Georgia Explorer
15 Days Starting and ending in TBILISI
Visiting: Tbilisi, Daviti lavra, Telavi, Mkinvartsveri, Mtskheta, Gori, Kutaisi, Ushguli, Mestia, Batumi, Vardzia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GEO
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Physical rating:
Low, Low / Moderate
Age range:
1-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Please contact Wild Frontiers with any specific dietary requirements
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
From:
$3494 (USD)Tour Overview
The once ancient kingdom of Colchis, Georgia has long been linked with the Greek legends attributed to Jason and his band of Argonauts. Sandwiched between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, this mythical land today provides us with one of the last hidden gems left in Europe.This journey takes you from its charming capital, Tbilisi and through forested valleys and snow-capped mountains, where ancient cave towns and clustered rural villages, rich in heritage that can trace its origins back to late antiquity. You will visit some of Georgia’s most famous and important religious sites including Mtskheta and Gelati, as well as the stunning cave town of Vardzia.You’ll also pay a visit to Gori, birthplace of Joseph Stalin, and journey into the World Heritage landscapes of Upper Svaneti to trek amongst the villages and mountains of one of the last untouched regions of Eastern Europe.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Tour Starts In Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sharden or similar
Meals Included: No Meals
Rooms will be available in Tbilisi from this afternoon. Those arriving on the group flights will arrive in the early hours of tomorrow morning.
Day 2 : Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sharden or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The pre-departure meeting will take place this morning at the hotel, after which we will have a city tour including Old Tbilisi. From the Metekhi Church (13th century) overlooking the river Mtkvari to the Narikala Fortress (4th century), one of the oldest fortifications in the city, we’ll also pay a visit to the Sulphur Baths, the synagogue, the Anchiskhati Church (6th century) and Sioni Cathedral (6/7th century). In this cathedral the cross of St. Nino – the woman who brought Christianity to Georgia – is preserved. All these sights are in close proximity and it’s a pleasant walk. You will have the rest of the day to soak up the café culture of Tbilisi, relax and shop.
Day 3 : Tbilisi- Davit Gareja - Telavi
Location: Tbilisi, Daviti lavra, Telavi
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning we travel to David Gareja cave complex (6th century) located in a stark, semi-desert landscape. Here we will see Lavra Monastery and dramatic views across to Azerbaijan. On the way to Telavi we will visit a unique 300-year-old wine cellar. The wine is produced and stored here, and we’ll learn more about the wine-making process and sample several Kakhetian wines.
Day 4 : Telavi - Kazbegi
Location: Telavi, Mkinvartsveri
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Stepantsminda or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we will visit the market in town before driving to the Khevi region via the picturesque Gombori Pass. We will drive to the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia, Mtskheta, where we will visit Jvari Monastery (6th century) and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (11th century), both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We will stop at Ananuri to visit two fortified churches beautifully situated on the Jinvali water reservoir. As we follow the Georgian Military Highway we will enjoy wonderful views of the Great Caucasus Mountains.
Day 5 : Kazbegi – Mtskheta – Gori
Location: Mkinvartsveri, Mtskheta, Gori
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Victoria or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, there will be a chance to take a walk for about 2 hours up through beautiful valleys and forests to the Gergeti Trinity church (14th century) located on top of the mountain (2170m) and one of the country’s most iconic images. Weather permitting, we may also be able to catch a glimpse of one the highest glaciers in the Caucasus – Mt Kazbegi (5047m). Descending from the high mountains we will then visit Uplistsikhe Cave Town (1st millennium BC) – one of the main points along the Great Silk Road before heading to West Georgia – the famous land of the Golden Fleece, where Jason and the Argonauts sailed. We will continue on to the town of Gori in the heart of the Kartli region, the birthplace of the most famous Georgian of all times – Josef Stalin.
Day 6 : Gori - Kutaisi
Location: Gori, Kutaisi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Argo or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We will visit the surreal Stalin Museum, his house and private carriage. We will then drive to Kutaisi – the second largest city in Georgia – where we will visit Prometheus Grotto with its giant chambers of stalactites and stalagmites. Afterwards we will visit Gelati Monastery, home to an impressive collection of frescoes. Once we’ve have checked into our hotel, there should be chance to go for a walk and stretch our legs.
Day 7 : Kutaisi – Ushguli
Location: Kutaisi, Ushguli
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We’ll leave early as we have a long drive ahead of us, but it’s worth it as we’ll have magnificent views as we cross the Zagaro Pass. Late afternoon we’ll reach Ushguli, the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe (2200m) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 8 : Ushguli – Mestia
Location: Ushguli, Mestia
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We’ll take a beautiful morning walk which follows the banks of the Enguri River in the direction Mt. Shkhara and its glacier. Afterwards we return to Ushguli, stopping off to visit the Lamaria church with its 12th century stone defence tower, before driving on to Mestia.
Day 9 : Mestia – Lakhiri – Mestia
Location: Mestia
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we’ll drive towards the village of Lakhiri village, where we’ll start our day’s walk. We’ll enjoy great views of the Caucasus and especially the two-summit peak of Mt Ushba (4690m). On our return to Mestia, in the late afternoon, we will have a few hours to explore the town at our own pace before dinner.
Day 10 : Mestia
Location: Mestia
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we will drive to the Koruldi Lakes, offering stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and mountain peaks. We will then visit the Svaneti Museum of History and Ethnography. After lunch, we will take the Zuruldi Cable car to a café where we can relax and enjoy views of the Svaneti.
Day 11 : Mestia – Batumi
Location: Mestia, Batumi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Aisi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning we’ll drive through Zugdidi where we will have lunch and continue towards the Black Sea coast. Before reaching Batumi there will be an optional stop off at the Botanical Gardens, which are over one hundred years old. For those who would prefer to go for a swim, we will continue our journey onto Batumi. This evening we’ll enjoy a stroll through the old town and along the boulevard beside the sea front.
Day 12 : Batumi – Vardzia
Location: Batumi, Vardzia
Accommodation: Valodia Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will head over the Goderdzi Pass to Akhaltsikhe. Akhaltsikhe is crowned by a fully restored fortress, the Rabat, one of the only Ottoman complexes in the country. In the afternoon we’ll drive on to the cave city of Vardzia. Vardzia is a magnificent 12th century cave town carved out of the hillside in the Golden Age of Georgia, and is one of Georgia’s highlights.
Day 13 : Vardzia
Location: Vardzia
Accommodation: Valodia Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we will visit Vardzia cave complex, which stretches over half a kilometre. Vardzia once consisted of almost 3000 caves and was one of the best examples of Georgia’s renaissance. The complex also includes dwellings quarters, refectories, wine cellars, and small hall-type churches, one of which is even hewn out in rock with some stunning 12th century frescoes to admire. This afternoon we will make a brief photo stop at another cave town, Vanis Qvabebi, before returning to our guesthouse for some free time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Day 14 : Vardzia - Tbilisi
Location: Vardzia, Tbilisi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sharden or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
As we head towards Tbilisi, we’ll be able to admire the beautiful landscape surrounding Lake Paravani, where we will be able to see the sky and the hills reflecting in the water. Our last visit before reaching Tbilisi will be to visit the Poka Nunnery. On arrival into Tbilisi we visit the stunning treasures of the National Museum. For our last night we’ll head out for dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 15 : Tour Ends In Tbilisi
Location: Tbilisi
Meals Included: No Meals
The tour will end this morning at the hotel.
What's Included
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MEALS
13 x Breakfasts, 13 x Lunches, 13 x Dinners
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TRANSPORT
Minibuses
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GROUP SIZE
Maximum: 12
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CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
Contributions to carbon offset & tree planting projects for all bookings
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EXPERT TEAM
The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate
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ACCOMMODATION
All accommodation as outlined in the itinerary
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ENTRANCE FEES
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary
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FITNESS RATING
Low / Moderate
What's Not Included
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour:-Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatoryTips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in your pre-departure information documentsInternational .Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK.Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
Visas
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact our recommended visa agency, Travcour www.travcour.comFor this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Georgia.Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements. Further details will be sent out to you on booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Key Aspects to Consider
For this particular trip anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, as many of the walks are optional. Please be advised that on this trip vegetarians can be catered for but the selection and variety may be limited.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
Superior and Simple
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2002
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Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?
In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.
Reviews from Travellers on this Tour
Want a private tour?
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Make changes to the itinerary, accommodation, or transport method
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Travel more exclusively
Your tour guide can focus all their attention on your group
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Dates & Availability
Sunday - Sunday
Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Wild Frontiers allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 90 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wild frontiers charges.
Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 51 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Wild Frontiers' COVID Promise
You will have the right to transfer without any transfer fee, from any of our trips at ANY time if your trip is not Covid Viable (see below).*
We will not ask you to pay your final balance if your trip is not yet Covid Viable.
If your trip is not Covid Viable, by 30 days prior to departure at the latest, we will cancel your holiday and you can either transfer your funds to another departure or have a refund.**
We will only consider a trip Covid Viable*** if pre-departure it meets all of the following criteria:
There is no national lockdown or ban on foreign travel for the period when your trip is due to depart.
Destinations on the tour must not be on the UK’s Red List. ****
No destinations visited on the tour have in place any significant COVID-19 restrictions for travellers.
Tourist visas (if required) are available.
There is reliable airline access to/from the start/end of the trip.
Following an assessment by both Wild Frontiers and our local partners we are confident that your trip is able to run in both a safe and enjoyable manner.*****
** If you were originally booked to travel before 30 April 2020 and transferred to a later date, or if you have a tailor-made booking, there may be some irrecoverable costs which we cannot refund. Please speak to us and we will be able to advise you if this is the case for your booking.
***Since our HQ is in London, Covid Viable status for our Group Tours will be assessed on UK-based travellers. However we are fully aware that many of our clients live in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. As such, when we deem a trip to now be Covid Viable, everyone booked will have a chance to review their own personal situation before deciding whether or not to remain booked on the trip. Anyone wishing to, will have the option to transfer without fees to another trip at this time. For tailor made bookings, we may also able to consider additional countries’ travel advice when deciding if a trip is Viable. Please discuss this with us at the time of booking.
**** This relates to bookings from UK clients only. We may operate trips to destinations which the British FCDO advise against travel for Covid reasons. If this is the case, anyone wishing to will have the option to cancel with a refund or transfer to another trip. In some cases we may choose to offer a tour to a Red destination but these will be at both clients’ and Wild Frontiers’ discretion and will be subject to alternative conditions to be discussed on an ad hoc basis.
*****If a destination, that we have deemed to be Covid Viable, subsequently fails any aspect of the criteria for two consecutive weeks, you will have the right under our Covid Promise to transfer without any fees.