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Serene landscape of Western Georgia with rolling green hills, grazing horses, and traditional rural countryside

Polyphony of Western Georgia

A 12-day trip through the diverse landscapes and lesser-known cultural sites of Western Georgia. Venture into the Racha region to experience traditional polyphony amid alpine villages and lakes.

A 12-day expedition through the diverse landscapes and lesser-known cultural sites of Western Georgia. Venture into the Racha region to experience traditional polyphony amid alpine villages and lakes. Discover the green hills of Guria, with its ancient churches, natural hot springs, and coastal foothills. From Imereti's historical sites and winemaking to the spa town of Sairme and the natural sites around Borjomi, this journey offers real encounters with local crafts, food traditions, and scenery across Georgia's west.

Your Journey Unfolds

Day 1: Ancient Capitals & Racha Mountains

The journey begins in Tbilisi and continues to Mtskheta, Georgia's ancient spiritual capital, home to Jvari Monastery and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. The road then leads to Gori, where you stop before ascending into the highlands. Visit the Akaki Tsereteli House Museum in Skhvitori, then continue through the village of Shkmeri to Utsera.

Overnight: Utsera. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Historic Jvari Monastery with traditional Georgian stone architecture and distinctive red tile roof in Mtskheta

Day 2: Alpine Villages & Local Culture

Board 4x4 vehicles for a trip into Racha's alpine villages of Chiora, Ghebi, and Gona. Meet locals and see traditional cheese making, then hike through the mountain landscape. In the evening, enjoy Georgian polyphony during dinner in Oni before returning to Utsera.

Overnight: Utsera. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Racha Exploration & Wine Tasting

Travel further into Racha, visiting the historic Synagogue in Oni and continuing to Mravaldzali. Have lunch in Khvanchkara paired with a tasting of the region's famous semi-sweet wine. Visit Nikortsminda church before arriving near Shaori Lake.

Overnight: Shaori Area. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Wine Tasting

Layered mountain vista with atmospheric perspective from Mravaldzali viewpoint showing Racha region peaks

Day 4: Scenic Forest Drive & Hilltop Church / Adventure Options

Travel from the Shaori area toward Chelishi and the source of the Shareula River. A drive and hike lead to the ruins of Leknari St. George, a hilltop church with panoramic views. Enjoy a packed lunch in nature. If weather or road conditions prevent the visit, alternative options include jeep driving, horseback riding, or rafting. Continue to Ambrolauri for dinner before returning to the Shaori area.

Overnight: Shaori Area. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Box), Dinner

Day 5: Viewpoints, Winemaking & Tea

From the Shaori area, travel to the Tskhrajvari Viewpoint, with an option to hike to the top for wider views. Descend into the Imereti region to visit a local winemaker in Dzirovani for lunch with regional wines. Visit an organic tea plantation in Satsire for a tasting. The day ends in Kutaisi.

Overnight: Kutaisi. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Wine Tasting, Tea Tasting

Georgian tea plantation workers harvesting leaves with dramatic limestone cliffs and mountain backdrop

Day 6: Kutaisi City & Caves

Explore Kutaisi on a morning walking tour, seeing the White Bridge, the Opera House, the first school, and other landmarks. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gelati Monastery. Have lunch with local Imeretian cuisine, then travel to Tskaltubo to see Prometheus Cave and the historic Sanatoriums. Return to Kutaisi for dinner.

Overnight: Kutaisi. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Interior of Prometheus Cave showing impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations with underground lighting

Day 7: Canyons, Springs & Guria's Hills

Leave Kutaisi for the green region of Guria, stopping to see Martvili Canyon. Visit the historical site of Nokalakevi, with time to relax at its natural hot springs. Enjoy a Megrelian lunch en route before continuing to Shemokmedi for dinner and the night.

Overnight: Shemokmedi Area. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

View through ancient stone ruins of Nokalakevi fortress looking out to turquoise river and canyon landscape

Day 8: Guria's Heritage & Mountain Views

Explore Guria's cultural and natural sites, including the ancient Achi Saint George Church and the historic Likhauri Fortress. Enjoy lunch with local Gurian specialties and fresh trout, then visit a tea plantation in Ozurgeti for a tasting. In the afternoon, ascend to Gomis Mta for mountain views and sunset. Return to Shemokmedi for dinner.

Overnight: Shemokmedi Area. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spectacular sunset view above sea of clouds from Gomis Mta peak in Guria region with mountain silhouettes

Day 9: Archaeology, Wine & Spa Resort

Leave Guria for the spa town of Sairme. Visit the Vani Archaeological Museum with a local guide to learn about ancient Colchian history. Have lunch with wine tasting at a winery in Vartsikhe. Arrive in Sairme for the evening, with dinner at your accommodation.

Overnight: Sairme. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Sairme Explorations or Rest

A free day in the mountain spa resort of Sairme. Enjoy the mineral waters, spa treatments, or explore the surroundings. Optional hiking trails are available. All meals are included at your accommodation.

Overnight: Sairme. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Serene forest river scene with pine trees and mountains around Sairme spa resort in peaceful natural setting

Day 11: Pottery, Frescoes & Borjomi

Leave the spa resort for the Imereti region. See a pottery and qvevri-making demonstration in Shrosha, and have lunch nearby. Visit the historic Ubisa Monastery to see its frescoes. Continue to the spa town of Borjomi for the evening.

Overnight: Borjomi. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12: Explore Borjomi and surrounding area & Departure

Explore the Borjomi area, starting with the historic Atskuri Fortress. Take a guided hike in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. Learn to make Khachapuri in Rakraka and enjoy it for lunch. Drive back to Tbilisi in the late afternoon, concluding the tour.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Forested hillside with autumn colors in Borjomi National Park showing diverse Georgian mountain ecosystem

Your Journey Includes

  • Twelve days of private transportation with a professional driver
  • Expert English-speaking guide throughout
  • Nine Nights in 4-Star Hotels and two nights in an authentic, comfortable Guesthouse
  • Daily breakfasts, 10 lunches, and 10 dinners with local specialties
  • All entrance fees to sites, museums, and parks listed in the itinerary
  • Guided visits to cultural landmarks, rural workshops, historical sites, and nature areas
  • Special local experiences such as a polyphony performance and wine/tea tastings

Essential Details

Physical Activity:Level 3 • Moderate
Seasonal Availability:April through October
Accommodation:4-Star Hotels and a charming guesthouse in rural Shemokmedi
Extensions Available:Customizable upon request