Armenia & Georgia Real Food Adventure
from $3335
Duration: 10 Days
Taste the punchy flavours of Armenia and Georgia on this 10-day food adventure. Begin the journey in Yerevan, contrasting traditional Armenian barbecue, grilled trout and tolma with the many spicy aromas of the local markets. Continue the adventure in Georgia, where the charming facades of Tbilisi and the snow-dusted peaks of the Caucasus are the backdrop for culinary adventures, both hands-on and leisurely. Enjoy the region’s most iconic and celebrated dishes, all washed down with a delicious array of Georgia’s famous local wines.
  • Prepare your own tolma (vine-wrapped rice, herbs and lentils) and join a masterclass with a local family to learn how to make khinkali (Georgian dumplings).
  • Join local families for traditional homecooked meals, sampling Armenian trout with a family in Garni and make a Georgian barbecue with a family in the Kakheti region.
  • Take a hike in the striking Caucasus mountains to perhaps one of the best positioned churches in Europe – Gergeti Trinity Church.
  • Taste the region’s most iconic dishes, including chaqafuli (beef or lamb in plum sauce), mtsvadi (meat skewers), churchkhela (nutty Georgian candy) and khachapuri (cheese breads).
  • Enjoy a glass or two of the locally produced wine and learn about the unique Qvevri tradition of using clay pots to create delicious, unfiltered and organic drops.
  • Yerevan - Welcome Dinner
  • Yerevan - Local market visit
  • Yerevan - City Tour with Local Guide
  • Yerevan - Tolma cooking demonstration
  • Garni - Temple of Garni
  • Garni - Lavash making demonstration
  • Geghard - Geghard Monastery
  • Garni - Home-cooked lunch
  • Garni - Symphony of Stones
  • Tbilisi - Wine Tasting
  • Tbilisi - Khachapuri tasting
  • Tbilisi - Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide
  • Kakheti - Gremi Architectural Complex
  • Kvareli - Barbecue lunch with a local family
  • Kvareli - Traditional Churchkhela demonstration
  • Kvareli - Qvevri Wine Master visit
  • Mtskheta - Jvari Church & Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
  • Ananuri - Architectural Complex
  • Telavi - Local market visit
  • Stepantsminda - Gergeti Trinity Church Hike
  • Day 1 Location: Yerevan
    Welcome to Yerevan, the capital of Armenia. After meeting with your guide at 6pm in the hotel lobby, head out with your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner in a local restaurant. Here the main dish is khorovats – skewered and spiced meats, such as pork, grilled on a barbecue. It's the most representative dish of Armenian cuisine enjoyed in restaurants, family gatherings and feasts.
    Day 2 Location: Yerevan
    After breakfast, set off on a city tour around Yerevan with a local guide. This includes a visit to the local market, the best place to browse the fresh fruits, dried fruits and many aromatic spices that Armenia is known for. Then, visit a local home where you'll learn how to make the traditional Armenian dish known as tolma, delicious parcels of rice, herbs, lentils and tomato wrapped in vine or cabbage leaves, which you’ll then enjoy for lunch.The home also serves as an ethnographic museum, so be sure to have a look around before you leave. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries. You may like to visit the Zvartnots Temple. Built in the 7th century, destroyed in the 10th century, and excavated in the early 20th, this World Heritage-listed marvel is impressive even in its ruined and partially reconstructed form. Another option is a visit to the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, one of the oldest standing churches in Christendom.
    Day 3 Location: Yerevan
    After breakfast, visit Geghard Monastery, a magnificent monument of medieval Armenian architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next up is the Symphony of Stones, a remarkable natural collection of hexagonal and pentagonal basalt columns that resemble the pipes of an organ. From here, head to the Temple of Garni, a monument of the Hellenistic period and an impressive piece of ancient Armenian architecture. Next up, enjoy lunch in a local house, sampling some delectable Armenian grilled trout, accompanied by salads, rice, fruit and tea or coffee. Your hosts will demonstrate how to make lavash, a soft, thin unleavened flatbread so essential to Armenia that it's on the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. If you're keen, try making some for yourself. Drive to back to Yerevan and enjoy a free evening – perhaps visit the Armenian Brandy Factory for a taste of various aged brandies, the classic Ararat variety is considered the pride of many generations and a symbol of Armenia.
    Day 4 Location: Tbilisi
    Start early today, saying goodbye to Armenia and hopping aboard a public bus to Georgia’s capital city, Tbilisi. Enjoy the scenery or catch up on sleep on the way. On arrival, take some time to settle into your hotel, then head out to a local wine bar to sample wine made by the bar’s female owner. For your first taste of Georgian cuisine, you may like to go out and try one of the country’s oldest and most delicious dishes for dinner. Shqmeruli is a hearty combination of succulent chicken with a garlic and milk sauce.
    Day 5 Location: Tbilisi
    Today you will explore Tbilisi with a local guide. Starting from the Metekhi Church, which has magnificent views over old Tbilisi, stroll through winding streets to the city’s main sites. Enjoy the terraced streets, colourful houses, patterned balconies and modern architecture. End the tour at the ancient Narikala Fortress, with panoramic views of the city and surrounds. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant specializing in khachapuri (cheese breads). Taste several varieties – all different shapes, styles and fillings. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore the sites and tastes of Tbilisi at your own pace.
    Day 6 Location: Telavi
    Today you will travel into the Kakheti region, surrounded by both snowy Caucasus mountains and fertile valleys and famous for its wines and welcoming hospitality. Your first stop is the 16th century Gremi Architectural Complex, which you’ll explore with a local guide, followed by lunch with a local family. Familiarise yourself with the local life and make 'mtsvadi', a famous Georgian barbecue dish, and learn the ritual behind its preparation. Afterwards, watch a demonstration on the making of 'churchkhela', a type of Georgian sweet, and give it a go yourself! After lunch, drive to a traditional Georgian wine cellar, where you’ll learn the secret behind the unique method used to create this delicious beverage. Arrive at your night's accommodation in the early evening.
    Day 7 Location: Gudauri
    This morning, join your leader for a walk around the market to discover fresh local produce. Then, drive to Georgia's ancient capital and religious centre, Mtskheta. Here you’ll meet with a local guide and tour World Heritage-listed marvels: Jvari Church, which dates back to the 6th century, and Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, dating back to the 11th century (where the Robe of Christ is buried). Afterwards, drive up the famous Georgian Military Highway, which leads to the Georgian-Russian border. On the way there, visit the 17th-century Ananuri architectural complex, as well as the two churches and the fortress that overlooks the Zhinvali water reservoir. The views here are spectacular and the carvings on the churches are some of the best samples of Georgian art out there. Today's drive through the Caucasus Mountains is a memorable one (it can get slow, steep and windy up here). In the evening, sit down to dinner at a local guesthouse in Gudauri (2200m above sea level) where you’ll spend the night.
    Day 8 Location: Gudauri / Stepantsminda
    Start the day with a drive to Stepantsminda. From here, it's a leisurely 2 hour walk up through beautiful valleys and woodland to Gergeti Trinity Church. Weather permitting, you might catch a glimpse of one of the highest glaciers in the Caucasus, Mt Kazbegi (5047 m). After the walk, visit a local family located in Gudauri, where the host will teach a masterclass on how to make khinkali (Georgian dumplings). Drive back to Gudauri in the late afternoon, where you will enjoy a free evening.
    Day 9 Location: Tbilisi
    Leave Gudauri this morning and head to Tbilisi for an afternoon at leisure. You may like to take a dip in the city’s famous sulfur baths, take a walk along the river, check out the Tbilisi Concert Hall and Public Service Hall, or grab a great coffee and check out the artist pop ups at Fabrika. In the evening, head out for a farewell dinner at a traditional Georgian restaurant featuring chaqafuli (beef or lamb in a fresh plum sauce).
    Day 10 Location: Tbilisi
    Today your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. There are no activities included on this day and you are free to leave at any time. If you would like to spend some more time in Tbilisi, please contact your booking agent to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
    Dates
    Prices
    Availability
    Departure Date:
    03SEP2023
    Return Date:
    12SEP2023
    3535NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    17SEP2023
    Return Date:
    26SEP2023
    3470NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    01OCT2023
    Return Date:
    10OCT2023
    3335NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    19MAY2024
    Return Date:
    28MAY2024
    3380NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    16JUN2024
    Return Date:
    25JUN2024
    3380NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    18AUG2024
    Return Date:
    27AUG2024
    3380NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    01SEP2024
    Return Date:
    10SEP2024
    3520NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    22SEP2024
    Return Date:
    01OCT2024
    3520NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    29SEP2024
    Return Date:
    08OCT2024
    3520NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    06OCT2024
    Return Date:
    15OCT2024
    3380NZD
    available
    Last modified (date)

    04 Jul 2023

    Trip title

    Armenia & Georgia Real Food Adventure

    Trip code

    KFZG

    Validity

    Validity: 01 Jan 2023 to 31 Dec 2023

    Introduction

    Taste the punchy flavours of Armenia and Georgia on this 10-day food adventure. Begin the journey in Yerevan, contrasting traditional Armenian barbecue, grilled trout and tolma with the many spicy aromas of the local markets. Continue the adventure in Georgia, where the charming facades of Tbilisi and the snow-dusted peaks of the Caucasus are the backdrop for culinary adventures, both hands-on and leisurely. Enjoy the region’s most iconic and celebrated dishes, all washed down with a delicious array of Georgia’s famous local wines.

    Style

    Original

    Themes

    Food

    Transport

    Private Bus,Public Bus

    Physical Rating

    3

    Joining point

    Ani Central Inn Hotel

    20 Tigran Mets Avenue

    Yerevan

    ARMENIA

    Phone: +374 10540708

    Fax: +374 10545000

    Joining point description

    Ani Central Inn Hotel (previously known as Hotel Silachi) is located around 10 minutes walk from Republic Square. Facilities at the hotel include free WiFi, restaurant, bar and 24 hour front desk. Each room is fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and safe, as well as a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Breakfast is included.

    Joining point instructions

    Please provide your flight details no later than 14 days before departure to book your arrival transfer with us. For your confirmed arrival transfer, you’ll be met in the arrivals hall of Yerevan International Airport (EVN) by a transfer representative holding an Intrepid sign. If your flight arrives ahead of schedule, please approach the Hertz desk and let them know about your transfer booking. In case of flight cancellations, changes, if you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find the driver, please call +37 499 25 3311. Alternatively, you can take a taxi. Depending on the time of day that you arrive you can expect the ride to take approximately 20-30 minutes and cost the local currency equivalent of USD$6.

    Finish point

    KMM Hotel

    10 Mefsalmune David King street Metekhi Turn

    Tbilisi

    0103

    GEORGIA

    Phone: +995 322747185

    Finish point description

    Located in the Avlabari district in the historic Old Town of Tbilisi, the hotel has modern, comfortable rooms with en suite bathrooms, minibars and cable TV. There is free WiFi on site. The Avlabari Metro Station is 250 m from the property. A buffet breakfast is included. Avlabari is a great choice for travellers interested in city walks, old town exploring and local food.

    Finish point instructions

    If you have a confirmed departure transfer your leader will advise your pick up time the day before your trip ends. Alternatively, please ask your leader or hotel staff for assistance in arranging a taxi or instructions to reach the airport by public transport.

    Important information

    1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. While we endeavour to cater for specific dietary requirements, some meals and food activities are set in advance and may be difficult to adjust. Please advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking so that we can ensure you’ll enjoy this trip. 3. Due to current border crossing restrictions for different Caucasus nationalities, your Trip Leader may be from nearby Ukraine or Russia. Your leader will have in-depth knowledge and extensive travel experience throughout the Caucasus. Local guides from Georgia and Armenia are represented throughout the itinerary to ensure you receive a diverse and uniquely local range of perspectives.

    Group leader

    All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

    Safety

    Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your Leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

    PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

    Visas

    PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. Entry requirements can change and are different depending on your nationality. Please refer to your government's foreign travel advisories, the consular websites for the countries you’re travelling to and those you may transit through. Always follow visa advice from official websites; not all visa information found online may be valid. You can also head to Intrepid’s Entry & Health requirement page to get the latest information on travel documents and visa requirements, plus local government COVID-19 vaccination and quarantine policies: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/visa-health-requirements ARMENIA VISA: Many countries including Australia, New Zealand, UK and the USA are no longer required to obtain a visa for visits to Armenia up to 180 days in duration. Nationalities requiring a visa to enter Armenia are listed in the drop down menu on the following link and subsequent application for  E-Visas are available.  https://evisa.mfa.am/check-eligibility Please use the address of your finishing point hotel for the Contact Information in Armenia. You will need to upload a scanned passport sized photo and a passport copy to complete your application. In the case that the website is down, it may be possible to obtain a visa on arrival at the land border. Please check http://www.mfa.am/en/visa/ for the list of nationalities that are allowed to apply visa on arrival. GEORGIA VISA: Most nationalities do not currently require a visa for Georgia, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, UK, USA & all EU member states for stays of up to 30 days. The full list of countries and terms can be found on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website - https://www.geoconsul.gov.ge/en/visaInformation

    Why we love it

    Prepare your own tolma (vine-wrapped rice, herbs and lentils) and join a masterclass with a local family to learn how to make khinkali (Georgian dumplings).

    Join local families for traditional homecooked meals, sampling Armenian trout with a family in Garni and make a Georgian barbecue with a family in the Kakheti region.

    Take a hike in the striking Caucasus mountains to perhaps one of the best positioned churches in Europe – Gergeti Trinity Church.

    Taste the region’s most iconic dishes, including chaqafuli (beef or lamb in plum sauce), mtsvadi (meat skewers), churchkhela (nutty Georgian candy) and khachapuri (cheese breads).

    Enjoy a glass or two of the locally produced wine and learn about the unique Qvevri tradition of using clay pots to create delicious, unfiltered and organic drops.

    Is this trip right for you

    The cuisine of the Caucasus region includes a lot of meat. For vegetarians and vegans we recommend reviewing the itinerary and inclusions to ensure that you will be able to fully participate and enjoy this trip. We also have many other trips to the Caucasus region which can accommodate a range of dietary requirements. The diversity of the seasons here makes for incredible scenery, but the weather in this region can be unpredictable. It’s best to wear layers at all times of the year in case conditions change. There may occasionally be itinerary changes due to road closures. This trip involves a reasonable amount of walking so be sure to bring sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes. To make the most of the trip, it's best if you have at least a moderate level of fitness. There is an included hike on Day 8, at an altitude of 2170m. Please refer to the itinerary for more details.

    Health

    GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the opinion of our group leader or local guide any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. COVID-19 The safety and wellbeing of our travellers, leaders, crew, staff, and suppliers continues to remain our highest priority as we travel. You can read more about how we will keep you safe on our trips, including our COVID-19 Health & Safety Guidelines here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safe-travels VACCINATION POLICY From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 for this trip. However, we continue to strongly recommend that all travellers get vaccinated to protect themselves and others. Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully. For more information, including a detailed FAQ about this policy, please visit https://www.intrepidtravel.com/covid19. HEALTH SCREENING If you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to complete a self-screening health form at the group meeting for this trip. If you are displaying any COVID-19 symptoms or have any health concerns during the trip, we will follow the advice of local health authorities to determine whether medical assistance, isolation or further action is required. Travellers who test positive while taking part in an Intrepid trip will need to leave the group for a minimum of five days and may only rejoin the group if presenting as asymptomatic – our team will assist them in arranging a place to self-isolate and any onward journey. It's quite possible that the destination country may have different or more strict protocols than your home country regarding COVID-19. This may include hotel or hospital quarantine or quarantine for the group. Please check your government's travel advice or contact the closest embassies to find out the details. We ask all travellers to continue to monitor their health throughout their travels and report any relevant symptoms to their tour leader. DRINKING WATER: As a rule we recommend you don't drink tap water, even in hotels, as it contains much higher levels of different minerals than the water you may have at home. For local people this is not a problem as their bodies are used to this and can cope, but for visitors drinking the tap water can result in illness. Generally this isn't serious, an upset stomach being the only symptom, but it's enough to spoil a day or two of your holiday. Bottled water is widely available and your leader can recommend safe alternatives when available. Water consumption should be about three litres a day. Rehydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and diarrhoea blockers are available from many pharmacies.

    Food and dietary requirements

    While we will endeavour to cater to dietary requirements where possible, please note that many meals and food activities on Real Food Adventures are set in advance in order to deliver a well-rounded experience of a country’s cuisine. In many countries, dietary restrictions are uncommon and not well understood. If you have dietary requirements and are concerned about whether this may impact on your ability to participate fully in all food-related activities on this trip, please speak with your booking agent so it can be determined whether your dietary requirements can be met. Meals & Beverages: Please refer to the inclusions section for the included meals and food activities. Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are not included with meals unless specified or part of a beverage tasting activity. 

    Money matters

    SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. TIPPING Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult rather than the goodwill gesture it is intended to be. OPTIONAL TIPPING KITTY On Day 1 of your trip, your tour leader may discuss with you the idea of operating a group tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and your tour leader distributes tips for drivers, local guides, hotel staff and other services included on your trip. This excludes restaurant tips for meals not included in your itinerary. The leader will keep a running record of all monies spent which can be checked at any time, and any funds remaining at the end of the tour will be returned to group members. We have found that this is easiest way to avoid the hassles of needing small change and knowing when and what is an appropriate amount to tip. Participation in this kitty is at your own discretion, and you are welcome to manage your own tipping separately if you prefer. Please note the tipping kitty excludes tips for your tour leader. YOUR LEADER You may also consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline US$3-6 per person (in a currency relevant for your destination), per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your leader on your trip. CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs. ARMENIA Cash can be changed at banks and in exchange bureaux. Credit cards and debit cards are accepted at major stores and restaurants in Yerevan, but far less so outside the capital. Prices for goods and services are sometimes quoted in US dollars, but by law payment must be made in Armenian Dram. The Armenian national currency is the dram.  Paper notes are issued in denominations of 500, 1.000, 5.000, 10.000, 20.000 and 50000 Dram.  Coins replace all banknotes less than 500 dram (10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500). GEORGIA Although prices are often quoted in shops in USD and EUR, according to Georgian law all goods and services should be paid for in local currency (Georgian Lari). Credit cards are widely used in Tbilisi, but less so in the regions. ATMs can be found in major towns. Georgian Lari is the official currency of Georgia. 100 tetri = 1 lari. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 & 50 tetri, as well as 1 & 2 lari.

    What to take

    What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage, and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs. Our travellers usually find the smaller their luggage is, the more they enjoy the trip not having to worry about carrying heavy bags! Aim to keep your main luggage under 15kg. Many travellers carry their luggage in a compact smaller suitcase or backpack with wheels. We recommend your bag has carry straps or handles so it is easy to lift and carry for the times you are unable to wheel it (ie. on rough surfaces or up steps). If you are taking overnight trains, or primarily using public transport then the smaller your luggage the easier it will be to store under or above bunks. Large suitcases may not be able to be taken on board. A lockable bag or small padlock for your bag will be useful especially when travelling on public transportation as well. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, swimming suit, hiking shoes and jacket etc. when you’re exploring during the day. Below we have listed the essentials for this trip:

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

    WATER BOTTLE Please bring your own water bottle to refill along the way. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. Your leader will advise whether tap water is safe to drink in your destination and if it is you can simply refill with tap water. When unable to avoid bottled water it is better to buy the largest available and distribute into your smaller bottle for the day. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip you will need to carry at least 2L of water with you.

    Climate and seasonal

    WEATHER Spring and autumn are the best times to visit the Caucasus. Summers can be very hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. This is a great time to escape to the coast or the mountains to cool off. Winters can be very cold, although the country rarely freezes over. Power supplies are frequently interrupted however so don’t rely on heating. This is a beautiful, fertile region so bring an umbrella and expect rain at any time of year! HIGH ALTITUDE ROAD CLOSURES There is a chance of potential changes to the itinerary due to heavy rain, flooding and snow at higher altitudes, which often affect roads and bridges, making travel difficult or impossible (particularly in remote areas).

    A couple of rules

    We like to think our Intrepid travellers are all connected by a love of adventure and passion for seeing the world in a different way. We've laid down a few non-negotiable rules to ensure everyone feels connected, comfortable and safe on our trips. We ask that you respect your fellow travellers, group leader, and local people and places we visit in all circumstances. We don't tolerate any forms of violence and expect that you follow the local laws, customs and regulations in any destination we travel to. Any behaviour contrary to the above, including any behaviour that prevents our staff from performing their duty of care or continuing the itinerary as planned, may result in travellers being removed from the trip. If you consume alcohol while travelling, we encourage responsible drinking and expect you to abide by local alcohol laws. To ensure the well-being of everyone on the trip, all decisions made by group leaders and ground staff are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leaders are not permitted while on trip. By travelling with us, you agree to comply with these rules and the laws and customs of all countries visited. If something is concerning you during your travels with us, please speak to your group leader or local guide immediately. Alternatively, contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in your Essential Trip Information’s Problems and Emergency Contact section.

    Feedback

    Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

    Emergency contact

    While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the leader to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/ In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the number below: Intrepid's Local Operator: +49 8024 4679 540

    Responsible travel

    Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip leaders, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel

    The Intrepid Foundation

    We created our not-for-profit, the Intrepid Foundation because you – our travellers – told us you wanted to make an even greater impact in the communities you visit. The Foundation works by teaming up with partners around the world so that together we can deliver greater positive impact at scale. Partners are identified by our local staff who live and work in our destinations. They harness their powerful community connections to determine the issues that matter most and select local partners who can deliver real solutions. Since 2002, the Intrepid Foundation has raised more than 12.8 million dollars and supported more than 130 communities worldwide. Now, with almost 40 partners all over the world, your donations are helping to restore forests in Kenya, empower women in Honduras and promote elephant welfare in Laos, to name just a few. By simply being on this trip, Intrepid Travel will make a donation to the Intrepid Foundation on your behalf. If you choose to donate too, 100% of your donations will go directly to our partners on the ground – where they’re needed most. For more information about the Intrepid Foundation, please ask your leader or visit our website: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/

    Accommodation notes

    The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

    Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your leader. If you have credit card insurance your group leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services

    Your fellow travellers

    As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS The beauty of our style of travel is that it caters to travellers who are travelling solo and who want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people. On our trips rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you. We also have an optional single supplement available on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will be on a single room basis. On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances it will clearly be stated in our Essential Trip Information prior to booking and travelling.

    Itinerary disclaimer

    ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It is important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary seasonally to ensure our travellers have the best experience. Your tour leader will keep you up to date with any such changes once on tour. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your leader know you are interested in the Group Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and leaders are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

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