8-Day Private Tour around Georgia

Exploring Georgia through an 8-day private tour offers an eye-opening journey into a land where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly. From the bustling streets of Tbilisi to the high peaks of Kazbegi and the lush vineyards of Kakheti, this trip promises a comprehensive experience that touches on almost every aspect of Georgian life. As a travel writer who appreciates well-organized adventures, I find this itinerary appealing because it balances stunning scenery, deep historical sites, and genuine local flavor—all within a manageable timeframe.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are the knowledgeable guides, like Dimitri and Kate, whose enthusiasm makes even the most remote sites come alive, and the diverse landscapes that change dramatically from city streets to mountain vistas and canyon vistas. Plus, the inclusion of wine tastings—a crucial part of Georgia’s identity—adds a flavorful and authentic touch. A potential consideration? The journey involves a fair amount of driving each day, which might be tiring if you prefer a more leisurely pace or less time on the road. However, for those eager to see as much as possible, the itinerary’s pace is quite efficient.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic cultural insights: The guides excel at sharing stories and history, making all the sights resonate on a deeper level.
• Diverse scenery: From urban old towns to the rugged Caucasus mountains, every day offers a new visual experience.
• In-depth site visits: UNESCO sites like Svetitskhoveli and Gelati are thoughtfully included, giving you a genuine taste of Georgia’s heritage.
• Gastronomic experiences: Wine tastings, local dinners, and hands-on activities lend a delicious authenticity many tours lack.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned transport, carefully selected hotels, and all entrance fees included simplify logistics.
• Personalized attention: As a private tour, it’s tailored to your group, with the flexibility to explore specific interests.

A Detailed Look at the 8-Day Itinerary

Starting in Tbilisi: A City Full of Contrasts

Your Georgian adventure begins in Tbilisi, where a city tour of the old town introduces you to the city’s unique blend of medieval and 19th-century architecture. I love wandering the narrow streets with their charming wooden balconies and soaking in the atmosphere around the sulphur baths. The guided walk offers insights into the city’s layered history, which is essential for understanding Georgia’s identity. The reviews highlight the value of a knowledgeable guide like Kate, who makes every monument meaningful rather than just another sightseeing stop.

Exploring Kakheti: The Heart of Georgian Wine

On Day 2, the route heads east to Kakheti, Georgia’s famous wine-producing region. Visiting the Qvevri Wine Museum and the Khareba Winery, where wine is stored in tunnels cut into the Caucasus mountains, feels like a toast to Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions. The Gremi complex and Ikalto monastery add layers of history and architecture, providing a well-rounded taste of the region’s cultural heritage. Travelers who enjoy local food and drink will find the wine tastings memorable, especially since they’re included in the package, and the tour emphasizes authentic experiences.

Sighnaghi and David Gareja: The City of Love and Monasteries

Day 3 takes you to Sighnaghi, often called the “city of love,” with its intact city walls and picturesque streets. Walking along the massive 4 km wall offers spectacular views and a sense of stepping back in time. Then, the trip continues to the David Gareja monastery complex, a series of cave monasteries carved into the cliffs since the 6th century. The combination of romance and spirituality makes this day a highlight, and the reviews mention the charm of Sighnaghi’s old houses and the awe of the medieval caves.

Mountain Majesty: Kazbegi and Gergeti Trinity Church

On Day 4, the journey takes a dramatic turn into the mountains with a visit to Stepantsminda and the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. The views of Mount Kazbek are breathtaking, and the walk up to the church is rewarding. This part of the trip is perfect for those who love mountain scenery, and it’s no surprise that many reviews praise the stunning vistas and the friendly local guides. The drive along the Georgian Military Road is itself a scenic highlight, with plenty of photo stops.

The Cave Town of Uplistsikhe and Western Georgia

Day 5 shifts gears with visits to Gori, the birthplace of Stalin, and the fascinating Uplistsikhe cave town—a fortress carved into rock dating back over 2,000 years. Exploring these ancient tunnels offers a tangible connection to Georgia’s early history. The day ends in Kutaisi, one of Georgia’s oldest cities, filled with UNESCO-listed sites. The convenience of having all entrance fees included and the expert guidance makes this a seamless experience, according to reviews that praise the organization and knowledge of guides like Dimitri.

Kutaisi: UNESCO Treasures and Natural Wonders

Day 6 is dedicated to Kutaisi’s UNESCO sites, including Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery. The Okatse Canyon walk and the boat tour in Martvili Canyon are highlights, offering stupendous natural views and a chance to see Georgia’s lush landscape from a new perspective. Travelers mention the skywalk at Okatse and the boat ride in Martvili as memorable, adding an element of adventure.

Southern Georgia: Borjomi and Rabati Castle

Day 7 sees a visit to Borjomi, famous for its mineral waters, and the Rabati castle complex in Akhaltsikhe. The castle’s architecture and history make it worth the visit, and the mineral waters are a relaxing touch. This leg of the trip balances history, nature, and relaxation—something many travelers will appreciate.

Vardzia and Javakheti: Cave Monasteries and Scenic Lakes

On the final day, the tour visits the Vardzia cave monastery complex, an extraordinary site carved into the cliffs of the 12th century, with over 600 caves. The journey back to Tbilisi includes a stop at Lake Paravani and the Foka convent, offering a peaceful end to an intense week. The reviews point out the value of the expert guides and the customized experience provided by TrekGeorgia, making this a fitting conclusion to your Georgian adventure.

Who This Tour Suits Best

If you’re someone who loves seeing a country in depth—its landscapes, its history, its flavors—this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate comfortable transportation, expert guides, and well-curated sites. The mix of cultural sites, natural beauty, and wine tastings makes it perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike.

Because it’s a private tour, you’ll enjoy flexibility and personal attention—great if you want to customize or spend more time at places that catch your eye. The pace is lively but not rushed, making it suitable for most active travelers with a good range of fitness levels. Keep in mind, a fair amount of driving means you’ll want to be comfortable with long days in the vehicle—but the stunning views make that more bearable.

Price and Value

At $1,950 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes hotel stays, entrance fees, selected meals, wine tastings, and transportation. Considering the depth of sites visited and the expertise of guides, the value is quite good, especially for travelers who want an all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

The inclusion of three-star hotels and guesthouses strikes a balance between comfort and authenticity. The fact that all sightseeing entrance fees are included prevents unexpected expenses, making budgeting easier. For travelers eager to see Georgia’s highlights with minimal fuss, this tour’s price point makes sense.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day private tour around Georgia is a well-crafted adventure that balances cultural exploration, natural beauty, and local flavors. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided, immersive experience with knowledgeable guides and authentic sites. The mix of UNESCO sites, mountain landscapes, and wine tastings provides a well-rounded picture of Georgia’s diverse character.

The tour’s pace and structure benefit those who prefer a planned itinerary but still value personal attention. While some may find the driving days long, the scenery and historical richness make it worthwhile. The included meals, wine tastings, and entrance fees add to the overall value, making this a hassle-free way to explore a fascinating country.

If you’re after a journey that’s both educational and enjoyable, with plenty of chances to photograph stunning views and sample local wines, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile investment. It’s ideal for curious, active travelers eager to go beyond the surface and experience Georgia’s true spirit.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,950 covers all hotel stays (including 3-star hotels and guesthouses), transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, professional guides, all entrance fees, wine tastings, and some meals (breakfasts and dinners).

Are guides multi-lingual?
Yes, the tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, ensuring clear communication and local insights.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring comfortable, smart casual clothing suitable for varied weather, especially if visiting mountain regions. Don’t forget sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and possibly a light rain jacket.

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces, especially at sites like caves and mountain trails.

How much time is spent on the road each day?
Expect around 10 hours each day, including travel and sightseeing, which makes for full but manageable days.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there’s some flexibility, but it’s best to discuss specific interests with TrekGeorgia beforehand.

In total, this tour hits many of Georgia’s highlights in a way that’s accessible, engaging, and well-organized. It’s a fine choice for those wanting a deep dive into Georgia’s landscapes, history, and culture—all without the stress of planning every detail.