Become part of Georgia: 8 days to live, not just see
Description:
Georgia is not just a country, it is a living history woven with ancient traditions, fascinating legends and genuine hospitality. Do you want to not just look at her from the outside, but really immerse yourself in her soul?
Forget about the standard tourist routes! Our express tour is 9 days of incredible impressions, where we will discover Georgia for you as it really is. We do not promise relaxation or relaxation, but we guarantee that every day will be filled with:
- Authentic feasts where we will teach you how to say toast, introduce you to traditions and share the secrets of Georgian cuisine.
- Live stories that tell you about the mentality, life and lifestyle of real people. We will introduce you to our friends and you will feel like part of our extended family.
- A full bouquet of emotions, from delight and surprise to a deep understanding of this amazing country.
We believe that after this trip you will not only leave with beautiful photos, but will truly fall in love with Georgia. We welcome guests and see off friends!
Are you ready to live this story with us?
Day 1
Meeting and accommodation
We will take care of your comfort from the start. You will be met at Tbilisi airports. This is an individual transfer that will take you directly to the hotel.
For those who fly to Vladikavkaz, we also arrange a meeting at the airport and a transfer to the hotel. We recommend choosing this route a day before the start of the tour, as the meeting in Vladikavkaz is not included in its price. Check-in to the hotel - from 14:00.
Walking tour of Tbilisi
In the afternoon, about 15:00, you will find a fascinating walking tour of Tbilisi. We will get acquainted with the history of the city, climb the cable car to the fortress of Narikala, from where a breathtaking view opens. We will visit the famous area of sulfur baths, walk along the ancient streets, see the oldest architectural monuments and learn many interesting facts.
Georgian feast: Welcome!
After a busy walk, we will move on to the most pleasant part of the evening - a general welcome dinner. All participants of the tour will gather at one big table to feel the real Georgian hospitality. We will learn how to pronounce traditional toasts, learn about Georgian feast customs, enjoy rich national cuisine, as well as incendiary dances and soulful songs. This is an ideal opportunity for acquaintance and immersion in the atmosphere of Georgia.
Are you ready for this unforgettable adventure?
Day 2
Kakheti: wine region and ancient secrets
Breakfast at the hotel: 8:00 – 10:00.
Meeting in the hotel lobby: 9:45.
Departure: 10:00.
After a noisy Tbilisi evening, it’s time to immerse yourself in the world of Kakhetian wines, picturesque nature and ancient history. Our way lies in Kakheti, a region that is rightfully considered the cradle of Georgian winemaking. We will leave the famous Alazan Valley wine aside to focus on exclusive premium vintage wines.
The road to the vineyards will be long, but incredibly beautiful: we will pass through the Gombor Pass (height 1692 m). This is an exciting route that will give you unforgettable views, although it can be difficult for those who are not used to mountain serpentine.
Telavi and legends of the past
The first city on our way will be Telavi. We will walk through its ancient streets, visit the Tsar’s house (if not Monday) and learn about the scientific achievements of the XVIII century. Here we will see the oldest plane tree, which is more than 900 years old, and remembering the film “Mimino”, again think about the Tree of Life. Do you know what culture is the symbol of this tree? We will continue to uncover this mystery throughout our journey.
Cinandali: estate and enoteca
We will visit the estate of Tsinandali - the family nest of the Chavchavadze princes. It was here, in 1841, that the first winery in Georgia was founded. We will walk along the magnificent estate, look into the museum-house of the prince and, of course, visit the famous enoteca of Alexander Chavchavadze.
Tasting and gastronomic enjoyment
The next stop is one of the best wineries in Kakheti, where you will find a tasting. Here you can try and buy wine from the manufacturer at the best prices.
After tasting, to replenish our strength, we will go to lunch, where excellent Kakhetian dishes are waiting for you. Try the famous dan and other traditional delicacies, which will be the perfect addition to the wine day.
In the evening, after a busy day, we will go back to Tbilisi on a direct road, which will take about two hours.
Are you ready to go to the heart of Georgia?
Day 3
Active immersion in history: from legends to cave cities
Today is a journey through time, full of legends and legends. We will immerse ourselves in the history of ancient kings, queens and heroes who for thousands of years defended their land and created a unique culture.
Mtskheta: the heart of ancient Georgia
Our way lies in Mtskheta – the ancient capital of Georgia, located just 40 km from Tbilisi.
The first stop will be Jvari Monastery. Thanks to Mikhail Lermontov, this place is known to many by his poems about the confluence of the legendary rivers Aragvi and Kura. But we will reveal the true, little-known history of this place. The Jvari Monastery, which has been towering above this merger for 1500 years, has become the cradle of Georgian culture.
Next, we will go to the city of Mtskheta itself, the center of attraction for religions and trade since ancient times. Here we will visit the Cathedral of Svetitskhoveli, or the temple of the Life-giving Pillar, which is protected by UNESCO.
Uplistsikhe: Cave City and the Mysteries of Civilization
We are waiting for an incredible place - Uplistsikhe, an ancient cave city that existed in the VIII century BC. This is a place where pagan temples, ancient culture and early Christianity intertwined. We will learn how people lived in caves with a well-developed plumbing and sewage system and a structured government. Visiting Uplistsikhe requires comfortable, non-slip sports shoes as we have to climb the mountain.
Kutaisi: Capital of the Colchis Kingdom
After a fascinating walk and tasting of local wine, we will go to Kutaisi, the third most important city in the country and the former capital of the Colchis Kingdom. We will visit the Gelati Monastery to continue our story about the Golden Age of Georgia.
After checking into a hotel in Kutaisi, where we will spend one night, you will have dinner with an Imeretian accent. This kitchen is different from what you’ve tried before and will be a wonderful ending to a busy day.
Ready to go back in time to see how ancient civilizations lived and breathed?
Day 4
From Bazaar to Svaneti: a day full of adventure
Breakfast at the hotel: from 8:30.
Departure: 9:30.
Today we are waiting for a day full of impressions - from the most delicious products to the legendary mountains. We leave the hotel with our belongings to embark on an exciting new journey.
Imereti Bazaar and Prometheus Cave
First we will head to the most delicious bazaar (market) in the whole country. Here you can stock up on fresh cheeses, spices, churchkhela and fruits. We recommend taking zip-lock bags with you to preserve the aromas of spices that we have to carry with us.
Next, we will get acquainted with the Georgian mythical hero Amiran - the local analogue of Prometheus. According to legend, it was here, in the Caucasus Mountains, that he was chained. We will visit Prometheus Cave – an impressive complex of karst caves with a length of 1450 meters, where you can take a fascinating walk.
Martvili Canyon: An Emerald Tale
The next stop is Martvili Canyon. Here you will find an unforgettable walk, and lovers of photography will take amazing pictures. The emerald water of the Abasha River and the sun’s rays breaking through the dense forest create a mysterious and magical atmosphere. In good weather and low water level, we will take a boat trip.
The Way to Svaneti: The Road to the Heart of the Mountains
After the canyon, we will take a short break in the city of Zugdidi for a snack before the long but incredibly beautiful road to Svaneti. This road is one of the most picturesque in Georgia, and it is definitely worth your attention. For those who are sick, we advise you to stock up on the means of motion sickness. Along the way, we will make stops to admire nature, as well as watch themed films.
Settlement in Mestia: Svan hospitality
Our journey will take about 3 hours, and we will arrive in Svaneti in the evening. We will be met at the foot of the mountain, where the old part of the city of Mestia is located - the oldest corner, built in the VIII century. Our hotel is located among the Svan towers of the same period, but offers modern comfort and coziness. The owner of the hotel is a direct descendant of a family that has lived here since the eighth century. We'll arrive in the dark, but there's a great restaurant in our hotel where we can have dinner.
Day 5
- We came to the stone jungle, in the harsh life of the night, nothing is visible in the area, but you know that around you rise the tops of the mountains. Morning. We do not get up very early, in order to relax after a difficult journey, looking out the window in front of you open snow-capped peaks of furry mountains and many towers, standing like tin soldiers, guarding their homes and surnames.
- Breakfast in the hotel from 9:00 to 11:00, but we will not waste time to have time to enjoy as much as possible from this charming region. Today we are waiting for a new member of our team, a local guide and a beautiful man Jemali. We will get acquainted with local traditions, history, stories about local life. Our way now lies on jeeps to the Ushguli community. This is the farthest place in the world. We will visit the temple of St. Lamaria (Mother of God) against the background of Mount Shhara. This is the highest mountain, rising above the mountains of the Caucasus Range in the territory of Sakatrvelo. (Price does not include extra jeep)
- Hiking to the swing of Heshkili, after the jeep tour will give you the opportunity to recover a little and admire the still unforgettable place near Mestia.
- Observation deck on Mount Ushba, a cafe over mountain peaks and bottomless gorges. (optional)
- We return to the hotel to gain strength, gather in the evening and share our impressions.
Day 6
From mountain peaks to the sea: the road to Batumi
Breakfast at the hotel: from 8:30.
Departure: 9:30 to 10:00.
After a refreshing sleep in the mountains, it was time to head to the sea. We're leaving Mestia, preparing for our way back down. But remember: the descent always seems easier than climbing, and new, no less exciting views await us.
Engur HPP and Mengrel cuisine
On the way to Batumi, we will stop at the largest arched hydroelectric power station in Georgia - Engurska. It ranks fifth in the world in terms of scale! Along the way we will admire a huge reservoir with emerald-milk water, which feeds the river Enguri with its tributaries.
Batumi is only two hours away, and this is a great opportunity to eat and try real Mengrel cuisine. These are unique dishes that you won’t find anywhere else.
Accommodation in old Batumi and free evening
Arriving in Batumi, we will stay in the Old Batumi Hotel, located in the heart of the old town. After that, you will have free time to relax or enjoy a walk. Night Batumi, especially in season, is incredibly beautiful, and we strongly advise not to sit in the room, but to explore its charming streets.
The journey continues!
Day 7
Rest and acquaintance with Batumi
Breakfast at the hotel: from 8:00.
We advise you to get up early to enjoy the morning sun and sea. Only 800 meters from the hotel is a perfectly equipped beach where you can relax and swim.
Free morning: sea and beach.
After relaxing on the beach, you will have time to have a quick snack before starting the tour.
Sightseeing tour: at lunch, lasting 2 hours.
After the tour, the whole group will have the opportunity to dine in the local khachapura and try the legendary Adjara khachapuri.
Free evening.
Today is designed to relax and experience Batumi in your own rhythm. Enjoy it!
Day 8
End of the tour: Farewell, but not forever
Our amazing journey has come to an end. We are grateful that you have travelled with us from east to west. Our story is over, but we will be happy to prepare a new one for you on your next visit.
Our team is always happy to see you in our circle. After such a busy journey, we can say with confidence: we welcome guests, and see off friends!
See you soon!
Return to Tbilisi
The car is returning to Tbilisi. If your flight is from Tbilisi, we will go there in the morning, immediately after breakfast, and the end point of our route will be the airport.
Please inform us in advance of the time convenient for you return transfer.
We're waiting for you again!