From Tbilisi: Sabaduri, Bears, Jvari & Chronicle of Georgia

From Tbilisi: Sabaduri, Bears, Jvari & Chronicle of Georgia offers a compelling combination of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and historic sites—all within about 4 to 5 hours. Led by friendly guides and including door-to-door transport, this tour invites you to see some of Georgia’s most memorable spots without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. For just a moderate price, you’ll visit the iconic Chronicle of Georgia, get up close with bears at Sabaduri Sanctuary, and experience the spiritual serenity of Jvari Monastery.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances wildlife, scenic views, and historic sites—making it suitable for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. The personal touch of knowledgeable guides like Khatuna, who keeps the experience engaging, truly enhances the journey. Plus, the focus on responsible tourism, like participating in animal feeding and donations, adds a meaningful dimension.

A potential consideration is the winter weather—while the tour give you a winter wonderland experience, snow cannot be guaranteed and terrain might be muddy or wet. So, good shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. This tour is best for travelers who enjoy a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural sights, and family-friendly activities, especially those happy to be on the move and eager to see Georgia’s natural and historical treasures.

Key Points

Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Tbilisi Sea and scenic mountain landscapes on the way to Jvari Monastery.
Wildlife Encounters: Get close to bears, wolves, and dogs in a sanctuary committed to responsible animal care.
Historical Significance: Visit the UNESCO-listed Jvari Monastery and learn about Georgia’s spiritual heritage.
Comfort and Convenience: Door-to-door transport, friendly guides, and small group options make it easy and relaxed.
Family Friendly: Suitable for children and adults alike, with engaging guides and opportunities for photo stops and wildlife interactions.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now with pay later options, perfect for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Depth

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with convenient pickup options at Europe Square, just a short walk from Tbilisi’s Old Town and metro stations. This central location makes it easy to join without extra fuss. The tour provides comfortable transport, which is especially appreciated in winter when the Georgia landscape can be chilly and unpredictable. Depending on your preferred start time, the outing lasts around four to five hours, making it a manageable day trip.

Early arrival is recommended since seats are first-come, first-served, and arriving early ensures you get the best spot. If you’re late, you’ll need to rebook, so planning ahead pays off.

The Chronicle of Georgia

Your adventure kicks off with a visit to the Chronicle of Georgia, often called the Georgian Stonehenge. This impressive sculpture complex offers more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a symbolic tribute to Georgian history and culture. You’ll see towering statues and enjoy sweeping views of the Tbilisi Sea, providing a dramatic backdrop for photos. Many reviews highlight the stunning vistas as a standout feature, with Rahul noting that the views of the reservoir are “breathtaking.”

The guided portion helps you understand the symbolism behind the sculptures, which help contextualize Georgia’s storied past. It’s a great way to get your bearings before heading into more natural and spiritual sites.

Wildlife at Sabaduri Sanctuary

Next, the journey takes you to Sabaduri, a forested area that feels like a fairy tale setting. Here, you’ll encounter bears, wolves, and dogs—animals rescued and cared for in this sanctuary. What sets this visit apart is the chance to see these majestic animals up close in a responsible, ethical manner.

You can opt to participate in feeding the bears, which is both fun and meaningful. Many visitors, such as the reviewer who appreciated the guide giving carrots for the bears, find this highlight unforgettable. The sanctuary’s mission emphasizes responsible tourism, and donations help keep the animals safe and well-cared-for.

The setting itself, especially in winter, can evoke a serene, snowy landscape, adding to the fairytale atmosphere. The 45-minute walk through the forest offers a peaceful break from sightseeing, allowing you to enjoy Georgia’s natural beauty firsthand.

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The Jvari Monastery

After exploring the wilderness, the tour continues to Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a hilltop overlooking the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. The drive here is scenic, with vistas that often include Mount Kazbegi, weather permitting.

This monastery is not just a historical monument but a true spiritual landmark. Its architecture and location are breathtaking, and many visitors comment on the spectacular views—the perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection. A guided tour provides insights into the monastery’s significance, making this stop both visually and culturally enriching.

Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes with convenient drop-off points at central locations, including Europe Square, ensuring you’re back in the heart of Tbilisi for your onward plans. The overall experience is designed to be seamless, with a focus on comfort and safety.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

When weighing the cost, it’s clear this tour packs a lot of value. Entrance fees to the sanctuary and the scenic spots are included, along with door-to-door transport and a friendly English-speaking guide. The small group setting fosters a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention and spontaneous questions.

The emphasis on responsible tourism—participating in animal feeding and supporting wildlife conservation—adds a layer of meaningfulness that many travelers find worth the moderate price. Plus, the flexibility of booking and cancellation options make it accessible for last-minute plans or uncertain schedules.

What We Love

The guides’ knowledge and friendliness shine through, making the visits informative and engaging. Khatuna, for example, received praise for her detailed briefing and warm personality. The scenic vistas, especially around Jvari and the Tbilisi Sea, make for stunning photographs and memorable moments.

Things to Consider

While the tour aims for a winter wonderland experience, snow isn’t guaranteed, and weather conditions might introduce muddy or wet terrain—so good shoes and appropriate clothing are essential. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchairs, given the terrain.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is an excellent choice for families with children, as it combines wildlife, scenic views, and a bit of history in a manageable timeframe. If you’re a nature lover or wildlife enthusiast, the sanctuary visit offers a genuinely special experience. History and architecture buffs will appreciate the Jvari Monastery’s spiritual ambiance and UNESCO status.

Travelers seeking a well-organized, engaging day trip that captures Georgia’s essence will find this tour rewarding. The combination of scenery, wildlife, and cultural sites makes it a standout choice for those wanting an authentic, family-friendly introduction to Georgian highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Where do I meet the guide?
You’ll meet the guide at Europe Square, in front of Café Tram, a central and accessible spot near Tbilisi’s Old Town.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. It’s recommended to bring snacks, especially if traveling with children, as there’s no planned lunch stop.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially with opportunities like animal feeding and scenic stops. However, be aware that terrain may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and snacks are advised. Prepare for potentially cold and windy conditions in winter.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexible planning options.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced mix of Georgia’s natural beauty, wildlife, and historical sites in a compact package. It’s ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see some of Georgia’s most photogenic and spiritually significant locations without the stress of organizing multiple trips. The knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and meaningful wildlife interactions make it a worthwhile addition to your Georgian adventure. Just pack your warm clothes, bring your camera, and prepare for a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: