Is Georgia a dangerous country for travellers?
When someone plans their first trip to the Caucasus, the question almost always arises: is Georgia a dangerous country? The short answer is clear: Georgia is, in general terms, one of the safest countries in the region and on the continent. However, like any destination, it has particular features worth knowing before you pack your bags.
At Iberogeorgia we have spent years accompanying Spanish-speaking travellers throughout the country and can confirm that the vast majority enjoy their stay without the slightest incident. Nevertheless, we want to give you a transparent account of the nuances you should be aware of.
Factors sometimes associated with 'insecurity' in Georgia
- Minor crime: although the crime rate is low, in very busy tourist areas there can be occasional pickpockets or petty theft, as in any European capital.
- Territorial conflicts: Georgia has open disputes with Russia over Abkhazia and South Ossetia. These regions are occupied by Russian forces and are not accessible to tourists.
Map of Georgia with the territories occupied by Russia - Terrorist threat: extremely low. Incidents are very rare and Georgia is not on any high-risk lists.
In summary: Georgia is not a dangerous country and the vast majority of visitors experience no security problems whatsoever. Simple common-sense precautions and staying informed about the current situation are all that is needed.
The crime rate in Georgia compared to Spain
The objective data speak for themselves. According to available crime statistics [VERIFY], the intentional homicide rate in Georgia in 2019 was 3.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, while in Spain that same year it was 0.6 per 100,000. In recent years there have been barely any isolated cases of tourist homicide.
However, when it comes to violent robbery, the picture changes dramatically: according to Eurostat [VERIFY], in 2020 the rate in Georgia was 17.7 per 100,000 inhabitants, compared to 95.4 per 100,000 in Spain. That means more than five times lower than in Spain.
These figures confirm that, for a traveller, Georgia is not only not dangerous — the risk is far lower than in many European cities.
Tips for travelling to Georgia with peace of mind
These practical tips will help you enjoy Georgia to the fullest:
- Do your research: before you travel, get to know the points of interest, recommended areas and available transport.
- Keep a low profile: avoid flaunting jewellery, expensive cameras or large amounts of cash in public.
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas: if you go out, do so with company or in a group.
- Keep your belongings safe: always keep them with you, with extra care in markets and on public transport.
- Use authorised taxis or apps: Bolt and Yandex Go work well in Tbilisi and the main cities.
- Respect local laws and customs: especially in religious sites.
- Stay calm: in the face of any unexpected situation, resolve problems calmly and with common sense.
- Take out travel insurance: essential for any medical emergency or loss.
Consulting up-to-date official information
To check whether it is safe to travel to Georgia at any given time, always consult official sources: your country's Foreign Ministry travel advice, the website of your country's consulate in Tbilisi and reports from organisations such as the WHO and UNWTO. Updated travel guides are also useful.
Basic safety measures in Georgia
- Protect your belongings: use zipped bags and never leave them unattended.
- Avoid night-time roads and marshrutkas: Georgian traffic can be chaotic; always wear a seatbelt and avoid driving at night.
- Protect your digital identity: never hand over your passport to anyone who is not an official authority.
- Avoid conflict zones: Abkhazia and South Ossetia are not accessible to tourists with a Georgian visa.
- Respect local culture: especially in Orthodox churches and monasteries (shoulders and knees covered).
Useful phone numbers during your stay in Georgia
- Emergency services (police, ambulance, fire): 112
- Tourist information: 2-99-93-93 or 2-93-14-55 [VERIFY]
- Consular emergency for Spanish citizens: +995 32 220 00 63 [VERIFY]
Trust reputable agencies and guides
The safest way to discover Georgia is to rely on a trusted local operator. Some well-known agencies in the country include:
- Iberogeorgia (https://iberogeorgia.com/) — the leading Spanish-language reference
- Caucasus Travel (http://www.caucasustravel.com/)
- Visit Georgia (https://visitgeorgia.ge/)
- Envoy Tours (https://www.envoytours.com/)
- Caucasus Tour (https://www.caucasus-tour.com/)
- Georgian Holidays (https://www.georgianholidays.com/)
- Caucasus Explorer (https://caucasus-explorer.com/)
- Georgian Travel Guide (https://georgiantravelguide.com/)
- Tour Guide Georgia (https://www.tourguide.ge/)
Tip: always read reviews and comments from previous travellers, and verify the reputation and licences of companies before booking.
Conclusions: Georgia, a safe destination to discover
Assessing the real risks
To assess the risks of travelling to Georgia, check your government's Foreign Ministry travel recommendations. Georgia is considered a safe tourist destination, although it is advisable to avoid the border regions with Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
As with any destination, there may be risks related to petty theft or scams typical of busy places. Taking basic precautions and trusting reputable agencies is all that is needed.
Decide with caution and information
If you are considering visiting Georgia, these recommendations will help you decide with confidence:
- Stay informed about the current situation: check news and official sources before booking.
- Learn about local culture and customs: knowing a few words in Georgian ('gamarjoba' for hello; 'madloba' for thank you) opens many doors.
- Use common sense: as you would on any trip.
- Book trusted services: agencies with experience and a good reputation.
At Iberogeorgia we are here to accompany you. If you were in doubt, now you know: Georgia is not a dangerous country — it is one of the most welcoming destinations in the world. All that remains is to take the plunge and discover it.