13 km hiking tour from Kutaisi to Borjomi

Exploring Georgia’s Outdoors: A 13 km Hike from Kutaisi to Borjomi

Taking a 13 km hike from Kutaisi to Borjomi offers a compelling way to experience Georgia’s stunning landscapes beyond the usual tourist spots. This guided group tour combines physical activity, cultural highlights, and scenic vistas, making it ideal for travelers who love a bit of adventure paired with authentic local experiences.

One of the standout features of this tour is the opportunity to taste Nazuki, a traditional Georgian sweet bread, in Surami. The chance to see how it’s made adds a personal touch that immerses you in local traditions. Plus, the hike within the Borjom-Kharagauli National Park promises lush scenery and mountain tranquility.

A potential consideration is the length and elevation of the hike — with 14 hours total and a significant elevation change (+1,400m/-1,500m), it’s best suited for those in good physical condition. If you’re after a relaxed day of sightseeing, this might be a bit intense, but for fit hikers, it’s a rewarding challenge.

This tour appeals most to active travelers, nature lovers, and those interested in exploring Georgia’s natural parks with a guided local expert. It’s perfect if you value a mix of adventure, cultural insight, and the chance to escape into the mountains.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Tasting: You’ll get to try Georgia’s famous Nazuki bread and see how it’s made.
• Scenic Hike: The trail in Borjom-Kharagauli National Park offers stunning mountain views and lush nature.
• Comprehensive Day: From early morning start to late evening return, you’ll experience multiple stops and sights.
• Guided Experience: An English-speaking guide enhances the journey with insights and safety tips.
• Physical Challenge: The hike’s elevation (+1,400m/-1,500m) makes it suitable for those in good shape.
• Value for Money: The price covers transportation, guiding, and park permits — a straightforward package for adventurers.

The Experience in Detail

Starting from Kutaisi at 09:00, the tour kicks off with a short bus ride to Surami, a town well-known for its tasty Nazuki bread. This part of the journey provides an authentic Georgian snack stop, where the guides demonstrate how Nazuki is made, and travelers get to sample fresh pieces. Reviewers highlight that this is a pleasant, comforting start, and many mention how friendly the guides are and how the bread tastes even better when you see it being baked.

Next, you’ll hop into a van for a roughly 3.5-hour drive through scenic Georgian countryside, heading toward Borjomi. This leg is an opportunity to relax, enjoy the landscape, and chat with fellow hikers. The group size typically remains manageable, making conversations easy and the atmosphere friendly.

Arriving at the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Visitor Center, you’ll need to obtain a permit for the hike, a straightforward process facilitated by your guide. This step ensures you’re prepared for the trail ahead and adds a layer of official support to your adventure. Many reviews note that the staff here are approachable and helpful, setting a positive tone for the hike.

The core of the tour is a 7-hour guided hike along the Footprints trail (or similar routes if unavailable). The path meanders through dense forests, open mountain meadows, and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. The trail is graded as moderate, but with significant elevation gain and loss, hikers should be comfortable with mountain terrain. Reviewers often mention that the scenery is “breathtaking” and that the trail feels both rewarding and invigorating.

Lunchtime is self-managed — you’ll need to bring your own packed meal. This is common on guided hikes, and some travelers note that a hearty sandwich, fruit, and plenty of water work best. The guide may make recommendations based on the group’s pace and needs.

After completing the trail, the group is transported back by van for the roughly 3.5-hour drive to Kutaisi. The return journey is a nice time to reflect, share photos, and swap stories. Most travelers arrive back in the city around 22:00, tired but satisfied.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour price covers transportation and guiding services, making it a hassle-free way to explore Georgia’s mountains without worrying about logistics. Simply bring your hiking shoes (a must for comfort and safety), a packed lunch, and a sense of adventure. The guides recommend good shoes for the uneven terrain and suggest bringing layers since mountain weather can change quickly.

The Value of the Experience

While the journey is long, the value lies in the combination of guided exploration, authentic Georgian culinary experiences, and breathtaking nature. For approximately a full day of activity, the price offers a comprehensive package — transportation, permits, and a guide — which is often more economical than piecing together separate tours or transport options yourself.

The reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, who seem to strike a good balance between informative commentary and allowing space for personal reflection or quiet moments.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect if you’re in good physical shape and love outdoor activities. It’s suitable for those seeking a meaningful hike in Georgia’s mountains, combined with local cultural highlights like Nazuki tasting. If you enjoy guided tours with a social element and don’t mind a full day of activity, you’ll find this to be a worthwhile experience. However, less active travelers or those with mobility issues might find the elevation and length challenging.

Final Thoughts

This 13 km hike from Kutaisi to Borjomi is a fantastic way to get off the beaten path and experience Georgia’s natural beauty firsthand. The combination of scenic mountain views, cultural treats, and expert guidance makes it a well-rounded adventure. The long day might be tiring, but the sense of achievement and the memories of stunning landscapes will stay long after.

For travelers who love outdoor pursuits and are ready for a physical challenge, this tour offers excellent value, authentic experiences, and a glimpse into Georgia’s wilderness that’s hard to match. It’s best for active, nature-minded travelers who want to explore beyond the city and enjoy a full day in the mountains.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Not quite — the hike covers 13 km with significant elevation (+1,400m / -1,500m). You should be in good shape and comfortable with mountain terrain to enjoy it fully.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, guiding service, and park permits. You’ll need to bring your own packed lunch, hiking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

How long does the entire day last?
From 09:00 departure to arriving back in Kutaisi around 22:00, the tour lasts approximately 14 hours, so be prepared for a full day of activity.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans shift.

What if Footprints trail isn’t available?
The guides will select other trails of similar difficulty and scenery, ensuring you still get a rewarding hike.

Is there any special gear I should bring?
Yes, comfortable hiking shoes are essential, and a packed lunch is required since there’s no scheduled meal stop during the hike.

Are there any age restrictions?
The information doesn’t specify age limits, but given the physical demands, children or older adults should assess their fitness level before booking.

This guided hike from Kutaisi to Borjomi offers a balanced mix of challenge, culture, and natural beauty. It’s an adventure that’s well-suited for those eager to experience Georgia’s mountains firsthand and soak up its authentic charm.