Cultural Heritage Ride

Vardzia Cave Town &
Rabati Fortress Day Tour

Explore Georgia’s medieval south by private vehicle

Book now

From Cliff-Carved Monasteries to Ottoman Castles

This full-day private tour connects two of southern Georgia’s top cultural sights: the stunning cave monastery of Vardzia and the dramatically restored Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe. You’ll travel a beautiful route along river valleys and cliffside roads, with your driver providing light commentary along the way.

Walk among the caves where Queen Tamar once ruled, then climb the towers of Rabati, a multicultural citadel with Georgian, Armenian, and Turkish history. With flexible pacing and private pickup anywhere in Georgia, this tour is ideal for history lovers, photographers, or anyone seeking a deep dive into the past.

Plan your heritage trip

What’s included

Private driver and vehicle for the full day

Visit to Vardzia cave monastery complex

Free time at Rabati Fortress in Akhaltsikhe

Pickup/drop-off anywhere in Georgia

A Journey Through Medieval Georgia

The tour starts with a scenic drive through the Mtkvari River valley toward the monumental cave site of Vardzia. There, you’ll have time to explore the cliffside dwellings, halls, and tunnels—some dating back to the 12th century. After lunch or a snack break, the road continues to Rabati Fortress, where you can walk the walls and explore towers, mosques, and a small museum.

Comfortable, Private Transport

We use clean and reliable cars, 4x4s, or minivans depending on your group. All rides are private and paced to your interest. Your driver is a local from the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, happy to help with timing, short walks, and photo stops along the way.

Timing & Price

Expect 6 to 8 hours for this loop if starting from Vardzia, Akhaltsikhe, or Borjomi. If starting from Tbilisi or Kutaisi, plan a longer day. Pricing begins at $160 per vehicle (up to 6 passengers), depending on your start location. Entrance fees and meals not included.

Discover Georgia’s Layered Past

From ancient cave chapels to fortress towers rebuilt in stone and story, this tour reveals how history and landscape blend in Georgia’s south. With a private driver and flexible timing, you get to explore at your own pace—with no rush, and all the views.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but it can be adjusted. The main route includes stairs and tunnels, but visitors can choose shorter routes if needed.

Yes. Your driver can suggest places for a sit-down lunch or a quick snack, depending on your schedule and preferences.

No. Entry to Vardzia and Rabati is paid on-site. Tickets are inexpensive and available year-round.

Yes. We can start this tour from Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Akhaltsikhe, or Borjomi. Travel time and price will adjust accordingly.