13 km hike in Borjomi – Group tour from Tbilisi

Discover the 13 km Borjomi Hike from Tbilisi: An Honest Look at the Group Tour

If you’re considering a day out in Georgia’s stunning countryside, this group hike in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park might catch your eye. We haven’t personally trekked it, but based on the details and reviews, it’s a solid option for those wanting to combine a bit of adventure with spectacular scenery.

What really appeals to us is the chance to explore a significant natural area—a 13 km trail through one of Georgia’s most beloved parks—plus the convenience of a guided tour. On the flip side, it’s quite a demanding walk, so it’s not ideal if you’re not used to hiking or don’t have good physical fitness.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a challenge and are prepared to spend about 14 hours out of the city, including travel time. If you like the idea of a guided, all-in-one day-trip with transport, this might be worth considering. Just keep in mind your comfort with physical exertion and the need for proper footwear.

Key Points

• Moderate difficulty: Expect a 13 km hike with significant elevation changes (+1,400m/-1,500m), so good fitness and sturdy shoes are a must.
• Full-day adventure: The tour lasts about 14 hours from start to finish, including transportation and hiking.
• All about the scenery: The trail offers stunning natural views, and the park is a highlight for outdoor lovers.
• Group experience: With a maximum of 20 travelers, it maintains an intimate, guided feel.
• Self-prepared lunch: You’ll be responsible for bringing your own meal; no snacks or meals are included.
• Cost-effective: At around $51.48, it’s a relatively affordable way to access Georgia’s natural beauty.

What to Expect from the Borjomi Hike Tour

This tour kicks off early in the morning at Tbilisi’s Budget Georgia office, with pickup at 8:00 am. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, about a couple of hours away. Once there, the first stop is the visitor center, where you’ll get the necessary permissions for your trek. This part is straightforward but important—it’s your entry point into the park’s protected trails.

The Trail and Its Challenges

The highlight is the hike along the Footprints trail, or other similar tracks if that one isn’t accessible. Expect a moderately demanding 8-hour trek covering 13 km, with some steep sections and a significant elevation gain (+1,400 meters) and descent (-1,500 meters). The terrain is likely to be uneven and possibly rocky, so hiking shoes are highly recommended.

From the reviews, we know that if steep terrain doesn’t scare you, this can be a very rewarding day. One traveler mentioned, “If long hikes through steep terrain don’t scare you, this is a great daytrip for you! Bring plenty of water and snacks and enjoy the views.” It’s clear that the experience is physically taxing but also deeply scenic, with plenty of opportunities to take in the pristine Georgian landscape.

What About the Food?

Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to pack a good supply of snacks and water. The tour doesn’t specify meal options, so bringing something portable and energizing is key. Remember, a hearty lunch will help you keep going through those challenging sections.

The Guides and Group Dynamics

The guiding service is in English, making it accessible for international visitors. The group size is limited to 20 people, which generally means you’ll get decent support from your guide and have a chance to enjoy the company of fellow travelers. Most reviews and ratings reflect a positive experience, though the overall rating is 3.5 out of 5 based on three reviews, indicating some mixed feelings or variability in experience.

The Transport and Logistics

Your journey begins at the Budget Georgia meeting point in Tbilisi at 8:00 am. The tour includes air-conditioned transport, which is a relief after a long drive. The return is at the same meeting point, making logistics simple and straightforward.

Because it’s a 14-hour day, expect to be on the move for most of the day. The tour includes use of bicycles and rafting equipment, but since these aren’t part of the main hike, they might be optional extras or part of other tours from the same provider. For this hike, the focus is on walking and enjoying the park.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $51.48 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to experience Georgia’s natural beauty beyond the city. The price covers transportation, guiding, and park access, but not meals or personal gear. You’re paying mainly for the guided service and transport, so if you’re an outdoor enthusiast eager for a challenge, it’s likely a good deal.

The Realities From Reviews

While the overall rating is middling, one reviewer summarized it nicely: “No Title — If long hikes through steep terrain don’t scare you, this is a great daytrip for you! Bring plenty of water and snacks and enjoy the views.” It’s honest. This isn’t a casual stroll—expect a physically demanding day that rewards those prepared.

Another point to note is that the hike is described as demanding, so it’s best suited for those with prior hiking experience or good physical condition. If you’re new to hiking or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park hike is ideal for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy challenging outdoor activities and want to see Georgia’s scenic landscapes from a different angle. It’s better suited for fit, experienced hikers rather than casual walkers.

If you’re traveling with friends who love physical activity or are looking for a full-day escape, this could be a memorable outing. But if you prefer something more leisurely or have limited mobility, there are probably better options in the region.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this 13 km hike in Borjomi offers a good dose of natural beauty and physical challenge for those ready to tackle it. The value lies in the guided experience, transport, and the chance to explore a protected corner of Georgia’s wilderness.

It’s not a tour for everyone—those who dislike steep terrain or long hours on their feet might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re in decent shape, eager for an active day, and want to see some of Georgia’s most scenic landscapes, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Just make sure you come prepared with sturdy shoes, water, snacks, and a sense of adventure. It’s a long day, but the views and the sense of achievement will stay with you.

FAQ

What is the difficulty level of this hike?
It’s classified as moderate but demanding, with steep sections and significant elevation changes. Good physical fitness and hiking shoes are essential.

How long does the hike take?
The hiking itself lasts about 6-8 hours, with the entire day including transportation and breaks extending to around 14 hours.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. Travelers should bring their own packed lunch and plenty of water.

What should I bring on the hike?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, sun protection, and layers suitable for changing weather conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
This tour is quite demanding physically, so it’s better suited for active adults or experienced hikers. It might not be appropriate for young children or those with mobility issues.

What’s the group size?
The group is limited to a maximum of 20 people, which helps keep the experience more personal.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour begins at the Budget Georgia office in Tbilisi, with pickup at 8:00 am. The return is to the same location.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, for a full refund.

If you’re craving a physically rewarding adventure in Georgia’s beautiful wilderness, this hike could be just what you’re looking for—just make sure you’re prepared for the challenge!