Bakuriani ski resort and the legendary Borjomi (Group Tour)

Planning a trip to Georgia and wondering if a day trip to Borjomi and Bakuriani is worth it? This popular group tour, offered by Ushba Travel, promises a scenic adventure filled with mountain vistas, mineral springs, and winter sports. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve sifted through reviews, itineraries, and details to give you a solid picture of what you can expect.

What immediately stands out about this experience are the well-rounded itinerary and the knowledgeable guides, both of which come highly recommended. Travelers often mention how the combination of easy transportation and insightful commentary makes the day both relaxing and informative. A notable plus is the affordability—at just $44 per person, you get a full day of exploration without it feeling rushed or overly commercialized.

However, as with any guided tour, there are some considerations. The duration is approximately 11 hours, so it’s a long day, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions. The included activities and stops are mostly outdoors and involve some walking, so be prepared for a day that’s weather-dependent and active. This tour suits travelers who love scenic landscapes, are interested in Georgia’s mountain regions, and don’t mind a busy schedule.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, well-organized day out that combines natural beauty with cultural sights, this tour has a lot to offer. It’s particularly ideal for those who want a taste of Georgia’s mountain life, enjoy winter sports, or simply want to see Borjomi’s famous springs and Bakuriani’s snowy slopes without renting a car or planning multiple stops.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drive pleasant.
• Diverse Stops: From mineral springs and parks to ski resorts and mountain railways, the itinerary covers a lot.
• Expert Guides: Travelers rave about guides like Paata, who teach skiing and share insights about Georgia.
• Value for Money: At $44, it’s a budget-friendly way to see some of Georgia’s top mountain destinations.
• Long Day: Expect around 11 hours, so be ready for a full day of sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Weather Dependent: The trip requires good weather; poor conditions could lead to cancellations or adjustments.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Borjomi Central Park

Your day kicks off in Borjomi, a town globally famed for its mineral waters. The park is a peaceful spot, with lush greenery and the chance to relax amid nature. If you’ve read reviews, you’ll notice many mention the calming effect of Borjomi’s springs and the lovely walk through the park. This stop is more about soaking in the scenery and enjoying the fresh air than anything strenuous.

Travel tip: While the park itself doesn’t include an admission fee, some activities like visiting the Borjomi park’s attractions cost a small fee (around 5 GEL). Don’t forget to try the mineral waters—many say they taste better straight from the source!

The Narrow Gauge Railway to Bakuriani

A real highlight for us would be the Kukushka train ride—a narrow gauge railway that whisks you up into the mountains. It’s a charming journey, often commented on as a nostalgic experience, with stunning views of pine-covered slopes and snowy peaks. The ride lasts about 2 hours, and reviewers have pointed out how peaceful and scenic it is.

Bakuriani Ski Resort

Once in Bakuriani, you’re in Georgia’s most famous ski destination. The resort is perfect for all skill levels, with well-maintained slopes and breathtaking mountain views. Many visitors mention how the resort is busy but friendly, with options to try skiing, snowboarding, or just take a leisurely walk.

From reviews: “The resort is perfect for all skill levels, with well-maintained slopes and breathtaking views.” And if you’re a beginner or a little nervous, the ski instructor, Paata, offers lessons that many found very helpful and fun.

Free Time in Bakuriani

You’ll have about 5 hours here, giving you enough time to explore, try some winter sports, or relax in the crisp mountain air. Reviews show guests appreciated the chance to just stroll around, breathe in the fresh, frosty air, and soak up the winter wonderland atmosphere. Some even took part in snowstorm activities, which can be thrilling if you’re into snow sports.

Borjomi Town & Central Park

Later, the tour winds down with a relaxed walk through Borjomi’s charming central park. It’s a quiet spot, ideal for a moment to be alone with nature or snap some photos of the town’s natural beauty. Entry isn’t included—costs are minimal, but the park’s tranquility makes it a worthwhile stop.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour provides reliable, air-conditioned transport, which is a big plus after a long drive in the mountains. The group size is limited to about 15 travelers, making it intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized attention. Many reviews highlight how guides like Paata and Giorgi make a real difference—friendly, knowledgeable, and patient, especially when teaching skiing or sharing stories about Georgia.

The Experience with Guides

Reviews rave about the guides’ warmth and expertise. Paata, in particular, is praised for his teaching skills and engaging personality. Guests appreciated that he took care of their safety on snowy roads and even gave ski lessons to beginners. Several reviewers mentioned how guides made the trip lively and fun, often going the extra mile to make sure everyone felt comfortable and included.

Pricing and Value

At $44 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You’re getting transportation, expert guidance, visits to major highlights, and the chance to experience Georgia’s mountain culture—all in one day. Many reviews strongly recommend it as a budget-friendly way to see Borjomi and Bakuriani without the hassle of planning and driving yourself.

While some activities like ski rentals or cable cars aren’t included, the overall cost remains reasonable. For those interested in winter sports or mountain scenery, the trip is well worth the price. Guests consistently mention how the experience exceeds expectations considering the budget.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is suited for travelers who:

• Want a comprehensive day trip without the hassle of DIY planning
• Are interested in Georgia’s mountain scenery, ski resorts, or mineral springs
• Enjoy outdoor activities and scenic train rides
• Appreciate guided tours with friendly, knowledgeable guides
• Don’t mind a full, sometimes tiring, day of sightseeing
• Are traveling on a budget but want quality experiences

It’s less ideal for those who prefer a very relaxed pace, are sensitive to long days, or don’t enjoy winter weather and outdoor activities.

The Bottom Line

This Bakuriani and Borjomi group tour offers a well-organized, scenic escape into Georgia’s mountainous heart. With comfortable transport, a trusted guide, and a thoughtfully composed itinerary, it gives visitors a chance to explore key highlights without overextending themselves. The beautiful mountain views, the fun of the narrow gauge railway, and the chance to try skiing make it a worthwhile option for many.

For travelers craving a mix of nature, culture, and adventure at an accessible price point, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for those eager to experience Georgia’s winter charm or simply want a day to enjoy fresh mountain air and scenic landscapes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves outdoor activities and some walking, many reviews mention it’s good for those who enjoy winter sports or mountain scenery. Ski lessons can be tailored, but it’s best to check with the provider if you’re considering very young children.

What’s included in the price?
You get transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a scenic train ride, and guided exploration of Borjomi and Bakuriani. Specific activities like ski rentals or cable car rides are not included, so budget accordingly.

Can I try skiing during this tour?
Yes, many guests have enjoyed skiing and snowboarding at Bakuriani. Ski lessons are available for about 80 GEL if you want to learn or improve.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts roughly 11 hours, from 9:00 am start until you’re back at the meeting point.

What is the weather like?
Good weather is required for the tour to run smoothly. Poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but you’ll be offered a different date or full refund if that happens.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, guides like Paata and Giorgi speak English well and are known for being friendly and helpful.

Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, you’ll have around 5 hours in Bakuriani to walk, explore, or try winter sports at your leisure.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s $44 per person, making it a very affordable way to see some of Georgia’s best mountain destinations.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most travelers book about 6 days ahead, but it’s good to reserve early, especially in peak seasons.

What should I bring?
Layers for cold weather, gloves, hats, and sunglasses are advisable. If you plan to ski, bring or rent appropriate gear. Don’t forget your camera to capture the scenic views!

If you’re keen on experiencing Georgia’s snowy mountains and charming towns without the stress of organizing everything yourself, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just be ready for a day packed with stunning sights and mountain air.