Borjomi – Vardzia 2-day tour

Explore Georgia’s Historic and Natural Wonders in Two Days

The Borjomi – Vardzia 2-day tour, priced at $153 per person, offers a well-rounded taste of Georgia’s heritage and landscapes. Starting in Tbilisi, this private tour takes visitors through iconic landmarks like Jvari Monastery and Mtskheta, before venturing into the remarkable caves of Uplistsikhe and the lush surroundings of Borjomi. The journey continues with visits to Rabati Fortress and the awe-inspiring Vardzia cave monastery, carved into cliffs deep in the mountains. Along the way, the tour offers peaceful stops at Paravani Lake and the expansive Javakheti National Park, making this a comprehensive experience for those eager to see Georgia’s natural beauty and history.

This tour is ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking and exploring uneven terrains at stops like Uplistsikhe and Vardzia. The inclusion of guided commentary and bottled water ensures comfort and insight throughout. While lunch and dinner are not included, the tour’s focus on key highlights and scenic drives make for a balanced, engaging experience suited to those who appreciate history, nature, and cultural richness.

Key Points

• Price and duration: Priced at $153 per person for 2 days, roughly 8-10 hours each day.
• Visit iconic landmarks: Includes Jvari Monastery, Mtskheta, Uplistsikhe Cave Town, Rabati Fortress, and Vardzia.
• Scenic landscapes: Offers stops at Paravani Lake and Javakheti National Park, showcasing Georgia’s natural beauty.
• Expert guides: Known for knowledgeable guides like Giga, who provide engaging and detailed explanations.
• Comfort and convenience: Includes pickup, group discounts, and mobile tickets for easy access.
• Limitations: No entrance fees are included, and physical activity is moderate, so plan accordingly.

Starting the Tour: Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at 9:00 am in Tbilisi, with pickup offered from your location, making logistics straightforward. The tour is private, so only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility within the day’s schedule. Since the tour is designed for moderate physical fitness, expect some walking at historic sites with uneven terrain. The guide’s explanations are in English, and bottled water is provided, helping keep everyone refreshed.

Visiting Jvari Monastery for Panoramic Views

The first stop is Jvari Monastery, a 6th-century church perched high above the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This site is free to enter and offers a peaceful start to the journey, setting a spiritual and scenic tone for the days ahead.

Exploring Mtskheta’s Sacred Streets

Next, the tour arrives in Mtskheta, Georgia’s ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors walk through historic streets lined with old churches and religious sites that reveal the deep roots of Christianity in Georgia. The time here is about 50 minutes, offering a compact but meaningful look at the city’s spiritual history.

Discovering Uplistsikhe Cave Town’s Ancient Tunnels

A highlight of the first day is the visit to Uplistsikhe, an early Iron Age rock-hewn city. The site features winding tunnels, open halls, and stone temples carved into the cliffs. The exploration takes about 1 hour, and since admission fees are not included, travelers should plan for additional costs if they wish to enter. Walking through Uplistsikhe provides a window into ancient Georgia’s ingenuity and architectural skills.

Relaxing in Borjomi Central Park

After a morning of sightseeing, the tour moves to Borjomi, famous for its mineral waters and forested parks. The walk through Borjomi Central Park lasts about 1 hour, during which visitors enjoy the natural springs and shaded trails. The park offers a peaceful setting for relaxing before the overnight stay, with the chance to experience Georgia’s natural freshness firsthand.

Visiting Rabati Fortress and Its Multicultural Heritage

On the second day, the Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe becomes the first stop. The restored fortress complex features a mix of churches, mosques, and museums, reflecting Georgia’s diverse cultural history. The visit lasts around 1 hour, and while admission fees are not included, the site’s architectural variety and history make it a compelling stop.

Exploring the Vardzia Cave Monastery

The tour’s centerpiece is Vardzia, a 12th-century cave monastery carved into cliffs along the Mtkvari River. The 1 hour 30 minutes spent here involves wandering through hidden tunnels, churches, and terraces, with stunning views over the river valley. Visitors should be prepared for moderate walking on uneven surfaces, and additional costs may apply for entrance fees.

Pausing at Paravani Lake in Javakheti

After Vardzia, the journey continues to Paravani Lake, Georgia’s largest lake, located on the Javakheti plateau. The 25-minute stop allows for photos and a moment of tranquility amid the high-altitude landscapes. The drive through Javakheti National Park showcases volcanic plateaus and lakes, adding to the scenic experience before heading back to Tbilisi in the evening.

The Value of Guided Insight and Natural Beauty

Throughout the tour, the guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, enhancing understanding of each site. The bottled water keeps guests comfortable during long drives and explorations. The group discounts and mobile tickets make the experience convenient and accessible, offering good value for the $153 price tag.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour suits adults and families with moderate fitness levels who appreciate a mix of historic sites and scenic landscapes. It is best for those interested in Georgia’s cultural heritage and natural beauty, looking for an organized, guided experience that covers multiple highlights in just two days.

Final Thoughts on the Borjomi – Vardzia 2-Day Tour

This 2-day journey provides a rundown of Georgia’s historic and natural riches, from ancient monasteries to mountain lakes. The expert guides and well-planned itinerary ensure an engaging experience, with enough flexibility to enjoy each site. While entrance fees are not included, the overall value is high for travelers eager to see multiple sites without the hassle of planning each step.

If you want an organized, insightful, and scenic tour that combines history, nature, and local culture, this tour offers a memorable slice of Georgia’s diverse landscape and heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Yes, as long as participants have moderate physical fitness. Some walking on uneven terrain is involved, but the pace can be manageable for many.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy local restaurants during free time.

Do I need to pay entrance fees at sites?
Yes, entrance fees are not included at sites like Uplistsikhe, Rabati Fortress, and Vardzia. Expect additional costs if you wish to enter these attractions.

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am with pickup offered from your accommodation or a designated location in Tbilisi.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, moderate walking and exploring uneven terrains are part of the experience, especially at Uplistsikhe and Vardzia.

What language are the guides speaking?
Guides speak English fluently, ensuring clear explanations throughout the tour.

Is the tour private or group?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of historic sites, scenic drives, and expert guides offers a well-balanced, enriching experience suited to those looking for an organized exploration of Georgia’s key highlights.