Snowshoeing in Georgia: Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Explore the snow-covered beauty of Georgia’s Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park with this 2-day snowshoeing tour offered by TrekGeorgia. Starting from Tbilisi, the journey takes you through Likani gorge and into the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, where you’ll enjoy glittering winter scenery and the chance to stay overnight in a cozy wooden hut. This tour is perfect for those who want a winter adventure that combines nature exploration with authentic mountain accommodation.

While the tour requires considerable walking, it offers a unique glimpse into Georgia’s beautiful landscape. The guided experience is available in English and Russian, and the tour is designed as a private group, providing a more personalized touch. It’s a well-rounded option for outdoor enthusiasts seeking winter scenery and mountain tranquility, though it’s not tailored for travelers with walking difficulties.

Key Points

• Duration: 2 days, with a total walking distance of 16 kilometers
• Highlights: Snow-covered landscapes, Borjomi mineral park, overnight stay in a wooden mountain hut
• Activities: Snowshoe walking, exploring Likani Gorge, and panoramic views of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains
• Departure point: Coordinates 41.693077087402344, 44.80094909667969
• Language: Tours led in English and Russian
• Booking flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund; pay later option available

You can check availability for your dates here:

Borjomi Mineral Park: A Historic Water Source and Scenic Stop

The tour begins with a visit to the Borjomi mineral park, a site renowned for being the first bottled mineral water in Georgia. Here, visitors have the chance to drink from the natural spring or bottle water themselves, highlighting this location’s cultural and natural significance.

The park’s natural springs and historic significance make it a compelling first stop. The park also offers a scenic setting that beautifully contrasts with the snowy mountain terrain to come. This stop provides a refreshing start and an opportunity to understand Georgia’s famous mineral water industry before heading into the mountains.

Likani Gorge and Mountain Ascent to Chitakhevi

After visiting the mineral park, the walk takes you into Likani Gorge, a natural feature with dramatic rock formations and natural beauty. The route then continues with an ascend into the mountains, leading to the Chitakhevi Ranger Station.

This segment involves about 8 kilometers of walking, which takes approximately 7 hours. The mountain ascent offers stunning views and an immersive experience of winter mountain scenery. At the ranger station, you’ll find a shelter where you can rest by a fire, making this a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Overnight Stay in a Mountain Wooden Hut

One of the tour’s standout features is the overnight stay inside a wooden mountain hut. This cozy accommodation provides an opportunity to experience mountain life and enjoy the quiet beauty of the snowy landscape. Staying overnight enhances the sense of immersion in nature, making the trip more than just a day hike.

The mountain hut is a practical and authentic base after a day of snowshoeing. The rustic setting, combined with the peaceful mountain environment, appeals to those looking for a genuine mountain experience.

Exploring Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park in Winter

The second day involves exploring Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, Georgia’s largest national park, which covers a significant part of the Lesser Caucasus Mountains. This park makes up over one percent of Georgia’s territory and delivers panoramic views across coniferous forests and snow-blanketed peaks.

The 8-kilometer trail on the second day runs down through scenic forests to reach the settlement of Likani, completing the trek. The route is specially designed to showcase the diverse natural landscapes and spectacular mountain vistas that are accessible via snowshoeing in winter.

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Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from a designated meeting point at coordinates 41.693077087402344, 44.80094909667969. It operates as a private group, which allows for a more tailored experience. English and Russian are the languages used by the live tour guides.

Flexible booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, and the reserve now, pay later option makes plans easier. The tour duration is 2 days, with availability varying depending on the schedule.

Physical Requirements and Considerations

This snowshoeing adventure involves substantial walking—about 8 kilometers each day—and takes roughly 6 to 7 hours daily. It may not be suitable for travelers with walking difficulties. The guides reserve the right to alter routes depending on weather and road conditions, so flexibility is built into the experience.

Participants should be prepared for winter weather conditions and cold temperatures, especially during the overnight stay. Proper winter gear and sturdy footwear are essential to enjoy the trek comfortably.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

Unlike some day trips or shorter hikes, this tour offers an extended two-day experience with an overnight in the mountains, providing a deeper connection to the landscape. The focus on snowshoeing allows for a unique winter perspective on Georgia’s natural beauty.

The inclusion of visiting the historic mineral park, combined with the mountain trek and mountain hut stay, makes this tour stand out. It offers a balance of cultural insight and outdoor adventure, suited to those who want an authentic mountain experience in winter.

The Sum Up: A Unique Winter Trek for Nature Enthusiasts

This 2-day snowshoeing trip in Georgia’s Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park delivers a combination of scenic beauty, cultural stops, and mountain overnighting. The stunning winter landscapes, panoramic mountain views, and rustic mountain hut accommodation make it a memorable outdoor adventure.

While the length and physical demands mean it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with extended walking in cold weather, the guided nature and private group setting ensure a comfortable and personalized experience. Those seeking winter wilderness and mountain tranquility will find this tour offers authentic nature and beautiful scenery that’s hard to match.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an option to cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I book this tour without paying immediately?
Yes, the reserve now, pay later option allows you to reserve your spot without payment upfront.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides lead the tour in English and Russian.

How long is the walking each day?
Each day involves about 8 kilometers of walking, taking approximately 6 to 7 hours.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The tour involves considerable walking and mountain ascents, so it’s better suited for those with good physical fitness.

What should I bring for the overnight stay?
Participants should prepare appropriate winter gear, including warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and essentials for cold weather.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at coordinates 41.693077087402344, 44.80094909667969.

Is the tour flexible in route changes?
Yes, guides reserve the right to alter routes due to weather or road conditions to ensure safety.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby