Cave Cities Route
A 3-day thematic journey focused on Georgia's rock-hewn architecture, exploring the Iron Age pagan city of Uplistsikhe and the impressive 12th-century monastery city of Vardzia.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Tbilisi - Mtskheta - Uplistsikhe - Gori - Kutaisi
We will leave Tbilisi behind to first visit the ancient capital and religious center of Georgia, Mtskheta. There we will explore its World Heritage treasures: the panoramic Jvari Monastery and the sacred Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Next, we will travel through ancient history at Uplistsikhe, an impressive Iron Age rock-hewn city where we will walk among caves and temples carved into sandstone. Our next stop will be in the nearby city of Gori, where we will visit the Stalin Museum to learn about the birthplace and trajectory of the Soviet leader. Finally, we will continue our journey westward, entering the legendary land of Colchis, until we reach Kutaisi, where we will stay.
Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4*
267 km | 04:44 by car
DAY 2: Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Prometheus - Borjomi - Akhaltsikhe
Today's route departs from Kutaisi, heading first to the imposing Bagrati Cathedral. From its privileged location on Ukimerioni hill, we will enjoy a complete panorama of the city before continuing to Gelati Monastery. This complex, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will allow us to appreciate medieval architecture and the valuable frescoes of what was a great academy in the 12th century. Leaving human history behind, we will venture into the spectacular geology of Prometheus Cave, walking through its halls full of millennial formations and, if water level conditions are favorable, sailing its underground river. Finally, the journey will take us south to Borjomi, an oasis of tranquility famous for its volcanic springs. In this charming destination, surrounded by the National Park, we can breathe fresh air and learn about the origin of its famous healing mineral waters before continuing to Akhaltsikhe.
Accommodation: Hotel Gino Wellness Rabath 4*
239 km | 04:57 by car
DAY 3: Akhaltsikhe - Vardzia - Khertvisi - Tbilisi
Today, we will begin the day exploring the majestic Vardzia, an extraordinary 12th-century rock-hewn monastery city that will transport us to the past. We will venture into its labyrinthine tunnels to discover unique medieval frescoes and visit its ancient cellars, witnesses to the millennial winemaking tradition of the area. We will continue our route to the imposing Khertvisi Fortress, one of Georgia's oldest fortifications, strategically located in the Samtskhe-Javakheti valley; there we will admire its robust walls and enjoy unparalleled panoramic views. Finally, we will head to Tbilisi to conclude the day. Although an extensive road journey awaits us, it will become a memorable experience in itself, treating us to a continuous visual spectacle crossing dreamlike landscapes dominated by the imposing Lesser Caucasus mountains.
287 km | 05:30 by car
About this trip
Explore the underground world on the Cave Cities Route, a 3-day thematic journey focused on Georgia's rock-hewn architecture. From Tbilisi, we will travel west to visit Uplistsikhe, a pagan city carved into rock dating from the Iron Age.
Vardzia: The Crown Jewel
The highlight of the journey is the visit to the south of the country to explore the immense cave city of Vardzia. This 12th-century monastic complex is a marvel of medieval engineering, with hundreds of rooms connected by tunnels. We will also visit the Rabati fortress in Akhaltsikhe and the monasteries of Kutaisi on the way back. A fascinating immersion into how Georgians have used stone to live, pray, and defend themselves throughout the centuries.
Included
- Accommodation: 2 Nights in selected hotels
- Meal plan: Bed and Breakfast
- Transport: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel
- Guide: Professional Spanish-speaking guide
- Logistics: Staff expenses (guide/driver)
- Water: 1 bottle per person/day
- Taxes: Local fees
- Entrances: Monuments according to itinerary
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Lunches and Dinners (unless indicated)
- Alcoholic beverages and tips
- Personal expenses