Georgia Adventure

Georgia Adventure

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11 Days From

$2255

Georgia Adventure

11 Days Starting and ending in Tbilisi

Visiting: Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Mestia, Ushguli, Batumi

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

KFSG

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $2255

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

This all-encompassing trip takes you from the historical cities of Georgia to the remote snow-capped Caucasus mountains. Wander through the historical capital of Tbilisi, stroll in the local market in Kutaisi, immerse in the unbeatable Georgian hospitality, journey to the the remote villages in the mountains. Reconnect with nature on hikes through wooded forests and past the Chaladi glacier, wander between the ancient Svan towers, learn the secrets of Georgian cheese making and indulge your taste buds with fragrant Georgian wine.

Highlights

  • Journey to the Svaneti region, a remote and alluring land of snow-capped mountains, where you'll discover medieval tower-houses and a fascinating local dialect.

  • Get active on hikes to Georgia's Shkhara glacier.

  • Take guided walking tour of Tbilisi a fascinating eclectic mix of architecture, and culture; hear stories of kings and queens and intrigue and mystery from your local Leader.

  • Mingle with the locals in markets and explore villages dotted among the Caucasus mountain range. Learn the secret of Georgian Cheese and indulge in the national cheese bread of khachapuri.

  • Relax in the seaside Batumi with plenty cafes and restaurants to explore and admire the amazing modern monument Ali and Nino at the beach that set a tender and romantic tone to the city.

  • Journey to the Svaneti region, a remote and alluring land of snow-capped mountains, discover the iconic tower houses dotted amongst mountain valleys and learn of one of the highest settlement in Europe - Ushguli people and its fascinating culture and traditions.

  • Get active on hikes in the shadow of magnificent snowy peaks of the Greater Caucasus to medieval villages and one of the biggest glaciers in Georgia, Shkhara glacier.

  • Take guided walking tour of Tbilisi a fascinating eclectic mix of architecture, and culture; hear stories of kings and queens and intrigue and mystery from your local guide.

  • Mingle with the locals in markets, learn the secret of Georgian Cheese and indulge in the national cheese bread of khachapuri.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Mtskheta-Mtianeti Regional Hub. Donations help them improve their services and training hub to connect people, who’ve fled their homes due to war or political instability, with their new community in Georgia.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Tbilisi

Location: Tbilisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Gamarjoba! Welcome to Georgia.Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, be sure to explore Tbilisi with it's picturesque architecture, inviting cafes and wine bars dotted around the downtown.

Day 2: Tbilisi

Location: Tbilisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

After breakfast take part in a sightseeing tour of Tbilisi. The locals like to call their capital the "Balcony of Europe", placing it on par with many of Europe's graceful old cities. All the sights in the Old Town are very close to each other and within a few minutes’ walk. You'll pass by Baratashvili bridge, Gabriadze Leaning Tower, the Peace Bridge and Sioni Cathedral on your guided walking tour. Afterwards, you may choose to visit Narikala Fortress and the Sulphur Baths in your free time and to further explore the capital. The evening is also free for you to enjoy. Perhaps indulge in Tbilisi's lively theater scene and witness some of the energetic and acrobatic dance that Georgia is known for.

Included Activities:
-Tbilisi - City tour

Optional Activities:
-Tbilisi - Open Air Museum of Ethnography
-Tbilisi - The National Gallery
-Tbilisi - Georgian National Museum
-Tbilisi - Thermal Bath House Visit - from
-Tbilisi - Aerial Cable Car One Way

Day 3: Kutaisi

Location: Kutaisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today, head to the pretty city of Kutaisi on train, the third largest in the country (approximately 4.5 hours). Kutaisi is more than 3000 years old, connected to the legend of Jason and the Argonauts, along with his mythical (or is it?) Golden Fleece. On arrival, follow your leader on a city walking tour in this charming city, passing City Hall, Opera house and Mon plesier Arch, and visit Golden Marquee Palace and Mtsvane Bazari (market) known for its fresh vegetables, fruits, natural dairy products, meat, a variety of spices. In your free time, maybe visit another significant historical site, the Gelati Cathedral or explore the cobbled streets of the town as you make your way up to the ruins of Bagrati palace and citadel.

Included Activities:
-Kutaisi - Leader-led city walking tour
-Kutaisi - Golden Marquee Palace
-Kutaisi - Farmers Market

Optional Activities:
-Kutaisi - Bagrati Cathedral & Gelati Monastery - Free
-Kutaisi - Pub Crawl
-Kutaisi - State Historical Museum
-Kutaisi - Aerial Tramway

Day 4: Mestia

Location: Mestia

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

After a restful night, journey to the remote Svaneti region (approximately 5-6 hours). Svaneti is the highest inhabited area in the Caucasus and is divided in two parts: Upper Svaneti and Lower Svaneti. Arrive into Mestia, the centre of Upper Svaneti. Mestia is surrounded by mountains, medieval-type villages and disctinctive tower-houses. The famous tower-houses were built to accommodate villagers at times of invasion and violence during the 9th -13th centuries. Around 175 towers still stand today, although many are uninhabited. The area is home to the Svans, a proud people with a long history of survival in this isolated part of Europe, who speak their own language. Spend the night in a local guesthouse.

Day 5: Mestia

Location: Mestia

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Drive to the village of Lakhiri (approximately 20 minutes) We start our walk today from the village in the direction of Mestia. After little uphill walking we descend to the beautiful valley full with blooming flowers and enjoy an amazing view of Chalati Glacier (2300m) and of Mestia Valley with its watchtowers. The paths can be steep and the ground uneven so you will need good fitness and appropriate footwear for this walk. Those not wishing to hike can stay in Mestia. 
In the evening we discover how Georgians make their beloved cheese. Cheese is found in many Georgian dishes and is a key ingredient in the famous khachapuri, a traditional Georgian dish of cheese-filled bread which you will no doubt eat plenty of during your time here!

Included Activities:
-Mestia - Cooking class
-Mestia - Lakhiri Village Hike
-Mestia - Georgian cheese making

Day 6: Ushguli

Location: Ushguli

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Today, visit the World Heritage-listed village of Ushguli, a town around 50 kilometres southeast of Mestia (approx 2 hours drive). The village is located at 2,200 metres above sea level, and is one of the highest inhabited villages in Europe. Ushguli is most famous for its abundance of watchtowers – this is where you'll see the famous view of the towers set to the highest mountain in Georgia, the snow capped Mt Shkhara (5,068 metres). Visit the 12th-century Lamaria Church and walk to Queen Tamar’s tower. Total walking time is 2-3 hours depending on fitness and trail conditions. Those not wishing to walk may stay and explore Ushguli - maybe visit an ethnographic museums or walk around the village and become familiar with the daily life of the local people. Spend the night in a family-owned guesthouse.



Included Activities:
-Ushguli - Village hike
-Ushguli - Lamaria Church
-Ushguli - Queen Tamar`s Tower

Optional Activities:
-Ushguli – Ethnographical Museum

Day 7: Mestia

Location: Mestia

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Today's walk starts from the guesthouse. The route takes us along the river to the base of Mt Shkhara. You will cross some small streams along the way so pack your waterproof boots and fingers crossed for great weather! We will have a picnic lunch today. The walking trail ends at the Shkhara glacier, where the Enguri river originates below. In the afternoon, return to Mestia and stay overnight in the guesthouse. Approximate walking time is 5-6 hours. If you do not wish to walk, please discuss options with your leader in advance.


Included Activities:
-Ushguli - Shkhara Glacier hike & picnic

Day 8: Batumi

Location: Batumi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

From the mountains to the sea today with a long drive to Batumi (approximately 7-8 hours) on the Black Sea coast. While past its Soviet heyday where it was one of the premiere seaside resorts, it is still popular with holiday makers from all over the region for its waterfront parks and beaches. Stay in a hotel tonight.

Day 9: Batumi

Location: Batumi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

In the morning take part in a short tour around the city. The afternoon is yours to relax. Batumi has a relaxed atmosphere, great restaurants and nightlife. Stroll the boulevard, cool off in the musical fountains on the square or see the touching Ali & Nino statue lit up at night. There's also art and ethnographic museums or a cable car to panoramic views over the city.

Highly recommended is the Batumi Botanical Gardens.


Included Activities:
-Batumi - Leader-led city walking tour

Optional Activities:
-Batumi - Botanic Garden
-Batumi - Cable car
-Batumi – Wine Tasting

Day 10: Tbilisi

Location: Tbilisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today we'll make use of the regular public bus or train connections (depending on availability) to get to Tbilisi from Batumi (approximately 6.5 hours).. Enjoy the rest of the day in the nation's capital, perhaps with group dinner and night out together.

Day 11: Tbilisi

Location: Tbilisi

Meals Included: breaksfast

Your trip comes to an end today and your are free to depart at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (6), Guesthouse (4)

  • Tbilisi - City tour

  • Kutaisi - Leader-led city walking tour

  • Kutaisi - Golden Marquee Palace

  • Kutaisi - Farmers Market

  • Mestia - Cooking class

  • Mestia - Lakhiri Village Hike

  • Mestia - Georgian cheese making

  • Ushguli - Village hike

  • Ushguli - Lamaria Church

  • Ushguli - Queen Tamar`s Tower

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

Transport

  • Private Bus , Public Bus , Train , Taxi

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
  • Staying in local guesthouses is an excellent way to support the economy of the communities we visit and provides greater opportunities to meet with locals. All Guesthouses on this trip are clean and comfortable, but you may on occasions have to deal with a temperamental hot water supply, please be patient. Some guesthouses may have limited rooms with private facilities and you may be allocated to rooms with shared facilities instead.

Included Activities

  • Tbilisi - City tour
  • Mtskheka - Jvari Church
  • Mtskheka - Svetitskoveli Cathedral
  • Kutaisi - Farmers Market
  • Mestia - Cooking class
  • Mestia - Lakhiri Village Hike
  • Mestia - Georgian cheese making
  • Ushguli - Village hike
  • Ushguli - Lamaria Church
  • Ushguli - Queen Tamar`s Tower
  • Ushguli - Shkhara Glacier hike & picnic
  • Batumi - City Tour

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is bookable on this trip, excluding day 4, 5&7 in local guest houses, subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. Some of the best scenery in the Caucasus Region is in the Svaneti Region on day 5, 6 and 7. The included hikes can be quite steep and long. While this trip doesn't require a high level of fitness, it’s essential to be at least moderately fit if you want to take part in all activities. Altitudes experienced during this trip are up to 2200m above sea level.
  • 3. Please note there is a chance of potential changes to the itinerary due to heavy rain, flooding and snow at higher altitudes, which often affect roads and bridges, making travel difficult or impossible (particularly in remote areas).
  • 4. Please be advised that your Trip Leader may be from neighbouring region, who have in-depth knowledge and extensive travel experience throughout the Caucasus. In this case, local Georgian guides are used throughout the itinerary to ensure you receive a diverse and uniquely local range of perspectives.

Mode of Transport

  • Private Bus , public bus , train , taxi

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
  • Georgia has many local guesthouses in the smaller cities and villages. This trip spends 5 nights in local guesthouse. Staying in these local accommodation facilities is an excellent way to support the economy of the communities we visit and provides greater opportunities to meet with locals. All Guesthouses on this trip have private bathrooms and are clean and comfortable, you may on occasions have to deal with a temperamental hot water supply, please be patient.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    You will reach a significant altitude on this trip (2,200 metres) at the highest point so a good level of fitness is required for hiking. That said, alternative activities can often be arranged for those who would prefer not to hike.

    There are some long travel days and some rough travelling in areas away from main tourist routes. Windy roads and rough surfaces make for some challenging travel experiences. On some long travel days we depart early in the morning to ensure we optimise our time at our next destination. If you experience travel sickness we recommend you consider medication to help ease the discomfort.

    As we don't want you to miss anything, the itinerary is densely packed, so you'll be busy. There will, however, be plenty of free time and opportunity for independent exploration.

    You require comfortable shoes suitable for moderate level hiking, water proof would be the preference as you may need to cross some small streams on the hike.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

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15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

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26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

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This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

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29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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