Into the wild

If you’re looking to experience Georgia beyond the popular tourist spots, this Into the Wild tour from Kutaisi offers a fantastic opportunity. With a carefully curated mix of hiking, cultural visits, and stunning natural scenery, it’s a great day out for those who want to see the country’s more underrated sides. From mountain peaks to tranquil lakes, this trip packs a lot into nine hours.

What really draws us in are the spectacular views from Tskhrajvari mountain and the chance to enjoy a peaceful picnic by Shaori Lake. Plus, the visit to Nikortsminda Church, dating back to the 11th century, adds an extra layer of history and spirituality. On the downside, the day does involve some steep slopes, especially at Sairme pillars, so it’s not ideal if you’re afraid of heights. But if you’re active and love exploring fresh terrain, this trip is a solid choice.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and cultural sights without the rush of big tourist buses. It’s a flexible, well-organized tour that offers a good balance of adventure and relaxation—perfect for those with a few days in Georgia or anyone eager to see the country’s less traveled paths.

Key Points

• Stunning mountain views and hiking to Tskhrajvari, with a summit at 1590 meters offering panoramic vistas of Western Georgia.
• Charming lakeside picnic at Shaori Lake, where you can fish, swim, or just relax in nature.
• Cultural highlight with a visit to Nikortsminda Church, a historic site from the 11th century.
• Short but steep hike at Sairme pillars, ideal for those comfortable with challenging slopes.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable local guides who share stories and insights.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a low-risk option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

The journey begins early in the morning, with pickup from Kutaisi’s city center. Once you’re all aboard, the day kicks off with the highlight—the hike to Tskhrajvari mountain. As we understand from reviews, this is more than just a walk; it’s a proper ascent to a 1590-meter peak. From the top, the views stretch across Western Georgia, revealing a tapestry of mountains, forests, and valleys. The church of St. George sits at the summit, adding a sense of history and spirituality to the panoramic backdrop. The climb is an excellent workout and adds a sense of accomplishment that many hikers find rewarding.

After descending, the group heads towards Racha, crossing the Nakerala Pass, which acts as a border between Imereti and Racha regions. From here, the scenery really opens up, with sweeping vistas of rugged terrain and lush forests. The drive itself offers plenty of chances to snap photos and soak in the changing scenery.

The next stop is Shaori Lake, a tranquil spot perfect for a lakeside picnic. It’s advised to bring your own food, a small detail that many travelers appreciate for flexibility. Here, the lake’s calm waters invite fishing and swimming, making it a relaxing break after the morning’s physical activity. The peaceful ambiance and stunning surroundings make it a highlight, especially if you love being outdoors.

Following lunch, the tour takes you to Nikortsminda Church. Built in the 11th century, this church is a piece of living history, with beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. It’s a moment to pause and reflect on Georgia’s deep-rooted Christian traditions and architectural heritage.

The final adventure is a hike to the Sairme pillars. While short, this trek is notably steep, so it’s not for the faint-hearted or those uncomfortable with heights. The dramatic rock formations and sweeping views are worth the effort. As one reviewer noted, “Once our feet asked for help, we knew it was time to head back,” but the sense of achievement and the photo opportunities are pretty fantastic.

After a full day of exploring, you’ll return to Kutaisi around 6 PM, tired but full of new impressions. The tour is a well-balanced mix of physical activity, cultural insight, and breathtaking scenery.

Transportation & Group Dynamics

All transportation is included, and the vehicle is described as clean and comfortable, which makes the long drive more pleasant. The group size is manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides. The guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and careful driving through mountain roads. The tour is conducted in English, ensuring clear communication and storytelling about each site.

Is It Worth the Price?

The tour price covers transportation and guiding services, which is quite reasonable considering the comprehensive itinerary. Since participants need to bring their own lunch, the overall value depends on how much you enjoy outdoor activities and scenic hikes. The reviews suggest that many find the experience well worth the cost, especially since everything is organized smoothly and with attention to detail.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who thrives on outdoor adventure, stunning vistas, and cultural sites, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with hikes and steep slopes, especially at Sairme pillars. It’s also a good pick if you’re looking for an authentic taste of Georgia’s natural beauty, away from crowds and commercialized spots.

However, if heights or strenuous hikes are a concern, you might want to consider this carefully. The steepness of some parts could be challenging, and the tour involves a fair bit of walking.

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FAQs About the Tour

Is this tour suitable for families? The tour is mainly focused on hiking and steep slopes, so it might not be ideal for very young children or those sensitive to heights. It’s better suited for active adults or older children comfortable with physically demanding activities.

What should I bring for the picnic? You’ll need to pack your own food, and it’s recommended to bring something portable, easy to eat outdoors, and suitable for a lakeside setting, such as sandwiches, snacks, and drinks.

How long is the hike up Tskhrajvari mountain? The tour involves a hike up to the summit, but the exact length isn’t specified. Expect a decent climb, as the peak is at 1590 meters, and prepare for some steep sections.

Can I swim or fish in Shaori Lake? Yes, both swimming and fishing are available at the lake, making it a great spot to unwind after the hike.

Is transportation comfortable? According to reviews, yes. The vehicle is clean and well-maintained, and the drive through mountain roads is managed carefully.

What is the total duration of the tour? It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 09:00 and returning around 18:00.

Do I need to pre-book? Yes, you should reserve your spot in advance. The booking process allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before, offering flexibility.

Is the tour conducted in English? Yes, the guide speaks English, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

This Into the Wild tour from Kutaisi offers an excellent way to see some of Georgia’s most beautiful and underrated spots in a single day. The combination of hiking, cultural visits, and scenic drives makes for a full, enriching experience that’s ideal for active travelers or those eager to embrace Georgia’s natural charm.

While it’s not perfect for those who struggle with steep slopes or heights, the guides’ professionalism and the stunning scenery more than make up for it. It’s a flexible, well-organized adventure that balances outdoor activity with cultural insights, all set against the backdrop of Georgia’s rugged, beautiful landscape.

If you’re seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, this tour will leave you with memorable views, meaningful cultural moments, and perhaps a sense of achievement. It’s suited for those who want a day packed with adventure without the crowds—and who love the idea of discovering Georgia’s wild, untouched corners.

You can check availability for your dates here: