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Spend a day between ancient rock chambers and steaming mineral baths: explore the cave city of Uplistsikhe, then walk or ride into Borjomi Gorge to soak in open-air sulfur pools. This full-day outing blends archaeology, geology and restorative bathing.
Spend a day between ancient rock chambers and steaming mineral baths: explore the cave city of Uplistsikhe, then walk or ride into Borjomi Gorge to soak in open-air sulfur pools. This full-day outing blends archaeology, geology and restorative bathing.
A low morning sun picks out the honeyed faces of Uplistsikhe’s rock-cut houses as the Mtkvari River murmurs below. Travelers approach narrow caverns and stepped terraces carved into sandstone, then roll down the highway into the green clutch of Borjomi Gorge where mineral springs and open-air sulfur baths steam among firs.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by ushba travel · Borjomi, Samtskhe-Javakheti
A low morning sun picks out the honeyed faces of Uplistsikhe’s rock-cut houses as the Mtkvari River murmurs below. Travelers approach narrow caverns and stepped terraces carved into sandstone, then roll down the highway into the green clutch of Borjomi Gorge where mineral springs and open-air sulfur baths steam among firs.
Uplistsikhe is one of Georgia’s oldest urban sites, a rock city with chambers, streets and a silhouette shaped by centuries of trade and conflict on the eastern bank of the Mtkvari. Geologically the gorge and springs are fed by mineral-rich groundwater moving through volcanic and sedimentary layers, which gives Borjomi’s water its distinctive taste and the sulfur pools their steam. Culturally, Borjomi became internationally known in the 19th century when its water was bottled for the Russian imperial household; today the park and bath areas remain a local ritual — part promenade, part health stop.
Expect 1–2 hours of archaeological exploration on uneven stone steps at Uplistsikhe and several short forest walks in Borjomi Park, plus a 2–3 km gentle stroll or an electric-car hop to the sulfur baths. Bring a swimsuit for the open-air pools, sturdy shoes for carved rock and roots, and water for the day; modest dress is respectful at historical sites. Timed right, the tour pairs dramatic cave architecture in the morning with the restorative steam of mineral baths in the cool gorge by afternoon, making for an accessible full-day blend of history, geology and relaxation.
easy.
11 hours.
Suitable for travelers of average fitness; involves walking on uneven terrain and short uphill sections.
The full excursion runs about 11 hours and mixes short guided walks, time at archaeological ruins, and relaxed time in Borjomi Park and the sulfur baths.
Tours commonly include Uplistsikhe and Borjomi park tickets plus air-conditioned transport; check the booking details for exact inclusions.
There is an electric shuttle option partway into the gorge; the walk is roughly 2–3 km and is gentle but can be uneven in places.
Sulfur baths are generally safe for most visitors but people with cardiovascular conditions, open wounds or pregnancy should consult a doctor before bathing.
Uplistsikhe developed from the early Iron Age into a fortified trade town and shows pre-Christian urban planning; Borjomi’s springs were commercialized in the 19th century and gained fame with the Russian imperial family.
Borjomi Central Park is managed for recreation and spring protection—stay on trails, pack out litter, and avoid contaminating springs to help preserve water quality.
ushba travel operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
A low morning sun picks out the honeyed faces of Uplistsikhe’s rock-cut houses as the Mtkvari River murmurs below. Travelers approach narrow caverns and stepped terraces carved into sandstone, then roll down the highway into the green clutch of Borjomi Gorge where mineral springs and open-air sulfur baths steam among firs.
A low morning sun picks out the honeyed faces of Uplistsikhe’s rock-cut houses as the Mtkvari River murmurs below. Travelers approach narrow caverns and stepped terraces carved into sandstone, then roll down the highway into the green clutch of Borjomi Gorge where mineral springs and open-air sulfur baths steam among firs.
Uplistsikhe is one of Georgia’s oldest urban sites, a rock city with chambers, streets and a silhouette shaped by centuries of trade and conflict on the eastern bank of the Mtkvari. Geologically the gorge and springs are fed by mineral-rich groundwater moving through volcanic and sedimentary layers, which gives Borjomi’s water its distinctive taste and the sulfur pools their steam. Culturally, Borjomi became internationally known in the 19th century when its water was bottled for the Russian imperial household; today the park and bath areas remain a local ritual — part promenade, part health stop.
Expect 1–2 hours of archaeological exploration on uneven stone steps at Uplistsikhe and several short forest walks in Borjomi Park, plus a 2–3 km gentle stroll or an electric-car hop to the sulfur baths. Bring a swimsuit for the open-air pools, sturdy shoes for carved rock and roots, and water for the day; modest dress is respectful at historical sites. Timed right, the tour pairs dramatic cave architecture in the morning with the restorative steam of mineral baths in the cool gorge by afternoon, making for an accessible full-day blend of history, geology and relaxation.