Mestia – Kutaisi Shared Transfer Review: A Practical and Budget-Friendly Option
Traveling between Mestia and Kutaisi doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This shared transfer service, offered by Budget Georgia, provides a straightforward, safe, and economical way to hop between these two Georgian cities. While it might not be the most luxurious ride, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want to keep costs down without sacrificing convenience.
What really stands out is how simple it is to book and how reliable the service tends to be. Plus, sharing a vehicle with up to 20 people makes this a budget-friendly option—perfect if you’re traveling alone or with a group. But, as with any shared transportation, it comes with some trade-offs, like the potential for delays or less pristine vehicles. This transfer suits those who prioritize affordability and straightforward logistics over luxury.
Key Points:
– Affordable price point makes it accessible for most travelers.
– All fees included means no hidden costs during the ride.
– Convenient door-to-door service from central locations.
– Group size capped at 20 ensures a comfortable ride without overcrowding.
– Estimated duration of 5 hours allows plenty of time for the rest of your day.
– Reliable booking process with options to cancel free up to 24 hours in advance.
An Honest Look at the Transfer Experience
When you’re planning your trip between Mestia and Kutaisi, the big question is often how to get there smoothly without breaking the bank. This shared transfer ticks a lot of boxes for budget-conscious travelers who want a hassle-free option. The cost is around $34.39 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the distance and comfort provided. Plus, all the related fees are included in the price, so there are no surprises or additional charges at pickup or drop-off.
The journey takes approximately 5 hours, a timeframe that’s fairly standard for this route, especially considering the mountain roads and scenery along the way. The transfer begins at Credo Bank on Tamar Mefe Street in Mestia and ends at the Budget Georgia office in Kutaisi, close to public transportation and central locations, making it easy to continue your journey afterward.
What the Ride Looks and Feels Like
From the reviews, we get a pretty good sense of what to expect. One traveler, Michaela, called it a “reasonable transport option” and appreciated that they were dropped directly at the hotel, saving them time and effort. The driver was described as “crazy, fast, but safe,” which suggests a lively but controlled driving style—so if you’re someone who prefers a calm, scenic drive, this might be a bit intense, but it’s generally seen as efficient.
The vehicle itself gets mixed feedback. Yimmei loved the ride, mentioning that the “driver + tour guide Toko was so funny,” which helped pass the time and made the mountain roads more enjoyable. They also found the car comfortable, which is a plus given the mountain terrain. Conversely, Shivangi’s experience highlights a common issue: the car was “very dirty from the previous trip” and the trip started late. She also felt the pickup process was somewhat disorganized, as she and her group had to walk 20 minutes with luggage for a pickup that wasn’t initially at her hotel.
Booking and Flexibility
Booking the transfer is straightforward and usually done 20 days in advance, which is handy for planning your trip ahead of time. They offer a free cancellation policy if you change your mind more than 24 hours before departure, providing some peace of mind. The transfer is scheduled to start at 4:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore Mestia during the day before heading out.
Who Is This Transfer Best For?
If you’re looking for cost-effective transportation, don’t mind sharing a ride, and want a reliable service that takes care of most of the logistics, this transfer is a good fit. It’s especially suited for solo travelers or groups who want to arrive in Kutaisi without the hassle of negotiating taxis or dealing with complicated schedules. Keep in mind, if cleanliness or punctuality is a top concern, you might want to prepare for a bit of unpredictability.
A practical option with some caveats
All in all, this shared transfer from Mestia to Kutaisi offers excellent value for the price. It’s not perfect—and the reviews remind us that the vehicle might not always be spotless, and delays are possible—but the convenience, friendly drivers, and door-to-door service make it a popular choice. It’s especially appealing to those who prefer a no-fuss, budget-friendly way to get between two of Georgia’s beautiful cities.
Travelers who enjoy meeting fellow adventurers or who are comfortable with a bit of unpredictability will likely appreciate this service. It’s a straightforward, no-surprise way to make your trip less stressful and more affordable. Just remember, it’s a shared ride, so if you’re in a rush or prefer private comfort, other options might suit you better.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the transfer from Mestia to Kutaisi take?
The journey typically lasts around 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax or enjoy the scenery along the way.
Where does the transfer start in Mestia?
It begins at Credo Bank on Tamar Mefe Street #38 in Mestia. Make sure to be there a little early to avoid any last-minute rush.
What is the pickup time for the transfer?
The service starts at 4:00 pm, so plan your day accordingly if you want to be ready on time.
Is there a possibility to cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled pickup. After that, no refunds are issued.
Are all fees included in the price?
Yes, the fare covers all costs, so you won’t need to worry about additional charges during the ride.
Is this transfer suitable for travelers with luggage?
Absolutely. The vehicle is described as decently spacious, and most travelers find enough room for their luggage, even on mountain roads.
Mestia – Kutaisi Shared Transfer
“Great transport option, they brought me directly in to the hotel. Mestia – Kutaisi airport took us 5,5 hours, crazy, fast driver but we did it. Def…”
Final thoughts
Opting for this shared transfer from Mestia to Kutaisi makes sense if you value affordability, simplicity, and reliability. While it might not be the most luxurious or punctual service out there, it hits the sweet spot for most budget travelers who want to avoid the hassle of taxis and navigate Georgia’s roads with ease. The mix of friendly drivers, convenient pickup points, and included fees put this transfer in a good place for those seeking practical transportation.
If you’re prepared for a shared vehicle with some variability in cleanliness and timing, this service could be a smooth, stress-free start or end to your Georgian adventures. And if meeting fellow travelers sounds appealing, you might find some new friends along the way.
In brief, this transfer is a solid choice for travelers prioritizing value and convenience, especially if you’re okay with a little unpredictability in exchange for saving money.
