Search Results

In a world increasingly conscious of environmental impact, Georgia’s tourism industry is trying to follow sustainable practices. This article delves into how this small yet vibrant country is moving towards eco-friendly tourism. At the heart of Georgia’s tourism sector are its eco-lodges and environmentally friendly hotels, utilizing sustainable technologies. These establishments are a testament to how the tourism industry can contribute positively to environmental conservation while offering unique experiences. Our tour guides in Georgia also play a big part. They offer trips that respect and protect the natural beauty and rich culture of Georgia. Georgia’s national parks also are following this sustainable movement, each offering unique experiences while fostering environmental preservation. Georgia’s national parks are not merely natural attractions; they are the heart of the country's sustainable tourism efforts. By visiting these parks, travelers contribute to preserving biodiversity and supporting local communities, all while experiencing the unique beauty and cultural richness of Georgia. For more detailed information about these parks, including travel tips, trail maps, and conservation initiatives, visit the official Georgian National Parks website at https://nationalparks.ge/en/main.

Introduction: In the heart of Georgia, something magical happens every year - it's called “Rtveli” (რთველი). It's a time when the entire nation comes together to celebrate the bountiful harvest and prepare for the art of winemaking. “Rtveli” is more than just a season; it's a cultural extravaganza that showcases the soul of Georgia. The Season of Abundance: “Rtveli” typically spans from early September to mid-October, with different regions starting at different times. During this period, vineyards across the country are cleared, and grapes are meticulously picked, each one destined for a unique journey into the world of wine. Preserving Quality: The importance of “Rtveli” cannot be overstated. It's a time of great joy and anticipation for Georgians. Winemaking plans hinge on the harvest's quantity and grape quality. For many farmers, their livelihoods depend on the prices and quantities of quality grapes. The lines at grape-selling points can stretch for hours, with dedicated farmers waiting patiently to deliver their precious cargo. A Season of Preparation: “Rtveli” requires careful planning. It involves finding a dedicated workforce to handpick the grapes on time, preparing cellars (Marani - მარანი), and ensuring that all equipment is in top condition. Weather forecasts are closely monitored, as rain can disrupt the process. The quality of the wine itself depends on factors like sunlight, so timing is critical. A Time for Family and Tradition: But “Rtveli” is not just about hard work; it's also about family and tradition. Families come together to feast, sharing traditional foods and drinks. Everyone gets involved, from the elderly to the youngest members, creating lasting bonds. Many families produce their own wine using traditional methods, like Qvevri and cysterns. The harvest season is capped off with toasts and cheers of "Gaumarjos!" After the Harvest: Once the grapes are harvested, winemaking factories swing into action. They crush as many grapes as they can, preparing supplies and wines for the upcoming year. Farmers reinvest their profits to improve vineyard care, ensuring a thriving harvest for the future. Conclusion: Harvest (“Rtveli”-რთველი) is a time of celebration, hard work, and tradition that defines Georgia's culture. It's a reminder of the nation's deep connection to the land and its commitment to producing some of the world's finest wines. With an 8000-year winemaking tradition that every Georgian is immensely proud of, harvest is not just a season; it's a living testament to the enduring spirit and heritage of our country. When you visit during “Rtveli”, you're not just witnessing a harvest; you're experiencing the heart and soul of Georgia. Cheers to “Rtveli” - a season of abundance, hard work, joy, and unforgettable memories!

In 2023, Georgia's participation in the ITB Berlin international tourism exhibition as a host country is a great opportunity to present the country's tourism destination to the whole world. With the status of the host country, Explore Georgia is given the opportunity to introduce it's touristic products to fair visitors. We are delighted to welcome you at Georgian Stand Hub 27/ Stand 201 during 7-9 March.

Georgia Stands with Ukraine! Nowadays, the aggressor country Russia, lead by its’ president Putin, implements full scale war against peaceful Ukraine. Georgia has more than 20% of its’ territory occupied by Russia (Abkhazia in 1993 and South Ossetia/Samachablo in 2008). We know the result of Russian aggression, throughout our history, very well. Explore Georgia - DMC and Incoming Tour Operator does not operate with Russian Tour Operators, Travel Agencies or FITs ever since it was founded in 2004. Our principle is simple – we can not welcome the guests of the country, that does not respect the sovereignty of neighboring countries. War lead by Russia in Ukraine has united the whole world against the aggressor. We believe, that only united we can bring peace and justice to the world. The unbelievable aggression of Russia must be stopped! In 1993 and 2008 Russia has occupied part of Georgian territory, its historical land. Now we face the same attempt in Ukraine. We can see that the will of the Putins’ regime can and definitely will go farther - Poland, Baltic states, the whole Europe, if not stopped now. By refusing working with Russian visitors, we denied any economical profit, launched to European, American, Eastern markets and big thank you to all our partners all over the world for the great support. We call all our friends, partners to join in solidarity - refusing to work with Russian market, enable the aggressor country to strengthen its’s economy through hospitality industry. Слава Україні! Glory to its’ brave people! Glory to Georgia! Join us!

Georgians are distinguished by ancient cultural characteristics and it is noteworthy, that New Year is a very precious holiday in Georgia. In any part of the country you can notice the festive mood and anticipation for this great holiday. Here is a list of the most authentic traditions: Culinary & Celebrating New Year's dishes play an important role in celebrating the event. ‘’ Supra’’, as locals call festive table is full of traditional Georgian food, such as appetizers mixed with spices, hot meat dishes and various pastries. For the main dish, you’ll find ‘’Satsivi’’, a fried turkey dish served in walnuts sauce. And finally, roasted nuts in honey, ‘’Gozinaki’’ which symbolizes sweet arrival of the New Year in every family. ‘’Tamada’’-toastmaster is in charge of leading this event, offers traditional toasts to invited guests and serves sparkling wine or any other type of alcohol. Usually, evening is accompanied by folk dances and songs to create much more national sense for celebration. Decoration The tradition of decorating Christmas pine tree, Georgians started from the 18th century. Before time Georgians were decorating Chichilaki, a mens craft. Before New Year eve, a man cuts hazelnut tree branches and put them in the water. Then they are dried in front of a stove. It is repeatedly shaved with special knife all around and curly fronds attached at the top. It is more environmentally friendly than standard Christmas tree, as it is made only from pruned branches, leaving the hazelnut trees healthy and intact. Chichilaki is a symbol of sun and is identified with the tree of life. 'Mekvle' The most important tradition of a New Year in Georgia is Mekvleoba and Mekvle – a Georgian word for the very first person, very first guest entering the family on a New Year’s night. There are numerous traditions of how to greet Mekvle – there are even special poems, songs and behavior of greeting. It is believed that the entire year’s luck, fortune, joy of the family, is depended on the kind-heartlessness of the Mekvle.

Winter is just around the corner. If you are thirsty for some healthy activities, mixed with temptations for gourmands and just a relaxed, joyful time – Georgia should be on your list. #3 - Mt. Kazbek 5058m. If you are interested in ski touring and ski mountaineering Mt. Kazbeg is the best choice you can make while visiting Georgia. Skiing season – January – March Highlights – Betlemi Hut 3691m, Stepantsminda, Gergeti Trinity Church 14th century, Gergeti glacier, Mt. Ortsveri 4258m Activities – ski mountaineering, off-piste skiing, heli-skiing Trips to Mt. Kazbek: Mountain of Prometheus; Ski Touring to Mt.Kazbek #2 - Gudauri Opened in the late 1980’s, Gudauri ski resort is the most popular winter destination for many travelers all around the world. Amazing views of high mountains, nice hotels, distance from Tbilisi(120km) – and that’s not the full list of advantages while choosing Gudauri! Skiing season: January – March Distance from Tbilisi: 120km/2.5-3hrs Highlights: Gudauri Ski Resort, Georgian Military Highway, Cross Pass 2379m, Lomisa 9-10 century monastery, Mt. Bidara 3200m, Mt. Deda Ena 3493m Available Activities: Skiing, off-piste skiing, mountaineering, ski touring, heli-skiing & snowshoeing Trips to Gudauri: Ski Touring; Heli Skiing #1 - Svaneti Located in the Northwest of Georgia, Svaneti region is one of the most interesting places you can visit in winter. High Caucasus mountains, old culture, authentic cuisine that’s not all you can explore in this beautiful part of Georgia. Skiing season – January – March Distance from Tbilisi: 470km/7-8hrs Distance from Kutaisi: 220km/4-5hrs Highlights: Tetnuldi Ski Resort, Hatsvali Ski Resort, Mestia, Ushguli (UNESCO), middle aged watchtowers, Kubdari, Mt. Ushba 4710m, Mt. Tetnuldi 4858m Activities: Skiing, snowshoeing, off-piste skiing, mountaineering, ski touring, heli-skiing Trips to Svaneti: Ski Touring; Trekking;

#5 Tobavarchkhili Lakes Lakes in Samegrelo region. The biggest lake in this area locates at 2650 m above sea level. To reach these alpine lakes one needs to follow the shepherds’ trails and feel the soul of the Egrisi mountain range during 7 days of trekking (50 km). #4 Kelitsadi Lake Located in Kazbegi municipality 3081m above the sea level is one of the highest lakes in Georgia. The top of the lake looks like a mirror - water standing still without any movement reflecting surroundings. A perfect place for travelers willing to visit truly untouched and wild nature. Getting here is only possible by foot in 3 days (24 km). #3 Abudelauri Lakes Three small colorful lakes - White, Blue and Green lakes of Abudelauri located in Mtskheta-Mtianeti region submersed deep into the great Caucasus Range. Getting here is only possible by foot or mountain bike. The trail from village Juta passes the alpine meadows, through Chaukhi pass at 3338 m above the sea level, exploring majestic mountain sceneries. Hike from Chaukhi massif to Abudelauri lakes needs a trekking time 7-8 hours | distance 12 KM. This 2-day track can be the best option to run out of the city chaos and routine, as the starting point is easily reachable by car in Just 2 hours of driving. #2 Udziro Lake The second place is also in the Racha region, the lake which is hidden in the high mountains (2800m).To visit this gorgeous place is possible only in the summer, from June till September. Udziro Lake is a small alpine lake and its name literally translates to “bottomless”. It is a 2-day unforgettable tracking (20km) experience consisted of panoramic views on the Caucasus mountain range and great landscapes on the way. #1 Shaori water reservoir in Racha Shaori water reservoir is one of the most beautiful places in Racha, especially in the autumn, when surrounding colors are incredible. Traveling to Racha means passing this gorgeous place at first and leaving the first impressions about the distinctness of the region.

#1. Mountaineering on Mt. Kazbeg 5054 m Hop on the car and within 3 hrs. you will appear in Kazbegi (Stepantsminda), center of Khevi province located north from Tbilisi. This is a beloved place for mountaineers from all over the world, as Mt. Kazbeg (5054 m.) is located right in this region. Spending only a week in Georgia, will give you a great opportunity to see and explore this beautiful part of the country. Our local, experienced mountain guides are always ready to take care of our guests and tell interesting stories while enjoying local, traditional Mokhevian dishes at local family guesthouses or at the mountain hut! For more information about the tour, please visit this link or contact us #2. Trekking in Tusheti Want to visit truly remote place with untouched nature and lifestyle? – Tusheti province is the best option. Wildflowers, middle-aged watchtowers, snowcapped mountains - this is one of the few things you will see during your journey to this beautiful province, or if you want to hear interesting myths and legends, taste meet dumplings (Khinkali) and some local beer, that are part of Tush’s (local people) lifestyle, - Then just grab your backpack and get ready for a Covid safe journey to Tusheti province – only accessible from June to September! For more information about the tour, please visit this link or contact us #3. The Lesser Caucasus If you enjoy exploring the new by cycling, then Samtskhe-Javakheti province will exceed your expectations. This is not only about fascinating landscapes, mountains, and lakes along the way, but truly unique experiences, like the first local brewery offering masterclasses of distilling beer in Qvevri (Clay Jar). Proud to say, that we were the very first company, supporting this family start-up business (who by the way already widened their services adding unique hot beer spa). From Samtskhe-Javakheti province there are possibilities to continue the trip to Black sea coast over the Goderdzi pass 2025m. Here highland villages of Adjara are scattered on the hills, each of them has a unique traditions, and subtropical flora, this route, through Upper Adjara, creates amazing conditions for biking, together with the possibility to enjoy the unique local shepherd cuisine. Exploring the mountain routes by bike, from Samtskhe-Javakheti province, through the upper Adjara villages and to the Black Sea coast, creates unforgettable contrast of landscapes and experiences. *Not to forget vineyards en-route, like Qvashta village, famous for its Chkhaveri grapes and wine. For more information about the tour please visit tour link or contact us #4. Racha- lechkhumi Racha-Lechkhumi is one of the prominent examples of west Georgia culture and also rich with truly extinguished culinary and wine. (Dishes are mostly cooked from herbs, greens and walnuts with specific taste and flavor and vineyards offer natural wines, specific to the macrozones – thus, indeed unique). This province gives a great opportunity for those, who seek to fish trout, hike and mountain bike to mysterious green forests full of natural springs. Kulbaki lake is a wonderful place to relax and spend memorable time in the wooden guesthouse right at the edge of the lake, while enjoying roasted trout and bottle of wine. For those seeking for more adventure activities, follow the trails by bike to the waterfall “Ghvirishi” and visit village Nakuraleshi a great place to observe the panorama of the Summits of the great Caucasus. Use the opportunity to raft with the professional guides on the fast-flowing river Rioni. Spend time with the local family, enjoy the cooking masterclasses of local meals together with the host, hear stories from the elderly and be a part of their rural lifestyle. Create numerous unforgettable experiences in this less crowded and COVID safe location. For more information please contact us #5. National Parks in Georgia Georgia has Ten National Parks with a total area of 349328 ha. National Parks and protected areas play an important role in the development of eco-tourism and promote natural and cultural heritage of Georgia. Different routes in each National Park, allows to explore the areas in a day, or several days. paths are marked and well-arranged. Tourist shelters, picnic spots, and camping sites are arranged along the routes. Sites for setting up a fire are also allocated. The national parks offers hiking, horse riding, biking, snowshoes, cultural and educational tours, boat tours on Lake Paliastomi, sport fishing, bird watching and eco-educational tours. One can find tourist services such as: hotel services, hiring guides, horses, and equipment rental. Use the opportunity to observe and become part of unique historical-cultural and natural landscapes of remote parts of Georgia. Source: Agency of Protected Areas – link: https://apa.gov.ge/en/protected-areas/national-park

During lockdown we’ve all realized how travel is important for personal spirit. As our team has vast memories from their past adventures we’ve decided to share small travel episodes from our employee’s private lives. “The best vacations are simple. Just travel with backpack and camping gear to untouched mountains and villages, meet locals and leave the city noise far behind” - Nino Sirbiladze For me, the best vacations are to take my backpack and camping gear and just travel to the mountains, to the villages and meet with local people to explore more and leave the city traffic behind. To fulfill my joy, I decided to travel to the place where time stops – to Tusheti national park. Tusheti is highly exotic, due to it’s so remoteness, there are no paved roads, groceries, or bars. Tusheti is a pure wilderness where locals live in towers made of stones and enliven the medieval traditions. My friends and I decided to trek for 7 days in Tusheti and over the Atsunta pass 3490 m. (The pass between Khevsureti province and Tusheti). We started trekking from Mutso village, Khevsureti to Tusheti national park. Due to the weather condition we crossed the Atsunta pass only on 3rd day. I couldn’t have thought how tiring the bad start could be, as our first two days were full of thunderstorms and rain. We were trekking without any visual, just following the narrow path leading to the endless mist. However, we were not losing neither hope nor motivation. When we camped near the pass, finally all the clouds spread out and opened the landscapes. This view was truly unforgettable. In the morning we started new adventure to explore the Tusheti national park – mountains, fresh air, and plenty of time to think. First we met the abandoned village with old towers and empty houses. As we trekked more the landscape was gradually changing too. We met the locals and experienced true mountain hospitality. Each day we’ve gradually merged with Tushetian culture. We tasted local dishes and enjoyed the local herb “Kondari” (thyme) tea, sheep cheese, mountain honey. We were even lucky and had the chance to taste fresh brewed beer and all these filled with interesting stories from the locals about their everyday life and unique traditions. “This was one of the best adventure experience in my life and everyone should travel to this unique place and explore it”

Beekeeping Farms in Georgia - It’s a well known fact that if bees didn’t exist, humans wouldn’t either! But did you know that beekeeping in Georgia was developed 2000 years earlier than in Egypt? While excavating Egypt’s famous pyramids, archaeologists have found pots of honey in an ancient tombs. The honey, dating back approximately 3000 years, was considered to be the world’s oldest sample and still perfectly edible. Though, based on recent findings, honey samples discovered in the village of Sakire, Borjomi (southern Georgia) believed to be dated 5,500 years old. That way, Georgia claims to be not only the cradle of wine, but a homeland of honey too. Historical sources prove that beekeeping was highly developed in Colchis (ancient Georgian region on the coast of the Black Sea), 4 century BC. It turns out that a bee with the longest stinger comes from west Georgia, Samegrelo. The bee is called Apis Mellifera Caucasica and that unique bee species is characterized by a long stinger, moderate swarm, and resistance to low temperature. With its long stinger, it can collect much honey and pollinate more flowers. More about the beekeeping and honey will be available on our website soon! hashtag#honeybee hashtag#beekeeping hashtag#uniqueexperience hashtag#adventureawaits hashtag#georgia hashtag#travelplanner

Even if you’re experienced DMC, here’s why it’s worth spending resources to explore new sites, adventure routes and destinations of Georgia. This year we’ve organized an info tour to one of the most unexplored and untouched regions of Georgia – Racha. Located north-west, bordering Svaneti from the west, region is known for pristine nature, friendly people and endemic viticulture. The region has a huge potential of adventure and eco-tourism. Right as we’ve entered the region, magnificent views on Shaori Lake mesmerized us. Visiting cultural sites Nikortsminda Cathedral from 10th century, Barakoni Church and one the oldest synagogue with its deep history overcome our expectations. On the way to upper Racha local guides presented the whole adventurous potential. We’ve got familiarized with trekking trails hidden in highlands, offering an unforgettable roundtrips. Trails were full of contrasts of diverse nature, highland lakes, dense forests and unexplored caves. Simply to say, the region is remarkable and ready even for the most demanding trekkers. We’ve evaluated not only numerous trails, but also accommodations, family wine cellars and infrastructure. We’ve tasted endemic wines like “Khvanchkara”, “Tsulukidzis Tetra” and “Aleksandrouli”. The families we’ve visited were obsessed with their own wine, culture & traditions. Keeping old hospitable attitude they’ve created a festive environment with delicious culinary and colorful views on sloping vineyards. Explore Georgia team always strives to develop new packages to satisfy most unique demands of our customers, and, we’re sure, Racha can be next beloved destination. Tailor made tours combining the new destination will be available on our website soon. #slowtimeinracha