Georgia

Aug 23

Written By Undiscovered Frontiers

Discover the Gem of Caucasus

9 Days & 8 Nights

Can be travelled all year round but our favorite time of the year is

from April through June & September through October.

Tour is
escorted by
Licensed
Local English Speaking Guide

Tour Introduction:

Georgia is a historic country at the crossroads of Eastern and Western civilizations, where European and Asian traditions have coexisted for millennia. Indeed, this country offers a wealth of fascinating things to demonstrate and explain. It is impossible to visit Georgia and not be captivated by its 1300 years old traditional architecture. During this tour, you will discover Vardzia which is a 12th-century monastery complex comprised of churches carved into the rock, Davit Gareja which is a network of medieval monastery caves, and its walls are decorated with frescoes from antiquity and Uplistsikhe is a city of caves. Yes, precisely the cave town, which is one of the oldest villages in the Caucasus. Tbilisi's capital city has its charm, with winding alleyways dotted with quirky boutiques and trendy cafes. Also, there's Gori, Stalin's birthplace and a town whose austere architecture bears witness to the country's Soviet past. Join us on this fascinating journey of discovery and adventure to explore a country of diverse culture, rich history, and unique artifacts.

Tour Itinerary:

Welcome to Georgia! Arrive in Tbilisi and proceed to Passport Control for immigration followed by baggage collection and clearing customs formalities. After baggage collection, walk towards the arrival lounge where you shall be met by our representative who will assist you while transferring to KMM 3-star hotel or a similar for check-in. Free evening at leisure and enjoy your welcome dinner.
Note: Hotel is available for check-in on day 01 at 2:00 pm.
After the first delicious breakfast, we will begin our tour of Old Tbilisi. Wander in the old districts of the city which are structured like terraces, as well as take a walk in the narrow streets to enjoy colorful houses, patterned balconies and wonderful samples of modern architecture. Most of the sites in the list are nearby, making it a delightful walk into the town. Our first stop will be a 13th-century Metekhi Church overlooking the river Mtkvari. Then we will proceed to the 4th-century Narikala Fortress, one of the city's earliest fortifications. The Sulphur Baths, the synagogue, the Anchiskhati Church, Cuma Mosque, and the Sioni Cathedral must stop during the sightseeing because we will be able to see some of the unique relics of Christianity. At the end of the day, we will pay a visit to the National Museum of Tbilisi and its breathtaking collections which will prove the fact that Georgia is truly the land of the Golden Fleece. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight at KMM 3-star hotel or a similar.
In the morning, we embark on a journey to the David Gareja cave complex, a stunning 6th-century monastic site set against a stark, semi-desert landscape. We'll explore the Lavra Monastery, marvel at its beautifully painted caves, and take in the dramatic views that surround us. Following this, we will visit a traditional Georgian wine cellar, where the host’s passion for wine is evident in the exceptional quality of his produce. Here, we will taste wine crafted using the ancient Kvevri method, a technique recognized on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Next, we will indulge in a traditional Georgian lunch with local hosts, savoring authentic flavors from freshly harvested products right from the host’s garden. Sharing a meal prepared with cherished family recipes at the locals’ table offers an incredible cultural experience, creating moments to cherish forever. This is a unique opportunity to live and eat like a Georgian! Our journey continues to the charming town of Sighnaghi, known for its old city walls and quaint houses adorned with tile roofs and decorated balconies. From here, we will enjoy breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley and the majestic Great Caucasus mountains. The day concludes with our arrival in Telavi, where we will spend the night at Holiday Inn 4-star hotel or similar.
In the morning, we will visit the local farmers market in Telavi, where we become an integral part of the vibrant daily life. Here, you'll discover a variety of Georgian spices, fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and other natural products. Afterward, we will drive through beautiful landscapes to Tianeti and then onto the famous Georgian Military Highway, leading to the Georgian-Russian border. Along the way, we will stop to visit the Ananuri architectural complex, a 17th-century site featuring two churches and a fortress that overlooks the serene Zhinvali water reservoir. The intricate carvings on the churches are among the finest examples of Georgian art. As we continue our journey, we will be treated to scenic views of the high Caucasus Mountains. Our destination for the day is Stepantsminda, the main town in the region. We will spend the night at a comfortable Intourist 3-star hotel, ensuring a restful evening.
In the morning, we will embark on a 2.5-hour hike through picturesque valleys and woodlands to the Gergeti Trinity Church, located at an elevation of 2,170 meters. Weather permitting, you may catch a glimpse of Mt. Kazbegi, one of the highest glaciers in the Caucasus, standing at 5,047 meters. After some free time for lunch, we will visit an Art House where we will have the opportunity to learn about traditional Georgian felt-making and enjoy some herbal tea and homemade jams. Following this, we will drive along the stunning Dariali Gorge, which leads to the Russian border, before returning to Stepantsminda. In the evening, we will visit a local family for dinner, where we will taste “Khinkali,” a traditional dish originating from the mountainous regions of Mtiuleti, Pshavi, and Khevsureti. You will also have the chance to make your own “Khinkali” and see how many folds it has.We will spend the night at a comfortable Intourist 3-star hotel in Stepantsminda.
Today, we will drive to the town of Gori to explore its historical sites, including the Uplistsikhe Cave Town, dating back to the 1st millennium BC, and the Stalin Museum. Uplistsikhe, once a key stop on the Great Silk Road, is a fascinating complex featuring dwelling quarters, wine cellars, bakeries, a three-nave basilica church carved into the rock, and even an ancient theater. In Gori, we will also visit the birthplace of Joseph Stalin, touring his house and museum. Our journey will then continue to Akhaltsikhe, where we will spend the night at a comfortable Lomsia 3 star hotel.
In the morning, we will visit the Rabati Fortress and its museum (museum closed on Mondays; if closed, we will visit the fortress only). The fortress is a splendid example of multicultural heritage, showcasing Christian, Jewish, and other monuments. We will then continue exploring the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, which served as a fortified gateway to the country with numerous grand castles. One of the most impressive examples is the Khertvisi Fortress, dating back to the 10th century and confirmed by historical sources from the time of Alexander the Great. We will stop to take pictures of this ancient stronghold before proceeding to Vardzia, the magnificent cave town from Georgia’s Golden Age. The Vardzia cave complex, stretching over half a kilometer, once consisted of approximately 3,000 caves and is one of the finest examples of Georgia’s renaissance. It features a rock-hewn church adorned with stunning 12th-century frescoes, as well as dwelling quarters, small hall-type churches, refectories, and wine cellars. We will spend the night in a charming family hotel in Vardzia.
This morning, our journey back to Tbilisi will take us close to both the Turkish and Armenian borders. As we traverse a high plateau, we will pass by Lake Paravani, a large and serene lake with shores dotted by picturesque villages nestled in the shadow of surrounding mountains. As we descend towards Tbilisi, the barren plateau gradually transitions into wooded valleys and rich farmland, offering a beautiful contrast as we approach the capital. We will arrive in Tbilisi and enjoy farewell dinner. Spend the night at a KMM 3 star hotel.
After breakfast in the morning, transfer to the airport for the flight returning to the US. End of the service.

Land Tour Price Only: (International Airfare, Taxes & Fuel surcharges are not included)

2 Travelers:

USD 3,500 Per Person

Based on double room

occupancy

3 Travelers:

USD 3,300 Per Person

Based on double room

occupancy

4 Travelers:

USD 2,900 Per Person

Based on double room

occupancy

Single Room Supplement:

USD 350 Per Person (For all nights of the tour if you wish to stay in a single room).

Note: Customized private journey rates are based on a min of 2 participants & a max of 4 participants. The tour rates are valid for 2023 & are subject to change as per the travel dates requested. The rates for solo travelers or larger private groups can be provided upon request. The tour itineraries can be easily modified & customized based on interests & budgets. Check with your travel consultant for more details.

Tour Fitness Level

Moderate: Fits all age groups with good health, some fitness level, and a sense of adventure. There will be some long walking days and a bit of standing while touring. Access to some of the sites and attractions will require walking on uneven terrain or steep staircases. Few elevations, a pleasant but busy schedule, and several long overland drives during the tour. Feel free to discuss the details of the trip with us.

Lodging Level

Comfortable (3/4-stars): Lodges and hotels that provide a decent size room & an ensuite bathroom. A limited range of enhanced services, some of the onsite amenities, and a level of service that is acceptable by international standards.

Luxurious (4/5 stars): Typical International-style hotels that offer a personalized service, premium location, spacious rooms with ensuite luxurious bathrooms, a good array of room services, and on-site amenities that you would expect from a hotel.

Visa & Passport

U.S. citizens are allowed visa-free entry to Georgia for up to 180 days per year. Further details related to the visa-free entry will be sent out sixty (60) days prior the trip. Ensuring that correct & valid visas are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months from the last day of the trip & include empty pages for visas.

Tour Includes:

One-on-one virtual tour briefing before the trip.
Final documents tour packet will be mailed.
Group arrival/departure transfers between airports and hotels at the destination for tour participants.
Eight (8) nights of accommodation at 4* hotels as per itinerary.
Air-conditioned transportation for sightseeing days as per itinerary.
Service of a licensed local English-speaking guide throughout the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites are as per the itinerary.
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
Local taxes for hotels, meals, and tour services overseas.
Mineral Water during the tour.

Tour Does Not Include:

International air USA – Tbilisi - USA.
Expenses due to excess baggage charges, flight delays or schedule changes, strikes, bad weather, or other reasons.
Personnel expenses such as laundry, alcoholic beverages, photo/video camera fees, telephone, laundry bills, &, etc.
Any expense for a ’la carte meal items not included in preplanned menus.
Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
Refunds for hotel accommodations, meals, or any other tour services not used.
Baggage handling at airports in the USA and overseas.
Increase in tariffs or dollar exchange rate after publication.
Portage at the hotels.
Tips to the local guides, drivers, chambermaids, and waiters.

Useful Details to Know and Tour Map:

This trip will require long driving distances overland. The roads are paved and in a good condition. For the comfort of the travelers, air-conditioned transportation will be provided throughout the trip. We will be making several restroom stops, stretching our legs, and enjoying the scenic views on the way. During the sightseeing days, travelers must be able to walk a minimum of two to three miles to keep up with fellow travelers. Walking to and from sites could be on uneven surfaces or unpaved paths. Please note that elevators are not available at tour sites. We may have a few drives on poor-quality roads which are required to access the historical and archeological gems of the country. Please make sure to have a comfy outfit and shoes for the sightseeing days. By signing up for this tour, participants agree that they have read and understood all the terms and conditions and that they are in good physical and mental health and have an open mind, a sense of adventure, and the ability to be tolerant and patient for the entire period of the tour. To ensure that the itinerary runs efficiently and for the comfort and/or safety of travelers, Undiscovered Frontiers reserves the right to modify the order of the sightseeing activities at any time before departure or after the tour begins or cancel the tour if the planned itinerary is not possible to operate in the event of Force Majeure.