Private Tour to Bakuriani Ski Resort and the Legendary Borjomi

Experience the Charm of Georgia’s Mountain Gems with a Private Tour to Bakuriani and Borjomi

Traveling through Georgia, you quickly realize that this country offers more than just its historic cities — it boasts stunning mountain scenery, legendary mineral waters, and a welcoming atmosphere. This private day trip from Tbilisi promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural charm, taking you from the bustling capital into the heart of its pristine natural landscapes. We’ve looked into this tour and found it’s a well-balanced way to see some of Georgia’s most iconic mountain resorts, with plenty of authentic experiences along the way.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on scenic train rides and free time to explore at your own pace, offering a genuine glimpse of local life and natural beauty. The well-paced itinerary ensures you get a taste of everything — from snowy slopes to healing waters — without feeling rushed. One potential drawback? If you’re hoping for a fully guided experience with detailed commentary at each stop, this tour might not meet that expectation, as reviews suggest there’s limited guiding at certain points.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural stops, and scenic journeys — perfect for those visiting Georgia for the first time and eager to explore beyond Tbilisi’s city streets.

Key Points

• Scenic train ride offers a charming way to experience the Georgian mountains.
• Flexible experience with free time for skiing, walking, or relaxing.
• Authentic local visits like Borjomi’s mineral waters and Seraphim Sarov Temple.
• Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth, hassle-free day.
• Pricing offers good value for a full-day, curated mountain experience.
• Limited guided commentary may mean you’ll explore more independently.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Let’s break down what you can expect from this full-day adventure, and why it’s worth considering for your Georgian itinerary.

The Convenient Pickup and Itinerary Start

The day begins early, with a pickup at 7:30 am in Tbilisi, which means you won’t need to worry about navigating public transport or car rentals. The tour is designed to be private, so only your group will participate, allowing for a relaxed, personalized experience. The first stop is Borjomi Central Park, where you’ll hop onto the adorable “Kukushka” train, a narrow-gauge railway that’s a highlight of this trip.

The Charm of Borjomi’s Cuckoo Train

The Kukushka train is more than just transportation — it’s an experience that takes you through lush landscapes and offers excellent photo opportunities. Passengers often comment on how charming and efficient it is. At just $2 for the ticket, it’s a small price for a scenic ride that’s central to the journey. One reviewer appreciated the time to enjoy the views and remarked, “The tour guide was very friendly and gave us plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful views.”

Moving to Bakuriani — a Mountain Wonderland

After reaching Borjomi, you’ll board the train for the narrow-gauge railway to Bakuriani. This part of the trip is especially favored by travelers who love mountain scenery and fresh air. Surrounded by fabulous mountains, crystal-clear air, and tall pine forests, Bakuriani is renowned as one of Georgia’s most beautiful ski resorts. The fact that it’s protected from harsh frosts by its natural surroundings makes it a year-round destination, with around 210 days of sunshine annually.

The three hours spent here allow for a variety of activities. You might opt to try winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding if you’re feeling adventurous. Alternatively, a leisurely walk in the sun-dappled valleys and alpine air can be just as rewarding. One reviewer noted that “the sunny activities of the ‘sunny valley’” made it a peaceful retreat, with cold but invigorating air that keeps you alert and refreshed.

Exploring Bakuriani’s Winter Sports Scene

While some travelers may be eager to hit the slopes, others appreciate the opportunity just to breathe in the crisp mountain air. The resort’s natural protection from extreme cold means that even in winter, it’s a comfortable place to be outdoors. If you’re not into winter sports, simply wandering around the town and soaking in the scenery can be a treat. The balance of free time to explore versus guided elements is well-maintained.

The Cultural and Natural Highlights in Borjomi

After your mountain adventure, you return to Borjomi town, famous for its world-renowned mineral waters. Visiting Borjomi Central Park provides a relaxing finale to your day, allowing you to taste the legendary waters and walk among lush greenery. The central park offers a peaceful setting to reflect on your day and enjoy nature away from the city noise. One traveler mentioned that “it was a great experience,” appreciating the chance to unwind in this tranquil environment.

Authentic Local Experiences and Tips

Throughout the tour, you’ll get a glimpse of local life, especially during the train rides, which are popular among travelers for their nostalgic charm. The guides are friendly and accommodating, offering useful information, though at times they may not be as detailed as some travelers might hope. The admission tickets for Borjomi park and Kukushka train are reasonably priced, adding to the overall value.

Practical Aspects and Value

Considering the $105 per person price point, this tour offers good value, especially when you factor in transportation, the scenic train rides, and the opportunity to explore multiple highlights in one day. The 12-hour duration is perfect for a full experience without feeling overly long. The air-conditioned vehicles make for comfortable transfers, especially if the weather is chilly.

The tour’s flexibility is a plus — it’s private, so your group can tailor activities to your preferences. However, if guided commentary is your priority, be aware that not all stops include detailed guides, as some reviews have pointed out.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers the transportation and guide service, but there’s no included lunch or entrance fees for Borjomi park or Kukushka train, which are minimal costs. This approach lets you customize your experience — you might enjoy bringing snacks or planning a sit-down meal in Borjomi town.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Flexibility

If your plans change, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. This provides some peace of mind, especially if your travel dates are not yet firm.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for outdoor lovers and culture seekers alike. If you’re eager to see Georgia’s mountain landscapes and experience its legendary mineral waters, this tour checks those boxes. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy scenic train rides and don’t mind some independent exploration. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a hassle-free way to see two of Georgia’s most famous mountain destinations will find this tour appealing.

However, if you prefer guided tours with detailed historical commentary or want to spend more time skiing, you might want to consider other options. This tour emphasizes scenic beauty and relaxed exploration over in-depth guided storytelling.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Bakuriani and Borjomi offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and scenic train rides. It’s a fantastic way to escape the city and learn about Georgia’s mountain scenery, with enough flexibility to customize your experience. The combination of stunning views, authentic local stops, and comfortable transport makes it a solid value for travelers wanting an authentic, memorable day out.

While the lack of detailed guiding at some stops might be a downside for history buffs or those craving in-depth commentary, the overall experience delivers genuine moments of awe and relaxation. The tour’s best features are its scenic train journeys, friendly guides, and the chance to see Georgia’s iconic mountain landscapes up close.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, this trip offers a taste of Georgia’s natural and cultural treasures — a perfect day to add to your Georgian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a tailored, relaxed experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and ending in the evening.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have free time in Borjomi to find a place to eat or bring your own snacks.

How much do the train tickets cost?
The Kukushka train ticket costs around $2, and the Borjomi park entrance is also a small fee, making the overall costs quite affordable.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transfer vehicles are air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day.

Can I customize the activities during the free time?
While the itinerary is fixed, the free time allows you to choose between skiing, walking, or relaxing, depending on your interests.

This detailed review highlights what makes this tour a worthwhile choice for travelers eager to explore Georgia’s natural beauty with ease and comfort.