Cultural Tours to Georgia & Caucasus 2014/2015 by Explore Georgia Ltd.

Dear Friends,

Why WITh explore GeorGIa?

I would like to introduce our exciting company “Explore Georgia”. We are a local tour operator based here in Tbilisi and our doors are open to travelers of all kinds. We have developed our business over many years working both for Georgian and foreign tour operators. Our experience has made us experts as tour leaders, managers, guides and most importantly, in understanding the needs of our guests. This is not only because we are Georgians, but because we come from a highly professional background. I do believe that Georgia is going through a renaissance both politically and culturally. More and more people are learning about the fabulous touristic opportunities of this country. We offer an exceptional variety of tourism products and we are very able to cater for a wide range of specialized demands and requirements. We are sure that this is the key to our advantage.

Our staff have as much experience in the travel business here as any. We combine the knowledge and experience of past years with the energy of new Georgia. Our country has changed enormously showing that it is a beautiful and safe destination for travelers of all kind. For us, the customer comes first. This is, after all, a great and ancient tradition in Georgia where the guest is treated as a “gift from God”. As hosts we offer: mountain-climbing, eco-touring, hiking, ski-touring, horse-riding, mountain biking, four-wheel drive touring, cultural, rural and bespoke programs.

Let us invite you to explore Georgia - by foot, on horseback, by bike, by four-wheel drive, on rafts, from the top of snow- capped mountains, or from the inside of a comfortable vehicle. Our country offers outstanding and untouched nature, unique architectural monuments, high mountains, turbulent rivers, mysterious caves, deep forests and most importantly, openhearted people, who are always looking forward for opportunities to show their hospitality. All this waits to be discovered by you. So dear friends, our doors are wide open - please come and visit. With best regards, Nick Erkomaishvili Chief Exploration Officer (CEO) Certified Mountain Guide

about Georgia Georgia, or Sakartvelo as it is called by Georgians, is a small, ancient Christian nation, nestled to the south of Great Caucasus mountain range – the geographic border between Europe and Asia, occupying an area of 69 7000sq/m (26,911 square miles). Located to the east of the Black Sea, Georgia shares borders from the North with Russian Federation, Turkey and Armenia in the South, Azerbaijan in the East.

a b g d e v z T i k l

a b g d e v z t i k’ l

m n o p J r s t u f q

m n o p’ zh r s t’ u p k

R y S C c Z w W x j h

gh q’ sh ch ts dz ts’ ch’ kh j h

Georgians shared the common ancestral language belonged to the south Caucasian or old Kartvelian Group of languages. Georgian language does not belong either to Indo-European, Slavic or to Semitic languages. It is the only written and main literary language for all ethnographic groups of Georgian people. Three family groups – Georgian ( kartuli),Megruli,Laz and Svan , are spoken by 3.8 million people throughout Georgia. Georgian alphabet evolved from varieties of eastern Aramaic with an influence of Greek script around in 3 c BC. It is placed among the 14th alphabet of the world.

GeorGians Out of 4.5 million inhabitants, 3.8 million are ethnically Georgians. Descending from some of the earliest settlers in the south of Caucasus, the Georgian people went through a complex process of ethnic consolidation and nation-making. Kartveli – the Georgian name for our nation, is derived from the indigenous tribe - Karts, emerging from 8th c BC. Discovering a people with developed agriculture and viniculture, the Greeks called us “Georgians” from the Greek word “geos”- (earth). We often had to defend our boundaries, fight for our independence to maintain religion, language and traditions.

Tbilisi, the capital from 5th c. AD, is a dynamic and rapidly changing metropolis. This charming city has vibrant life and safety by day and night. Many of the houses dating back to the 19th c, are interspersed with ancient churches and chapels. Here you will feel the spirit of history and wave of contemporary approach. Explore exceptional, cultural heritage, unique artifacts and national treasure, hospitable and tolerant citizens’ loving chatting and admiring the own city. All you have to say is “Gamarjoba”, “Hello” in Georgian language.

old Tbilisi

Tbilisi has played an important role in all the political and economic events of Georgia during the centuries, being an important transit route for global energy and trade projects. Located strategically at the crossroads between Europe and Asia and lying along the historic Silk Road routes, today remained the cultural and political centre.

The legend tells us how the King Vakhtang Gorgasali discovered the sulfur spring waters, during hunting. The royal falcon has chased a pheasant, being shot, the birds has fallen into hot spring sulfur water. Realizing the advantages of curative waters, running from the ground, he decided to move the capital from Mtskheta and name it Tbilisi from the Georgian word tbili, meaning the warm.

Mtskheta - Old capital of Georgia

explore real Georgia

Georgians are fond of their county, often raising the glass of wine to Glory of their homeland and ancestors, for they are proud to maintain their language, religion, traditions and its turbulent history. This tour shows Georgia with its glorious past and vibrant modern life. You will visit World Heritage monasteries and Cathedrals, treasuries from pre-Christian and Christian periods, observe ethnography and moreâ&#x20AC;Ś

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9 10 11 12 Best months to visit

Accommodation: Hotel 10 nights /guesthouses 1 night. Mode of travel: coach / on foot. Tour Staff and Support: Explore Georgia leader, driver(s). Group size: not limited.

Mtskheta is designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique and sophisticated architectural monuments. It remains a cultural and spiritual centre of the country today.

Draft Itinerary - 12 days Day 1. Arrive in Tbilisi. City sightsing tour. Day 2. Depart to David Gareji Monastery. Observe Lavra and Udabno. Overnight at Guesthouse in Telavi. Day 3. Visit Gremi castle, 16th c, Alaverdi Cathedral, 11th c, Ikalto Academy, 12th c, Tsinandali 19th c winery. Return to Tbilisi. Dinner and overnight at Hotel. Day 4. Drive to Mtskheta, visit Jvari church, 6th c, Svetitskhoveli and Samtavro architectural monuments of 11th c. Continue to north, visit Ananuri architectural complex. Overnight at hotel in Gudauri. Day 5. Explore Kazbegi area. Optional hike to Gergeti Trinity church. Drive to Dariali Canyon. Day 6. Depart from high mountains towards the Lesser Caucasus. Visit Uplistsikhe cave city and Ateni Sioni church nearby Gori. Optional visit of Stalin museum. Overnight in Bakuriani resort. Day 7. Drive further to the South-West, visit Khertvisi castle and Vardzia cave city 12th c. Overnight in Akhalstikhe. Day 8. Drive to Kutaisi. Visit Gelati Academy of 12th c. Dinner and overnight in Kutaisi. Day 9. Drive to Racha region, to haori lake, Nikortsminda and Barakoni 13th c churches. Overnight in Abrolauri Hotel. Day10. Drive back to Tbilisi. Visit Ubisi church of 9th with frescos 14th c. Free evening. Day 11. Day trip to Bolnisi basilica 5th c and Dmanisi medieval city, famous for its oldest archaeological site. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 12. Departure. Frescos from 9th-14th cc. David Gareji

along the Traces of argonauts Medieval towers of Svaneti Explore undiscovered historical land of ancient Georgia – the birthplace of Golden Fleece and wine!

Draft Itinerary – 11 days Day 1. Arrival in Tbilisi. Short walking tour of the City. Welcome dinner. Day 2. Visit Open Air / Ethnographic museum and walk at Botanical Garden, stroll around old town. Visit treasuries at the National Museum. Day 3. Departure to Mtskheta, the UNESCO Heritage Site. Visit Jvari monastery 6th c, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Samtavro Nunnery 11th c, Ananuri medieval architectural complex. Optional participation in traditional dance class or folk songs. Visit traditional workshops of silk and felt production. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 4. Drive to Kutaisi. On the way visit Uplistsikhe cave city from first millenium BC. Optional visit to Stalin’s birth house and museum. Visit Gelati Academy complex of 12th c. Dinner and overnight in Kutaisi. A small lecture about Georgian Golden period, reading the fragments from Georgian poetry. Day 5. A brief visit to Kutaisi food market. Drive towards Zugdidi (1.5 h) to visit Prince Dadiani’s Palace, where ladies will definitely be delighted to see unexpected treasures of 19th c and historical items; Continue to Svaneti. Drive along Enguri River until village Becho. Dinner with traditional Svanetia cuisines and overnight at local guesthouse. Day 6. Explore Becho area. 2-3 hours walk towards Guli Glacier until the bottom of Mt. Ushba (4710m). Afternoon class of Georgian language and script. Overnight in Becho. Day 7. Drive to Mestia. Explore Mestia area with its famous towers and museums and Church of Saviour – Lagami. Overnight at guesthouse. Day 8. Day trip to Ushguli, the highest inhabited village in Europe (2200 m). On the way visit Kvirike church in village Kala. Explore Ushguli, the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Day 9. Relaxed day in Mestia. Etseri village (30 m drive) - famous for its Khutresi church with fresco painting and views. A short stop at Latali village. Visit small basilicas. Explore nearby villages with famous towers. Day 10. Drive back. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 11. Departure.

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9 10 11 12 Best months to visit

Accommodation: Hotel / guesthouse 10 nights. Mode of travel: Coach / 4x4 / on foot /horse. Tour Staff and Support: Explore Georgia leader, driver(s), assistants where necessary. Group size: up to 30 participants.

Gelati Monastery Complex 12th c.

Georgia, armenia and azerbaijan The gigantic isthmus of the Caucasus lies between the Black and Caspian seas, serving as a cross-road of Europe and Asia for thousands of years. This countries of South Caucasus - Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan - are distinguished by their individuality, languages, traditions, religions, culture and natural surroundings.

Two early Christian Countries armenia and Georgia

Old Tbilisi Jvari. Georgia

Draft itinerary - 10 days Day 1. Arrive in Tbilisi. Day 2. Drive to Mtskheta, UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. On the way visit Ananuri 16th c architectural complex. Overnight in Gudauri. Day 3. Explore Great Caucasus Range area. Walk up to 14th c Gergeti Trinity church at 2180 m and Dariali canyon. Overnight in Gudauri. Day 4. Drive to Georgia – Armenia border Sadakhlo. After border formalities change guides and drivers and continue to Armenia. Visit of Haghpat complex, 10th c UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sevan lake. Overnight in Yerevan. Day 5. Yerevan City Tour including Matenadaran and Tsitsernakaberd - Genocide Museums. Overnight in Yerevan. Day 6. Departure to Echmiadzin UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Visit 9th c Geghard and 7th c Zvartnots Temples, also St Gayane and St Hripsime 7th c churches. Return to Yerevan via Garni temple. Day 7. Drive to Bavra border crossing. Continue to Vardzia cave city, 12th c. Overnight in Borjomi resort. Day8. Drive to Gori. Excursion to Uplistsikhe cave city from first millenium BC. Optional visit to Stalin’s museum and house of birth. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 9. Full day sightseeing tour of Tbilisi. Visit 13th c Metekhi church, Narikala fortress of 4th c, Sulfur Bathhouses, Anchiskahti basilica of 6th c, National Museum and treasury. Overnight at hotel. Day 10. Departure.

Draft Itinerary – 14 days Day 1. Arrive in Baku. Day 2. City sightseeing tour. Overnight in Baku. Day 3. Depart for Shemakha, visit Gulistan fortress,Yeddi Gumbaz and Juma Mosques. Continue to Sheki. Overnight in Sheki. Day 4. Excursion of Khan’s Palace. Drive to Kish Village, visit Alban Church – the first Christian Church in the Caucasus region. Depart to Georgia via the Lagodekhi border. Overnight in Telavi. Day 5. Explore Kakheti area. Visit Alaverdi Cathedral and Gremi architectural complex. Arrive in Tbilisi. Day 6. Tbilisi sightseeing tour. Day 7. Excursion to Mtskheta the UNESCO Heritage Site. On the way to Gudauri visit Ananuri architectural complex. Overnight in Gudauri. Day 8. Explore Kazbegi area. Drive to Dariali Canyon. Overnight in Gudauri. Day 9. Depart to Kutaisi. On the way, visit Uplistsikhe cave city from first millenium BC. Optional visit to Stalin’s museum in Gori. Overnight in Kutaisi. Day 10. Visit Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Academy 11-12th c, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and drive Back to Tbilisi. Day 11. Depart for Armenia passing Sadakhlo border. Visit Dilijan and Lake Sevan, 10th c Haghpat architectural monument. Overnight in Yerevan. Day 12. Excursion to Echmiadzin Cathedral, 10th c. Visit 7th c St. Hripsime Church and ruins of 7th c Zvartnots Temple. Day 13. Depart for 7-17th c Khor-Virab through Avan Canyon, Visit Garni and Geghard monuments. Day14. Departure.

Khachkar

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9 10 11 12

Best months to visit

Old Baku

9 10 11 12 Best months to visit

Accommodation: Hotels / guesthouses 13 nights.

Accommodation: Hotels / guesthouses 9 nights.

Mode of travel: Coach / on foot.

Tour Staff and Support: Explore Georgia leader(s), driver(s) and some local guides.

Group size: Not limited.

Khor-Virab. Armenia

Cave cities

Medieval Turkey & Georgia Draft Itinerary – 12 Days Day 1. Arrival in Trabzon. Day 2. City sightseeng tour. Visit Hagia Sophia of Trabzon and museum, former Chalcedonian (greek orthodox) church of 13th c. Drive to Sumela Monastery nestled in a steep cliff at an altitude of about 1200m. The monastery was founded in 386 AD during the reign of Emperor Theodosius I. Overnight in Trabzon. Day 3. Drive to Yusufeli via Ispir, Visit Otkhta Eklesia (Dort Kilise) Georgian monastery, the important cultural centre in 10th c. Optional visit to Parkhali (Barhal) built by Georgian King David III Kurapalat in 973. Overnight at hotel in Yusufeli. Day 4. Exploration of Georgian churches of Ishkhani, Oshki of 10th c. and Bana 10th c, built by Kind David III and Prince Bagrat. Overnight in Ardahan. Day 5. Visit Tbeti church 10th c and Khanzta complex of 8th c. Overnight in Ardahan. Day 6. Transfer to Akhaltsikhe via Possof Turkey-Georgia border cross point. Optional visit Zarzma monastery 13th c. Overnight at hotel in Akhaltsikhe. Day 7. Morning excursion to Rabath architectural complex, with remains of Ottoman period Fortress. Visit Vardzia cave city of 12th c, passing khertvisi Castle from 10th c. Overnight in Bakuriani resort. Day8. Drive to Timotesubani 12th c. church. Continue to Uplistsikhe Cave city from first millenium BC near Gori city. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 9. Trip to Kakheti province via gombori pass. On the way visit Shuamta Architectural complex from 7 -17th centuries. Visit Alaverdi Cathedral and Ikalto Academy. Overnight in Telavi. Day 10. Drive to Tbilisi. On the way visit Tsinandali winery and estate from 19th c.and Gurjaani 8 c, church. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 11. Exploration of old Tbilisi and Mtkheta UNESCO sites. Free evening. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 12. Depurture.

This study tour is for Medieval Architecture lovers, with wildly undiscovered historical sites in Northeast Turkey and South & East Georgia. On this trip you will explore world cultural heritage sites, along with organic cuisines of two countries, with opposing religions but sharing friendship!

Draft Itinerary – 8 Days Day 1. Arrive in Tbilisi. Day 2. Explore the old Tbilisi, State and Art museums. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 3. Have a view of Mtskheta - UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site from 6th c Jvari church and drive to Gori. Explore Uplistsikhe Cave city of 6 c BC. Continue to west and visit Gelati Academy of 12th c. Overnight in Kutaisi. Day 4. Observe ethnography museum and drive to Sataplia cave, famous for its Dinosaurs footprint and amazing stalagmites. On the way visit Ubisi church with 14th c frescos painted by Damiane. Overnight in Akhaltsikhe. Day 5. Drive to Vardzia cave city dated from 12th c, visit Khertivisi Castle on the way. Overnight at hotel in Tbilisi. Day 6. Day trip to David Gareja monastery. Visit Lavra Monastery and hike up Udabno caves with frescoes. Optional visit of Dodo’s Rka caves nearby. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 7. Free day in Tbilisi. Day 8. Departure.

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9 10 11 12 Best months to visit

Accommodation: Hotel 5 nights / guesthouses 2 nights.

Accommodation: Hotel / guesthouses 11 nights.

Mode of travel: Coach / on foot.

Tour Staff and Support: Explore Georgia guide, lecturer.

Group size: up to 30 participants.

Group size: up to 40 participants.

Winding the Wine road

For Georgians, wine is a blessed liquid, not only because of Georgia’s Christian roots, but from ancient times, Georgians were proud of their viniculture which stretches back to the early Iron Age. Wine lovers can taste superior wines like Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, Kindzmarauli, Mukuzani, Chinuri, Tavkveri and much, much more...

Georgia is the country that invented wine. Out of the 2000 varieties of vine grapes in the world, more than 500 are endemic to Georgia. The wine industry is flourishing again –producing over 100 sorts of wine.

harvest in east and West Georgia This Tour takes you to famous wineries and vineyards of Kakheti, Racha, Guria and Ajara provinces.

Khvanchkara - Endemic grape

Draft Itinerary -8 days Day 1. Arrive in Tbilisi. Day 2. Sightseeing tour of Tbilisi. Lunch with wine tasting at traditional restaurant. Free evening. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 3. Drive to east Georgia. Full day in Sighnaghi area. Stroll around old city, visit museum. Drive to Bodbe convent. Coffee stop at the monastery. Drive to Tibaani vineyards with with wine tasting, picnic lunch and vineyard tour. Drive back to Sighnaghi. Dinner with tamada toasts master. Overnight in Sighnaghi. Day 4. Drive to Telavi. Visit Tsinandaly winery and estate from 19th c. Harvest participation and lunch at Ikalto local guesthouse with Mukuzani endemic red wine. visit “Wine Museum” in Telavi. Overnight in Telavi. Day 5. Explore Telavi historical sites. Depart to Napareuli village, at the “Twins Wine Cellar” participate in traditional harvest, Barbeque lunch with wine tasting. Visit Gremi architectural complex dated to 16 -17th centuries. Drive to the 19th c Eniseli Bagrationi winery. Excursion around winery with 120 oldest unique clay and oak tanks, observe the production process and discussions with wine maker, taste the Eniseli Bagrationi brandy. Dinner and overnight in Telavi. Day 6. Drive to Tbilisi via Gombori pass. Excursion to Mtskheta, the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Enjoy the wine tasting and lunch at the local wine cellar near Mtskheta in Chardakhi village. Free evening. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 7. Drive to west Georgia. Degustation of Imeretian light wines and traditional food at Khareba winery near Kutaisi. Drive up to Racha region. Enjoy the beautiful foresty landscapes and Shaori lake. Overnight in Ambrolauri. Day 8. Free time. Discover endemic grape species of the region. Participate in harvest. Picnic lunch at Khvanjkara grape vineyards. Dinner with local folklore performance. Overnight in Ambrolauri. Day 9. Drive to Guria province. Lunch and wine testing of endemic wines at local family. Continue trip via Adjara region to Batumi. Taste the traditional cuisine. Overnight in Batumi. Day 10. Departure from Batumi International Airport.

Kartl-Kakheti Wine Tour Draft Itinerary 8 days Day 1. Arrival in Tbilisi. Full day city tour of old Tbilisi. Visit Wine Studio of Chateau Mukhrani for tasting traditional wines. Cable-car journey up to medieval fortress Narikala, enjoy the panoramic view of Tbilisi, then walk to nearby Metekhi church dated to 13th c. Welcome Dinner at traditional restaurant over viewing old city. Overnight at the hotel in Tbilisi. Day 2. Travel to Kakheti, the main wine producing region of Georgia. Visit Tsinandali, 19th c winery and house museum of Chavchavadze. Visit Shukhman’s winery in Kisiskhevi. Guided tour to wine cellars with wine tasting and lunch. Drive to Ikalto architectural heritage site of 12th c, Free time in Telavi. Dinner at Chateau Mere with traditional Supra lead by Tamada – toast master, accompanied by traditional polyphony singers. Overnight at boutique Hotel of Chateau Mere. Day 3. Visit Alaverdi cathedral of 11th c, observe the monastery’s wine cellar with ancient Qvevri (traditional wine vessels). Wine tasting and discussion with monastery winemaker. Explore Telavi Wine Cellars winery, tour to vineyards and wine tasting at TWC and Kinzmarauli Marani. Dinner and overnight at Hotel of Chateau Mere. Day 4. Visit historical site of Gremi architectural complex of 16 -17th c. Drive to Khareba winery and visit 8km long wine storage tunnels. The short tour with wine tasting and lunch. Travel to Sighnaghi, small town from 18th c. Free time. Wine Tasting, dinner and folklore show at Pheasant’s Tears restaurant. Overnight in Sighnagi. Day 5. Stroll around old city and visit museum of Sighnaghi. Short visit of Bodbe Convent. Drive to Tibaani vineyards with wine tasting, Picnic lunch and vineyard tour. Drive back to Sighnaghi. Dinner at Pheasant’s Tears wine restaurant with Tamada, toasts master. Overnight in Sighnaghi. Day 6. Drive to Kartli region. Sightseeing of Mtskheta - antient Capital of Georgia. Wine tasting and lunch at wine cellar near Mtskheta in Chardakhi village. Drive to Chateau Mukhrani. Excursion of winery with wine tasting. Drive back to Tbilisi. Free evening. Day 7. Explore wine shops, local markets and authentic places of old Tbilisi. Farewell dinner with folklore music at traditional restaurant. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 8. Departure.

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Be aware of Georgian toasts that are numerous but the most important and popular are the toasts to homeland, the guests, friends, ladies, family...

9 10 11 12 Best months to visit

Accommodation: Hotel 7nights Mode of Travel: Coach Tour Stuff and Support: Explore Georgia leader, assistant(s), driver Group size: not limited

Fragment of kvevri - a wine pottery jug dating from 3rd century BC.

Georgian Cousine

Bon Appetite Tour From /To Kutaisi Draft Itinerary- 8 days Day 1. Arrive at Kopitnari International Airport, Sightseeing tour of Kutaisi. Enjoy the Imeretian cuisine, continue to Adjara province. Welcome dinner and in overnight Batumi. Day 2. Sightseeing tour of Batumi, visit Botanical gardens. Dinner with famous Adjarian Khachapuri (local cheese pie) at traditional restaurant. Overnight in Batumi. Day 3. Excurtion to Gonio fortress of Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman period. Drive over Goderzi Pass to Akhalstikhe, on the way lunch with tasting traditional Adjarian dishes at local restaurant. Overnight in Akhaltsikhe. Day 4. Excursion to Rabath Mediaval fortress with Ottoman period remains. Cheese Tasting at local farm. Continue to Vardzia cave city from 12th c. Dinner with organic Meskhetian food, local trout and bio red wine at farmhouse. Overnight in Akhaltsikhe. Day 5. Drive to Tbilisi. Sightseeing Tour with culinary classes at “Culinary Cooking School”. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 6. Drive to Kakheti via Gombori pass. Taste the variety of endemic red and white wines at Chateau Mere near Telavi, Short stop at Gremi Historical fortress of 17th c. Taste the Georgian brandy in Eniceli winery. Dinner traditional Dinner Supra with Tamada toast master and folk performance at “Khareba” winery. Transfer to Tbilisi. Day 7. Exploration of Mtskheta UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Participation in “Khinkali” making and wine tasting with lunch at Iago’s Winery in the village Chardakhi. Overnight in Kutaisi. Day 8. Departure from Kutaisi.

Georgians, who are known for their longevity and hospitality, will offer you extremely healthy food and excellent wine, tasting of variety of vegetable and fish dishes lightly mixed with walnut, herbs, spices and assorted cheese. The recipes for the most popular dishes like “Satsivi”, “Chakapuli”, “Shkmeruli” are firmly preserved among Georgians, passing from generation to generation.

Shatou Eniseli - Famous Georgian Brendy

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9 10 11 12 Best months to visit

Numerous legends and records attest to the Georgian character being an expert of wine, sophisticated food and parties.

Accommodation: Hotel 7 nights Mode of Travel: Coach Tour Stuff and Support: Explore Georgia leader, assistant(s), driver Group size: not limited

Khinkali

This tour is a perfect combination of rural and sightseeing activities organized with a help of Georgian Farmers Association. While traveling through the beautiful rural sceneries of regions Kartli and Samtskhe-Javakheti, guests will have opportunity to learn famous Georgian cuisine and bio wine making and taste the various types of exclusive cheese.

Wineries and Farms

Organic Farms Great variety of bio wines and organic food from Georgian farmers

Draft Itinerary - 8 days Day 1. Arrival in Tbilisi. Drive towards the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. On the way visit Mtskheta, ancient capital and the UNESCO Heritage Site. Lunch at local family in village Chardakhi, tasting white Chinuri wine, an endemic variety of white grape. Continue to Uplistsikhe cave-city from the first millenium BC. After excursion, drive to the town of Akhaltsikhe. Visit cheese factory in Tsnisi village, where the milk for cheese making is collected from local farmers. Dinner and overnight at the guesthouse in Klde village. Day 2. Excursion around the famous medieval fortification Rabath. Explore Meskheti area. Visit the tenili cheese making farm in the village Chobareti. Drive to the town of Aspindza. Explore pre-Christian fortress and the Saro church, situated on Javakheti Plateau. Enjoy the impressive view of river Mtkvari gorge from the site. Drive to Vardzia passing Khertvisi Fortress. Dinner and overnight at Farmer Valodia’s cottages. Enjoy the Meskhuri endemic red wine – Saperavi, organic food and local trout barbeque. Day 3. Visit the Vardzia cave city from 12th c, hewn into the rock face of mount Erusheti (1300m). Lunch and Participation in Meskhetian bread baking at local family in Tmogvi village. Drive up to Nialaskuri to visit village Lebisil architectural complex, in the past secretly hidden during invasions. Drive up towards Zeda Tmogvi. Enjoy picturesque views. Dinner and overnight at Farmer Valodia’s cottages in Koriskhevi. Day 4. After breakfast drive towards Tbilisi via Ninotsminda. Visit Poka Nunnery and taste local cheese and wine produced by nuns. Discover amazing revival of traditional Cloisonné enamel technology by nuns. Optional visit village Santa in Tsalka, where the local community produces “Alpia” cheese. Taste Georgian, Dutch and Armenian cheese types. Arrive in Tbilisi for dinner and overnight. Day 5. Drive to Sighnaghi, the royal city from 18th century. A short stop at Bodbe convent, one of holy places in Kakheti region due of the Georgians preacher’s Saint Nino’s grave. Enjoy Sightseeing tour and lunch at local winery in Signagi. Continue trip towards Telavi. Visit Velistsikhe village impressive with 16th c wine cellar (Marani). Get pleasure from the performance of Georgian traditional dancing. Dinner and overnight at the guesthouse in Ikalto village. Day 6. Excursion of Ikalto monastery and academy of 12th century. Drive towards Atskuri village, enjoy the exclusive show of pottery making. Continue form exploration Alaverdi cathedral 11th c. Optional Visit local craft Studio. Drive towards Telavi. Lunch with tasting of different sorts of cheese. Visit Tsinandali estate,19th c winery and house museum of Georgian Noble family Chavchavadze. Dinner and overnight at the guesthouse in Ikalto. Day 7. Drive back to Tbilisi via Gombori Pass. Sightseeing tour in Tbilisi. Free evening. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 8. departure.

Draft Itinerary - 8 days Day 1. Arrival in Tbilisi. Day 2. City sightseeing tour. Visit Georgian brandy factory founded by David Sarajishvili in 19th c. welcome dinner and overnight in Tbilisi. Day 3. Excursion of UNESCO Heritage Sites in Mtskheta. Lunch at the local wine cellar in Chardakhi village. Learn about the Qvevri (traditional wine vessel) wine making technology from Chinuri, Goruli mtsvane and other endemic grape varieties. Enjoy wine tasting, Dedas puri bread and Khinkali – meat dumplings. Optional visit to vineyard. Continue west to Imereti province. Visit Khareba winery – one of the largest in west Georgia, producing wines from western grape varieties, as well as grape seed oil. Overnight in Kutaisi. Day 4. Drive to visit 1.5km Prometheus Grotto near Kutaisi. Visit the century old wine cellar in town of Bagdadi. Taste Tsolikauri wine made from the rare grape Vanis Chkhaveri. Visit nearby cheese production farm. Overnight in Kutaisi. Day 5. Drive back to Tbilisi via Rikoti pass. On the way visit winery Chateau Mukhrani, established in 1882 and now producing more than 16 tipes of wine. After lunch and wine tasting continue to Tbilisi. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Tbilisi. Day 6. Drive to Kakheti – the main vine grooving province of Georgia. Explore 16th c wine cellar in Velistsikhe village. Enjoy the Georgian corner with participating in making Churchkhela, Chacha distillation and Shoti puri, the bread baking. Visit farms in Ikalto village. Optional excursion to Ikalto monastery and academy of 12th c. Georgian party – supra with traditional songs at guesthouse in Telavi. Overnight in Telavi. Day 7. Whole day exploration of Kakheti province, visits to wineries and small organic farms, local Qvevri maker’s workshop, Alaverdi Cathedral and wine cellar of 11th c. and degustation of Monastery wines. Overnight in Telavi. Day 8. Transfer to Tbilisi International Airport. Departure

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9 10 11 12 Best months to visit

Accommodation: Hotel 2 / guesthouse 5 nights. Mode of Travel: Coach. Tour Stuff and Support: Explore Georgia leader, driver. Group size: up to 20 participants.

Destination Management Company is your address in the Caucasus oUr SerVICeS ● Conference Management Burning topics, dynamic agenda, chairperson’s rank, moderators and the representative delegates are those key components, which predetermine success of a conference. The quality of management does not directly influence the content of a conference, but the reputation of an organizer, evaluation of a project and the fate of future projects depend on the clear logistics. ● Outdoor Events

We are dynamic and responsible team, full of innovative suggestions, creative ideas and smart solutions. We will take the best care of your guests. Our knowledge, flexibility, experience and imagination have enabled us to successfully operate many demanding incentive programs and meetings over the years. Georgia is definitely becoming a new destination for MICE industry. Projecting the image of a progressive and dynamically growing country Georgia has become a favorable destination for MICE tourism. Perfect geographical location, short distances, safety, incredibly beautiful nature, excellent food and authentic wines, developed tourism infrastructure, very good meeting facilities, plenty of possibilities for outdoor activities and events, interesting venues, friendly people, lively cities. With its state-of-the-art facilities, exhibition and event halls, as well as hotels and extensive meeting spaces that meet international standards, Georgia can offer an incredible experience at the crossroads between Europe and Asia – blending contemporary and historic, traditional and avant-garde. As a tourism destination, Georgia is showcasing its natural beauty, snow-capped mountains, outstanding and untouched nature, unique architectural monuments, high mountains, turbulent rivers, mysterious caves, deep forests, long-standing history, traditional culture and ancient architecture, favorable climate, exotic Georgian cuisine and wines provide great conditions for guests to combine business and leisure!

Outdoor events are especially enchanting. The unknown strengthens the interest and increases the attendance. Scale of the space, natural infrastructure and fun win the guests over. Explore Georgia has carried out quite a lot of interesting projects under the open sky and we know well, that a number of months intensive work can be lost due to unexpected change of the weather.

THE STRENGTHS OF OUR TEAM ARE

● Hotel and Venue Reservation

● Careful consideration for each brief and brainstorming before working on any proposal.

Our aim is to be a valuable partner for any company or event organizer wishing to plan events and corporate activities within our area of operation.

● Total flexibility and creativity to accommodate client’s imagination and ideas. ● Close collaboration with Conference and Incentive organizers to optimize quotation and proposal.

We continually research the range of suppliers across the region and as a result are very well placed to recommend the best suppliers for all your needs, across our entire region.

● Meticulous planning before the operations of each event.

● Transportation and Transfers

● Constant flow of communication within the team and the event organizer. Total transparency towards organizers and

MeeTING INDUSTry

We meet all your transportation needs: deluxe coaches, car rental, private planes and helicopters.

We are experts in turning your ideas and projects into events of success. We are able to offer programs where the venues, the animation and the team building are the keys to the effectiveness of your project.

● Personnel Supply

● Fair pricing policy.

VeNUeS

● Logistics and Support

We offer a variety of venues, since the most modern multifunctional pavilions, through means of original transport types, until the most unexpected places for holding of events. TEAM BUILDING

client.

● 24 hour assistance by the coordinators at proposal time, during inspection visits and on operations.

Hosts, DJ-s and MC-s, interpreters, animation teams, security guards etc. Churchkhela Making in Marani

● In collaboration with our partners we also operate in Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Our team will work with you through each phase of planning, from budgeting up to onsite management; we worry about everything so you don’t need to do it.

We develop a wide range of activities that will enhance ties between your team and a healthy internal competition. MISSION Explore Georgia stands for reliability, cost-effective solutions, quality and fairness in business. We think and act creatively having in mind the needs and satisfaction of the customers, that’s why we always become partners sharing the same goals based on high quality and efficiency. GOALS Our approach is to provide new direction in the leisure & incentive travel fields and to ensure that every program is unique. Our commitment is to creativity, teamwork and the long-term development of relationships with our partners.

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eVeNT-TeNTS For the protection of your occasion we provide special infrastructure for the open air events – the event tents from “Losberger”, the leading manufacturer in the related industry. The possibilities of mobile constructions are limitless – their sizes, style, thematic value. Irrespective of the locality and the season, the mobile constructions are ideal means for staging events. Specifications : The “Losberger” constructions are made of the highest quality materials. Farm – galvanized aluminum: tent – fireproof - D (ISO1461) and windproof – D (ISO 41212) from PVC material. During the planning process of team-work and events, our company collaborates with the social psychologists and human resources specialists, the instructors of adventurous tourism and extreme sports.

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Interesting team building events? Social Tours Programs? Creative theme parties and events? Excellent dinner with top quality Georgian wines in authentic place? Exclusive & special interest tours? Perfect spa treatments? Or perhaps rafting on a turquoise blue river? Hiking in unspoiled nature? Hot air balloon flight? Formula & Legends car race? 4x4 adventure? Fun and relax? And success of your event?

Likewise, depending on the culture and social factors, the incentive travel differs in itsapplication and understanding in certain countries. There are numerous destinations withrich cultural and historical heritage, intact landscapes, top selection of food and drink andfriendly people. Nowadays Georgia claims to be among the top favorite new emergedincentive destinations, spectacular to be explored year round.

Incentive Exploration

Draft Itinerary - 4 days Day 1. Arrive in Tbilisi. Short excursion to Jvari monastery 6th c with excellent view of Mtskheta old city. Lunch with wine tasting and culinary classes at “Iago’s Winery”; Continue to Kazbegi. Welcome cocktail reception at hotel. Time for leisure. Traditional “Supra” with specially invited “Tamada” toast master and group of singers and dancers. Overnight at hotel in Kazbegi. Day 2. 4X4 drive to 14th century Gergeti Trinity church located at 2180m with the breathtaking view of Mt. Kazbegi 5047m; Optional horse riding trip to the church. Then drive to Dariali Canyon and short walk to Gveleti waterfalls; picnic and “Khridoli” show – a traditional Georgian martial arts. Return to hotel for thematic evening, dinner and overnight. Day 3. Morning for leisure. Drive towards Tbilisi till the town of Pasanauri; enjoy 2-2,5h rafting tour on Aragvi river with barbeque lunch at the end. Continue to Tbilisi. Optional guided tour of old City or cognac tasting at David Sarajishvili brandy factory. Time for leisure. Farewell dinner at a city restaurant followed by after party at night or jazz club in Tbilisi. Overnight at hotel. Day 4. Transfer to the airport. Departure.

answer is GeorGIa! We offer a comprehensive range of services to insure that your event will be a success!

General 1

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Accommodation: 4* / 5* Hotels 3 nights. Mode of Travel: Bus / 4x4 vans. Tour Stuff and Support: Explore Georgia leader, coordinator, assistants. Group size: up to 100 participants.

Explore Georgia Ltd Tel.: +995 32 2921 911 Fax: +995 32 2180 201 E-mail: info@exploregeorgia.com www.exploregeorgia.com