What is the Kukushka train and how does it work?

Kukushka (meaning 'little cuckoo' in Russian) is a narrow-gauge heritage railway that connects Borjomi and Bakuriani through pristine forest. It moves deliberately slowly, allowing passengers to absorb the landscape and spot wildlife. It's an iconic Soviet-era experience and entry is included in your tour.

Is the mineral water in Borjomi safe to drink?

Yes. Borjomi's mineral water has been naturally carbonated and bottled since the 1850s and is considered therapeutic. You can drink directly from fountains in Central Park or fill your own bottle to take home.

How much walking is involved?

Moderate. You'll walk through Borjomi Central Park at a leisurely pace and explore the grounds around Mtsvane Monastery. Bakuriani itself is accessible on foot, though some paths are uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Will I have free time to explore on my own?

Yes. As a private tour, your itinerary is flexible. Your guide can adjust pace and time spent at each site based on your interests—whether you want to linger in the park, hike around the monastery, or simply relax in Bakuriani.

What's the weather like at Bakuriani compared to Tbilisi?

Bakuriani sits at 1,700 metres elevation, so it's noticeably cooler—typically 8–12°C cooler than Tbilisi, even in summer. Bring a light jacket or sweater even on warm days in the capital.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes. The mix of train travel, park exploration, and relaxed pacing appeals to families. The Kukushka train is a highlight for children, and the mineral water fountain in Borjomi Central Park is usually a novelty. Confirm any age-related needs with your guide when booking.

Monument to Prometheus in Borjomi Central Park

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Discover Borjomi: Scenic Tour from Tbilisi

(5)

Tbilisi, Georgia

Cultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursNature Tours

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About this activity

Escape Tbilisi for a full-day immersion in Georgia's most celebrated mountain resorts: the mineral-rich spa town of Borjomi and the alpine forest retreat of Bakuriani. This scenic journey combines heritage rail travel, natural springs, and centuries-old monasteries in one unforgettable loop.

Private full day tour to Borjomi and Bakuriani includes visiting the best winter and summer resort Bakuriani at an elevation of 1,700 meters covered by forests and a balneological resort Borjomi, well-known with its mineral water park that dates back to the 1850s. To appreciate the nature, guests will take Soviet train Kukushka (Russian for "little cuckoo") that connects Borjomi to Bakuriani via the narrow-gauge railway in the deep forest. Guests will visit Borjomi Central Park to relax, enjoy the nature and taste mineral water. Guests will also visit Mtsvane Monastery built in 10th century and covered with greenery. Private tour to Borjomi and Bakuriani includes entry tickets to the train and central park. Total drive 370 km (230 miles).

Highlights

✓Ride the iconic Kukushka narrow-gauge railway through dense forest between Borjomi and Bakuriani
✓Explore Borjomi's Central Park and sample the region's famous therapeutic mineral water
✓Discover the 10th-century Mtsvane Monastery nestled in lush greenery
✓Visit Bakuriani alpine resort (1,700m elevation) with panoramic forest views
✓Total immersion in Soviet-era charm and Caucasus mountain landscapes

Insider tips

★Bring a reusable water bottle—the mineral water at Borjomi Central Park is free and naturally carbonated; many visitors fill up for the journey back
★Wear layers; Bakuriani at 1,700m is noticeably cooler than Tbilisi, even in summer
★The Kukushka train moves slowly by design—use it to photograph the forest canopy and spot local wildlife rather than rush between stops

Good to know

•Total distance: 370 km (230 miles) round trip; expect 4–5 hours of driving combined with 2–3 hours of activities
•Entry to Kukushka train and Borjomi Central Park are included; wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven park terrain
•Private tour means flexible pacing; confirm pickup location and time with supplier the day before

Who it's for

Rail enthusiasts and heritage travellers drawn to Soviet-era engineeringWellness and spa seekers interested in natural mineral watersNature and mountain lovers wanting alpine forest scenery within reach of TbilisiFamilies and groups looking for a full-day escape with varied activities

Best time to visit

Late spring through early autumn (May–September) offers the most comfortable weather and fully open alpine meadows. Winter transforms Bakuriani into a ski resort but makes mountain roads slower; spring wildflowers and summer greenery are peak for photography.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Amara A.

Dec 2025

our guide Carla had so many stories and a stop the guide added on the fly was the highlight ... Last day of the trip so it wasnt too busy. On a rainy sunday, and came away with 200+ photos. Would book again no question.

Dan W.

Nov 2025

So nice this one, a stop the guide added on the fly was amazing and Luca the guide explain everything good. Better than Seville for sure, we go again!

Aisha L.

Aug 2025

Mateo our guide was class, went last tuesday

Sofia G.

Aug 2025

our guide Jonas was nice enough, but the bit at the end nobody expects felt a bit rushed honestly, and first thing in the morning, 10/10

David T.

Jun 2025

our guide Ana had so many stories and a stop the guide added on the fly was the highlight, and handy if youre short on time, and ran the full 4 hours promised.

from€170.12/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

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