13 km hiking tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi

If you’re craving a full-day escape into Georgia’s stunning nature, this 13 km hiking tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi offers a compelling mix of physical activity, scenic vistas, and cultural treats. While it’s not a casual stroll, it’s a well-organized experience that promises genuine connections with the landscape and local traditions.

What caught our eye about this tour are the opportunity to taste traditional Nazuki bread, the chance to trek through Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, and the chance to enjoy Georgia’s mountain air with a small group of fellow explorers. On the downside, the long duration—14 hours in total—might be demanding for some. This experience is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a full day of walking and are prepared for elevation changes.

This tour appeals most to outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in cultural food experiences. If you’re looking for an authentic, guided trek that balances physical challenge with culture, then this might just be the perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience blending hiking, cultural tastings, and nature exploration
• Includes transportation, making the logistics easier for travelers
• Requires good physical fitness due to 14 hours and significant elevation gain/loss
• Small group size ensures personalized guidance
• Authentic food experience with Nazuki bread tasting and a picnic-style lunch
• Flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind for booking

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Day of Mountain Trails and Georgian Flavors

This tour takes you from the city of Kutaisi into the heart of Georgia’s mountains, highlighting the country’s natural beauty, local culinary traditions, and national parks. While the specifics might seem straightforward—a van ride, a long hike, a picnic—what makes this experience stand out is how well it balances these elements for travelers seeking a genuine adventure.

Starting early at 09:00 from Kutaisi, the first leg involves a scenic 3.5-hour van ride that helps you settle into the landscape. During this drive, you’ll start to feel the anticipation build as the scenery shifts from urban to rural, with glimpses of the mountains ahead.

The first highlight is in Surami, where a local guide introduces you to Nazuki, a traditional Georgian sweet bread. The experience here is more than just tasting—you’re shown how it’s made, offering an authentic peek into Georgian baking traditions. Multiple reviews mention this as a favorite part, describing the bread as “delicious,” with the added bonus of learning about its cultural significance.

Exploring Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Next, the group heads to the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Visitor Center, where you’ll obtain the necessary permissions to start your trek. This step ensures you’re well-informed about the trail and safety.

The hiking portion lasts around 7 hours, primarily on the Footprints trail, although guides have a plan B if that trail isn’t available. Expect a mix of gentle inclines and more challenging sections, with total elevation gain/loss around +1,400 meters/+1,500 meters. Our reviews emphasize that good physical shape is essential—the terrain can be demanding, especially after hours of walking, but the views and sense of achievement make it worthwhile.

What you’ll love about the hike is the chance to truly connect with nature—sharp mountain air, lush greenery, and panoramic vistas of Georgia’s mountainous terrain. Along the trail, you’ll encounter quiet spots perfect for reflection or taking photos. Multiple reviewers note the spectacular mountain scenery, describing the landscapes as “breathtaking” and the flora as “vivid and diverse.”

Lunch and Rest Breaks

Since everyone brings their own meal, the tour emphasizes self-sufficiency. This allows flexibility to enjoy your preferred snacks or a packed meal amidst nature. Some reviews suggest packing hearty, energy-rich food because the hike is physically demanding.

The guide may organize a short stop for a group picnic or rest, but the emphasis remains on completing the trail at your pace. After the hike, the group is transported back by van, ending the day with a return journey of about 3.5 hours.

Practical Details and Value

The tour’s price includes transportation and guiding services, making it a straightforward package for travelers who want to avoid logistical hassles. With a full-day duration of 14 hours, it’s a significant time investment, but the value lies in the curated experience of Georgian nature and culture in one day.

The tour’s small group format ensures personalized guidance and opportunities to ask questions or get assistance. The English-speaking guide, whose knowledge we trust from reviews, keeps the journey engaging and informative.

Flexibility to reserve and pay later adds convenience, especially for travelers with uncertain plans. Plus, the full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

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What to Prepare

Travelers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and pack a lunch and plenty of water. Given the trail’s elevation and length, preparing physically beforehand would reward you with a more enjoyable experience.

The tour is designed for those in good physical condition and ready to embrace a physically challenging day. If you’re not accustomed to long hikes, especially with elevation gains, this might be more strenuous than some prefer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for outdoor lovers seeking a full-day hiking adventure. It suits those interested in Georgia’s natural landscapes, as well as travelers who enjoy cultural food experiences like bread tasting. It’s also perfect for small groups looking for a guided, authentic Georgia experience rather than a rushed sightseeing tour.

However, if you’re more of a casual walker or have mobility restrictions, you might find the physical demands challenging. The 14-hour schedule also means you should be prepared for a long day out—think early start and a late return.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of active exploration and culture. The highlight for many is the chance to hike through Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park while tasting traditional Georgian bread and soaking in mountain vistas. Although physically demanding, the guided support and included logistics make it manageable for those in good shape.

Its appeal lies in the authentic experience—getting close to Georgia’s landscapes, food, and local guides. For adventurous travelers eager for a full day of scenic beauty and physical activity, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments.

FAQ

How long is the actual hiking portion?
The hiking lasts approximately 7 hours, covering around 13 km with notable elevation changes, so be prepared for a full day of walking.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, a packed lunch, water, and layers suitable for mountain weather. Since it’s a demanding hike, packing energy-rich snacks is advisable.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Given the elevation and length, it’s best suited for those in good physical condition. Beginners with some hiking experience might still enjoy it, but it requires preparation.

Are transportation costs included?
Yes, the price covers all transportation, including the van rides to and from Kutaisi, as well as guidance during the entire experience.

What happens if the Footprints trail is unavailable?
Guides have alternative routes that are similar in length and difficulty, ensuring a consistent experience regardless of trail conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is food provided?
No, participants bring their own lunch, giving you the freedom to enjoy your preferred meal amid nature.

How late will I return to Kutaisi?
The tour concludes around 22:00, after a full day of activity and travel back from Borjomi.

This guided hike from Kutaisi to Borjomi offers an authentic taste of Georgia’s mountains, culture, and natural beauty—perfect for those ready to challenge themselves and explore beyond the typical sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: