In Georgia, you can find everything you need, from the snowy Caucasus Mountains to thousands-year-old unique forests, wide, lush green valleys, the deepest cave in the world, and ancient architecture of medieval churches carved in cliffs. The coastal areas offer diverse wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and various bird species.
Hiking in the Caucasus MountainsGeorgia’s natural beauty is not limited to its national and water parks. The country offers various outdoor adventures and activities catering to all interests and skill levels visitors.
Hiking in the Caucasus Mountains offers the most breathtaking outdoor experience in Georgia. Adventure seekers can explore national parks, remote trails, hidden gems and ancient villages surrounded by vast mountain landscapes and thousand-years trees. The region is perfect for seasoned trekkers and beginners.
Ushba Trail, Svaneti
- Location: Svaneti, around 470 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season: The summer and early autumn (June to October);
- Access Fee: Free;
If you like hiking, the Ushba Trail is the way to go. You’ll be surrounded by forests and views of one of Georgia’s most beautiful highlands. This trail is about nature wander and Svaneti’s history. You can stop by small mountain villages and see waterfalls.
Ushba Mountain is known as one of the most challenging climbs in Europe.
- Tips:
- The best time to stop over is from June to September;
- Grab hiking poles and proper gear, as some sections are steep and rocky;
Chaukhi Pass, Kazbegi
- Location: Kazbegi National Park, 150 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season: From late spring to early autumn (May to October);
- Access Fee: Free;
If you want a challenged hike, Chaukhi route in Kazbegi National Park is a must-go. This is a perfect place for a moderate trek and walk. Called the “Dolomites of the Caucasus,” this trail has stunning views of peaks and lush valleys, with falls cascading down the mountainside.
If you want to wade through nature, the lakes along the way will leave you speechless. Perfect for adventurers who want to see Georgia’s wild.
- Tips:
- Always check the weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly;
- Guides are available for rent to ensure a safe journey;
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
- Location: Borjomi, 160 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October);
- Access Fee: A small fee of approximately $2 for park maintenance;
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park is a must see for nature lovers. This park offers various trails that are suitable for family-friendly hikes. With an extensive territory of different landscapes, this park greeted hikers, cyclists, and even fishing trails enthusiasts.
Perfect for group trips this park lets you to discover Georgia’s flora and fauna, hidden lakes and gardens along the way. Trails wind through pine forests, rivers, and wildlife, including birds and deers.
- Tips:
- Pick up a trail map at the visitor center;
- Consider staying in one of the park’s huts for an unforgettable night surrounded by nature;
Skiing and Snowboarding Adventures
Georgia has some of the best winter adventures, with ski resorts catering to beginners and adrenaline-seekers. These mountainous regions are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, offering unforgettable experiences on Georgia’s snow-capped peaks.
Gudauri Ski Resort
- Location: Gudauri, 120 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season:
- Winter (December to March) for skiing and snowboarding;
- Year-around for paragliding;
- Spring and summer (April to October);
- Access Fee: A lift ticket costs around $25 per day;
Gudauri is a prime location for skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding in the Greater Caucasus Mountain range. Located just 1 one-hour drive from the historic town of Kazbegi, Gudauri offers exciting opportunities for beginners and experts.
Adventurers can try paragliding and enjoy the views while flying over Georgian highlands. One of the best attractions for adrenaline junkies.
- Tips:
- Early booking is advised during peak season (December to March);
- Take a guided snowmobile tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride;
Water Sports: Boat Tour and Rafting
For water-based outdoor adventures in Georgia, white water rafting and kayaking provide thrilling experiences in the state’s rushing rivers and scenic lakes.
Rafting on the Aragvi River
- Location: Aragvi River, about 90 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) for rafting;
- Access Fee: Rafting tours range from $30-$50 per person;
For a water adventure of a kind rafting on Aragvi River is a must. The Aragvi River offers excellent conditions for beginners and experienced rafters.
Paddle through canyons and mountain scenery while guiding the river’s rapids surrounded by untouched nature. Great activity for thrill seekers to explore Georgian wild waters. The river is also perfect if you like fishing and exploring remote nature spots.
- Tips:
- Wear appropriate water shoes and bring a change of clothes;
- Guided tours often include safety gear;
Kayaking on Lake Paravani
- Location: Paravani Lake, 150 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season: Summer and early autumn (June to September) for kayaking;
- Access Fee: Kayak rentals start at $15 per hour;
Lake Paravani is the biggest lake in Georgia and a heaven for kayakers. Surrounded by highlands and wilderness it’s the perfect place to relax and cast a fishing line or just enjoy the nature.
Whether you are visiting for history or just to enjoy the nature this lake is a quiet escape from the city life. You can also walk along the lake’s shore to enjoy the scenic views and birdwatching.
- Tips:
- Bring binoculars for bird watching and be prepared for cooler temperatures as the lake sits at a high altitude;
Climbing and Rock Adventures in National Parks
Climbing enthusiasts will find Georgia’s rugged terrain the perfect place for both beginner and extreme rock climbing.
Ushba Peak Climbing
- Location: Svaneti, 470 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season: Ushba Peak is best climbed in the summer (July to September);
- Access Fee: Free, but a guide is recommended;
For serious mountaineers Ushba Peak is the ultimate challenge. One of the most difficult peaks to climb in the Caucasus it’s a thrill for experts looking for a big adventure. The climb offers breathtaking views and sense of achievement that few other highlands can give.
- Tips:
- This is not for beginners;
- Always hire a guide and ensure proper climbing gear;
Chaukhi Climbing
- Location: Kazbegi, 150 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season: Late spring to early autumn (June to September) for climbing;
- Access Fee: Free;
Chaukhi, also known as the “Georgia Dolomites,” is a favorite among rock climbers. With its vertical cliffs and stunning views, it’s the ideal place to test your climbing skills. This area is a hidden gem for climbers, with many routes for all levels.
- Tips:
- Best visited in summer when conditions are more favorable for climbing;
Paragliding and Aerial Adventures
Experience the thrill of paragliding over Georgia’s diverse landscapes, which offer unforgettable views of the highlands and sea.
Paragliding in Gudauri
- Location: Gudauri, 120 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season: Summer and autumn (May to October);
- Access Fee: Paragliding costs around $80 for a tandem flight;
Paragliding is one of the most exciting ways to see Georgia. In Gudauri, paragliders fly over snow highlands and valleys. Flights take off from the Gudauri ski resort and are available year-round.
- Tips:
- Wear warm clothing even in summer, as temperatures drop significantly at high altitudes;
- Flights are weather-dependent, so plan flexibly;
Paragliding in Batumi
- Location: Batumi, 370 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season: Summer and early autumn (June to October);
- Access Fee: Tandem flights start at $70;
Glide along the coast of the Black Sea, with the city of Batumi and the lush coastline stretching out below. The perfect activity for those looking for an aerial view of the coastal beauty.
- Tips:
- Flights over the sea offer a different experience compared to mountain flying, and it’s a great activity to add to a summer trip;
Cycling and Mountain Biking
Georgia’s diverse terrain offers countless cycling routes, from mountain cycling in Svaneti to gentle coastal rides along the Black Sea.
Mountain Biking in Svaneti
- Location: Svaneti, 470 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season to Visit: Summer and early autumn (June to October);
- Access Fee: Free;
Mountain cycling in Svaneti is another exciting adventure for speed and nature lovers. The trails here are not for weak-hearted travelers.
Cycle through the UNESCO-listed villages of Mestia and Ushguli, passing rugged mountain scenery, rivers, and ancient stone towers.
- Tips:
- The terrain can be challenging, so ensure you’re prepared for steep climbs and descents. Bike rentals and guided tours are available;
Cycling in Batumi
- Location: Batumi, 370 km from Tbilisi;
- Best Season to Visit: Spring and autumn (April-May, September-October);
- Entrance Fee: Bike rentals start at $10 per day;
Batumi’s coastal alley is a ideal place for a leisurely bike ride, with views of the Black Sea and plenty of cafes to stop at along the way. You can also walk along the coastal promenade to enjoy the views and cafes.
- Tips:
- Batumi’s flat terrain makes it ideal for family trips;
- Don’t forget to take a boat ride to spot dolphins along the coast;
Come to Georgia
Georgia has something for every adventurer. Whether you’re hiking the Caucasus Highlands, skiing down mountains, rafting rivers, or paragliding over waterfalls, this country has it all.
No matter the season Georgia’s natural beauty and history will give you an experience you’ll never forget.