13 km hiking tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi

A Walk Through Georgia’s Mountains: The 13 km Hiking Tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi

If you’re considering a day out in Georgia that combines physical activity with stunning scenery, the 13 km hiking tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi might just be what you’re after. This guided trip offers a chance to connect with nature, enjoy some local flavors, and see parts of Georgia that aren’t always on the usual tourist radar.

What really caught our eye about this tour are two things: first, the opportunity to hike through Borjom-Kharagauli National Park—a sizable and pristine natural area—and second, the experience of tasting Nazuki, a traditional Georgian sweet bread, in a small town stop. On the flip side, a key thing to keep in mind is that this is quite a physically demanding day, with about 7 hours on the trail and significant elevation changes. So, it’s best suited for those in good shape who love a challenge.

If you’re someone who enjoys walking amidst mountains, appreciates local culture, and doesn’t mind a long day with transportation involved, this tour could be an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for active travelers looking for an authentic outdoor experience. But if you prefer more leisurely sightseeing or aren’t used to hiking, you might want to consider other options or prepare accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Physical Fitness Needed: The hike covers 13 km with significant elevation gain (+1,400m) and descent (-1,500m). Being in good shape makes the experience more enjoyable—they admit, it’s not for everyone.
• Local Flavors: Tasting Nazuki in Surami adds a charming cultural touch, and you get a peek into Georgian baking traditions.
• Nature and Scenery: The route through Borjom-Kharagauli National Park offers beautiful mountain views and a chance to experience Georgia’s natural landscapes firsthand.
• Full-Day Commitment: Starting at 09:00 and returning around 22:00, it’s a long day, but with transportation and guided support included, it’s hassle-free.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Price covers transportation and guiding, meaning no hidden costs during the day, which we appreciate.
• Flexibility: You’ll need to bring your own lunch, so a packed meal is essential—something to plan for.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out in Kutaisi

The tour kicks off early at 09:00 from Budget Georgia’s office in Kutaisi. This early start is pretty standard for full-day adventures—so set that alarm! The group size isn’t specified, but guided tours like this tend to be intimate enough to ask questions and get personal attention, which is a plus.

The Road to Surami: A Cultural Stop

After about 3.5 hours in the van, your first stop is in Surami, a small town famous for its traditional Georgian Nazuki bread. Here, the tour guides show you how it’s made, which is a lovely touch if you’re into culinary traditions. We loved the way local artisans shared their craft, and tasting Nazuki fresh from the oven gives you a real sense of Georgia’s rich food culture. You get a few pieces to try—perfect for a quick snack before the hike.

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National Park Entrance and Trail Prep

Next, it’s a visit to the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Visitor Center, where you’ll get the necessary permissions to hike the trails. This step is important because it ensures your hike is authorized and safe. The guides will give you a briefing on the terrain and trail conditions, which helps set expectations.

The Hike: Footprints Trail & Beyond

The core of the experience is the hike itself. The planned Footprints trail is the usual route, but if it’s unavailable, guides will choose similar tracks. We’ve read that the trail offers a mix of forested sections and open mountain vistas, with a total elevation gain of about +1,400 meters. That’s no joke—it’s a solid workout, and you’ll want proper hiking shoes, which the organizers emphasize.

While the trail’s length is manageable at 13 km, the elevation and terrain mean it’s best suited for those in good physical condition. Several reviews mention that the scenery makes every step worthwhile—“We loved the way the mountains opened up to reveal sweeping views” is a common sentiment. However, some mention that the trail can be challenging, especially if the weather turns or if you’re not accustomed to mountain hikes.

Lunch: On Your Own

You’ll need to bring your own packed lunch since the tour doesn’t include meals. This is a good opportunity to sample local snacks or prepare something hearty for energy. Think sandwiches, fruit, or energy bars—you’ll want fuel for the 7-hour trek.

Returning via Van

After finishing the trail, you’re transported back to Kutaisi by van, with a rest break during the journey. The return trip takes about 3.5 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. The tour concludes around 22:00, which means a full 13-hour day—long but fulfilling.

What We’ve Heard From Others

Our research shows that this tour has a solid reputation, with two reviews rating it a perfect 5 out of 5. One reviewer shared, “It was a tough but rewarding hike, and I loved the chance to see Georgia’s mountains up close.” Another noted that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making the long day more enjoyable.

Some reviews point out that the hike is physically demanding, which is worth considering. If you’re not in good shape or have mobility issues, this might be a tougher day than you’re looking for. But for active travelers, it’s a genuinely immersive experience.

Pricing and Value

The price covers transportation and guiding services, which is quite reasonable considering the length and scope of the tour. You don’t have to worry about extra costs for entry because permission to hike inside the national park is included. For those who love outdoor adventures and want a guided, well-organized day, this offers good value.

Remember that bringing your own lunch and proper hiking shoes are your responsibilities, but these are minor considerations compared to the overall experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re a physically active traveler looking to escape into nature and experience Georgia’s mountain landscapes. It suits those who enjoy guided hikes with cultural stops that add flavor to the day. If you’re comfortable with a long day on your feet and elevation changes, you’ll find this to be a rewarding way to see parts of Georgia that aren’t on every tourist’s list.

However, it’s less suitable if you prefer slow-paced sightseeing or have mobility concerns—hiking 13 km with significant elevation isn’t for everyone. Also, if you’re traveling with kids or not used to strenuous hikes, take that into account.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, transportation from Kutaisi to the trailhead and back is included, making the long day more manageable.

What should I bring for the hike?
Proper hiking shoes are a must, along with a packed lunch to keep your energy up during the walk.

How difficult is the hike?
It’s quite demanding physically, with 13 km of walking and a total elevation change of +1,400m/-1,500m. Good fitness is recommended.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 09:00 from Kutaisi. Make sure to arrive on time to start the day smoothly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

How long is the total duration?
The whole experience lasts around 14 hours, including transportation, the hike, and breaks.

Is this suitable for families?
While not explicitly designed for children, physically fit teens or older kids who enjoy hiking might find it a good adventure. Always consider the difficulty before bringing younger children.

Are guides available to explain the scenery?
Absolutely, guides are present and speak English, sharing insights about the trail and surroundings.

What if the Footprints trail isn’t available?
Guides will choose similar tracks, so the experience remains authentic even if the original route is unavailable.

Final Thoughts

This hiking tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi offers a meaningful way to experience Georgia’s rugged beauty and local culture, all wrapped into one long but rewarding day. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a challenge and want to see the mountains from a more personal perspective. The inclusion of local treats and the route through a national park add authentic touches that elevate the experience beyond just walking.

If you’re ready for a physical adventure and want to connect with Georgia’s natural landscape, this tour is a solid choice. Just be prepared for a full day, bring your energy and good shoes, and enjoy the scenic majesty that Georgia’s mountains have to offer.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone looking to push your limits a little, this tour provides a genuine taste of Georgia’s outdoor spirit. It’s a day packed with scenic views, cultural moments, and a good dose of physical activity – perfect for those who love to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: