Europe · Georgia
This curated itinerary traverses Georgia from the vibrant capital of Tbilisi to the most remote reaches of the Greater Caucasus, including the wild Svaneti region.
This curated itinerary traverses Georgia from the vibrant capital of Tbilisi to the most remote reaches of the Greater Caucasus, including the wild Svaneti region. The journey follows ancient cultural routes through mountain landscapes of rare beauty, connecting prehistoric rock-hewn settlements with peaks cloaked in eternal snow.
The experience focuses on Georgia's architectural and historical wealth, ranging from 6th-century basilicas to the UNESCO-listed fortified villages of Ushguli, nestled at the foot of Mount Shkhara. The exploration reveals a fascinating contrast between Soviet influences and millennia-old traditions preserved within isolated communities and unique archaeological sites such as the Prometheus Caves.
Travel is conducted via private transport, with 4x4 vehicles utilised to navigate the more rugged mountain terrain. Accommodation is provided in hand-picked 4 and 5-star hotels (with the exception of Akhaltsikhe), and the half-board arrangement is enhanced by two traditional lunches hosted in local family homes.
9 days in the programme
Departure on a scheduled Turkish Airlines flight to Tbilisi Departure on a scheduled Turkish Airlines flight to Tbilisi. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in the Georgian capital for your overnight stay.
A day dedicated to discovering the multi-ethnic charm of Tbilisi A day dedicated to discovering the multi-ethnic charm of Tbilisi. The tour winds through the cobbled streets of the old town, lined with traditional houses featuring ornate wooden balconies. Highlights include the Metekhi Church, which was converted into a theatre in 1974, and the 6th-century Anchiskhati Basilica, one of the city's oldest and most impeccably preserved landmarks.
Transfer to Mtskheta, the spiritual heart of the country Transfer to Mtskheta, the spiritual heart of the country. The journey continues towards the spectacular heights of Mount Kazbek, where 4x4 vehicles are used to navigate the region's mountain trails.
A visit to Uplistsikhe, recognised as the oldest settlement in the Caucasus A visit to Uplistsikhe, recognised as the oldest settlement in the Caucasus. Explore this evocative city carved directly into the rock, which serves as a vital testament to the region's ancient civilisations.
Exploration of the cave city of Vardzia, an extraordinary complex of monasteries and dwellings hewn into the mountainside Exploration of the cave city of Vardzia, an extraordinary complex of monasteries and dwellings hewn into the mountainside. Following the visit, transfer to Kutaisi for the evening.
Journey into the core of the Greater Caucasus and the wild Svaneti region Journey into the core of the Greater Caucasus and the wild Svaneti region. Arrive in Mestia, an isolated town defined by a unique architectural tapestry of medieval defensive towers, Soviet-era structures and ten historic districts where local traditions remain untouched by time.
An excursion by 4x4 to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Ushguli, comprised of four distinct hamlets An excursion by 4x4 to the UNESCO World Heritage village of Ushguli, comprised of four distinct hamlets. The village occupies a spectacular position at the foot of Mount Shkhara, Georgia's highest peak. The day includes an exploration of the area and a visit to the Prometheus Caves, home to a navigable underground river.
After visiting the city of Kutaisi, begin the return journey to the capital, Tbilisi, for your final evening in Georgia.
Transfer to Tbilisi airport in good time for your scheduled Turkish Airlines return international flight.
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