Borjomi National Park Full Day Private Tour From Tbilisi

A Day of Ancient Wonders and Natural Beauty in Georgia

Imagine a day spent exploring Georgia’s most captivating sites, all within one carefully crafted private tour. Starting from Tbilisi, this full-day experience takes you across the Kartli and Javakheti regions, uncovering Uplistsikhe’s ancient cave town, enjoying the healing mineral waters of Borjomi, and wandering the historic streets of Mtskheta. With a price of just $90 per person, the tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Georgia’s highlights while soaking in authentic local culture and stunning scenery.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention you get with a private guide who knows the ins and outs of each stop. Plus, the variety of sites—ancient caves, scenic parks, and UNESCO-listed towns—ensures there’s something for all. The flexibility of a private tour means you can take your time and really absorb each place.

One aspect to consider is that entrance fees for Uplistsikhe and Borjomi National Park are not included, so a bit of extra cash is necessary if you want to fully explore these sites. Also, the day’s length (10 to 12 hours) means it’s best suited for travelers prepared for a full, active day.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, or anyone eager to experience Georgia beyond the capital. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate expert guides, as travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly service they received.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Visits to Uplistsikhe, Borjomi, and Mtskheta in one day.
• Personalized Experience: Private transportation and guide ensure tailored attention.
• Cost-Effective: $90 per person offers great value for such varied highlights.
• Authentic Encounters: Learn local history, enjoy scenic trails, and see ancient sites.
• Flexible and Comfortable: Private vehicle and flexible itinerary suit different paces.
• Highly Rated: Consistently perfect reviews underline reliability and quality.

Exploring Georgia’s Historic and Natural Gems: A Detailed Review

Starting Point: The Convenience and Comfort of a Private Tour

From the moment we booked, the process was straightforward—most travelers book about 11 days in advance, which suggests good availability and planning. The tour includes pickup from your Tbilisi accommodation, so there’s no fuss about navigation or timing. The private car and professional guide ensure comfort and personalized insights, turning a long day into a seamless experience.

The tour, priced at $90 per person, offers excellent value, especially considering the full-day coverage of diverse attractions. It’s a perfect way to make the most of your visit without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The First Stop: Uplistsikhe Cave Town

Our first destination, Uplistsikhe, is a must-see for anyone interested in Georgia’s ancient past. Situated just 7 km southeast of Gori, this rock-hewn town features huge echoing halls, meandering corridors, and pagan worship chambers. As you wander through the tunnels and chambers, it’s easy to imagine how this fortress served as a strategic residence for tribal leaders.

A visitor, describing it as “the residence of the Lord of the local tribal leader,” highlights the site’s historical significance. You’ll appreciate the free admission for the caves, but keep in mind, there’s a fee if you want to explore the Uplistsikhe caves in depth.

What makes Uplistsikhe special is not just its age but its atmospheric setting and the sense of stepping back in time. The remains of Georgia’s oldest theater and its vast echoing spaces give you plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and quiet reflection.

Moving on to Borjomi: Nature and Wellness

Next, we head to Borjomi, a charming resort town famous for its mineral waters. The highlight here is Borjomi Central Park, where springs bubble up naturally, and visitors often sample the famous mineral water directly from springs. The tour includes about 1.5 hours here, enough time to stroll around, watch locals and visitors alike enjoying their water, or even grab a picnic.

The trail through Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park offers a roughly 2-hour walk with a 600-meter ascent to the highest point at 950 meters above sea level. From the reviews, we gather that this trail isn’t just a walk; it’s a chance to experience Georgia’s wilderness firsthand. The scenery is lush, and the trail’s length and elevation make it a rewarding physical activity—not overly strenuous but enough to get your heart pumping.

Travelers have raved about the scenic views, mentioning the waterfalls, green landscapes, and the opportunity for photography. One reviewer noted the guide’s friendliness, mentioning that they even plucked raw green apples from trees along the trail, adding a touch of local charm.

The Final Stop: Historic Mtskheta

Our last destination, Mtskheta, is one of Georgia’s oldest cities and its former capital. Located just 20 km north of Tbilisi, this town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a history dating back thousands of years. Its confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers creates a picturesque setting.

With about an hour here, you can explore the Jvari Monastery and the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, both of which echo the city’s religious and cultural significance. Mtskheta’s historic architecture and scenic views provide a fitting finale to the day’s journey.

Reviewers highlight the town’s authentic charm and spiritual atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for reflection or simply soaking in Georgia’s ancient ambiance.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes a professional driver and guide, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The vehicle is private and comfortable, allowing for a relaxed day without the hassle of group travel. The petrol costs and private arrangements are covered, but entrance fees for Uplistsikhe and Borjomi National Park are paid separately.

Travelers should plan for the extra costs of entrance fees and optional activities, like cable car rides, which are not included. The tour runs approximately 10 to 12 hours, making it a full but rewarding day. It’s ideal for those who enjoy active sightseeing and want to maximize their time with a knowledgeable guide.

Considerations

The length of the day means you should be prepared for a long day of sightseeing and walking. Also, since this is a private tour, it can be customized somewhat, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with a packed schedule. The reviews indicate that guides go above and beyond, making each stop memorable.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

Multiple reviews emphasize how exceptional the guides are, describing them as knowledgeable and friendly. “George is truly the best guide you could possibly get anywhere,” one reviewer notes. Such genuine mentions suggest that the guide’s personality and expertise significantly enhance the experience.

Travelers also appreciate the flexibility of a private tour—being able to adjust timing and take extra photos or short breaks makes the day more personal.

Plus, the scenic views, especially around Borjomi, and the ancient architecture in Mtskheta make for lasting memories. Whether you’re snapping pictures along the trail or marveling at Uplistsikhe’s ancient tunnels, the tour offers a blend of history, nature, and culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a flexible, intimate day trip. If you enjoy expert-guided tours that focus on authentic sites rather than commercialized attractions, this tour fits perfectly. It’s especially suitable for those who value personalized service, as reviews consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guide.

The moderate walking and full-day duration make it suitable for active travelers comfortable with a packed schedule. If you want to explore Georgia’s legendary caves, mineral springs, and UNESCO sites without the hassle of planning each stop yourself, this tour offers a practical, well-rounded experience.

The Sum Up

This Borjomi National Park Full Day Private Tour from Tbilisi packs a lot into one day—ancient caves, scenic parks, and historic towns—all narrated by a knowledgeable guide. The private format ensures you get a personalized experience, making it ideal for travelers who want depth and flexibility in their sightseeing.

The value for money is clear, considering the diversity of sites visited and the comfort of private transportation. Reviewers underscore the expertise and friendliness of the guides, making it not just a sightseeing trip but a genuinely enjoyable experience.

Whether you’re a history buff fascinated by Georgia’s past, a nature enthusiast craving scenic views, or a traveler eager to see the highlights with ease, this tour offers a balanced, authentic, and memorable way to explore Georgia’s treasures.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as it involves walking and some elevation, but it’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and physical activity.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers the private vehicle, driver, and guide, along with petrol costs. Entrance fees for Uplistsikhe and Borjomi National Park are not included.

How long is the tour?
Expect a full-day experience, approximately 10 to 12 hours, covering multiple sites with time for exploration and photos.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 11 days ahead, ensuring availability and planning for the day.

Are breaks or meals included?
The itinerary doesn’t specify meals, but there’s time for a picnic at Borjomi if you bring your own, or you can explore local cafes.

Can the tour be customized?
As a private tour, it’s somewhat flexible, but the main stops are fixed based on the itinerary.

What if I want to visit additional sites?
Since this is a private tour, you can ask your guide about possible additions, but extra costs and time considerations will apply.