Hiking in Borjomi from Tbilisi

Hiking in Borjomi from Tbilisi: An Authentic Day Out in Georgia

A 14-hour adventure from Tbilisi to Borjomi offers more than just a walk in the woods — it’s a chance to experience Georgia’s natural beauty, warm hospitality, and delicious local treats all in one day. Led by knowledgeable guides like Irakli, the tour takes you through geographically stunning landscapes in the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, and combines these with authentic stops that highlight Georgia’s culinary traditions. The cost is reasonable considering the full itinerary, transportation, and guided experience, making it a good pick for outdoor lovers and curious travelers alike.

Two particular aspects stand out: first, the opportunity to taste and observe the making of Nazuki, a traditional Georgian sweet bread that’s both delicious and fascinating to watch being crafted. Second, the carefully curated hiking trails within the national park are a highlight, offering scenic views that are accessible for most fitness levels with proper footwear. The main consideration? The full day means you’ll need to be prepared for a long trip — comfortable shoes and snacks are a must.

This tour suits travelers with a spirit for adventure, good walking shoes, and an appreciation for authentic local experiences. If you enjoy combining active days with cultural insights and tasty surprises, this trip to Borjomi might just be your perfect Georgian excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic local food: Tasting Nazuki bread and watching it being made highlights Georgia’s culinary craftsmanship.
• Beautiful hiking: Trails in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park offer scenic views and a good workout.
• Full-day experience: The 14-hour itinerary includes transport, stops, and guided walks, providing excellent value.
• Cultural insights: From bread-making to national park scenery, the tour covers both tradition and nature.
• Comfortable logistics: Pick-up and drop-off from Tbilisi make the day straightforward without worrying about logistics.
• Active but accessible: Suitable for those who enjoy moderate hiking and outdoor activities.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Early Journey

The day begins at 09:00 am in Tbilisi, with pickup from the Budget Georgia office. From there, a comfortable van takes you on the approximately 110-minute drive to Surami. This part of the journey gives you a chance to settle in and get a sense of Georgian countryside, with the guide sharing interesting insights along the way. As one traveler noted, “The van ride was smooth, and it was nice to relax before the hike.”

The Cheese and Nazuki Stop in Surami

The first real highlight happens in Surami, where you stop for 20 minutes to taste Nazuki, a traditional Georgian sweet bread. What makes this moment special is not just the taste — soft, slightly sweet, and fragrant — but the chance to observe the bread’s baking process. The guide explained how Nazuki is made, adding a layer of cultural understanding that elevates the experience. Several reviews mention how surprisingly tasty and “homely” the bread is, making it a memorable start.

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Heading Toward the National Park

Next, you board the van again for a 50-minute drive to the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Visitor Center. Here, your guide will help you obtain a permit to hike, an important step that ensures your safety and access to protected trails. The journey to the park itself showcases Georgia’s varied landscape — from rolling hills to dense forests — building anticipation for the hike ahead.

The Hike in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Once at the trailhead, the group usually embarks on the Footprints trail, known for its scenic beauty and manageable length of about 13 km. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views, lush greenery, and perhaps spot local wildlife. If the preferred trail isn’t available, your guide will suggest alternative routes of similar length and difficulty.

For many, this hiking part is the real heart of the tour. “We loved the way the trail was balanced — not too strenuous but enough to feel like a proper walk in nature,” one reviewer shared. The guide’s insights make the hike educational, pointing out flora, fauna, and the geological features that make Borjomi’s landscape so unique.

Lunch and Personal Refreshment

A key point to note is that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring a lunch box or snacks. This gives you flexibility to choose what you prefer — whether a packed sandwich, fruit, or local snacks. The guide recommends packing lightweight, energizing foods to keep you going during the hike.

Return Journey and Reflection

After the hike, the team boards the van for the approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes ride back to Tbilisi. As the day winds down, many travelers appreciate the seamless organization, with the return trip allowing time to relax and chat about the day’s highlights.

Overall Value and Experience

The full-day tour, at a reasonable price, offers transportation, guiding, and authentic experiences, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a well-rounded day outside the city. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the live English-speaking guide helps clarify details and share stories along the way.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for active travelers with a basic level of fitness who enjoy walking and nature. It’s also perfect if you want to experience traditional Georgian food and crafts, like Nazuki bread, firsthand. Because of the long day and physical activity, it’s less suited for very young children, pregnant women, or those with high blood pressure, but families with older children or teenagers might find it just right.

The Sum Up

Hiking in Borjomi from Tbilisi offers an authentic taste of Georgia’s natural and cultural riches. From tasting homemade bread to trekking scenic trails, this tour balances activity with discovery. It’s a day that immerses you in local traditions, offers stunning views, and leaves you with a deeper appreciation for Georgian hospitality. If your idea of a perfect trip involves a walk in nature combined with delicious food and meaningful cultural moments, this tour will serve you well.

The value for the price is clear — guided, organized, and thoughtfully planned — making it suitable for those looking for a fulfilling day outside the city without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Tbilisi to Borjomi?
It’s about 110 minutes by van, providing a comfortable start to your day with scenic views along the way.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring hiking shoes and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, plus a lunch box or snacks since lunch isn’t included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 10, but older children and teenagers who enjoy outdoor walks could enjoy it.

Can I participate if I have health concerns?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with high blood pressure, babies under 1 year, or those over 95 years old.

What are the main highlights of the day?
Tasting Nazuki bread and watching it being made, hiking in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, and experiencing local scenery and hospitality.

Are the trails difficult?
No, the trails are moderate, suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness, but proper footwear is essential.

Is food included?
No, you need to bring your own lunch, but the guide can suggest local snacks if you wish.

How long is the hike?
The typical trail is around 13 km, which typically takes several hours of walking, depending on pace.

What if the preferred trail isn’t available?
Your guide will suggest other trails of similar length and difficulty, ensuring you still get a great experience.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, the overall experience is best in spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the scenery colorful.

This detailed review hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect and helps you decide if this immersive day trip from Tbilisi to Borjomi fits your travel style.

You can check availability for your dates here: