should I bring?

This will depend on how long your trip is, your destination and how much you intend to spend on personal expenses and any meals that aren’t included. It is a good idea to check out the cost of a local lunch and dinner in your destination before you travel.
Can I travel in my own private group?

Yes you can. Our team of Travel Experts can put together a bespoke trip to suit all group sizes in most destinations around the world. Please contact us for more details.
I booked but cannot travel anymore. What are the amendments and cancellation options?

We understand plans can change and that’s why we offer flexible booking conditions. You can change or cancel your booking at any time up to 56 days prior to departure and receive a full refund of any funds you have already paid towards your trip.
Do I have to make full payment at the time of booking?

You do not have to make full payment at the time of booking. We only require a small, fully refundable deposit of $100 to secure your spot on the trip. Full payment is due at the latest 56 days prior to departure.
Do I have to take part in all the activities? Will there be free time on my trip?

The amount of free time varies per trip. Please enquire with our travel experts to get a proper understanding on the amount of free time on the trips you are interested in. You do not have to take part in all activities but we strongly encourage you to do so! We have carefully crafted each trip to show you the best of every destination, so you’d be missing out! Also taking part in activities is a great way to get to know your travel companions and make new friends. Nothing like a positive and supportive group environment to venture outside of your comfort zone and surprise yourself!
What is a Local Insider?

We believe there’s no better way to discover a new place and a new culture than by experiencing it through the eyes and experience of a local. That’s why we only work with local guides - whom we name our Local Insiders. They know their region inside out and have a passion for sharing it with travellers. All our Local Insiders have years of experience guiding and speak English. Importantly, they like to travel the way we like it too: away from crowds, tourist traps and queues. Focussing on the true essence of a destination, teaching you all about the local culture and profusely sharing local hidden gems and insights.

Reviews from Travellers on this Tour

Kari

This was an amazing trip

19-Jun-2023

This was an amazing trip, thanks in large part to the guide, David. I learned so much and we did so much! I definitely want to return to Georgia because of this experience.

Rebecca and Pieterjan

Excellent Itinerary!

29-May-2023

Excellent itinerary, we saw a lot but never feeling rushed. Some real gems we wouldn't have found ourselves. Having a local guide, who was excellent, meant we felt we were immersed in the culture. Our group was super diverse and got on really well. Also a good balance of scheduled and free time.

Leonie

Highly recommend Caucasus tour!

03-Oct-2023

I loved the pace of the tour and the interesting experiences that were part of the tour. I would be keen to do another Culture Trip tour in the future. An improvement I’d suggest would be to include a couple more meals in the tour or ensure that meals/food are easily accessible especially in more remote areas.

Isabella and Robert

A Mesmerizing Journey through Georgia: A Perfect Blend of Culture, History,

08-Oct-2023

We had a pleasure of embarking on a culture trip to the captivating country of Georgia, and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations. From the bustling streets of the capital city to the serene beauty of the Caucasus Mountains, every moment was filled with awe-inspiring experiences, warm hospitality, and a deep immersion into the rich Georgian culture. Our adventure began in the heart of Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia. The city's eclectic blend of ancient architecture, modern marvels, and charming cobblestone streets instantly won me over. Our knowledgeable guide led us through the maze-like alleys of the Old Town, where we discovered hidden treasures such as the Narikala Fortress and the stunning Sioni Cathedral. The city's unique blend of Eastern and Western influences left me in awe, and I couldn't help but fall in love with its vibrant atmosphere. Moving beyond the city's boundaries, we embarked on a journey through time as we explored Georgia's historical sites. From the ancient cave city of Uplistsikhe to the breathtaking monasteries of Mtskheta, each site revealed a fascinating chapter of Georgia's past. The stories shared by our passionate guides brought these ancient wonders to life, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the country's rich heritage. One of the highlights of our trip was the opportunity to cook with locals and delve into the secrets of Georgian cuisine. We were warmly welcomed into the homes of local families, where we learned to prepare traditional dishes like khachapuri and khinkali. The genuine warmth and hospitality of our hosts made the experience truly unforgettable. Sharing a meal with them, hearing their stories, and learning about their customs provided a unique insight into the heart and soul of Georgian culture. No visit to Georgia would be complete without indulging in its world-renowned wine culture. We ventured into the picturesque vineyards of Kakheti, where we witnessed the age-old tradition of winemaking firsthand. From stomping grapes in traditional qvevri to tasting exquisite wines in ancient cellars, every sip was a celebration of Georgia's winemaking heritage. The passion and expertise of the winemakers were evident in every glass, leaving us with a newfound appreciation for Georgian wine. To cap off our extraordinary journey, we embarked on exhilarating hikes in the majestic Caucasus Mountains. The breathtaking landscapes, dotted with snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, provided the perfect backdrop for our adventures. Whether we were trekking through the rugged trails of Svaneti or exploring the enchanting beauty of Kazbegi, the sheer magnificence of nature left us in awe at every turn. Throughout our trip, the professionalism and expertise of our guides ensured a seamless and enriching experience. Their deep knowledge of Georgian history, culture, and nature added an extra layer of depth to our journey, making it truly unforgettable. In conclusion, my culture trip to Georgia was an absolute delight. From the vibrant streets of Tbilisi to the ancient monasteries, the heartwarming encounters with locals, the wine tasting experiences, and the awe-inspiring hikes in the Caucasus Mountains, every aspect of this journey was a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. I wholeheartedly recommend Georgia to anyone seeking an immersive and unforgettable travel experience.

Max

Georgia and Caucasus

22-Jun-2023

A phenomenal country and fantastic itinerary delivered by the most passionate of guides!

Mags and Werner

Overall excellent experience

19-Oct-2023

Excellent organization by Culture Trips for our trip to Georgia. Everything went seamlessly and our guide, Giga, was brilliant. Something to perhaps warn clients about is the spacing between breakfast and lunch in Georgia. Knowing this interval could be up to 6 hours would help to plan a bit better i.e. bring snacks or fruit. One other thing to maybe warn about is the sheer volume of food provided in Georgia for both lunches and dinners. The food is fabulous but knowing how much food is coming would help with pacing one's self to be able to enjoy it all. Overall it was a great experience and we would recommend it to anyone wanting to explore Gerogia.

Nilotpal and Shivani

Great itinerary

23-Sep-2023

Great itinerary. Very good pace of the trip. Some of the accommodations were not great. Also, I would prefer local guides at the destinations for a more in-depth history of the place.

Read all 7 reviews

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May
2024 Jun
2024 Jul
2024 Aug
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2024

Saturday - Sunday

May 18, 2024 - May 26, 2024

~~$1609~~ $1529 (USD)