BORJOMI, RABATI & VARDZIA – Group Tour from Kutaisi

If you’re planning a trip to Georgia and looking for an immersive day that combines history, stunning landscapes, and local culture, this Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia group tour from Kutaisi might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gone through the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour stand out are two key things: the chance to taste the famous mineral waters directly from the source in Borjomi and the visit to the incredible cave monastery of Vardzia, which is often cited as a highlight by travelers. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the length of the day—at around 14 hours, you should be prepared for a long but rewarding journey.

This tour appeals most to those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Georgia’s historical sites and scenic views without spending multiple days. If you’re curious about the country’s ancient castles, natural springs, and cave dwellings, and don’t mind a full schedule, this experience could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Affordable price that offers access to some of Georgia’s most famous sights.
• Includes guiding service in English, making it easier to understand the significance of each stop.
• Long day trip—expect around 14 hours of travel, sightseeing, and exploring.
• Multiple entry fees included—though you pay for the sites separately, the prices are reasonable.
• Ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and curious travelers eager to see Georgia’s highlights in one go.
• Small group size (up to 20 people) creates a more intimate experience compared to large tours.

The Whole Day in Georgia: What to Expect

This tour acts as an excellent introduction for anyone eager to “check off” some of Georgia’s most iconic sites in one long but memorable day. From the famous mineral waters of Borjomi to the ancient caves of Vardzia, you’ll get a taste of Georgia’s diverse attractions.

Starting the Day: Borjomi Central Park

The adventure kicks off early at 8:00 am in Kutaisi. Your first stop is Borjomi Central Park, home to Georgia’s most renowned mineral water source. Here, you’ll have about 40 minutes to sample the mineral water directly from the springs.

What travelers love: The opportunity to taste Borjomi water fresh from the source is a real highlight. Many reviewers mention that this water is unforgettable, with one noting, “Borjomi water is unforgetable taste I’ve ever tried.”

The catch: The entrance fee at Borjomi Park is not included—around 5 GEL per person—so keep some small change handy if you want to buy a drink or souvenirs.

Next Stop: Rabati Castle

After enjoying Borjomi, you’ll head to Rabati Castle, just about an hour away. This medieval fortress has been beautifully restored and offers a glimpse into Georgia’s layered history. A local guide will walk you through its towers, gardens, and museum, sharing stories that bring the place alive.

What visitors say: The garden and castle architecture are particularly praised, with one reviewer calling it the “most beautiful garden I’ve ever seen.”

Note: The entrance fee here is 17 GEL, and the guide’s commentary can add valuable context, especially if you’re interested in medieval architecture and history.

The Day’s Crowning Glory: Vardzia Cave Monastery

The final major stop is Vardzia, a stunning cave complex carved into the cliffs of the Erusheti Mountain. Once a bustling city with over 500 rooms, today most of it is in ruins, but it remains breathtaking. You’ll spend about an hour exploring the site, climbing through tunnels, and taking in the panoramic views.

What travelers find: The landscape and the cave city are frequently described as “stunning” and “a whole new experience.” Many say they could have spent more time here, as it’s truly special and uniquely Georgian.

Entry fee: 16 GEL, plus 2 GEL for a local minibus ride within the site. Given the history and scenery, most find this cost reasonable.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

A key part of the experience is the air-conditioned vehicle that keeps everyone comfortable during the long drives. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, creating a friendly, manageable atmosphere. Several reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides such as Giorgi and Omo, who are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Many reviews mention the guides’ expertise, especially highlighting their storytelling and ability to keep the group engaged. The guide Giorgi, in particular, is praised for being friendly and attentive. Travelers appreciated the lively commentary and the way they felt like part of a small, friendly group.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One traveler recounted a very negative experience with the tour guide and accompanying staff, describing a lack of care and professionalism from certain team members. This underscores that experiences can vary, and it’s worth considering your expectations for customer service.

Duration and Value

While the day is quite long—a full 14 hours—it’s packed with diverse sights and experiences. For $67.34 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering the entry fees, guide, and transportation are included. Some reviewers mentioned that the tour is worth the effort, especially for those short on time but eager to see a lot.

Practical Details

The tour starts at 8:00 am from Kutaisi and ends back at the same meeting point, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby. Meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food during the day. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participating without issue, but be prepared for a long day and some walking around the sites.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Air-conditioned transport
– Guiding service in English

Not Included:
– Meals
– Entrance fees (Borjomi Park 5 GEL, Rabati Castle 17 GEL, Vardzia 16 GEL + 2 GEL minibus)

The entrance fees are quite affordable, and many travelers see the value in paying separately to explore each site at their own pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves history, stunning landscapes, and discovering multiple iconic sites in one day, this tour is a good pick. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and reasonable price make it attractive. It’s especially suited to those who are comfortable with a long day of travel and sightseeing.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to long hours on the road, you might want to consider alternative options. The tour’s length and intensity aren’t ideal for travelers seeking a laid-back experience.

Final Thoughts

This Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia tour offers a practical way to see some of Georgia’s most famous attractions in a single day. The blend of natural springs, medieval castles, and ancient cave dwellings makes for a well-rounded experience, especially if you’re keen to get an overview of Georgia’s rich culture and history.

The guides seem to make a real difference—knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic guides like Giorgi can turn a long day into a memorable adventure. The entry fees are reasonable, and the price for the whole package is fair considering what’s included.

While it’s not perfect—some reviews mention variable guide quality and the long hours—it’s a worthwhile option for anyone eager to maximize their time and see the highlights without multiple separate trips.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, this type of tour generally suits older children or teenagers interested in history and landscapes. Be prepared for a long day and some walking.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am from Kutaisi.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. Travelers typically bring snacks or buy food during the stops.

How much are the entrance fees?
Borjomi Park costs about 5 GEL, Rabati Castle 17 GEL, and Vardzia 16 GEL plus 2 GEL for local transport within Vardzia.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a big plus for a long day of travel.

How big is the group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
The guiding service is in English, so check if other languages are available separately.

What is the typical duration?
About 14 hours, including travel time and site visits.

Would I recommend this tour?
If you’re eager to see Georgia’s key sights with a knowledgeable guide and don’t mind the long day, definitely yes. Just stay prepared for a full schedule and long hours.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a full-day adventure, this tour covers a lot of ground—and that’s what makes it a tempting choice for many travelers exploring Georgia.