4.7

Cycle the Silk Road Across Georgia

  • Georgia
  • 6 nights

Cross the stunning Lesser Caucasus Mountains to the Black Sea, pedalling along the ancient trails of the Great Silk Road

What's Included?

  • Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides and a bike mechanic
  • Hotel & Guesthouse1 night in a hotel, 5 nights in local guesthouses
  • MealsAll breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
  • Transfers & Support Vehicle Airport transfers and everything in between, including a support vehicle to carry your kit or hop into if your legs need a rest
  • EquipmentHardtail mountain bikes; plus bike helmets can also be provided if you don't have your own
  • Small Like-minded GroupsSolo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 10 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people

From…excluding flights

Highlights

  • Cycle the historic trading route that once connected East and West and tackle the famous Goderdzi Pass (2200m)

  • Wild swim in the volcanic Lake Paravani and take a celebratory dip in the turquoise waters of the Black Sea

  • Visit the labyrinthine cave city of Vardzia, carved deep into Erusheti Mountain, and explore the Fortress of Rabati

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Welcome to Georgia!

    Hotel
    Twin share
    Dinner included
    Show Day 1 detail

    Check into your hotel in Tbilisi's historic old town. If you have time, it's well worth exploring as the capital is packed full of UNESCO-listed sites. Meet your guide and fellow adventurers for a briefing about the journey ahead, then sit down for your first traditional Georgian meal at a local restaurant.

    Day 2

    To Lake Paravani

    Cycling
    5.5hrs · 70km · 1200m up · 800m down
    Guesthouse
    Twin or triple share
    All meals included
    Show Day 2 detail

    After getting your bike set up, set off early for Tetritskaro and immerse yourself in the region’s dramatic, wild landscapes. The ride begins on smooth tarmac, which gradually turns into broken asphalt as you descend towards the scenic Ktsia River. Following the river’s path, you'll tackle a challenging gravel climb leading to the spectacular Dashbashi Canyon. Here, take a well-earned break and enjoy lunch before continuing along a long, open track that stretches across the treeless Javakheti Plateau – often referred to as the 'Georgian Siberia'. Take a dip in the volcanic Lake Paravani before visiting a famous convent to try their locally produced variety of chocolates and chacha (Georgian brandy). End your day at the guesthouse enjoying a tasty fusion of Georgian and Armenian cuisines.

    Day 3

    The Labyrinth of Vardzia

    Cycling
    4hrs · 75km · 520m up · 1100m down
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 3 detail

    Your ride today begins on a smooth tarmac road, passing the picturesque Lake Saghamo, its tranquil waters reflecting the surrounding mountains. Just before reaching Akhalkalaki, turning toward Kartsebi, the terrain shifts and leads to an exhilarating gravel descent. With over 15 thrilling switchbacks, the route winds its way down toward Vardzia – an awe-inspiring city carved into the mountainside. Seeming like something straight out of the Lord of the Rings, this ancient cave-palace-monastery was built for the fabled Queen Tamar and is still protected by a small group of monks. Explore some of the 200 cave dwellings and learn about its fascinating history of earthquakes and invasions, before tucking into another delicious dinner.

    Day 4

    The Rabati Fortress

    Cycling
    4hrs · 65km · 1000m up · 900m down
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 4 detail

    Cycle from village to village, keeping your eyes peeled for the legendary Caucasian sheepdogs and their semi-nomadic owners. From Aspinza, prepare for a challenging ascent toward the village of Chobareti, where the road tests your endurance with gradients reaching over 12%. But the reward is well worth it – a thrilling, well-earned descent leading you straight into Akhaltsikhe. Wander the impressive 9th-century Fortress of Rabati. For castle geeks, this really is something, having been liberated many times over the centuries and now housing a mosque, an Orthodox church, a synagogue, a Catholic church and a citadel. Phew!

    Day 5

    The Goderdzi Pass (2043m)

    Cycling
    5hrs · 70km · 1350m up · 1800m down
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Time for a big day as you tackle the legendary Goderdzi Pass. Climb your way through lush green forest and into the Adjara Mountains; as you reach the summit, take a moment to soak in the stunning 360º views before beginning the ride toward the serene Green Lake. Here, pause for a well-earned picnic lunch, with the option to take a refreshing dip in the lake's crystal-clear waters. From here you can enjoy an exhilarating 30km descent, cruising effortlessly toward your overnight stop. Tonight, as most of the climbing for the trip is done, you can relax and enjoy the potent, home-brewed chacha (grape brandy) offered by your host – Georgians take their drinking seriously and you can learn how to correctly make a traditional Georgian toast (or, join the sensible and go to bed!).

    Day 6

    The Black Sea

    Cycling
    4.5hrs · 65km · 800m up · 900m down
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 6 detail

    Today’s ride takes you through the stunning Machakhela National Park, a hidden gem of lush forests and winding roads. Along the way, discover an ancient stone bridge and the fascinating remains of Soviet military defense systems, now reclaimed by nature. Cycling past traditional Adjarian villages, make your way to a set of beautiful waterfalls, where the sound of rushing water provides the perfect backdrop for a short break. From there, stop for lunch at a local restaurant with a scenic view, savouring the flavours of the region. Your journey continues along quiet backroads, leading straight into Batumi – Georgia's famous summer resort.

  7. Day 7

    Back to Tbilisi

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 7 detail

    Load the bikes into the truck and road trip back to Tbilisi, stopping for lunch along the way, before heading to the airport in time for your flight home. If you would prefer to finish your trip in Batumi, rather than returning to Tbilisi, please let your host know in advance (they can also arrange additional nights of accommodation and make itinerary recommendations, should you need them).

Practical Stuff

Getting There

Nearest airport
Tbilisi International Airport (TBS)
Pick up
Tbilisi Airport
Any time on Day 1
Drop off
Tbilisi Airport
Catch any flight departing after 18:00 on Day 7

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

As long as you've supplied your flight details, private transfers between the airport and the hotel are included for any time you choose to arrive on Day 1, and any time after 18:00 on Day 7. If you are arriving in Tbilisi in the early hours of the morning on Day 1, there is an early check-in option at the hotel, which you can request in advance via your booking (subject to availability).

If you are arriving before Day 1, you can easily get a taxi from the airport to your hotel for around £10. If departing after Day 7, then your hotel can arrange a transfer to the airport for you.

Travel options

New for 2025, both British Airways and EasyJet offer direct flights several times a week from London to Tbilisi, making Georgia more accessible than ever. If you're looking for a flight from outside of the UK, several airlines offer indirect flights to Tbilisi, such as Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul) and Lufthansa (via Munich or Frankfurt). There are also connecting flights out from Batumi with those same airlines, if you decide to end your trip on the shores of the Black Sea rather than returning to Tbilisi.

Trip level explained

Level 5

Challenging

This trip is designed for experienced cyclists with a sense of adventure. You should feel comfortable riding back-to-back days covering an average of 65km. You will be riding on a mix of quiet tarmac roads, gravel trails and farm tracks that enable you to experience village life. There is also a mixture of gradients, including undulating rides, flats, downhill and uphill sections.

The Goderdzi Pass (2034m) is the most challenging section of the trip and although it's a quiet road, there is a lot of climbing (1300m of ascent). However, there is always the option to hop in the support vehicle if necessary.

For more guidance, check out our article on how to choose the right level of cycling trip (opens in new tab) for you.

Style of Riding: Mixed Terrain This trip offers a varied riding experience across both paved and unpaved surfaces on a mountain bike. You'll mostly ride on wide gravel tracks and hard-packed dirt paths that can be bumpy or uneven in places. You'll also follow some quiet roads that are largely smooth with the occasional pothole, crack, or rough patch. While the terrain is diverse, it remains non-technical throughout – no singletrack or advanced bike handling skills are required.

Want to sharpen your off-road skills — including handling climbs, descents and loose terrain? Check out our weekend adventure Intro to Off-Road Riding (opens in new tab), in the beautiful Chiltern Hills.

What will I need to carry?

All your accommodation is pre-booked, and your luggage is transferred from one point to the next. As everything will be transported by the support vehicle which there will be access to throughout the day you can cycle completely unburdened. We do suggest bringing a small bumbag or bag that can be attached to your handlebars for carrying essential items like money, phone, sun cream and a snack. The van also carries tools and spare bike bits if needed.

Highly Remote Environments: Factors to consider

This trip travels through very remote areas where access to medical facilities and emergency services may be limited and evacuation may take a significant amount of time. In some locations, medical facilities may provide only basic treatment, and further travel may be required to reach a hospital capable of providing more advanced care.

If someone becomes unwell or injured, evacuation may involve multiple stages and different forms of transport before reaching appropriate medical facilities. Mobile phone coverage may be unreliable for significant portions of this trip and communication may rely on satellite devices carried by your guides.

Your guides are trained and experienced in operating in remote environments and will manage the group carefully throughout the journey. However, due to the remoteness of these locations, access to external support may be limited and delays to medical care should be expected.

Before booking, consider your personal health and comfort travelling in locations where medical care and evacuation options may be limited or delayed. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, we strongly recommend seeking advice from a medical professional and discussing them with your host before travelling. If you have a medical condition that may require rapid access to specialist care, regular monitoring, or emergency treatment, this type of remote travel may not be suitable without careful planning and medical advice.

Your travel insurance must cover the activities included in the trip and emergency medical evacuation.

What is and isn't Included?

What's included

  • Guided ride to Dashbashi Canyon via Lake Paravani
  • Chacha and chocolate tasting at Lake Paravani
  • Guided ride to the fascinating cave-city of Vardzia
  • Guided tour of Vardzia
  • Guided ride to the 9th-century Fortress of Rabati
  • Guided tour of Rabati
  • Guided ride across the Goderdzi Pass (2043m)
  • Guided ride to the Black Sea

  • Local, expert, English-speaking guides and a bike mechanic

  • 1 night in a hotel in the historic centre of Tblisi
  • 5 nights in small, locally owned guesthouses

All your meals are provided for the duration of the trip. This includes:

  • All (6) breakfasts, to fuel you up each day
  • All (5) lunches, picnic style
  • All (6) Georgian dinners
  • Snacks while cycling

  • Arrival transfers from Tbilisi Airport any time on Day 1
  • Group departure transfer to Tbilisi Airport on Day 7
  • All transfers during the trip

  • To transfer your luggage, and for you to hop in to if your legs need a rest

  • Hardtail mountain bikes

  • All permits and entry fees

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi

Stay

Tbilisi

You'll stay in a twin-share room at the GTM Kapan Hotel (or a similar hotel, depending on availability) in the historical centre of town: the perfect base for exploring the city.

What You'll Eat

You’ll experience a delicious mix of local and national Georgian cuisine, cooked with fresh produce that's often grown or reared by the guesthouse owners themselves. Georgian cuisine is renowned for its mix of eastern and western flavours, aromas and…

Food and Dietary info

You’ll experience a delicious mix of local and national Georgian cuisine, cooked with fresh produce that's often grown or reared by the guesthouse owners themselves. Georgian cuisine is renowned for its mix of eastern and western flavours, aromas and colours. It can be slightly spicy and consists mainly of meat, vegetables, cheese and fruit. There are plenty of traditional dishes without meat, so vegetarians are well catered for. Lunches will be picnic-style in the wilderness. As you pedal, local, energy-giving cycling snacks will be provided, but if you would like specific things to refuel with then it's best to bring them from home.

Vegetarians and vegans can be catered for – please just request this on your passenger info form.

Optional Extras

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation

Additional Night in Tbilisi - Single Room from
…/per night
Additional Night in Tbilisi - Twin / Double Room Room from
…/per night
Tbilisi Hotel Early Check-In - After 8am (Single Room)
…
Tbilisi Hotel Early Check-In - After 8am (Twin/Double Room)
…
Additional Night in Batumi - Single Room from
…/per night
Additional Night in Batumi - Twin / Double Room Room from
…/per night

Upgrades

Optional Private Room Upgrade - Tbilisi and Batumi Only (rate starting from)
…/per person

If you are arriving in Tbilisi in the early hours of the morning on Day 1, there is an "Early Check-In" option for the hotel which you can request (subject to availability) via your booking.

To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Ratings & Reviews

4.733 reviews
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (0)

Category rating

Food
5.0
Guides & crew
5.0
Accommodation
4.0
Itinerary
4.0

Latest Reviews

  • William S.

    A fantastic group of individuals, brilliant guides and drivers, a good combination of on and off road, all with big landscapes scrolling past. Great to also meet other members of the local company who are off testing out new routes for the future

  • Amie P.

    Guides: 11/10 Route: 11/10 Georgia: 11/10 I came into this trip a serious long-distance runner but with almost no cycling experience. I wanted a new skill and am so glad I jumped into this. I found the mix of asphalt/gravel/mountain biking to be a perfect physical and technical challenge. A certain level of fitness is definitely required, but can personally attest to not needing to be a bike expert! I’m hooked on Georgia (it’s food, history and landscapes), I’m hooked on cycling (have my first bike ordered), and I’m hooked on MBA (see you soon, Kyrgyzstan)!

  • fintan f.

    this was a fantastic week. Rezi, Alex & George are brilliant guys. The pumpkin forest is a must see .

  • Trevor S.

    We thoroughly enjoyed our cycling trip along the Silk Road - and our trip to Georgia in general. Our guides Alex & Rezi were great - always upbeat and encouraging us up the, sometimes difficult ascents. The van drivers too were kind and helpful. The ride itself was "challenging" for my daughter and I (as it was described on the trip ininerary). But, for comparison, we found it more challenging that the Jordan trail that we did three years ago. The Georgia countryside and cultural destinations were wonderful - as was the Chacha!

  • James B.

    Really enjoyed my week cycling across Georgia with a group of like minded individuals, ably led by Alex and Rezi. A country of contrasts from mountains and high plateaus with soaring eagles. to the lush sub tropical western Black Sea approaches. The food was lovely and voluminous. Alex and Rezi ensured the group stuck together while allowing the stronger riders to push ahead on the more technical up hills and down hills. Great experience and would highly recommend this adventure.

  • Janet R.

    The stunning scenery, varied terrain, challenging ascents and exhilarating downhills made this a perfect holiday for me. The fresh, delicious food, well catered for non meat eaters, was an unexpected bonus. The fitness of the group varied considerably, yet Alex and Rezi, our guides, ensured the group stayed together and stayed positive. The vans and lovely drivers were always ready to take layers when it was hot and transport the weary when the going was tough. I have found myself googling similar rides, off the beaten track-i think though, that Georgia would be tough to beat. My top tips - bring layers, good waterproof/ windbreakers for unexpected adverse weather and downhills, sunglasses and decent gloves. And don't hesitate to book it.

  • Katharine M.

    I had a brilliant week cycling in Georgia. Perfect mix for me of relaxing and more challenging rides including gravel sections that were new to me but our guides Rezi and Alex were very accomodating and helpful so I felt way more confident at the end of the trip. Brilliant accommodation, scenery, food and comraderie. Highly recommended!

  • Balazs B.

    A great route through some less travelled parts of Georgia. Excellent guides and drivers - they managed the group (and hot temperatures) with ease and great humour. The guest houses were comfortable and the food amazing. With the exception of 1 decent - this is a gravel bike route.

  • Stephanpetryczka

    - On day one alone, we must have passed through 5 different landscapes. Georgia is really stunning. - The quality of roads in Georgia is mixed. There was more almost “mountain biking” than I expected. “Gravel” here means large loose-ish rocks, so be prepared for that. - My tour guides Alex and Rezi were the coolest and had good senses of humor. Very easy to befriend - Batumi, Georgia’s second largest city and the end destination of the tour, sort of sucks. - The guest houses don’t have A/C or even ceiling fans most nights, which can be tough if you’re doing a summer tour. - I would recommend MBA to create a 2-week version of this that includes the north. As of 2025, this tour is primarily of southern Georgia. - Climbs were genuinely challenging for me, coming from relatively flat New York City. - I’m LGBTQ and felt very comfortable being open and being myself in the group.

  • Gemma B.

    Can highly recommend! Excellent route capturing the sounds, sights, food and culture of South-Western Georgia. Fantastic support crew (guides and drivers) who were friendly, helpful, and worked seamlessly together to provide a brilliant experience.

Customer Photos

4.733 reviews
  • 5 stars (26)
  • 4 stars (5)
  • 3 stars (2)
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (0)
Showing all 33 reviews

  • Georgia, what a treat

    William S. October 2025
    A fantastic group of individuals, brilliant guides and drivers, a good combination of on and off road, all with big landscapes scrolling past. Great to also meet other members of the local company who are off testing out new routes for the future

  • I’m hooked!

    Amie P. October 2025
    Guides: 11/10 Route: 11/10 Georgia: 11/10 I came into this trip a serious long-distance runner but with almost no cycling experience. I wanted a new skill and am so glad I jumped into this. I found the mix of asphalt/gravel/mountain biking to be a perfect physical and technical challenge. A certain level of fitness is definitely required, but can personally attest to not needing to be a bike expert! I’m hooked on Georgia (it’s food, history and landscapes), I’m hooked on cycling (have my first bike ordered), and I’m hooked on MBA (see you soon, Kyrgyzstan)!

  • this was a fantastic week.

    fintan f. September 2025
    this was a fantastic week. Rezi, Alex & George are brilliant guys. The pumpkin forest is a must see .

  • A very memorable cycle trip!

    Trevor S. September 2025
    We thoroughly enjoyed our cycling trip along the Silk Road - and our trip to Georgia in general. Our guides Alex & Rezi were great - always upbeat and encouraging us up the, sometimes difficult ascents. The van drivers too were kind and helpful. The ride itself was "challenging" for my daughter and I (as it was described on the trip ininerary). But, for comparison, we found it more challenging that the Jordan trail that we did three years ago. The Georgia countryside and cultural destinations were wonderful - as was the Chacha!

  • Fascinating country & great riding

    James B. September 2025
    Really enjoyed my week cycling across Georgia with a group of like minded individuals, ably led by Alex and Rezi. A country of contrasts from mountains and high plateaus with soaring eagles. to the lush sub tropical western Black Sea approaches. The food was lovely and voluminous. Alex and Rezi ensured the group stuck together while allowing the stronger riders to push ahead on the more technical up hills and down hills. Great experience and would highly recommend this adventure.

  • The stunning scenery, varied terrain,

    Janet R. September 2025
    The stunning scenery, varied terrain, challenging ascents and exhilarating downhills made this a perfect holiday for me. The fresh, delicious food, well catered for non meat eaters, was an unexpected bonus. The fitness of the group varied considerably, yet Alex and Rezi, our guides, ensured the group stayed together and stayed positive. The vans and lovely drivers were always ready to take layers when it was hot and transport the weary when the going was tough. I have found myself googling similar rides, off the beaten track-i think though, that Georgia would be tough to beat. My top tips - bring layers, good waterproof/ windbreakers for unexpected adverse weather and downhills, sunglasses and decent gloves. And don't hesitate to book it.

  • Incredible experience, awesome biking, guides, scenery and country

    Katharine M. September 2025
    I had a brilliant week cycling in Georgia. Perfect mix for me of relaxing and more challenging rides including gravel sections that were new to me but our guides Rezi and Alex were very accomodating and helpful so I felt way more confident at the end of the trip. Brilliant accommodation, scenery, food and comraderie. Highly recommended!

  • Great Ride through Southern Georgia

    Balazs B. August 2025
    A great route through some less travelled parts of Georgia. Excellent guides and drivers - they managed the group (and hot temperatures) with ease and great humour. The guest houses were comfortable and the food amazing. With the exception of 1 decent - this is a gravel bike route.

  • The right level of challenging

    Stephanpetryczka August 2025
    - On day one alone, we must have passed through 5 different landscapes. Georgia is really stunning. - The quality of roads in Georgia is mixed. There was more almost “mountain biking” than I expected. “Gravel” here means large loose-ish rocks, so be prepared for that. - My tour guides Alex and Rezi were the coolest and had good senses of humor. Very easy to befriend - Batumi, Georgia’s second largest city and the end destination of the tour, sort of sucks. - The guest houses don’t have A/C or even ceiling fans most nights, which can be tough if you’re doing a summer tour. - I would recommend MBA to create a 2-week version of this that includes the north. As of 2025, this tour is primarily of southern Georgia. - Climbs were genuinely challenging for me, coming from relatively flat New York City. - I’m LGBTQ and felt very comfortable being open and being myself in the group.

  • An amazing 5 days of riding through beautiful Georgia

    Gemma B. August 2025
    Can highly recommend! Excellent route capturing the sounds, sights, food and culture of South-Western Georgia. Fantastic support crew (guides and drivers) who were friendly, helpful, and worked seamlessly together to provide a brilliant experience.

  • Great country, great and careful guides, no mtb trip

    Alexander M. August 2025
    We had a great group of people (although big difference in fitness level) and our guides were fantastic. Our guides were very protective (traffic and dogs) but the result was we cycling at a low average speed which was quite tiresome), especially the first two days . This is not an mtb tour. There is too much tarmac in this route while you are cycling nextvto mountains and hills which definitely must have some off road tracks as well

  • Fantastic trip and itinerary

    Enrique T. July 2025
    Fantastic adventure through stunning mountains, canyons, vineyards and centuries old citadels. The cycling was both challenging (plenty of uphill climbs) as well as exciting (long, scenic descents) and the terrain varied each day. The food was fantastic- a full “supra” banquet each evening with local specialties and wine, and usually with stunning views. The guides were knowledgeable and always willing to help and make adjustments to the itinerary, as well as add activities when possible. Our group was invariably met with warm hospitality and Georgia is a country full of surprises and a rich historical and cultural heritage that it is worth exploring on two wheels. Recommended for cyclists that want to be challenged and also explore off the beaten path destinations.

  • Adventure on a bike

    Gwen E. July 2025
    It’s not a mountainbike trip but a cultural adventure on a mountainbike. No single tracks but gravel and tarmac roads. Beautiful country, impressive nature, lovely people, good food and good accommodation. Guides and drivers we proud and knowledgeable in sharing their country with us. Batumi was not a nice place to end this trip. Too much of a contrast with all the small villages we saw during our trip. Would have been nice to finish in a smaller village at the Black Sea.

  • Great experience in a beautiful country

    Thomas H. July 2025
    The route across Georgia took in beautiful mountain views, challenging climbs and fast downhills. The food at all of the venues was fantastic, showcasing Georgian flavours and the guesthouses were authentic and comfortable. A special thank you to the guides who were knowledgeable, welcoming and flexible in their approach. They were always enthusiastic and keen to help with any individual questions and requests. I would go as far to say that they were the best guides I have met on an MBA trip. I would throughly recommend the trip to any cyclists looking for a new trip or experience.

  • Great trip! Fabulous country

    Deborah A. July 2025
    I loved this trip! It was my first visit to Georgia, and I am very glad I went. The country is so beautiful, full of history and culture that the guides brought to life for us. Being in a small group worked very well, we all got along and the guides expertly lead us through the countryside from Tbilisi to Batumi ( via the mountains!). The cycling was challenging but everyone managed it, and we were well supported by 2 guides on bikes, and 2 vans with food and water. I am a big fan of Georgia, incredibly interesting. We were met everywhere with warm hospitality, lots of Georgian food, wine and beer. I recommend this trip to anyone who fancies a cycling adventure! Just fabulous

  • Georgia Silk Road Bike trip

    Gerard D. July 2025
    Brilliant trip. A very nice group of people, all fairly well matched in cycling ability. The guides and drivers were good, friendly, knowledgeable and fun. The accommodation and food was great too. Georgia has been on my travel list for ages and lived up to expectations. Great scenery, culture and history

  • Riding Georgia

    Paul T. July 2025
    A wonderful trip made by our guides. Alexo and Rezi alongside our two drivers were wonderful hosts. Leading across some challenging terrain, nothing could dampen the spirit not even the weather which was the exact opposite of nearly all Europe. Such a beautiful country and amazing food, a fabulous trip.

  • Recommended

    Robert L. July 2025
    Great cycling, decent bikes and enthusiastic guides. Be prepared to climb (day 3 is actually harder than day 4) and to be rained on. Accommodation varies between fantastic and basic. The cave fortress at Vardzia is fantastic,

  • Georgia on my mind

    Matthew L. September 2024
    Travelling from Tbilisi to the Black Sea largely on two wheels (though not altogether continuously as some sections are driven for safety/logistical reasons) takes you through a great diversity of beautiful landscapes, from the sweeping grassland vistas of the Javalkheti Plateau to the dense, lush forests of Machakhela. The itinerary is well-designed to offer a full day of riding but also plenty of time in the evenings to relax or to explore cultural sites, such as the stunning rock-hewn settlement of Vardzia or the questionably reconstructed Rabati Castle. Happily, outside of a few hotspots there aren’t too many other tourists. The spectacular rocky descent to Vardzia is a highlight, but do make sure to pack your gloves as it’s a long way down and you’re going to be gripping hard! Alex was an excellent guide, and I sense quite flexible in tailoring the trip to each group. Most of the accommodation was family-run guest houses, which were usually quite comfortable, and always provided copious and delicious home cooking (and sometimes cognac or chacha). Even the lunches tended to be enormous, so there was never any danger of being hungry! Georgia is definitely somewhere I’d like to return to – particularly to explore the greater Caucasus, but there’s even good hiking just on the edge of Tbilisi – so I’d suggest extending your holiday a little if you can.

  • Wonderful trip!

    Chris B. September 2024
    One of the best cycling trips I've done, and I've done quite a few! There was lush scenery, a lovely group of like-minded people to be spending time with, fun guides who've done it many times before and vast quantities of food usually supplemented by the local homemade chacha and wine. The riding is great: some moderately challenging climbs (but perfectly doable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness) and the descents are just sublime - in particular the 8km rocky, hairpinned descent to Vardzia and the 20km+ descent from Goderdzi (mostly gravel but in the process of being tarmac'd) both had me grinning like a loon all the way down. Although the trip is rated 'challenging', I found it easier than the 'Cycle the backroads of Morocco' trip, which is rated as 'moderate'. Yes the accommodation is a bit short of Western hotel standards at times but it's all perfectly fine, adds character (particularly the homestay on day 5) and is all part of the adventure. It's best if you just go with the flow and don't mind sharing a room. There are a lot more swimming opportunities than advertised - definitely take advantage of the chance to try out the ramshackle hot sulphur bath in Vardzia before jumping into the cold river right next to it. Also the green lake on the Goderdzi pass day and the waterfall pool on day 6. Agree with one of the earlier reviews that the final night felt a bit flat compared to what went before - Batumi isn't the nicest of places to end the trip. Most of our group stayed on at least one extra night in Tbilisi and the team were happy to drop them off at their hotels in town rather than at the airport, where the trip is officially supposed to end.

  • One hell of an adventure

    Lydia B. September 2024
    Wow! What an amazing experience. One I'll never forget. Georgia is stunning and cycling is a great way to see it. The guides, places we stayed, food, logistics, I can't fault it.

  • Good trip.

    Stephen C. August 2024
    It's more than 90 % road less than 10% gravel. Soon the biggest downhill will be a sealed Rd. So it's basically a road trip. They need to change the bikes imo as they are not suitable for riding on the road. Be prepared for a lot of challenging uphill riding which was a highlight for me and the group were very fit - but if you are just riding to work a few kilometers and think you can fly up these hills on these bikes you might be delusional about your own fitness level so I recommend a few weeks of 30 to 50km hilly rides so you come prepared. The trip was well organized / guided. The food was ok. The accommodation mixed. The views are great and get better as the trip progresses. On the last day I think we could have stayed closer to the national park. It was late morning before we started riding . Also I think the trip would benefit from an extra day especially in and around the national parks. All in all a good trip.

  • A great mini biking adventure

    Becky M. August 2024
    This was a fantastic trip with beautiful varied landscapes, excellent local cuisine and hospitality. Alex expertly led us through big climbs, off road descents, deep gorges and open plateaus; taking in some of the highlights of Southern Georgia on route. Whilst some of the climbs are long, they are all perfectly doable and the off road descents are fun, even for someone who doesn't like loose gravel!! I would throughly recommend this trip for any keen cyclist keen to visit an up and coming tourist destination!

  • Great way to see Georgia

    Gerko V. August 2024
    Very much enjoyed the cycling trip in Georgia. Alex was a great and fun guide. Explaining the history, politics and customs along the way whilst keeping our spirits up. The food at every stop is amazing. The hosts at guesthouses are very hospitable, even without speaking English. The cycling was very good with amazing views along the way. Never too demanding (climbing, speed or technical) and with freedom to go at your own pace. The more narrow and busy parts of the road are done by car to avoid accidents.

  • Stunning Georgia with excellent guides Alexo & Rezi

    John P. August 2024
    if you are looking to see a beautiful country, eat great food and meet wonderful guides, with a tough challenge, this may be the trip for you! Mainly on tarmac so mountain bikes did make these sections extra difficult however, there were some off-road sections! Lots of ups and lots of downs - and going through the countryside both Rezi and Alex gave us such a wonderful insight into their country which both of them are so proud of. The back up drivers were also very supportive. Food in Georgia is great. The last evening was a bit flat - certainly expecting more of a celebration that we had all finished! Also you cannot get direct flights which can make the journey there a little challenging in itself!

  • Tough and rewarding ride

    Patrick C. August 2024
    This was an interesting trip, and with the guides help gave a valuable perspective on Georgian culture and politics. The daily rides were tough, rewarded by stunning scenery. On the negative side, the mountain bikes provided didn't seem suited to the majority of cycling on main roads, neither particularly to the one steep and rocky off road descent. Furthermore, the accommodation provided on at least one occasion was really not up to what one might expect of a holiday in this price range. The logistics worked well, it was a good holiday, but I would have appreciated more imaginative use of small roads, tracks and off road sections, and less reliance on main roads.

  • Sometimes up. Sometimes down. Sometimes flat. Always incredible.

    Ryan M. August 2024
    Fantastic trip cycling across Georgia. Our guides: Alex and Rezi were fantastic. Knowledgeable, patient, funny they really added to the trip. I always felt safe and well looked after. Our support drivers were also brilliant, never far away and always on hand to chat, take photos and top up our water bottles. The food and accommodation were both excellent also, I was never hungry and even being vegan, I always felt I had plenty of choice and enough to fuel up. I would say though about 90% of this trip is on tarmac, with two long gravel descent sections. So if you're looking for a complete gravel experience, this isn't the trip. We really bonded as a group and had a fantastic time together. Thanks for the unforgettable experience!

  • Great trip!

    Sarah W. July 2024
    Lovely trip, great guides, beautiful country and good food!

  • Inkalinka_on_the_bike

    Paulina January 2024
    Inkalinka_on_the_bike

  • Oh, Georgia, you've truly outdone yourself!...

    Ciara August 2023
    Oh, Georgia, you've truly outdone yourself! With your captivating diversity and vibrant culture, you delivered a daily infusion of new wonders and memories waiting to be embraced. Let's talk cycling – a challenge but the kind you run towards rather than from. Each day I was left full of accomplishment and anticipation for the day ahead. Much of this involved peddling through picturesque landscapes with occasional stops for snacks and photo opportunities. Fellow riders became cheerleaders, to friends, sharing stories sweets and motivating each other up mountains meeting four legged friends along the way. 🐄🐶 :man-biking:💪 Lucky for me and my inability to navigate myself around a slightly larger than average supermarket, we had the amazing David! (our guide). This modern-day explorer navigated us though the sometimes questionable terrain, to offbeat local hideaways, rivers and yes Mountains! And oh boy, the food! 🍽️🌮 David unveiled a world of culinary delights (seriously, the portions were massive), all while immersing us in the vibrant tapestry of Georgia's culture through the guest houses that hosted us. And guess what? David had a squad that nailed the logistics! Navigational wizards and van-driving heroes made sure we were never without hydration, snacks, or that much-needed pick-me-up. 🚐💧🥪 Whether you're a thrill-seeker with in pursuit of an adventure, a trailblazer chasing challenges, or simply a nature enthusiast yearning for some quality time outdoors, I'm shouting from the handlebars– this trip is your calling! And let's not forget the pièce de résistance – the cheesy bread that'll have your taste buds dancing with joy! :cheese_wedge:🍞🌄 So, are you ready to roll? Georgia awaits with open arms and wheels spinning! 🗺️:woman-biking:🌟

Before You Travel

What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What do I need to bring?

CYCLE KIT

  • Helmet (required, host can provide one)
  • Cycling shoes (bring your own pedals if using cleats)
  • Saddle, if you would rather use your own
  • Bumbag for riding
  • Reusable water bottles. It is recommended that you bring cycling water bottles that fit into standard bottle cages on bikes (500, 600 or 750ml).

CLOTHES

  • Padded cycling shorts
  • Sports top or cycling jersey
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Cycling gloves
  • Buff or neck scarf
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear and socks
  • Sleepwear
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Sandals
  • Fleece jacket or similar for the evenings
  • Trousers/leggings for the evenings
  • Trainers / Sandals
  • Swimwear

OTHER

  • Duffel bag, rucksack or soft suitcase (max. 80L)
  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Padlock for left luggage
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Ear plugs
  • Insect repellent
  • Suncream
  • Personal first-aid kit
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Toilet kit (toilet paper, biodegradable bags to carry paper out to dispose of)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Alcohol hand-gel
  • Headtorch or small torch
  • Biodegradable wet-wipes
  • Energy bars and snacks
  • Electrolyte hydration tablets

FAQs

It's no secret that we love cycling and many of us at HQ think it's the best way to see a country, however, we realise that organising your own trip can be a total faff. On our cycling trips, we've found a local guide who has put together a perfect route and will navigate for you all the way. We even send a van that transports your overnight luggage and provide high-quality bikes and delicious snacks to keep you going. Faff eliminated! All you have to do is turn up, pedal and take in the landscape with your fellow tourers. You don't need to be a lycra-clad 'roadie' although they're welcome too!

Have a read of our article on cycling difficulty levels for further information on selecting the right level of bike adventure for you.

You will be using Specialized Rockhopper hardtail mountain bikes with front suspension and hybrid tyres. These are light aluminium mountain bikes, perfect for riding on roads and rough tracks. The bikes are equipped with a water bottle cage and standard flat pedals. If you would like to bring your own SPD pedals and saddle, these can be fitted for you.

Bikes are available in the following sizes:

  • Small (for people 155cm to 165cm tall)
  • Medium (for people 165cm to 175cm tall)
  • Large (for people 175cm to 183cm tall)
  • Extra Large (for people 183cm to 193cm tall)
  • Extra Extra Large (for people 193cm to 203cm tall)

If you are outside of these ranges, our local host suggests you bring your own bike and the cost of bike hire can be deducted from your trip after booking. Please consider that your own bike may require special parts for maintenance which may not be locally available, nor possible for the support vehicle mechanics to repair, so the use of the bikes provided by your host is recommended.

On some days, yes, on other days there will be a transfer (usually under an hour, driving durations are stated in the itinerary above if over this amount) to get you between the cycling routes - this is to keep you away from busy roads and onto the best cycle routes.

The guide ratio on the trip is one guide per eight cyclists. This means that for groups of nine or more people, there will be two cycle guides. Throughout, you will also be accompanied by a support vehicle driven by a bike mechanic.

In the event of poor weather such as heavy rain, strong winds and/or storms, it is possible that conditions may become unsafe to complete the planned hikes on this trip. Your guide will assess the conditions and weather forecasts and make a decision with your safety in mind. If it becomes necessary to make a change to the planned itinerary, an alternative hike or activity will be offered.

The support vehicle will have large containers of water that you are able to top your water bottles up with. Bring a refillable bottle, it will be used well.

Extra luggage can be stored at the hotel in Tbilisi and collected at the end of the trip. There will also be a support vehicle on-hand to transfer your overnight luggage and meet you at stops if you need to grab an extra layer. The van also carries tools and spare bike parts that may be needed.

We would suggest bringing a small bag that can be attached to yourself or your handlebars for essentials like money, phone, suncream and a snack.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

The average temperature during summer in Georgia ranges from 25-35°C in the lower valleys. Up on the plateaus and in the mountains it will be colder (down to 5°C at night) so you will need to pack accordingly. Rain at this time is rare, although it could be windy.

As you will traverse the entire country, you will pass through several climatic regions, so be prepared for all seasons. By the time you reach the Black Sea, it will be hot and humid due to its year-round, moderate climate.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 288kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

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Departure dates

  • Sunday 28th June 2026

    to Saturday 4th July 2026

    Last minute - Host approval required

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