Private Tour to Bakuriani Ski Resort and the Legendary Borjomi

Exploring Georgia’s mountain escapes is a treat, and this private tour to Bakuriani and Borjomi offers a well-rounded taste of winter fun, scenic beauty, and local charm. With a duration of roughly 12 hours, it packs in a lot—starting with the charming cuckoo train ride from Tbilisi, heading through lush pine forests, and ending with relaxing walks in Borjomi’s famous mineral waters. It’s a trip that combines adventure with cultural sights, making it ideal for travelers seeking a mix of active outdoor time and leisurely exploration.

What I particularly like about this experience is the seamless combination of transportation and sightseeing. The cuckoo train, in particular, stands out as a nostalgic, scenic highlight—riding this historic narrow-gauge railway is a memorable way to enter the mountain landscape. Also, the flexible free time at Bakuriani means you can choose to hit the slopes or simply stroll around soaking in the crisp mountain air and warm sun.

A possible consideration is that this is a private tour, so the price of $105 per person might seem steep if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget. Also, note that the tour doesn’t include some entrance fees like Borjomi Park or Kukushka train tickets, which adds a small extra cost. Despite that, the personalized service and the chance to avoid the hassle of planning logistics make it a worthwhile option for most travelers.

Key points / Takeaways

• Scenic Ride: The cuckoo train from Borjomi to Bakuriani offers a picturesque journey through Georgia’s mountain landscape.
• Flexible Activities: You can try winter sports or simply enjoy a walk—Bakuriani’s sunny valley is welcoming 210 days a year.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides and drivers, like Karim, get high praise for their hospitality and insider tips.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The tour balances lively mountain resort vibes with peaceful nature walks, perfect for a genuine experience.
• Convenient Logistics: The tour includes pickup and air-conditioned transfers, saving you the trouble of navigating public transport.
• Affordable Add-ons: Extra costs like the Kukushka train ($2) and Borjomi park entry ($2) are modest but worth budgeting for.

Exploring Georgia’s Mountain Gems: Bakuriani and Borjomi

If you’re visiting Tbilisi and craving a day away from city buzz, this private tour to Bakuriani Ski Resort and Borjomi offers a delightful mix of scenery, adventure, and cultural highlights. It’s a journey that combines Georgia’s natural beauty with its charming towns, all wrapped into a well-organized package.

The Highlights That Make This Tour Stand Out

One of the big draws is the cuckoo train ride from Borjomi to Bakuriani. This narrow-gauge railway, affectionately called “Kukushka,” is a beloved Georgian railway that has been operational for decades. Riding through thick pine forests with mountain peaks around you, it’s a slow but rewarding way to soak in the landscape. As one reviewer noted, “The tour guide was very friendly and gave us plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful views,” making it clear that this experience isn’t rushed.

Bakuriani itself is a high-altitude resort with around 210 days of sunshine annually—perfect for winter sports or just relaxing outdoors. You’ll find skiers and snowboarders alike enjoying the slopes, but even if you aren’t into snow sports, the crisp air and scenic walks are plenty satisfying. The surrounding pines and mountains create a sense of peace and freshness that’s hard to match.

Finally, the visit to Borjomi’s Central Park provides a peaceful end to the day, where you can sample the world-famous mineral waters or meander through the lush parklands. The combination of mountain adventure and leisurely town exploration captures the essence of Georgia’s natural and cultural charms.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day starts early with pickup at 7:30 am, a smart move to maximize your time. The first stop is Borjomi Central Park, where you’ll catch the cuckoo train. Although the train ticket isn’t included in the price, costing about $2, many travelers find it well worth the extra to experience this nostalgic ride. The train itself is a highlight, cozy and slow-paced, giving plenty of opportunities for photos and conversation with fellow travelers.

Next, you’ll travel from Borjomi to Bakuriani on the same narrow-gauge railway. This part of the trip lasts around three hours, and during this ride, many note how the views of forests and mountain ranges are simply mesmerizing. The guide, often praised for friendliness, makes the journey informative and relaxing.

Once in Bakuriani, you have about four hours of free time. Here, your options are flexible—try some skiing or snowboarding, rent equipment, or just take a walk to enjoy the snow-covered trees and alpine air. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, wandering the resort or sitting in a café with hot tea might be just what you need. The environment is family-friendly and atmospheric, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

The last stop is Borjomi Central Park again, where you can leisurely stroll and enjoy the tranquility of this historic spa town. Although entrance tickets are not included, the park’s famous mineral waters are easily accessible, and many visitors appreciate sampling the local waters—known for their supposed health benefits.

Transportation and Price

The tour includes comfortable, air-conditioned transfers, making the long day manageable and comfortable. For $105 per person, the experience provides good value considering the transportation, scenic train rides, and guided assistance. Keep in mind, the ticket prices for attractions like Borjomi Park or Kukushka are modest, around $2 each, so budget accordingly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience works best for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, scenic train rides, and cultural towns. If you’re looking for a smooth, hassle-free day with a knowledgeable guide to help you navigate transport and highlight points of interest, this tour is a good bet. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a mix of adventure and relaxation, and who don’t mind spending about half the day outdoors.

Authentic Touches and Real Feedback

The reviews highlight the importance of a good guide—one, Karim, was praised for his friendliness and helpfulness. One traveler remarked, “I will definitely recommend the Ushba agency to my friends,” emphasizing the value of attentive service. Others appreciated the stunning views and the opportunity to enjoy Borjomi’s natural setting without the hassle of planning every detail.

However, a reviewer pointed out that despite the itinerary mentioning a guide, they did not receive one during their time in Bakuriani. This underscores the importance of clarifying what’s included and managing expectations.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Tbilisi to Bakuriani and Borjomi offers a balanced blend of scenic train rides, outdoor activities, and cultural sights—all within a manageable 12-hour day. The inclusion of a historic railway ride, the opportunity to try winter sports or simply enjoy fresh mountain air, and the peaceful stroll through Borjomi’s parks make it an appealing choice for many travelers.

If you appreciate personalized service, stunning mountain views, and a chance to experience Georgia’s famous mineral waters, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for those who value hassle-free logistics and flexible schedules. While the cost might be a consideration, the overall experience provides a genuine taste of Georgia’s natural beauty and warm hospitality.

For those who want a day filled with memorable sights and authentic local atmosphere, this tour is well worth considering. Just be prepared for modest extra costs if you want to fully enjoy the train or parks, and check whether a guide will be available as promised.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes comfortable, air-conditioned transfer vehicles to and from Tbilisi, making the long day more comfortable.

How long is the total tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 7:30 am and ending in the early evening.

Are there any extra costs I should budget for?
Yes, tickets for attractions like the Kukushka train and Borjomi Park are not included and cost about $2 each.

Can I try winter sports during this tour?
Yes, Bakuriani is known for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities, which you can try if you’re interested.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan to buy food at the resort.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially since Bakuriani is a family-friendly resort with options for outdoor activities and peaceful walks.

What do reviewers say about the guides?
Many travelers praise guides like Karim for their friendliness and helpfulness, which enhances the experience.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing a full refund.

This journey to Bakuriani and Borjomi is a great day out for those looking to enjoy Georgia’s mountains without the stress of planning every detail. With scenic rides, beautiful nature, and a dash of adventure, it offers a genuine taste of what makes this region special.