From the Valley to the Caucasus
A 7-day route ascending from the lowlands of Imereti to the peaks of the Greater Caucasus, passing through Kutaisi, Tbilisi, the vineyards of Kakheti and the mountains of Kazbegi.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Transfer from Kutaisi Airport to Kutaisi
We will transfer from the airport to the hotel with the assistance of our guide, who will accompany you throughout the journey.
Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4* | 25 km
DAY 2: Kutaisi - Bagrati - Gelati - Prometheus - Tbilisi
We will begin our day in Kutaisi climbing Ukimerioni Hill to visit the imposing Bagrati Cathedral, a medieval masterpiece from which we will enjoy panoramic views of the city. We will continue our journey back in time to the nearby Gelati Academy, a monastic complex declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its impressive frescoes and educational legacy. We will then head to the spectacular Prometheus Cave, an underground labyrinth of stalactites and stalagmites where, if water level conditions permit, we will enjoy a boat ride through its hidden river. Before leaving the city, we will immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Kutaisi's Agricultural Market. Finally, we will set off by road towards the east of the country to reach Tbilisi.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4* | 292 km
DAY 3: Tbilisi - Guided Tour
We will begin our cultural immersion on the vibrant Rustaveli Avenue, the beating heart of Tbilisi. We will admire architectural gems such as the imposing Parliament and the neo-Moorish Opera Theater, as well as the distinctive Rustaveli Theater and the beautiful Kashveti Church. Our tour will take us to Metekhi Square, where the historic church and the equestrian statue of King Vakhtang Gorgasali will offer privileged views over the Mtkvari River. We will take the cable car up to Narikala Fortress, the ancient 4th-century defensive citadel that offers the best panoramic views of the capital. We will venture into the picturesque Abanotubani district, world-famous for its historic sulfur baths. Finally, we will visit the Anchiskhati Basilica, the oldest church in the city.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Tbilisi Center 4* | 2 km
DAY 4: Tbilisi - Alaverdi - Nekresi - Kvareli - Telavi
We will leave Tbilisi behind to enter the landscapes of Kakheti, the wine region par excellence, crossing the picturesque Gombori Pass. Our first stop will be at the majestic Alaverdi Cathedral, an 11th-century architectural gem rising 50 meters high. We will continue ascending to the Nekresi Monastery, a historic complex nestled on a wooded hill that houses one of Georgia's oldest churches and offers panoramic views of the Alazani Valley. We will head to Kvareli for a unique experience at the famous Khareba Winery, entering its famous tunnels carved into the Caucasus rock and enjoying a wine tasting. Finally, we will arrive in Telavi, the historic capital of the region.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Telavi 4* | 191 km
DAY 5: Telavi - Ananuri - Gergeti - Gudauri
We will say goodbye to Telavi to exchange the vineyard landscapes for the imposing mountains of the north. We will travel along the historic Georgian Military Highway to reach the fortified complex of Ananuri, whose medieval churches and towers are reflected in the turquoise waters of the Jinvali Reservoir. We will continue our ascent to Kazbegi, where we will experience the most spectacular moment of the day: the climb to the Gergeti Trinity Church. This temple stands majestic and solitary under the shadow of the eternal Mount Kazbek, offering one of the most famous views in the country. After enjoying this alpine landscape, we will head to the Gudauri ski resort.
Accommodation: Marco Polo 4* | 198 km
DAY 6: Gudauri - Uplistsikhe - Winery - Gori - Kutaisi
Our day will begin with a journey to antiquity in Uplistsikhe, a fascinating cave city carved into rock dating from the Iron Age. We will walk through its ancient streets to discover pagan temples, secret tunnels, and a remarkably preserved Roman theater. We will then delight our senses at Chateau Ateni Winery, located in the beautiful Ateni Valley, where we will enjoy a tasting of sparkling wines. The day will culminate with a visit to the Stalin Museum in Gori, exploring the complex life of the Soviet leader by visiting his humble birthplace and his imposing armored train.
Accommodation: Best Western Kutaisi 4* | 340 km
DAY 7: Transfer from Kutaisi to Kutaisi Airport
We will transfer from the hotel to the airport according to the scheduled flight time, with the assistance of our guide.
End of tour | 25 km
About this trip
Journey "From the Valley to the Caucasus" on a 7-day route that ascends from the lowlands of Imereti to the peaks of the Greater Caucasus. Starting in Kutaisi, this itinerary stands out for its focus on geographical diversity.
Crossing to the East
We will cross the country to visit Tbilisi and then venture into the Alazani Valley in Kakheti, famous for its vineyards. We will visit Telavi and the fortress of Nekresi.
The High Mountains
From the vineyards, we will climb to the mountains of Kazbegi and Gudauri, experiencing the dramatic change in landscape. The return to Kutaisi takes us through the cave city of Uplistsikhe and Gori. This journey is a living geography lesson, showing how the terrain has shaped Georgia's culture and history.
Included
- Accommodation: 6 Nights in selected 4* hotels
- Meals: Bed and Breakfast
- Transport: Private vehicle with A/C and fuel
- Guide: Professional English-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