Folklore Rhythms and Crafts

Explore Rural Georgia on an Off the Beaten Path Tour with Culture, Song, and Dance

Detailed Description

Overview

Difficulty
Comfort
Imereti   Shida Kartli   Tbilisi   Adjara   Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti  
Destination
Special
Tour type
July
Period
10 days
Duration
6-10
Group
6+
Age
GT021
Program code

Begin a captivating 10-day journey through Georgia, a land where the vibrant tapestry of folklore and culture intertwines with stunning natural beauty and historical marvels.

This tour is not just a trip; it's a deep dive into the heart of Georgian heritage, offering a unique blend of immersive cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and architectural wonders.

Discover the soul of Georgia as you become a direct participant in its rich traditions. From the polyphonic melodies taught by conservatory professors to intimate village encounters, you'll unravel the threads of genetic memory that connect past, present, and future. Experience the warmth of Georgian families, learn the secrets of their unique wine-making in traditional clay kvevris, and savor the authenticity of rural life.

Cooking, a pivotal part of Georgian identity, will be taught in its natural setting, offering you a firsthand glimpse into culinary traditions passed down through generations. Delve into the philosophy and skill of Georgian choreography through master classes and a specially organized concert, gaining insights into an art form cherished for millennia.

Beyond cultural immersion, your adventure through Georgia will take you paddling in the emerald waters of Martvili Canyon, basking in the modernity of Batumi on the Black Sea, exploring ancient echoes in Kutaisi, and embracing the tolerance and charm of Tbilisi.

Join us on this unforgettable journey, where every moment is a step through time, and the spirit of Georgia comes alive in every song, dance, and landscape. It's more than a tour; it's an experience where the echoes of Georgian folklore resonate through time, inviting you to be part of its unbroken chain of history and tradition.

Itinerary

Day 1 — Panoramic Tbilisi and the Art of Georgian Song

Arrival and transfer to the hotel. Breakfast. On your first day in Georgia, we'll explore Tbilisi and discover why this cosmopolitan city is called the jewel of the Caucasus. After taking a cable car up to the Mother of Georgia statue, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city, you'll return through steep streets to the historic centre with its pedestrian streets, extraordinary theatre and cathedral. At the end of your visit, you will explore Meidan Square and the famous Sulphur Baths area and have lunch in the old town. Then our driver will take us to a singing master class. On the way we will see the famous Freedom Square and Rustaveli Avenue, which is the heart of the city. This is where the Tbilisi Conservatory is located and we will have a real Georgian singing lesson with a lecturer from the Conservatory. Your day will finish with the Art-Gene Festival, a major cultural event with traditional songs and dances, exhibitions and handicrafts, all in the centre of an open-air ethnographic museum where you can visit several traditional village houses on your own. Dinner and overnight stay in Tbilisi.

Route: Tbilisi

Activities: Event Celebration | 3 hours , City Walking | 4 hours

Accommodation: Included Makmani Hotel 4* * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: not included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Meidani Square, Sulfur Baths, Mother of Georgia, Sololaki District, Gabriadze Theatre, Rike Cable Car, Narikala Fortress, Metekhi Church, Rike Park, Sioni Cathedral, Rustaveli Avenue, Bridge of Peace, Abanotubani, Ethnography Museum, Freedom Square, Anchiskhati Basilica.

Day 2 — Tbilisi Dance Masterclass and Historical Journey

After breakfast at the hotel, our teacher is already waiting for us in the dance hall for a dance master class. After the lesson, we will walk and discover bourgeois Tbilisi, have lunch in a colorful restaurant and continue to discover Georgia in the National History Museum. Museum collection description: showcases a unique collection spanning natural and human history. Covering 40 million years of the country's history, the museum holds remarkable artifacts, including prehistoric human remains from Dmanisi dating back 1.8 million years — the oldest evidence of human existence outside Africa. A highlight is the Treasures collection, housing unique objects from the third millennium B.C. to the nineteenth century A.D., featuring gold and silver artifacts and jewelry from various regions. Dinner in a restaurant with national dance and overnight stay in Tbilisi.

Route: Tbilisi

Activities: Masterclass | 1 hours 30 minutes , Sightseeing | 1 hours , City Walking | 4 hours

Accommodation: Included Makmani Hotel 4* | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Georgian National Museum, Rustaveli Avenue.

Day 3 — Historical Mtskheta and Uplistsikhe with Local Flavors

Breakfast at the hotel. Our city tour in Mtskheta, one of Georgia's oldest cities, begins approximately 20 km (about 12 miles) north of Tbilisi, at the confluence of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. We'll explore two significant monuments of Georgian Christian architecture: the 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and the 6th-century Jvari Monastery in Mtskheta. Next, we head towards Gori, stopping for lunch at a fish farm featuring baked salmon or sturgeon cooked in a traditional tone oven. Our journey continues to Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town in eastern Georgia, situated about 10 kilometers (6 miles) east of Gori, Shida Kartli. Built on the high rocky left bank of the Mtkvari River, Uplistsikhe contains structures dating from the Early Iron Age to the Late Middle Ages, showcasing the co-existence of pagan and Christian architecture. We'll then visit a farmer in Uplistsikhe for a wine tasting session, where he'll demonstrate honey extraction from a hive. Dinner will be served in the garden, and we'll stay overnight with the farmer.

Route: Tbilisi — Private car | 20 km · 30 min Mtskheta — Private car | 100 km · 2 h Khidistavi

Activities: Wine Tasting | 2 hours , Sightseeing | 4 hours

Accommodation: Included Gogi Dvalishvili Wine Cellar | Guest House | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Uplistsikhe, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery, Gori Fortress.

Day 4 — Kutaisi Chronicles: Cathedrals, Cuisine, and Concerts

Breakfast, then we depart for Kutaisi. Upon arrival in this city, rich with 3000 years of history, we'll have lunch and then begin our city tour. Our first visit will be to the Bagrati Cathedral, a symbol of the Georgian monarchy. Following this, we'll explore the 12th-century Academy and Monastery of Gelati, where we'll also enjoy the singing of local musicians. In the evening, we arrive at Agro House Korena. Here, we'll participate in a master class on making Ketsi Mchadi and Imeruli Khachapuri, traditional Georgian dishes. Dinner will be accompanied by a folklore concert. This concert is interactive, allowing us to practice the skills we gained in Tbilisi. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Gelati village at Agro House Korena.

Route: Khidistavi — Private car | 160 km · 3 h Kutaisi — Private car | 10 km · 30 min Gelati Monastery

Activities: Sightseeing | 3 hours , Masterclass | 2 hours , Event Celebration | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Agro Guesthouse Korena | Guest House | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Gelati Monastery, Bagrati Cathedral, Kutaisi Opera Theatre, Surami Fortress.

Day 5 — Canyon Wonders and Megrelian Cooking Mastery

After breakfast at the agro home, we head to Zugdidi. On the way, we visit Martvili Canyon, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The canyon features emerald-green waters, lush greenery, impressive rock formations, cliffs, caves, and waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy boat tours along the river that flows through the canyon (optional activity). After exploring Martvili, we continue to Zugdidi. Here, the lively and welcoming Mr. Beso Chitanava, a cantor from Lotbari, will be our gracious host. Mr. Beso is not only a talented cantor but also an excellent cook. Our Megrelian Culinary Workshop will take place amidst the soulful tunes of Georgian songs. The evening is free for personal exploration. You might consider visiting The Dadiani Palace in Zugdidi, a historic residence that once belonged to the Dadiani family, prominent Georgian princes. The day concludes with an overnight stay in Zugdidi.

Route: Gelati Monastery — Private car | 75 km · 1 h 45 min Martvili Canyon — Private car | 80 km · 1 h 15 min Zugdidi

Activities: Masterclass | 2 hours , Canyoning | 1 hours

Accommodation: Included Green Point 3* * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Martvili Canyon, Dadiani Palace.

Day 6 — Batumi's Blend: Cultural Landmarks and Culinary Delights

After breakfast, we will depart for Batumi. En route, we'll stop in Kobuleti to visit the 9th-century Petra Fortress. Located on a rocky hillside by the sea, Petra was once considered an inaccessible fortress. Its ruins, preserved amidst the rugged terrain, are a testament to its historical significance. In Batumi, we'll enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants, savoring traditional Georgian dishes like Acharian khachapuri and baklava, accompanied by local wines. Our Batumi City Tour with a local guide begins in Europe Square, surrounded by historic buildings and the statue of Medea. We'll then visit Piazza Square, known for its Italian-inspired architecture, cafes, and shops. Our exploration continues as we discover the Art Nouveau architecture in Batumi, walking through the area to admire the unique and artistic buildings influenced by this style. In the evening, we'll discover the iconic Ali and Nino statue, a symbol of eternal love between a Muslim Azerbaijani boy and a Christian Georgian girl. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in Batumi.

Route: Zugdidi — Private car | 130 km · 2 h 45 min Batumi

Activities: City Walking | 3 hours , Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Hotel Eiffel 3* * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Petra Fortress, Batumi Boulevard, Ali and Nino, Piazza Square, Europe Square.

Day 7 — Waterfalls, Bridges and Traditional Tunes of Adjaria

After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a journey to the Adjarian Mountains. Our first stop is the Makhuntseti Waterfall, located 32 km (about 20 miles) away, which we'll reach in approximately 1 hour. We'll then visit the medieval arched bridge of Makhuntseti, a testament to the region's rich history. Next, we head to the village of Merisi, just 35 minutes (20 km or about 12 miles) away. In the Turmanidze family's home, we will engage in a cooking workshop, learning how to prepare traditional Adjarian dishes. After the cooking session, we'll enjoy the fruits of our labor and delve into the enchanting world of Georgian polyphonic music. Our host will personally guide us in learning some traditional songs. Merisi is renowned for its beautiful views and cascades, offering a picturesque backdrop to our cultural immersion. To conclude the day, we'll immerse ourselves further in the village's age-old traditions before continuing to Khulo, 55 km (about 34 miles) away, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay in Khulo.

Route: Batumi — Private car | 55 km · 1 h 30 min Merisi — Private car | 55 km · 1 h 45 min Khulo

Activities: Hiking | 1 hours 30 minutes , Sightseeing | 1 hours , Masterclass | 2 hours , Food Tasting | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Hotel ANNA PALACE | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Makhuntseti Waterfall.

Day 8 — Ancient Rhythms and Mountain Trails of Khulo

After breakfast at the hotel, we'll engage with the residents of Khulo. A highlight of our visit is meeting Revaz Abuladze, the head of the Bermukha ensemble, and several ensemble members. Bermukha, known for its performances at festivals, preserves ancestral traditions and imparts unique dance movements in their master classes, unfamiliar to many Georgians. Following the meeting, we'll enjoy lunch and then set off for Khikhani Castle, just an hour's drive from Khulo. The ascent to the castle is a physically engaging journey, taking about an hour and a half through the mountains. The trail, while not overly challenging, offers a rewarding experience with breathtaking views from the fortress and the castle. If time allows, after returning from the castle, we may have the opportunity to meet the welcoming residents of Hihajiri village. Our day concludes back at the hotel with a delicious dinner and a comfortable overnight stay in Khulo.

Route: Khulo — 4x4 | 45 km · 2 h Khikhani Fortress — 4x4 | 45 km · 2 h Khulo

Activities: Masterclass | 2 hours , Food Tasting | 2 hours , Hiking | 1 hours , Sightseeing | 2 hours

Accommodation: Included Hotel ANNA PALACE | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Khikhani Fortress.

Day 9 — Green Lake Escapade and Gonio Fortress Visit

After breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a 1-hour drive by local SUV from Khulo, covering 24 km (about 15 miles), followed by an easy 6 km (about 3.7 miles) walk to visit Green Lake. This alpine lake in Adjara is remarkable for its changing colors in the evening and varying weather conditions. Located in the Khulo municipality, just 6 kilometers (about 3.7 miles) north of the Goderdzi pass, Green Lake offers a serene and captivating natural setting. During our journey to the lake, we'll observe the local way of life. You might encounter memtheuri, mountain dwellers who look after their livestock. After enjoying a lovely picnic by the lake, we'll head to the valley to once again appreciate the stunning views of Adjara. Before returning to Batumi, we'll visit the historic Gonio fortress. Once back in Batumi, we can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the night boulevard, have a delicious dinner, and spend our final night in Georgia at the hotel.

Route: Khulo — 4x4 | 25 km · 1 h 30 min Green Lake — Private car | 110 km · 3 h 30 min Batumi

Activities: Sightseeing | 3 hours , Hiking | 1 hours 30 minutes

Accommodation: Included Hotel Eiffel 3* * Or similar | Hotel | Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: included, dinner: not included

Guide: Full day

Visited Attractions*: Gonio Fortress.

Day 10 — Batumi Farewell and Homeward Bound

Our last day starts with a farewell breakfast in Batumi. We reminisce about our journey through Georgia's diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. With memories of scenic vistas, historical insights, and warm hospitality, we head to Batumi airport for our departure, carrying a piece of Georgia in our hearts.

Route: Batumi

Accommodation: Not Included

Meals: breakfast: included, lunch: not included, dinner: not included

Guide: Half day

Our tour program's list of attractions is a guide, not exhaustive. Unlisted sites may be visited, and listed ones might be viewed from a distance. Conditions like operating hours, weather, or local rules may affect access. Thank you for your understanding.

Departures

July 1, 2024 — July 10, 2024 € 4,650 EUR On sale

What's included?

Accommodation

9 nights — Comfortable accommodation, private WC & shower

Meals

9 breakfasts, 7 lunch, 6 dinners.

Guide

9 days — Full day, 1 day — Half day,

Transport

Private car: ~795 km, 4x4: ~115 km. *

Activities

Sightseeing: ~16 hours, Masterclass: ~9 hours 30 minutes, Event Celebration: ~5 hours, Hiking: ~4 hours, Food Tasting: ~4 hours, City Walking: ~11 hours, Wine Tasting: ~2 hours, Canyoning: ~1 hours. *

Additionally included

All master classes mentioned, Wine tastings.

Not included

Plane tickets, Personal expenses and tips, Travel insurance.

The provided measures of total kilometers for transport, duration of guide services, and activities in our tour program are approximate and may vary depending on the program flow and terrain conditions. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of these numbers, please note that they are intended as estimates. We make every effort to provide the most precise information possible to give you an idea of the overall tour experience.

Note

Guide services can be provided in different languages, depending on the preferences of the group.
Please note that the indicated price is based on a group size of 8 participants. If the group size is smaller, the price can be adjusted accordingly.
If you're interested in extending the tour for more days, please let us know, and we'll be happy to provide options and prices upon request.

Equipment & Checklist

During the summer months (June to August), temperatures in the lower parts of Georgia can range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), so it's important to pack accordingly.

Here's a comprehensive checklist for your summer trip to the lower parts of Georgia:

Accommodation

The accommodations in this tour offer a mix of traditional charm and modern conveniences, primarily in good and clean 2-3 star hotels with private facilities, with some nights spent in small, locally-run hotels or home-stays with shared facilities. All accommodations are located in excellent central locations. If a hotel name is marked with "* or similar," it means a similar hotel of equivalent or higher class may be provided based on tour dates, group size, and hotel availability. The itinerary section of the program description will specify the exact type of accommodation for each day.

Meals

Eating is an integral part of travel, and with Georgia.to, you will have the opportunity to savor the delicious cuisine that Georgia has to offer. While breakfast is included, some lunches and dinners may be held at local restaurants, giving you the flexibility to choose where, what, and with whom you want to eat. Although meals are not typically included in the trip price, food is generally inexpensive, with an average cost of 10-15 euros per person for dinner or lunch, including drinks. However, our group often eats together to allow for a diverse taste of dishes and for the enjoyment of each other's company, though this is not a requirement.

Transport

In this tour, all transportation is private and tailored to your group's needs. Depending on the size of the group, transportation options can range from a car, a mini-van, or a minibus. In areas with challenging road conditions, a 4x4 vehicle may be used to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. With private transport, you will have the flexibility to customize your itinerary and move around at your own pace.

Guides

Our group tour leaders are the most experienced and knowledgeable individuals with excellent English language skills. If the common language of the group is different, we can provide guides in other foreign languages by coordinating with our travel assistant team. The guide will be available to the group for the entire duration of the trip, and their exact availability is marked in the Itinerary section of the program for each day. Please refer to the Itinerary section to know how long the guide will be available on each day.

Money

In Georgia, the currency is the Georgian Lari (GEL). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. Small exchange offices are omnipresent throughout Georgia and offer competitive exchange rates. Your guide will be able to advise you on the best place to exchange money, as exchange rates may vary depending on the location. You can also check the current exchange rates on www.xe.com

Bank cards are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and shops, but it is advisable to have some cash as a backup, in case there are issues with local ATM machines or credit cards. However, it is possible that in remote villages, bank cards may not be accepted, so it is best to have some cash on hand. The most widely accepted cards are Visa and MasterCard. We recommend exchanging only small amounts of money at a time, as exchange rates can fluctuate frequently. It is also advisable to inform your bank in advance of your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions.

Tipping

The Georgia.to travel team, including guides, drivers, cooks, etc., are paid a fair wage and do not expect tips. If you choose to leave a gratuity as a way of expressing your satisfaction, please note that damaged or adhesive coins or banknotes cannot be exchanged. Tips can be left at your discretion in envelopes. In restaurants, it is customary to leave 5-10% as a tip.

Health

For your health and safety, it's important to be in good health before traveling to Georgia. Consult with a doctor or travel medicine specialist for recommended vaccines and preventive measures. To prevent insect bites and follow food safety measures, it's best to drink only bottled or treated water and be mindful of what you eat.

Bring enough of your prescription medicine and ensure that it is legal in Georgia if you have a pre-existing medical condition. A basic first-aid kit, including pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, and insect repellent, is also recommended in case of minor illnesses or injuries.

While Georgia has modern medical facilities in cities like Tbilisi and Batumi, it's still wise to have travel insurance in case of unexpected medical expenses. There are no specific health requirements for this trip, but it's important to prioritize your health and safety while traveling.

Visa Requirements for Georgia

Visa requirements for Georgia for foreign citizens vary depending on the country of origin. Citizens of most countries are eligible for a visa-free entry to Georgia for stays of up to one year. However, some countries require a pre-arranged visa, which can be obtained from a Georgian embassy or consulate. It is recommended to check the specific visa requirements for your country of origin before traveling to Georgia. Here is a short list of countries with citizens that do not need a visa to enter Georgia for a stay up to one year:

EU countries, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, Spain, France, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and more. Switzerland, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Israel, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico etc.

Please find the exhaustive information on the Ministry of Foreign Affaires of Georgia website: https://www.geoconsul.gov.ge/

Dress Code

When visiting Georgia, it is important to be mindful of the local customs and dress codes, especially when entering religious buildings. In such places, it is expected that visitors dress modestly with women covering their heads and legs. Shorts and skirts above the knee are usually not allowed. Outside of religious buildings, there is a more casual and relaxed dress code with no specific restrictions, and visitors are free to wear what they prefer. It is worth noting that Georgia is a modern and European-influenced country, so visitors may encounter a mix of styles from traditional and contemporary.

Laundry

Laundry service is available at the majority of our hotels for a reasonable fee, usually around 10 euros or less per load. If you need this service, please speak to your guide in advance to arrange it.

Safety and Security

Georgia is considered one of the safest countries in the world and visitors can generally feel safe while exploring the country. Crime rates, including pickpocketing, are low and tourists can move around freely without major concerns for their safety. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of one's surroundings in busy areas.

Emergency Contact

In case of any emergencies, we are available for support. During office hours (Tbilisi time), you can reach us at +995 591 257 715 for any urgent questions. Additionally, upon booking, you will be provided with a 24/7 personnel travel assistant for the duration of your trip. They will be available to assist you with any needs or concerns.

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Last update: May 6, 2024, 4:42 p.m.