Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia – one day group tour from Kutaisi

Introduction: A Day of Georgia’s Hidden Gems

If you’re eager to explore some of Georgia’s most captivating sights without the hassle of planning, this one-day group tour from Kutaisi offers a well-rounded taste of southern Georgia’s treasures. It covers Borjomi, famous for its mineral waters, the Rabati Castle with its layers of history, and the Vardzia cave city carved into cliffs. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 14-hour adventure brings history, legend, and panoramic views together in one memorable package.

What we love most is how this trip balances cultural insight with scenic beauty. The stops at Borjomi Central Park and the cave city of Vardzia are both visually stunning and environmentally immersive, providing that authentic Georgia experience. Plus, tasting Nazuki, the traditional Georgian sweet bread, and mineral waters along the way adds a delightful local touch.

A potential consideration is the long duration—14 hours can be a lot for some travelers, especially with a packed schedule. It requires comfortable shoes and an open mind for a full day on the road. This tour suits those who enjoy learning about history, love beautiful landscapes, and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing.

If you’re after a well-organized, insightful trip that takes you through Georgia’s varied landscape and history without the stress of planning, this tour will suit you nicely. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia with expert guides
• Authentic experiences like tasting Nazuki bread and mineral waters
• Stunning landscapes and architecture offering great photo opportunities
• Long but rewarding day, with a balance of historical sites and natural beauty
• Cost-effective for value, considering guided transport, expert commentary, and multiple key sites
• Suitable for history buffs, nature lovers, and curious travelers comfortable with full-day excursions

Exploring the Georgia Highlights: An In-Depth Look

The Tour Starting Point and Transportation

The trip begins at the centrally located Budget Georgia office on Shota Rustaveli Avenue, right next to a wine shop, making it convenient to find. The tour departs promptly around 8:00 am, so arriving on time is crucial. Transportation is by comfortable van, with reviews noting a smooth ride through scenic Georgian countryside. The group size tends to be intimate, with reviews mentioning just a few participants, making the experience more personal.

The long drive is broken up with interesting commentary from guides. Expect about two hours to reach Surami, the first stop, where the journey itself offers views of Georgia’s lush landscapes. The van’s relaxed pace allows you to settle in and prepare for the day ahead.

Surami and Nazuki: A Tasty First Stop

Our first stop in Surami introduces us to Nazuki, a traditional Georgian sweet bread. Local residents demonstrate how it’s made, and they generously offer samples. This is a lovely way to kick off the day with a taste of local craftsmanship. The reviews praise the experience, with one describing it as a “total delight” and a highlight of the trip.

Nazuki, costing about 3 GEL, is a simple but delicious treat, slightly sweet with a soft, fluffy texture. It’s a small but meaningful introduction to Georgian culinary culture—simple, authentic, and memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Borjomi: Mineral Waters and a Stroll in the Park

Next, we arrive at Borjomi Central Park, a place famous for its naturally carbonated mineral waters. Visitors get the chance to sample the waters straight from the springs—an authentic experience that’s both fun and refreshing. The price for the tasting is around 5 GEL, but many reviews highlight how it’s worth it for the experience.

The park itself is lush and inviting, with paths that wind around the springs, offering scenic views of the town and mountains beyond. We love how Borjomi’s mineral waters have become a symbol of health in Georgia, and tasting them here feels like stepping into local tradition.

Rabati Castle: A Medieval Fortress with Layers of History

From Borjomi, the tour takes us to Rabati Castle, a medieval fortress that has been restored and reimagined over the centuries. Guided by a local expert, we explore the fortress walls, mosques, churches, and a small museum. The castle’s history spans multiple cultures, making it a fascinating place for history lovers.

The entrance fee is about 18 GEL, which is not included in the tour price. Many reviews describe the guide’s storytelling as engaging and informative, bringing the site’s history to life. We particularly enjoy the contrast of old stone walls against the newer restorations, symbolizing Georgia’s layered past.

Lunch Break: Enjoying Local Flavors

After exploring Rabati, a stop for lunch provides a chance to relax and enjoy Georgian cuisine at a local restaurant. While the cost of food isn’t included, many mention that the meals are hearty and reasonably priced, often featuring local specialties. It’s a good opportunity to recharge before heading to the cave city of Vardzia.

Vardzia: The Cave City of Legends

The final highlight is Vardzia, a sprawling complex of caves carved into cliffs, dating back to the 12th century. Once a monastery and a fortress, Vardzia is both a historical marvel and a stunning natural landscape. You’ll explore various chambers, tunnels, and churches, all with breathtaking views over the Terrible Gorge.

The entrance fee is approximately 15 GEL, with an additional 2 GEL for the minibus ride uphill to the complex. Many reviews describe Vardzia as the “highlight of the trip,” with visitors marveling at the ingenuity of its construction and the serenity of its setting.

Reflection and Return Journey

After a thorough exploration, we head back to Kutaisi, arriving late in the evening. The long day is packed but rewarding. Some travelers noted that they wished for more time at certain stops, especially in Borjomi and Vardzia, but generally agree the day was well worth it for the sights and stories encountered.

Analyzing the Value: Is This Tour Worth It?

At around the price point, considering transportation, guided touring, and entry fees (not including meals or personal extras), this tour offers excellent value. The guided element is especially valuable, as local guides provide context that makes each site more meaningful. Many reviews praise the guides—calling them knowledgeable, entertaining, and passionate—which enhances the experience considerably.

The inclusion of tasting local foods and waters adds authenticity and a sensory dimension to the trip. The scenic drives through Georgia’s countryside are an added bonus, giving you a glimpse of life beyond the tourist spots.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, culture seekers, and nature lovers who want a comprehensive day trip without the stress of planning multiple logistics. It suits travelers comfortable with long days on the road but eager to see several highlights in one go.

It’s also ideal for those new to Georgia, as the guides do a good job of telling stories that make history accessible and engaging. If you enjoy authentic local experiences—like tasting Nazuki or mineral waters—this tour offers plenty of those moments.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Tour for You?

For anyone wanting to get a deep but manageable taste of Georgia’s southern treasures, this tour delivers on many fronts. The combination of natural beauty, medieval architecture, and local flavors makes it a well-rounded experience. The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm bring each site to life, turning sightseeing into storytelling.

While it is a long day, the variety of stops ensures you’re constantly engaged, making the journey feel worthwhile. The price reflects good value for guided transport, entrance fees, and memorable cultural moments.

This trip is best suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want an overview of Georgia’s highlights. If you prefer leisurely exploration or focusing on just one site, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. But for the curious traveler eager to see as much as possible in one day, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, starting around 8:00 am and returning late in the evening.

Where does the tour meet?
It departs from Budget Georgia’s office on Shota Rustaveli Avenue #5, next to a wine shop.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation and guiding services are included. Entrance fees and tastings are paid separately.

How much are the entrance fees?
Borjomi central park: 5 GEL, Rabati castle: 18 GEL, Vardzia: 15 GEL plus 2 GEL for the uphill minibus ride.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is paid on-site at a local restaurant, with reasonable prices and local flavors.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and variable weather.

Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, the tour is led by a live English-speaking guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially if your children enjoy history and outdoor exploration, but keep in mind the long day.

How many people will be on the tour?
Reviews suggest small group sizes, making it more personalized and engaging.

Final Words

This one-day Georgian adventure offers a well-balanced mix of history, landscapes, and local flavors. The knowledgeable guides, authentic experiences, and stunning sights make it a tour worth considering for anyone wanting to see the best of Georgia’s south without the hassle of organizing each stop. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a day of beautiful views and storytelling, this trip provides a meaningful glimpse into Georgia’s soul.

You can check availability for your dates here: