Author's tour of Georgia: "Kartli-Kakheti from East to West"

Kartli and Kakheti. These are two regions in Georgia that form the foundation of Iberia. They were once separate kingdoms but later became integral parts of Unified Georgia. Eventually, in the early 18th century, the Kartli-Kakheti state was annexed by the Russian Empire. These regions boast a rich history, diverse and stunning natural landscapes, ancient fortresses and monasteries, as well as a renowned wine culture and delicious cuisine. Our exploratory tour will delve into all these aspects.

Get ready for an incredible adventure in extraordinary places, immersed in the aroma of Georgian wines and the captivating polyphony of the Georgian people. Of course, you'll have the opportunity to visit all three capitals of this region: Tbilisi, Mtskheta, and Telavi. Don't miss out—book your spot now and embark on an unforgettable journey through Kartli-Kakheti!

Tour program:

✅ Day 1 - "Welcome"

You've arrived! Gamarjoba, dear guests! The hotel is ready for you. Let's settle in and take a leisurely stroll through the evening capital of Georgia - Tbilisi. As we wander the illuminated streets of the "Old Town," we gather for a "Welcome Dinner." We'll be together for the next two weeks, and let this meeting evolve into a warm friendship!

📌 Sulfur Baths District, Leghvtakhevi Waterfall, Metekhi Fortress, Rike Park, Dinner at "Shadow of Metekhi" restaurant, Hotel

✅ Day 2 - "The Pearls of Kizikia"

Early wake-up call. Today, we embark on perhaps the longest journey of our tour as we head to ancient Kizikia. We'll encounter the 2nd millennium BCE and the captivating fortress of Hornabuji, worth our efforts. From its upper part, breathtaking views of the Alazani Valley and the Eastern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains unfold. The particularly adventurous and physically fit can climb to the hidden and less-visited Western part of the fortress amid the thickets.
Afterward, we'll have a picnic at the fortress, followed by a visit to a monastery and a beautiful cliffside church. And yes, these are the places associated with the Prophet Elijah! We'll provide more detailed information about them!
We'll witness the sunset on the shores of the salty Lake Kochebi, which is incredibly beautiful and romantic. Slowly, we'll make our way back to Tbilisi. However, halfway through, we'll have a stop - dinner at a Kakhetian restaurant "in the heart of Kakheti!"

📌 Hornabuji Fortress, Elijah Monastery, remnants of the Paratetis Sea - Lake Kochebi.

✅ Day 3 - "Two Capitals"

Everyone knows that the capital of Georgia is Tbilisi! It's an ancient and beautiful city that has preserved its uniqueness and distinctiveness despite invasions, destruction, arson, and attempts at Sovietization. But not everyone knows that just a 15-minute drive from Tbilisi lies the first capital of the Georgian state, which was the capital as early as the 3rd century BCE! Well, everyone knows about Mtskheta near Tbilisi and that it's a must-visit, but not everyone knows that Mtskheta is older than Tbilisi, and Roman legions once stood by its walls...
We'll embark on a walking tour of Tbilisi, the Old Town, Mother Georgia, and many other interesting and delightful places. In the second half of the day, we'll head to Mtskheta to visit the Jvari Monastery, a masterpiece of Georgian architecture, the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, and the ancient Samtavro Monastery, which dates back to the adoption of Christianity by Georgia. And let's not forget about lunch at a restaurant by the Kura River and dinner in a courtyard restaurant.

📌 Mother Georgia, Narikala Fortress, Main Mosque, Meidan Bazaar, Synagogue, Armenian Church, Tbilisi Zion, Silver Streets, Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater, Soldier's Bazaar, Orbeliani Palace, Dry Bridge, Saarbrucken Square, "Armazi's Heoba" Restaurant, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Samtavro Women's Monastery, Shio-Mgvime Monastery, Jvari Monastery (sunset visit), Dinner, Hotel

✅ Day 4 - "The Royal Equerry"

On the fourth day of our tour, we have an exciting story to explore—the legend of the royal equerry who rose to become a powerful prince, courtier, and founder of a noble family that endured until the dissolution of the Russian Empire. We'll start the day by proudly gazing upon the trans-Georgian highway from the magnificent Sxvilo Fortress, perched atop a hill. Next, we'll take a leisurely walk through an ancient castle and estate, marveling at the grandeur and intricate stone carvings of the Ascension Cathedral in Samtavisi. After a delicious lunch, we'll continue our journey to visit more fortresses, a monastery, and end the day with a delightful dinner at a local winemaker's establishment.

📌 Sxvilo Fortress, Samtavisi Monastery, Lunch at a restaurant, Goris Cathedral, City walk, Nizhvisi Fortress, Dinner at a winemaker's place, Hotel.

✅ Day 5 - "The City of the Monarchs"

Queen Tamar is undoubtedly one of the most illustrious rulers in Georgian history. Known for her wisdom and remarkable achievements, she earned the title of King Tamar, symbolizing her exceptional reign. However, we must not forget the monumental contributions of David the Builder. An intriguing fact is that Tamar was crowned queen twice. Our day begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring cave city-fortress of Uplistsikhe, where the first coronation ceremony took place. Words cannot capture the magnificence, fantastical allure, and monumental scale of this place—it's something you must witness firsthand. The morning will be dedicated to exploring this remarkable creation of nature and human craftsmanship. After a delightful lunch in the scenic Adenskoye Gorge, we'll continue our adventure by visiting the Monastery of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Ateni Sioni. Before the day ends, we'll have time to capture the beauty of the Metekhi Church of the Assumption and enjoy a dinner at a picturesque restaurant by the banks of the Kura River.

📌 Uplistsikhe cave city, Assumption Cathedrals in Ateni, Metekhi Church of the Assumption, Monastery of St. Mary, Restaurant by the Kura River.

✅ Day 6 - "The Legendary Fortress on the Silver Screen"

Surami has long served as a guardian of the Surami Pass and the Borjomi Gorge. The settlement's history dates back to ancient times, with mentions of a place called Surium by Pliny the Elder, situated on the border of Colchis and Iberia—possibly referring to Surami. In the Middle Ages (12th-13th centuries), this strategic location at the Surami Pass was transformed into a formidable fortress, but constructing it proved to be a monumental challenge. This is where our excursion takes us—a journey through the legend, Sergo Paradjanov's film, and the captivating fortress itself. En route to the fortress, we'll make a picturesque stop at the Breti Monastery, a hidden gem nestled in the breathtaking surroundings. After the tour, we'll enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shores of the enchanting Surami Lake, followed by a visit to the Borjomi Gorge for photography and a delightful lunch. To make the most of our day, we'll also explore the scenic shores of the hidden Lake Kodistskaro before concluding with a visit to the Samtskhevrisi Fortress. Finally, we'll bid farewell to this remarkable journey with a memorable farewell dinner.

📌 Breti Monastery, Surami Fortress, Surami and Kodistskaro Lakes, Borjomi Gorge, Samtskhevrisi Fortress, Farewell Dinner.

✅ Day 7 - "Come Again!"

As you depart from Georgia, you leave with a deeper familiarity with the country. Leaving a piece of your heart behind, you take immense respect for this small nation and its proud people who have fought for their country and faith throughout the centuries. Have a safe journey, and please come back again!

📌 Departure preparations, depending on flight schedules, there may be a city walk, souvenir shopping, or free time. Transfer to the airport.
📌 The program of the last day may differ for participants departing from Kutaisi or Tbilisi airports.

❗️Don't forget to bring:

• Passport
• Backpack
• Non-slip footwear (preferably hiking boots)
• Windbreaker jacket
• Warm sweater
• Raincoat
• Buff/hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal hygiene items
• Individual first aid kit

❗️Tour rules:

1. The tour will be guided by knowledgeable guides.
2. All participants are required to follow the guide's instructions to ensure a safe, organized, and equally comfortable tour for everyone.
3. Participants are not allowed to arrive at the meeting point under the influence of alcohol. Those in such a state may be excluded from the tour at the guide's discretion.
4. Consumption of alcoholic beverages in the transportation vehicle during the journey is prohibited.
5. The use of headphones while walking is prohibited.
6. Let's keep the environment clean and refrain from picking flowers.
7. Pets are not allowed on the tour.
8. To avoid potential conflicts, we refrain from discussing topics such as a) politics, b) religion, and c) football during the hike.
9. In case of unforeseen circumstances, the guide reserves the right to change the tour route.

❗️The tour program provided is a promotional outline. Due to weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances, certain elements of the program may be substituted with equivalent alternatives. 

❗️The average cost of the tour is indicated for two people. The final price will be determined based on your specific requirements regarding hotel standards, restaurants, and group size. A detailed tour itinerary and list of services will be sent to you via email after registration on the website or upon request. 

❗️If you have allergies to specific plants, animals, food products, or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance.