Family Half-Day Tour: Sabaduri, Georgian Chronicles, & Jvari
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Family Half-Day Tour: Sabaduri, Georgian Chronicles, & Jvari

Active
(13 reviews)
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the ultimate winter half-day tour from Tbilisi, designed for families, photographers, and nature lovers. This diverse adventure blends snow, history, and heartwarming animal encounters.

First, marvel at the Chronicles of Georgia, a colossal monument offering stunning views of the Tbilisi Sea. Next, enter the magical Sabaduri Forest. Known as a winter wonderland, it is the perfect spot for snowy photoshoots and building snowmen (weather permitting).

A true highlight is our visit to a dedicated shelter for brown bears, wolves, dogs, and horses. This safe and ethical experience lets you get close to these amazing animals. You can even feed them treats, which kids love!

Conclude your journey at the 6th-century Jvari Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the iconic view of the two rivers merging below. From spiritual history to winter fun and furry friends, this tour offers the best of Georgia in one trip. Book your snowy adventure today!

Available options

Private tour

Private tour with pick-up<br/>Pickup included

Join-in tour

Join-in tour: For our group tour, we meet at Europe Square, a central and easily accessible location.

What's included

Entry/Admission - Bear shelter
English-speaking friendly guide
Comfortable door-to-door transport (for the private tours)

Detailed itinerary

1

We designed our starting process to be as smooth as possible, whether you prefer the exclusivity of a private car or the fun of a shared group experience.

For Small Group Tour Guests: Join us at our easy-to-find meeting location in the historic center: Europe Square. We meet specifically at the open parking area next to the Cafe Tramway (a distinct vintage tram car). It is a central, accessible spot perfect for starting our journey.

For Private Tour Guests: Enjoy maximum comfort with our complimentary door-to-door pickup service. Your guide will meet you directly at the lobby of your hotel or residence in Tbilisi, ensuring a stress-free start to your day.

Important Note: To ensure we catch the best light and maximize our time at the bear sanctuary and forest, we kindly ask all guests to arrive 10 minutes prior to departure. Our tours leave promptly to respect the schedule of all participants.

2

After the Chronicles, we journey into the heart of nature to the famous Sabaduri Forest area. Here, tucked away in the village of Tskhvarichamia, lies a unique ethical shelter dedicated to the protection of Georgia’s wildlife.

This stop is a favorite for families and animal lovers. You will visit a special sanctuary established to rehabilitate brown bears, wolves, and dogs. Unlike a standard zoo, this center focuses on care and preservation, offering you a rare chance to observe these majestic creatures up close in a safe environment.

The highlight of the visit is the interaction—visitors are welcome to bring treats like apples or carrots to hand-feed the bears and horses. It is a heartwarming experience that children adore. Surrounded by the dense forest, which turns into a snowy fairytale land in winter, this location offers incredible photo opportunities and unforgettable memories with Georgia's native animals.

3

Step into the pages of a winter fairy tale at Sabaduri Forest, Georgia's most photogenic natural landmark. Located just a short drive from the city within the Tbilisi National Park, this enchanting location is famous for its dense, perfectly aligned trees that create a magical tunnel effect.

For photographers and social media enthusiasts, this is the ultimate destination. The forest offers a cinematic backdrop that looks straight out of a fantasy movie. When blessed with snow, it transforms into a pristine white wonderland where families can build snowmen, make snow angels, and capture breathtaking holiday portraits (weather permitting).

Even on clear winter days without heavy snow, the mystical atmosphere of the deep woods and the crisp mountain air offer a refreshing escape. It is a place where nature brings out the child in everyone, offering endless opportunities for exploration and creating unforgettable family memories.

4
Stop 4

No trip to Georgia is complete without visiting its most famous spiritual landmark: the Jvari Monastery. Perched dramatically on a rocky mountaintop overlooking the ancient capital of Mtskheta, this 6th-century architectural masterpiece is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and a profound symbol of Georgian Christianity.

For photographers and history lovers, Jvari offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the country. From the churchyard, you can gaze down upon the breathtaking valley of Mtskheta and the surrounding mountain ranges, capturing the essence of the Caucasus in a single frame.

Step inside the ancient walls to feel the history of the early Middle Ages. The minimalist, preserved interior and the serene atmosphere provide a peaceful, spiritual finale to your diverse half-day adventure, perfectly balancing the fun of the bear sanctuary and the snowy magic of the forest.

5

Prepare your cameras for the most famous postcard view in the entire Caucasus. Standing at the edge of the Jvari precipice, you will witness a breathtaking natural phenomenon: the meeting point of two great rivers with distinctly different colors.

Watch as the emerald-green mountain waters of the Aragvi River flow into and merge with the sandy-brown currents of the Mtkvari River. Directly below, the red rooftops of the ancient capital, Mtskheta, nestle between the waters and the mountains. This panoramic vista is widely considered the number one photography spot in Georgia and offers an unforgettable visual experience of nature's beauty.

6

Our adventure begins at the majestic Chronicle of Georgia, a colossal monument often referred to as the Georgian Stonehenge. Perched high on a hill, this hidden gem offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Tbilisi Sea reservoir.

Unlike crowded tourist spots, this masterpiece by sculptor Zurab Tsereteli provides a peaceful, grand atmosphere that is a dream for photographers. The massive bronze and stone pillars feature intricate carvings depicting the life of Jesus Christ and the legendary history of Georgian kings and queens.

Its towering scale creates an epic, cinematic backdrop for your holiday photos. Prepare to be awed by the sheer size and artistic detail of this architectural marvel before we head into nature.

7

We aim to make the end of your tour as smooth as possible, ensuring you return to the city relaxed and full of great memories.

For Small Group Tour Guests: Our tour concludes back at our original meeting point at Europe Square. From here, you are perfectly positioned to grab dinner in the Old Town, take a walk across the Peace Bridge, or easily catch a taxi to your next destination.

For Private Tour Guests: Enjoy the convenience of a direct drop-off right back at your hotel or any other preferred location within Tbilisi city limits.

A Friendly Note on Traffic: While we always aim to return exactly on schedule, please keep in mind that Tbilisi traffic can be unpredictable, especially during evening rush hours. We recommend not booking strict appointments immediately after the tour, just in case of a slight delay on the return journey.

What's not included

Lunch
Gratuities
Personal expenses
Food for animails

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
11 reviews
5★
11
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Snow: While we aim to provide a winter wonderland experience, please be aware that we cannot guarantee snowfall. Snow presence is subject to natural conditions, and weather can vary.
Weather Preparations: Prepare for cold and potentially windy winter conditions. Dress warmly in layers to ensure your comfort throughout the tour.
Terrain Considerations: Depending on recent weather, some areas may have muddy or wet terrain. Suitable footwear is recommended to navigate such conditions.
Lunch Note: Kindly note that our itinerary does not include a lunch stop. We recommend bringing snacks, especially if traveling with children. If you have specific dietary preferences (e.g., halal, vegan, gluten-free), please plan accordingly in advance.
Time and Traffic: Be aware that traffic in Tbilisi can vary, potentially affecting the tour's duration. Your understanding of possible delays due to traffic conditions is greatly appreciated.
If you're late, you'll need to make a new booking – we appreciate your understanding!
First come, first choice on seats! The earlier you arrive, the better the seat you can take.

Meeting point

For group tour, we meet at Europe Square
Meeting Point: Europe Square, Tbilisi
• Look for the parking in front of Café Tram

⏳ Timing & Important Notes:
• Please arrive on time – we can wait up to 10 min.
• First come, first choice on seats!
• If you're late, you'll need to make a new booking

About Tbilisi

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a vibrant city where ancient history meets modern culture. Known for its unique architecture, thermal baths, and rich culinary scene, it offers a blend of European and Asian influences that make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Narikala Fortress

This ancient fortress offers panoramic views of Tbilisi and is a symbol of the city's rich history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Sulfur Baths

A unique historical landmark where people have been bathing in sulfur-rich waters for centuries.

Religious 1-2 hours 10-20 GEL (3-6 USD)

Sameba Cathedral

One of the largest religious buildings in the Caucasus, this cathedral is an architectural masterpiece.

Religious 1 hour Free

Mtatsminda Park

A beautiful park with panoramic views of the city, perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Dry Bridge Market

A popular flea market where you can find antiques, souvenirs, and local crafts.

Shopping 1-2 hours Varies

Must-Try Local Dishes

Khachapuri

A cheesy bread filled with melted cheese, often with an egg in the center.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Khinkali

Dumplings filled with spiced meat or mushrooms, typically served with a side of soup.

Main Dish Vegetarian options available

Badrijani Nigvzit

Fried eggplant rolls filled with a walnut paste.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Lobio

A rich, spicy bean stew often served in clay pots.

Side Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Paragliding Rafting Spa treatments Thermal baths Picnics in parks Visiting museums Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to October

This is the best time to visit Tbilisi as the weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and festivals.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Georgian
  • Widely spoken: Russian, English
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Georgian Lari (GEL)

Time Zone

GMT+4

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tbilisi is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
  • • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
  • • Avoid walking alone late at night

Getting there

By air
  • Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport • 17 km from city center
By train

Tbilisi Central Railway Station

By bus

Ortachala Bus Station, Didube Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient and affordable, with stations well-connected to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Vake Avlabari

Day trips

Mtskheta
20 km from Tbilisi • Half day

Mtskheta is an ancient city and the former capital of Georgia, known for its historic churches and monasteries.

Kazbegi
160 km from Tbilisi • Full day

Kazbegi is a stunning mountain region with breathtaking views and outdoor activities.

Gori
80 km from Tbilisi • Half day

Gori is a city known for its historic sites, including the birthplace of Joseph Stalin.

Festivals

Tbilisi International Film Festival • March Tbilisi Open Air • July Tbilisi Wine Festival • October

Pro tips

  • Visit the Dry Bridge Market early in the morning for the best selection of antiques and souvenirs
  • Try traditional Georgian dishes at local restaurants and street food vendors
  • Explore the Old Town on foot to discover hidden gems and historic sites
  • Take a day trip to Mtskheta to experience Georgia's ancient history and culture
  • Attend a traditional Georgian supper club for an authentic dining experience
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Childs
Age 1-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 14
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook