Explore Wild Georgia: 8-Day 4WD Self-Drive Across the Caucasus

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Tbilisi
1 stop
1
If time allows, explore Tbilisi’s highlights: the Narikala Fortress, Metekhi Church, the iconic Bridge of Peace, Rustaveli Avenue, and the lively flea market with its eclectic mix of Soviet relics and curiosities. Take a scenic cable car ride to the hills above the city for panoramic views, visit the statue of Mother Georgia, and stroll back down to the Old Town—a charming maze of narrow streets, colorful balconies, ancient churches, and hidden courtyards.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
The First Taste of the Caucasus and Off-Roading
1 stop
2
Mtskheta
Pick up the SUV 4x4 and set off for an exciting introduction to the ridges around the Caucasus capital, Tbilisi. Journey off-road to Lake Sioni, enjoying panoramic views of the Lower and Higher Caucasus and your first encounter with Georgian churches. Then visit Mtskheta, the ancient capital, where you’ll explore the sacred Church of Sveti Tsakheli, known as the "Tree of Life." Take in the stunning view from Jabri Monastery, overlooking the confluence of the Mtkvari and Arkavi rivers, the ancient capital itself, and the nearby Jabri Church and Church of the Cross. End the day with a lively dinner at a Tbilisi restaurant featuring traditional Georgian cuisine and a vibrant folklore band, complete with dancing and entertainment.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
To Volcanic Ridges, Lakes, and the Azeri “Paradise”
1 stop
3
General direction: west. Enjoy a day of scenic driving on side roads and off-road routes deep into the basalt plateau landscape among the volcanic cones of the “Lower” Caucasus. This diverse agricultural region features unique human landscapes. Depart from Tbilisi, passing typical Armenian villages in fertile valleys before continuing off-road to climb the basalt plateau at over 3,000 meters. Along the way, watch raptors soaring above, discover scenic crater lakes, small streams perfect for dipping your feet, flocks of sheep grazing, and nomadic Azeri tents dotting the landscape. The route passes by Lake Tsalka and Lake Tevachkuri, about half of it on paved roads.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Around Bakuriani in the Heart of the Caucasus Forests
1 stop
4
A short driving day filled with varied experiences: off-road trails, dense forests, local home visits, an easy nature walk, and a visit to a naturally heated geothermal swimming pool. Travel off-road between villages of the Lower Caucasus, navigating loggers' trails, remote villages, and stream crossings. Stop at Borjomi Park for a scenic hike—about 30 to 40 minutes—to the hot geothermal pool.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Journey Across Basalt Plateaus: Vardzia Caves and Rabati Fortress
1 stop
5
Vardzia
Off-road to the Cave City of Vardzia, a day blending driving and walking across high basalt plateaus. Visit a local market, climb to explore the ancient cave city’s rooms and secret passageways, then continue driving along the winding canyon of the Mtkvari River. Also visit the restored 9th-century Akhaltsikhe Fortress (Rabati).
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
From Bakuriani to Gudauri
1 stop
6
Head east and north to the High Caucasus, enjoying swims in lakes and driving the famous Military Road. Travel east via the main route to Gori, stopping at Stalin’s Museum, including his birthplace, statue, and famous train car. Then take an off-road trail from Gori to Lake Nadrazby, passing Soviet-era collective farms and views of the Uplistsikhe cave city and a lake amid agricultural fields. Visit the Lake Zhinvali Dam, which supplies water and hydroelectric power to Tbilisi, and the charming Church of Ana Nori on the shores of Lake Zhinvali. Don’t miss the confluence of the Black and White Aragvi Rivers, where their distinct colors flow side by side. Arrive in Gudauri.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Around Mount Kazbek, Truso Gorge & Cooking Workshop
1 stop
7
Mount Kazbek/ Mqinvartsveri
Enjoy one of the trip’s most beautiful days, featuring stunning overlooks, iconic churches, deep off-road canyons, steep climbs, and short hikes to waterfalls, topped off with a Georgian cooking class. Visit the impressive “Friendship” Monument on the Georgian Military Road, built in 1983 to celebrate 200 years of Georgian-Russian friendship. Explore the breathtaking Gergeti Trinity Church (Holy Trinity), a renowned Caucasus landmark. Take an off-road drive to the waterfalls near the Russian border for a scenic hike, then head through the Trousseau River gorge with its underground canyon and unique travertine springs. End the day with a Georgian cooking workshop where you’ll learn to make traditional khachapuri and khinkali.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Off-Road to the Rusty Spring & Return to Tbilisi
1 stop
8
Return to Tbilisi via the Military Road, enjoying a final taste of the High Caucasus. Take a short off-road drive to the “Rusty Spring” and explore the nearby villages nestled between the mountain ranges. Conclude your journey back in Tbilisi, where you’ll hand over the SUV at Tbilisi Airport and take your flight home. End of trip.
10 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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