13 km hiking tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi

This guided 13 km hiking tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi offers a blend of adventure, nature, and cultural treats. While we haven’t personally taken this specific trip, reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone craving a day outdoors in Georgia’s stunning landscapes.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to taste traditional Georgian sweet bread, Nazuki — a delicious cultural highlight. Second, the opportunity to explore Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, renowned for its lush scenery and peaceful trails. Third, the full-day journey promises a balanced mix of physical activity and scenic beauty. However, a potential consideration is the long duration (14 hours), which might be a challenge for travelers with limited stamina or tight schedules.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy hiking, are comfortable with a 13 km trek, and appreciate authentic local experiences. If you’re looking for a day packed with nature, culture, and good company, this could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Scenic Hiking: The trail runs through Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, offering beautiful mountain views.
• Cultural Highlights: Tasting Nazuki bread and learning how it’s made adds an authentic touch.
• Full-Day Experience: Starting at 9:00 am and returning by 10:00 pm, it’s a long but immersive day.
• Comfort & Preparation: Good physical shape and hiking shoes are essential due to the terrain and elevation change.
• Inclusive Pricing: The fee covers transportation and guiding, making it straightforward and hassle-free.
• Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows some peace of mind for planning.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point at Kutaisi

The tour kicks off at the Budget Georgia office in Kutaisi, a central hub that likely makes it easy for most travelers to meet up. As the trip is guided, you’ll be joining a group led by an English-speaking guide, which enhances the experience with local insights.

The Journey to Surami and Nazuki Tasting

After a roughly 3.5-hour van ride, your first stop is the quaint town of Surami. Here, you’ll get the chance to sample Georgian Nazuki bread, a sweet treat with a soft, fluffy interior and a slightly crispy crust. According to reviewers, the hosts show how Nazuki is made, making it more than just a tasting but also an educational experience. One traveler mentioned, “They showed us how Nazuki is made and kindly offered us some to test, which added a personal touch to the experience.”

Visit to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Next, the group visits the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Visitor Center, where permissions for the hike are obtained. This is an important step, as it ensures the trek is authorized and provides some context about the protected area’s flora and fauna. You’ll then set out on the Footprints trail (or alternative tracks if needed), soaking in the natural beauty of the mountains and lush forests.

The hike itself lasts about 7 hours, with steep sections and elevation gains (~+1,400m / -1,500m). The trail provides an excellent opportunity to disconnect, breathe fresh mountain air, and appreciate Georgia’s natural landscape. The reviews note that the trail is well-maintained and rewarding, though physically demanding.

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Lunch & Rest

Participants are expected to bring their own lunch, which offers flexibility to cater to dietary preferences. A few reviews mention that packing a hearty meal is advisable, especially since the hike takes several hours. Rest stops are likely, allowing for breaks and photos.

Return Journey and Final Stop

After completing the trail, everyone is transported back by van, with the return journey taking around 3.5 hours. The entire day wraps up around 10:00 pm, making it a full but fulfilling experience. Some travelers appreciated the efficient organization and the easy transfer back to Kutaisi.

What Travelers Can Expect

Transportation: Comfortable vans are used for transfers, making the long ride manageable. The group size is not specified but being part of an organized tour generally means a manageable number of participants.

Guides: The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, who provides insights into local culture, the trail, and nature. Reviewers highlighted that guides like Giorgi or similar make the experience engaging and informative.

Physical demands: The trail’s elevation change and distance mean travelers should be in good shape. Reviewers mentioned that having hiking shoes is essential, and the hike’s difficulty might not suit those with mobility issues.

Value: The price includes both transportation and guiding services, simplifying costs and logistics. Given the length and inclusions, many find this quite reasonable, especially for a full-day adventure in nature.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Hiking shoes are a must-have for comfort and safety on uneven terrain.
• Packed lunch is necessary since no meals are provided.
• Arrive prepared for a long day, including layers of clothing for changing weather conditions.
• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture scenic views and the Nazuki bread-making process.
• If you’re prone to fatigue, consider whether a 14-hour day suits your travel style or if you prefer shorter excursions.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

From reviews, the Nazuki bread tasting is a highlight that adds a personal, cultural flavor to the day. The process of showing how it’s made gives a rare insight into local baking traditions. The trail through Borjomi-Kharagauli also offers a chance to see Georgia’s wilderness away from busy cities, making it a genuine retreat into nature.

Travelers also appreciated the smooth organization of the trip, with detailed instructions and reliable transportation. The guides were described as friendly and knowledgeable, helping to make the long day more enjoyable.

The Sum Up

This 13 km hiking tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi offers an appealing mix of physical activity, natural beauty, and authentic Georgian culture. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a good challenge, want to experience Georgia’s mountains up close, and are prepared for a full day on the trails.

While the length and elevation might not suit everyone, those in good shape will find this a rewarding way to connect with nature and local traditions. The inclusion of cultural highlights like Nazuki bread adds a memorable touch, making this more than just a hike.

If you’re looking for an active adventure that combines scenic vistas with cultural insights and are comfortable with a lengthy day, this tour provides excellent value and a chance to see Georgia from a different perspective.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The full day runs approximately 14 hours, starting at 09:00 and returning around 22:00.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation and guiding services are covered, making the trip straightforward to plan.

Do I need special equipment?
Yes, hiking shoes are essential for comfort and safety on the trail.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour’s physical demands suggest it is best for travelers in good shape; suitability for children depends on their stamina.

What should I bring?
Bring a packed lunch, hiking shoes, and layers of clothing suitable for mountain weather.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
The tour is offered in English, ensuring clear communication with participants.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vans used for transfers are comfortable, making the long ride manageable.

This tour is a solid choice for adventurous souls eager to explore Georgia’s natural landscapes while enjoying some local culinary treats and cultural insights.

You can check if your dates are available here: