Into the wild

Into the Wild: An Authentic Day Exploring Georgia’s Underrated Wonders

If you’re after a day that combines exhilarating hikes, cultural highlights, and breathtaking landscapes, this Into the Wild tour from Kutaisi might just hit the spot. It promises a chance to see lesser-known parts of Georgia without the crowds, guided by passionate local experts.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances adventure with cultural insights, offering spectacular views from Tskhrajvari mountain, a peaceful picnic by Shaori Lake, and a visit to the ancient Nikortsminda church. The tour’s well-organized nature means you’ll comfortably fit a lot into a single day.

However, keep in mind that the Sairme pillars hike involves steep slopes, so it’s not ideal for those afraid of heights or looking for a leisurely stroll. If you’re an active traveler who enjoys discovering authentic spots off the beaten path, this tour has a lot to offer.

This trip is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of nature, history, and adventure — especially if you’re limited on time but craving a genuine taste of Georgia’s wild side.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focuses on underrated places, away from tourist crowds.
• Diverse Highlights: Includes mountain hiking, lakeside picnic, historic church visits, and steep slopes.
• Expert Guides: Passionate guides like Ika and Lasha enhance the journey with local knowledge.
• Value for Money: Transportation and guiding are included, with the only personal expense being your lunch.
• Active and Scenic: Combines physical activity with stunning vistas and cultural sites.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation and flexible reservation options add peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Bright and Early at 09:00 from Kutaisi

The tour kicks off with a morning pickup from your Kutaisi accommodation or designated meeting point. This early start is ideal for making the most of your day, especially since you’ll cover a fair amount of ground.

Hiking Up to Tskhrajvari Mountain

The highlight for many travelers is the hike to Tskhrajvari, reaching a summit of 1590 meters. From here, the views are breathtaking — you get a sweeping panorama of Western Georgia and Kutaisi itself. The trail up is quite manageable for those with a moderate fitness level, but be prepared for some uphill effort.

The church of St. George at the peak adds a spiritual touch to this adventure. According to reviews, guides like Ika and Lasha make this climb more enjoyable by sharing local stories and history, making the effort feel worthwhile. As Martyna notes, “Our guide, Ika, was simply amazing. His positive energy made the whole experience even more special.”

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Scenic Drive to Racha and Stop at Nakerala Pass

After the mountain hike, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle for a scenic drive towards the Racha region. The Nakerala Pass is a standout stop — it’s essentially a border between Imereti and Racha, offering spectacular panoramic views in every direction. From here, you can really appreciate Georgia’s rugged terrain and natural beauty.

Picnic at Shaori Lake

The visit to Shaori Lake is a peaceful respite in the day’s itinerary. Everyone is encouraged to bring their own food, making the picnic feel more personal and relaxed. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for fishing or just soaking in the scenery — some travelers even take a quick swim if the weather allows.

Visiting Nikortsminda Church – An 11th Century Marvel

Next, the tour takes you to Nikortsminda Church, built in the 11th century. Its well-preserved frescoes and architecture make it a must-see for history buffs and those interested in Georgian religious heritage. As one reviewer pointed out, the church is “full of history and charm, very much worth the visit,” providing a quiet, reflective pause in the busy day.

The Sairme Pillars Hike

The last adventure involves the Sairme pillars, a short but steep hike that rewards you with dramatic rock formations. The slopes are quite steep and challenging, so this part isn’t suitable for those uneasy with heights. The effort pays off with spectacular views and photo opportunities, making it a favorite among active travelers.

Return to Kutaisi

By around 18:00, the tour wraps up back at the office, leaving you with memories of a day packed with natural beauty, cultural heritage, and genuine Georgia spirit.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Transportation in a comfortable vehicle
• Guiding service by knowledgeable guides like Ika or Lasha

Not Included:

• Lunch — travelers need to bring their own food for the picnic at Shaori Lake. This allows flexibility and the chance to customize your meal, but it’s worth packing some snacks beforehand.

The price offers good value, considering transportation and expert guidance are covered, especially given the richness of the itinerary.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Bring sturdy shoes for hiking, especially for the steep Sairme pillars trail.
• Pack your own lunch — fresh sandwiches, snacks, or local treats to enjoy at Shaori Lake.
• Dress in layers — mountain weather can change quickly, and the summit might be cooler than the valley floor.
• Prepare for some physical activity — the hikes are manageable but involve elevation and slopes.
• Camera ready — you’ll want to capture the incredible vistas from the peaks and pass.
• Respect cultural sites — Nikortsminda church is a sacred place, so dress modestly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy active days outdoors mixed with cultural stops, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience in Georgia, guided by passionate locals. Nature lovers, history buffs, and those craving a bit of adventure should find this tour a satisfying way to spend a day.

However, if you’re uncomfortable with heights or demanding hikes, you might want to consider if you’re ready for the steep slopes at Sairme or the mountain summit climb. The tour’s pace is relaxed but active, so some physical fitness is recommended.

Final Thoughts

This Into the Wild day trip from Kutaisi offers a beautifully balanced journey through Georgia’s lesser-known treasures. Expect stunning mountain views, historic architecture, lakeside serenity, and a good dose of physical activity, all guided by knowledgeable and friendly locals.

What truly elevates this experience is its authenticity — real Georgia, away from tourist crowds, with a personal touch that guides like Ika and Lasha bring. The landscape, history, and warm atmosphere make it a memorable day that’s well worth the investment, especially for those eager to see Georgia’s wild side.

This tour provides a fantastic way to connect with the land and culture in a meaningful, active way. Be prepared for some steep slopes, pack your lunch, and get ready for a day full of beauty, adventure, and genuine local hospitality.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the price covers transportation in a comfortable vehicle from Kutaisi and back, making logistics hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 09:00 and returning around 18:00, depending on group pace.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, all participants should bring their own lunch for the picnic at Shaori Lake. You can pack sandwiches, snacks, or anything you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some active hiking and steep slopes, so it’s best suited for children who are comfortable with physical activity and heights.

What should I wear?
Comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing for mountain weather, and sun protection are recommended.

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

In essence, if you’re craving an authentic taste of Georgia’s wild landscapes, historical sites, and local culture — all packed into a single day — this tour is a superb choice. It’s a well-organized, enriching experience that balances adventure with cultural discovery, perfect for active travelers eager to see Georgia’s hidden gems.

You can check availability for your dates here: