Gathering:[1] 9:30

Tour Length: 10:00 – 20:00

10:00 Transport to Vardia

11:00 Vardzia Cave city

• Take in the ancient icons painted across the cave walls
• Explore the vast array of tunnels which once served as storage and transportation for those inhabiting the settlement
• Relax by the river below and have some BBQ and refreshment

13:00  Lunch – BBQ and refreshment by the river

14:00 Transport to Rabati

15:00 Rabati historical tour

• Fortress tour
• Historical museum

18:00 – 20:00- return transport

Hi Georgia presents a fascinating historical tour, full of unique stories and amazing monuments. The tour starts with Vardzia, and ancient cave city. Built on the slopes of the Erusheti mountain, the cave dwellings of Vardzia were created during the reign of Georgia III, during the 12th century. One can follow the ever-narrowing tunnels which wind their way through the cave city, a dark and silent journey into Georgia’s earliest past.

After a relaxing lunch, the next stop on the tour is the famous Rabati fortress, a stunning representation of the complex history and multifaceted culture of Georgia. Throughout the centuries this old stone fortress has borne witness to a variety of foreign invaders, trade routes, and an incredible mixture of cultures and languages. A must visit for anyone interested in Ottoman, Russian, and ancient history – if the fortress walls could talk they would have limitless stories to tell!

The site is full of historical artifacts, structures, and fascinating stories. Guests can visit the Akhmediye Mosque, built in the 18th century, along with a museum exhibition with stone artifacts from the Neolithic era, bronze weapons, and other items related to the ancient past of the region. The Rabati fortress boasts 4 tall lookout towers where tourists can climb the winding stairs to a lookout point – these are the spots where historically guards would be on the lookout for approaching forces. Overall, the best tour for history buffs, families, and anyone interesting in getting a feel for the ancient monuments of Georgia!

[1] If you do not arrive to the tour on time, HI Georgia can neither accommodate your schedule or reimburse you for missing the tour.