BORJOMI, RABATI & VARDZIA – Group Tour From Tbilisi

The "Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia – Group Tour From Tbilisi" is an enticing day trip that allows visitors to explore some of Georgia’s most captivating natural and historical sites. With a personalized experience led by an English-speaking guide, travelers can enjoy the verdant landscapes of Borjomi Central Park, the imposing grandeur of Rabati Castle, and the enigmatic cave city of Vardzia. This comprehensive tour offers a well-curated itinerary, hassle-free transportation, and competitive pricing, making it a compelling choice for those seeking to uncover the wonders of this enchanting region.

Key Points

• This full-day group tour from Tbilisi explores the highlights of Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia, including parks, castles, and cave cities.
• The tour is highly rated, with 4.5 stars and a Badge of Excellence, offering a personalized experience for up to 20 travelers.
• The itinerary includes entry fees, English-speaking guides, and hassle-free hotel pickups, providing a convenient and informative day trip.
• Customer feedback suggests the tour’s strengths, such as stunning scenery, but also areas for improvement, like driver competency and guide effectiveness.
• The tour offers flexible pricing and cancellation policies, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking a hassle-free day trip from Tbilisi.

Tour Overview

This full-day group tour from Tbilisi allows visitors to explore the picturesque towns of Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia.

The tour boasts 15 positive reviews with an overall rating of 4.5 stars, as well as a Badge of Excellence from Viator and Tripadvisor.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Highlights include visiting Borjomi Central Park, Rabati Castle, and the historic cave city of Vardzia, with guided service in English and hassle-free hotel pickup and comfortable travel provided.

Itinerary and Inclusions

The full-day group tour from Tbilisi includes visits to several notable destinations.

The journey begins with a departure from the hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. The first stop is Borjomi Central Park, where guests can explore the lush greenery and natural springs at their own expense of 5 GEL.

Next, the tour proceeds to Rabati Castle, a historical fortress that costs 17 GEL to enter.

The final destination is the awe-inspiring Vardzia, an ancient cave city, with an entrance fee of 15 GEL and an additional 2 GEL for the local minibus.

Throughout the tour, an English-speaking guide provides informative commentary.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour departs from Tbilisi hotels at 8:00 am. Guests can select their preferred pickup point during the booking process.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

The key details regarding the meeting and pickup are:

1. Departure time: 8:00 am
2. Pickup location: Select upon booking
3. Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible; infants must sit on laps

This hassle-free pickup service ensures a smooth start to the day’s adventures exploring Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The price for this group tour from Tbilisi starts from $62.02 per person.

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts in the local time zone. This provides flexibility for travelers who may need to modify their plans.

Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is available, allowing customers to secure their spot without immediate payment.

The competitive pricing and cancellation policy make this tour an attractive option for those seeking a hassle-free day trip from Tbilisi to explore the historic sites of Borjomi, Rabati, and Vardzia.

Customer Feedback

Mixed reviews have been reported regarding the competency of the tour driver and the effectiveness of the tour guide.

Positive feedback has been given on the informative nature of the tours and the stunning natural scenery.

However, some recommendations suggest avoiding Borjomi Park, as it has been perceived to lack interest among travelers.

The key takeaways from customer feedback are:

1. Concerns about the driver’s competency and the guide’s effectiveness.
2. Praise for the informative tours and breathtaking scenery.
3. Recommendation to skip Borjomi Park due to lack of interest.

Exploring Borjomi Central Park

Borjomi Central Park, situated in the heart of the charming town of Borjomi, offers visitors a serene respite from the bustling streets. Spanning over 150 acres, the park boasts lush greenery, winding paths, and a tranquil mineral water spring that has been drawing visitors for centuries. The park’s main attractions include:

Attraction	Description	Duration
Mineral Water Pavilion	Taste the renowned Borjomi mineral water	15-20 minutes
Cable Car	Ride up to scenic viewpoints	30 minutes round-trip
Botanical Garden	Explore diverse flora and fauna	1-2 hours
Amusement Park	Fun for the whole family	1-2 hours
Hiking Trails	Immerse in nature with scenic vistas	1-3 hours

Discovering Rabati Castle

After exploring the serene Borjomi Central Park, the next stop on the group tour is the stunning Rabati Castle.

Located in the medieval town of Akhaltsikhe, Rabati Castle is a well-preserved historical site that offers a glimpse into Georgia’s rich cultural heritage.

The castle features:

1. Impressive stone architecture, including defensive walls, towers, and a central palace.
2. A museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the castle’s history.
3. Panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the castle’s observation decks.

With a guided tour included, visitors can enjoy the captivating history and architecture of this remarkable Georgian landmark.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Vardzia

The final stop on the group tour is the breathtaking Vardzia, a medieval cave monastery carved into the side of a mountain.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vardzia’s extensive cave complex once housed over 2,000 rooms, churches, and wine cellars. Visitors can explore the network of tunnels, staircases, and chapels adorned with well-preserved frescoes.

The local minibus transfer to the site costs 2 GEL. Entrance to Vardzia is 15 GEL. Guided tours provide insights into the site’s history and architecture.

Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the cave exploration can be physically demanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Based on the tour details provided, it is generally allowed for participants to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it is recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions or guidelines.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Special Requirements for the Sites?

There is no strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Some religious sites may require modest attire, such as covering shoulders and knees. No special requirements beyond typical tourist site etiquette.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Stop on the Itinerary?

The tour itinerary typically allows for approximately 1-2 hours at each stop, though the exact time allocation may vary. Visitors should check with the tour operator for specific details on the duration of each site visit.

Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available for This Tour?

The tour pricing is a per-person rate, and no specific group discounts are mentioned. However, the tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, potentially enabling cost savings through sharing transportation and guide services when booking as a group.

Can I Extend or Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

The tour operator may allow certain customizations or additions to the itinerary, such as visiting additional sites, for an additional fee. Customers should inquire about this option when booking the tour or contacting the provider directly.

The Sum Up

This Georgia group tour offers an enriching day exploring the country’s natural and historical gems. Travelers will visit the scenic Borjomi Central Park, the impressive Rabati Castle, and the remarkable Vardzia cave city, guided by an English-speaking expert. With a small group size, competitive pricing, and hassle-free hotel pickup, this tour provides a personalized and convenient way to discover the highlights of Georgia’s diverse landscape and heritage.