Travel info
Travel information for Georgia
Everything you need to know before your trip – from the best season for hiking in the Caucasus to money, language and what to pack.
Best time to travel
Georgia is a destination for all seasons – but the right time depends on what you want to do:
- Hiking in the high mountains (Kazbegi, Svaneti, Tusheti): late June to September. The road to Tusheti is usually only open from early summer until autumn.
- Tbilisi, culture and wine: spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). During the grape harvest (rtveli) in autumn, Kakheti is especially lively.
- Black Sea (Batumi): swimming season from June to September.
- Winter: skiing in Gudauri and Bakuriani, city trips to Tbilisi. Some mountain roads can be closed after heavy snowfall.
Entry and insurance
Citizens of many countries can enter Georgia visa-free and stay for up to one year. The exact rules depend on your nationality – please check the official portal geoconsul.gov.ge before your trip. A passport valid for the duration of your stay is required.
Since 1 January 2026 foreign tourists need health and accident insurance for the whole stay (minimum coverage 30,000 GEL). Keep the confirmation ready in English or Georgian.
Money
The currency is the Georgian lari (GEL). Cards are widely accepted in cities; ATMs can be found in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, Mestia and Stepantsminda. For mountain villages, markets and guesthouses you should carry cash – in Tusheti there are no ATMs at all.
Language
Georgian (ქართული) is one of the oldest literary languages in the world and has its own alphabet. Russian is widely understood, English more and more among young people. A few words go a long way: gamarjoba (hello) and madloba (thank you).
Getting there and around
International airports are in Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi. Within the country there are trains (e.g. Tbilisi–Batumi), minibuses (marshrutkas) and taxis. On our tours we organise transfers for you – including off-road vehicles for mountain roads.
Safety in the mountains
- Weather in the Caucasus can change within minutes – bring warm layers and rain protection even in summer.
- Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots are essential.
- The sun is strong at altitude: sunglasses, hat and sunscreen.
- Carry enough water and snacks; not every trail has a spring or a village.
- Emergency number throughout Georgia: 112.
Food, drink and customs
Georgian cuisine is a highlight of every trip: khachapuri (cheese bread), khinkali (dumplings), badrijani (aubergine with walnuts) and churchkhela. At a traditional feast (supra) the tamada leads the toasts. When visiting churches, shoulders and knees should be covered; women wear a headscarf (often available at the entrance).
Practical information
- Time zone: GMT+4, no daylight saving time.
- Electricity: 220 V, plug types C and F.
- Mobile internet: local SIM cards and eSIMs are inexpensive; coverage is good in cities and many valleys, but patchy in remote mountain areas.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to travel to Georgia?
For hiking in the high mountains (Kazbegi, Svaneti, Tusheti) the best time is from late June to September. Tbilisi, Kakheti and the wine regions are most pleasant in spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the grape harvest takes place. In winter you can ski in Gudauri or Bakuriani.
Do I need a visa for Georgia?
Citizens of many countries can enter Georgia without a visa and stay for up to one year. The rules depend on your nationality – please check the official portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (geoconsul.gov.ge) before you travel.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes. Since 1 January 2026 foreign tourists must have health and accident insurance for the entire stay with coverage of at least 30,000 GEL. Proof (in English or Georgian, paper or digital) may be checked at the border.
Can I pay by card or do I need cash?
The currency is the Georgian lari (GEL). In Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi cards are accepted almost everywhere. In mountain villages and guesthouses cash is often needed, and in remote regions such as Tusheti there are no ATMs.
Which languages are spoken?
The official language is Georgian with its own unique alphabet. Many people – especially the older generation – speak Russian, and younger people increasingly speak English. Our guides speak English, Russian and Georgian.
Is Georgia safe for travellers?
Georgia is considered a safe and very hospitable country. In the mountains the greatest risks come from the weather and the terrain – that is why we recommend hiking with a local guide. The emergency number is 112.
How do I book a tour?
There is no online booking. Send us a non-binding enquiry via the contact form, by phone or WhatsApp – we will reply personally with availability and an individual offer.
Planning a trip to Georgia?
Tell us what you would like to see – we will put together a tour that suits you.