10-Day Tour to Georgia, Tbilisi: Caucasus Mountains and Black Sea

Explore the Heart of Georgia Over 10 Days for $1,856

This 10-day tour offers an in-depth journey through Georgia’s diverse landscapes, from the bustling capital Tbilisi to remote mountain villages in the Caucasus Highlands. Priced at $1,856 per person, it includes hotel accommodations, breakfasts, dinners, and all transportation, with small-group sizes ensuring personal attention. As a standout feature, the tour visits 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites and the highest permanently settled village in Europe, Ushguli, accessible via a 4×4 Jeep adventure.

While the route is packed with unforgettable sights and cultural experiences, the tour involves some moderate physical activity, including walking and trekking, making it most suitable for travelers with average fitness levels. The inclusion of local guides and comfortable transportation helps balance the demanding itinerary, offering a comprehensive taste of Georgia’s natural beauty, history, and culture.

Key Points

• Rich itinerary covering UNESCO sites, mountain villages, and Black Sea shores
• Includes hotel stays in 3-star hotels with breakfast and dinner
• Small-group tour with friendly, professional guides
• Adventure to Ushguli in Svaneti with 4×4 Jeep transport
• Visit the Stalin Museum, Uplistsikhe cave town, and Batumi city highlights
• All transport, pickup, and drop-off are included for a smooth experience

Starting in Tbilisi: Iconic Landmarks and Historic Sites

The tour kicks off in Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital, with a series of historic sites. Travelers visit Holy Trinity Cathedral, the tallest church in Georgia, where children are baptized every year. The Metekhi Cathedral offers stunning views over the river Mtkvari, while Narikala Fortress provides panoramic city vistas after a cable car ride.

Further exploration takes in Abanotubani, the old town famous for its Sulfur Bathhouses, Botanical Street, art galleries, and souvenir shops. The visit to Sioni Cathedral and Anchiskhati Basilica reveals Georgia’s ecclesiastical architecture, dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries. The Georgian National Museum houses a Golden Treasury with artifacts from Georgia’s ancient past, making it an ideal introduction to the country’s history.

The bustling Rustaveli Avenue completes the day, leading past the Parliament, theaters, and cultural institutions, providing a lively snapshot of Tbilisi’s modern and historic blend.

Visiting Stalin’s Museum and the Old Iron Age Uplistsikhe

On the second day, the tour visits the Stalin Museum in Gori, showcasing personal items belonging to Joseph Stalin. The museum provides context about the controversial Soviet leader and Georgia’s role during his era.

Next, travelers explore Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town dating back to the early Iron Age. The site is carved from rock and features secret tunnels, chambers, and halls. Visitors walk through the labyrinth of tunnels, gaining insights into early Georgian urban life.

The journey continues westward through the Rikoti Pass, crossing Georgia’s largest tunnel, before arriving in Kutaisi at sunset. The city’s Bagrati Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a scenic spot to enjoy Georgia’s landscape and history, completing the day’s cultural voyage.

Discovering Natural Wonders in Sataplia and Martvili Canyon

On the third day, the tour emphasizes Georgia’s natural beauty. The Sataplia Cave and Nature Reserve is famous for dinosaur footprints, with a 900-meter-long cave adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The light and sound effects enhance the experience as visitors explore.

Next, the group visits Martvili Canyon, known for its lush waterfalls and the opportunity to take a boat trip along the river Abasha. The scenic surroundings highlight Georgia’s verdant landscape and provide a relaxing contrast to the mountain hiking ahead.

This day ends with travel to Mestia, the hub of the Svaneti region, situated at 1500 meters elevation. Known for its medieval Svan towers, some dating back to the 9th century, Mestia serves as an ideal base for exploring the mountains and villages.

The Mountain Village of Ushguli: Highest Permanently Settled Village in Europe

Day four is dedicated to Ushguli, the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe at 2200 meters above sea level. Reached via off-road 4×4 Jeep, the journey passes through small villages like Ipari and Kala, with scenic views of medieval churches and frescoes.

Ushguli’s UNESCO World Heritage status reflects its cultural and historical significance. Visitors enjoy small churches with centuries-old frescos and the stunning backdrop of mountains. The off-road drive makes this day an adventurous highlight, showcasing Georgia’s rugged mountain landscape.

Hiking in Mestia and Mount Chatini

On day five, a trekking route of about 25 km begins from Mestia, taking in the Mestiachala river and Mount Chatini. The walk is suitable for all fitness levels, offering views of glaciers and the mountain scenery.

The trail passes through forests and rocky terrain, concluding at the Chalaadi glacier at approximately 1925 meters elevation. The walk offers a closer look at Georgia’s high-altitude environments and the opportunity to see Mount Chatini up close.

Visiting Margiani’s Tower and the Zuruldi Viewpoint

On day six, the tour visits Margiani’s Tower Museum in Svaneti, where manuscripts, gospel books, and medieval icons are displayed. The museum showcases the region’s artistic and cultural history, including photographs by the renowned Vittorio Sella.

If the weather permits, travelers take the Hatsvali Cable Car up to Zuruldi Mountain at 2455 meters, offering spectacular views of Ushba and Tetnuldi peaks. The vantage point provides a perfect spot for photos and appreciating Georgia’s towering mountains.

The day concludes in Zugdidi with a visit to the Dadiani Palaces Museum, which displays archaeological artifacts, Napoleon masks, and botanical gardens.

From Batumi to Shekvetili: Coastal and Cultural Highlights

Day seven begins with a trip to Gonio Fortress, situated just 10 km from Batumi. The fortress has historical significance, and visitors explore its archaeological remains.

Next, the ethnographic museum in Borjgalo offers insights into local mountain life with wood-carved dollhouses and models of traditional houses. The afternoon features a city tour of Batumi, including the Seaside Boulevard, Ali and Nino sculpture, Piazza Square, and the Alphabet Tower. The mix of modern architecture and seaside leisure makes Batumi a lively coastal stop.

Visiting Shekvetili Dendrological Park and Vani Museum

On day eight, the tour visits the Shekvetili Dendrological Park, showcasing diverse plant collections, and Georgia in Miniatures, featuring scaled-down models of local landmarks.

Later, the Vani Archaeological Museum displays artifacts from 800 BC to 100 AD, including bronze sculptures, coins, and jewelry, illustrating Georgia’s ancient cultural development. The day ends with a free walk through Kutaisi’s city center, giving travelers a chance to explore Georgia’s charming lowland town.

Exploring Mtskheta and the UNESCO Religious Sites

The ninth day emphasizes Georgia’s religious heritage with visits to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 11th century. The cathedral is linked to stories of early Christianity in Georgia.

Nearby, Jvari Monastery offers panoramic views at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. This 6th-century site is a key spiritual landmark, capped the tour’s historical highlights before returning towards Tbilisi for the final night.

Final Departure and Summary of the Tour Experience

The tour concludes after breakfast on the tenth day, with hotel check-out and transport to the airport. The overall experience stands out for its comprehensive coverage of Georgia’s mountains, coast, and cultural sites. The inclusion of UNESCO sites, mountain villages, and Black Sea beaches offers a well-rounded view of the country’s diversity.

The small-group format and professional guide ensure a personal and informative experience, while the balance of sightseeing and leisure allows for enjoyment without feeling rushed. The tour’s moderate physical activity makes it accessible for most travelers, though some walking and trekking are involved.

Overall, this tour provides solid value for exploring Georgia’s main highlights in a manageable, well-organized package. It’s perfect for those interested in history, nature, and mountain scenery, with a taste of Georgia’s vibrant cities and relaxed coastlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking, some trekking, and off-road driving, so it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

Are meals included during the trip?
Yes, breakfasts and dinners are included on most days, providing a good balance of convenience and local cuisine.

What transportation is used during the tour?
The tour features comfortable air-conditioned vehicles for most days, with local 4x4WD vehicles used specifically for accessing Ushguli.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour operates with a fixed itinerary and is non-refundable, so changes are unlikely. It is designed for a group experience with set stops and activities.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and easy access to guides.

How do I book or get more information?
You can contact Georgian Holidays at +995598704717 or via email at [email protected] for booking or inquiries.