Best of Kakheti – Gareji and Signagi Private Full Day Tour

Kakheti, the esteemed wine region of Georgia, beckons visitors to uncover its treasures. This private tour offers a captivating glimpse into the province’s rich cultural heritage, guiding you through the centuries-old David Gareja Monastery and the revered Bodbe Monastery. As you venture to the picturesque town of Signagi, you’ll be met with panoramic vistas of the Alazani Valley, a tapestry of vineyards, orchards, and medieval churches. With the knowledgeable guidance of a local expert, you’ll savor the flavors of traditional Georgian bread and cheese, whetting your appetite for the remarkable journey that lies ahead.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Private Drivers In Tbilisi.

Key Points

• Discover the rich cultural heritage of Georgia’s southern Kakheti province on a private full-day tour from Tbilisi.
• Visit the 6th-century David Gareja Monastery, nestled in the semi-desert landscape on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border.
• Explore the medieval Bodbe Monastery, the final resting place of St. Nino who introduced Christianity to Georgia.
• Experience the picturesque hilltop town of Signagi and panoramic views of the Alazani Valley and Caucasus mountains.
• Enjoy convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a knowledgeable guide to enhance the tour experience.

Tour Overview

This private full-day trip from Tbilisi allows travelers to discover the southern Kakheti province, known for its rich cultural heritage.

The tour includes a visit to the David Gareja Monastery, a 6th-century monastic complex situated on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border, featuring a network of caves and rock-cut churches.

Visitors will also explore the medieval Bodbe Monastery, located near the hilltop town of Signagi, and admire the scenic Alazani Valley from the town’s watchtowers.

Guests have the option to enjoy a traditional Kakhetian lunch and wine tasting, which comes at an additional cost.

The tour provides convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes transportation in a private car with air-conditioning, a professional and knowledgeable guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Plus, water, fresh bread, and cheese are provided for tasting. This ensures a comfortable and informative journey as you explore the southern Kakheti province.

The guide’s expertise will enhance your understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the sites you visit, making the most of your time in this beautiful region.

While food and drinks aren’t included, except for the provided tasting items, you’ll have the option to enjoy a Kakhetian lunch and wine tasting for an additional cost during the tour.

Exclusions

Food and drinks, unless specified, are excluded from the tour package. Wine tastings are available for an additional cost of 7-10 USD per person.

The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and some light refreshments. However, visitors will need to cover the cost of any meals, drinks, or wine tastings they wish to enjoy during the day. This allows guests to customize their experience and choose options that best suit their preferences and budget.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Participants must be at least 18 years old to partake in any wine tastings.

Important Information

Confirmation of booking is provided at the time of reservation. Wine tasting packages are available for 7-10 USD per person. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats can be arranged. Participants must be at least 18 years old to partake in any wine tastings.

This private full-day tour from Tbilisi allows visitors to discover the southern Kakheti province. Highlights include the David Gareja Monastery, the medieval Bodbe Monastery, and the scenic Alazani Valley viewed from the watchtowers of Signagi.

An optional Kakhetian lunch and wine tasting can be added for an additional cost. Transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and basic refreshments are included in the tour package.

Cancellation Policy

Customers can cancel this tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, but changes less than 24 hours before the start time aren’t accepted. This flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to make last-minute adjustments if needed.

Customers can cancel their reservation and receive a full refund if they do so at least 24 hours before the tour starts.

Any changes made within 24 hours of the tour’s start time aren’t accepted.

This policy provides customers with peace of mind and the ability to plan their trip with confidence.

David Gareja Monastery

The David Gareja Monastery, a 6th-century monastic complex, is set along the Georgia-Azerbaijan border and serves as a key highlight of this private tour.

Nestled in a semi-desert landscape, the monastery features an impressive network of caves and churches carved into the rocky hillside.

Visitors can explore the complex’s ancient frescoes, chapels, and living quarters, gaining insight into Georgia’s rich religious heritage.

The site’s remote location adds to its mystique, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time and take in the tranquility of this sacred place.

With its historical significance and striking natural surroundings, the David Gareja Monastery promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Bodbe Monastery

Nestled near the hilltop town of Signagi, the Bodbe Monastery stands as a testament to Georgia’s rich religious heritage.

This medieval monastery, dating back to the 9th century, served as the final resting place of St. Nino, the 4th-century woman credited with introducing Christianity to the region.

Visitors can explore the monastery’s picturesque grounds, which feature:

• A striking cathedral with intricate stone carvings
• A tranquil garden surrounded by ancient walls
• Panoramic views of the Alazani valley below

The Bodbe Monastery’s spiritual significance and architectural beauty make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Kakheti region on this private tour.

Signagi and Alazani Valley

As visitors ascend the winding streets of Signagi, they are greeted by the captivating vistas of the Alazani Valley that unfold before them. This picturesque town, nestled atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the lush agricultural landscape below, where rows of vineyards and orchards stretch out as far as the eye can see. From the watchtowers, guests can admire the rolling hills, dotted with medieval churches and the distant peaks of the Caucasus mountains. The breathtaking scenery evokes a sense of tranquility and timelessness, inviting travelers to pause and appreciate the natural beauty that defines this renowned winemaking region.

Panoramic Vistas	Vineyard Vistas	Hillside Churches	Caucasus Mountains	Tranquil Atmosphere
Signagi’s hilltop location offers sweeping views of the Alazani Valley	Rows of grapevines cover the valley floor, a testament to Kakheti’s winemaking heritage	Medieval churches dot the rolling hills, adding to the region’s historic charm	The distant Caucasus peaks provide a dramatic backdrop to the scenic landscape	The peaceful setting and natural beauty create a sense of serenity and timelessness

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Total Duration of the Tour?

The total duration of the tour is not explicitly stated. However, based on the information provided, it is a full-day trip from Tbilisi to discover the southern Kakheti province, suggesting it likely lasts between 6-8 hours.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is a private tour, so there is no set maximum group size. The tour allows for flexibility in group size to accommodate the needs of individual travelers.

Are There Any Physical Activity Requirements for the Tour?

The tour does not have any strenuous physical activity requirements. Participants should be able to walk short distances and navigate uneven terrain at the monastery sites. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Are There Any Dress Code or Packing Recommendations?

There are no strict dress code requirements, but visitors should wear comfortable, modest clothing suitable for walking on uneven terrain and visiting religious sites. Bringing sun protection, layered clothing, and sturdy walking shoes is recommended.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Personal Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to personal preferences. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to adjust the itinerary, activities, and timings based on the traveler’s interests and needs.

Recap

This private full-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Georgia’s Kakheti province, showcasing its rich cultural heritage.

Visitors will discover the historic David Gareja Monastery, the serene Bodbe Monastery, and the picturesque town of Signagi, all while enjoying the knowledgeable guidance of a local expert and sampling traditional Georgian delicacies.

This comprehensive tour provides a well-rounded experience of Kakheti’s stunning landscapes, architectural marvels, and enduring cultural traditions.