safe travel georgia

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

You should also read FCDO ’s warnings and regional risks advice for Georgia.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Georgia

Terrorist attacks in Georgia can’t be ruled out. Attacks could happen anywhere and affect western interests and places visited by foreigners, such as tourist sites and cultural events.

Political situation

The political situation in Georgia is generally calm.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations and rallies can occur, particularly:

• around Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi
• in large towns

Demonstrations are usually policed, but tensions can escalate without warning. You should:

• check local media
• avoid large gatherings and demonstrations
• follow the advice of local authorities

Crime levels are low. You should:

• take sensible precautious to avoid pick-pocketing, particularly in crowded places
• not leave valuables unattended
• stay aware of your surroundings
• keep your mobile phone charged and with you at all times

Georgian law protects everyone’s human rights and equality, but ethnic minorities and LGBT+ people may face discrimination. Harassment and assault based on race and sexuality do take place.

If someone attempts to assault you or you feel threatened, call the emergency number 112 and ask for the police.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You’re advised to carry a copy of your passport at all times. Keep the original in a safe place.

Cultural differences

Tbilisi is a cosmopolitan city. There can be more conservative attitudes in rural areas. When travelling outside cities, be aware of cultural sensitivities around modest dress (particularly in places of worship) and open displays of affection.

Prices may be quoted in US dollars and euros, but goods and services must be paid for in local currency (lari).

Travellers’ cheques are rarely accepted. Outside major towns, you may not find ATMs or be able to use credit and debit cards. Take enough cash in lari if travelling to rural or remote areas.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

If you use illegal drugs of any kind, you can get heavy fines or long prison terms. Smuggling even very small amounts of drugs carries a prison term of 5 to 25 years and heavy fines.

Using cameras

Do not photograph sensitive sites like military bases and power installations.

Be aware of cultural sensitivities when photographing churches and other religious sites.

Some visitors have been stopped from photographing the Presidential Palace in Tbilisi.

Check for any signs telling you not to take photographs. Always seek permission if in doubt.

LGBT+ travellers

Homosexuality is legal in Georgia, and there are anti-discrimination laws, but same-sex relationships are still not widely accepted.

Showing affection in public may result in discrimination or harassment. Homophobic harassment and assault take place.

Pride marches in 2019 and 2021 were cancelled because the police did not guarantee security. In 2023, a Pride event was cancelled after a violent protest.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Disabled travellers

Accessibility standards in Georgia are below UK standards. Very few public or private facilities are accessible.

Most public transport does not accommodate disabled travellers.

There are few pavements outside of main cities and pavements are generally uneven.

Read our general advice for disabled travellers .

A law banning surrogacy for foreign couples is expected to be adopted by the Georgian Parliament in the near future. Keep up to date by signing up to our  Georgia travel advice .

If you’re visiting Georgia to arrange an international surrogacy, consider the risks and challenges involved. Surrogacy is a complex, lengthy process. You should:

• make sure you’re aware of the facts and well-prepared before starting the process
• get specialist legal advice on Georgian and UK laws before making any arrangements
• read  FCDO  and Home Office guidance on surrogacy overseas
• research clinics and hospitals thoroughly to make sure they are safe and reputable

The British Embassy cannot get involved in surrogacy arrangements or recommend hospitals or clinics.

Commissioning a surrogacy will not automatically mean that the child holds British citizenship. To bring your child born through surrogacy from Georgia to the UK, you must apply for a full British passport . You need a Georgian birth certificate for this. Check the Public Service Hall and Service Development Agency websites and research the rules for leaving the country with children (some legal details are in Georgian only). You can stay visa-free in Georgia for a continuous period of up to one year. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia has more information.

Trade with South Ossetia and Abkhazia

Anyone trading with Abkhazia and South Ossetia needs a licence issued by the Georgia government. This includes buying and selling property and most financial transactions. Anyone trading without a licence may face penalties under Georgian civil and criminal law.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Make sure your travel insurance covers your activities.

If you get into trouble during hiking, skiing, adventure travel or extreme sports, the emergency response may be limited.

Off-piste skiing is very dangerous. It can be difficult to get accurate information on mountain conditions, including avalanche risks. Read our information on staying safe during skiing and winter sports .

If you’re trekking, mountaineering, climbing, off-piste skiing or doing other extreme sports, consider going with specialist guides. Many insurance policies will not cover damage to rental equipment or skiing off-piste without a guide.

Be aware that safety standards in Georgia may not be as high as those in the UK. For example, several people were injured when a ski lift at Gudauri malfunctioned in 2018 and a tourist helicopter crashed near Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) in 2019.

If you plan to hike close to the administrative boundary lines, consider hiring a professional guide.

Transport risks

Take usual precautions after dark in unfamiliar areas.

Street lighting away from main roads can be poor and pavements uneven. There may be occasional short power cuts – consider carrying a torch.

Taxi provision and safety has improved significantly. To stay safe using taxis:

• do not flag taxis in the street
• try to pre-book taxis through an app
• check the taxi has working seatbelts

Road travel

If you’re planning to drive in Georgia, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC Georgia guide .

You can drive in Georgia with a UK driving licence for up to one year (from when you last entered Georgia). To drive for longer, you need a 1949 or 1968 international driving permit (IDP) or Georgian driving licence. If you’re hiring a car, check the rules with the car hire company before you travel. They may require you to have an IDP.

You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Drink driving punishments can be severe. Georgia has a lower blood alcohol content limit than the UK, so avoid alcohol if driving.

Driving conditions

Take care when driving, especially at night. Be aware that:

• roads outside city centres are often badly lit and poor quality
• stray livestock can be a hazard
• road markings and the right of way can be confusing
• many cars are poorly maintained
• driving can be erratic
• heavy rain, flooding and snow at higher altitudes can affect roads and bridges making travel difficult or impossible (particularly in remote areas)
• landslides are common

If you’re travelling outside Tbilisi, particularly in remote areas, make sure your vehicle is equipped and check weather conditions locally.

Rail travel

Take usual precautions with your personal safety and belongings. Compartments on sleeper trains usually have locks.

There is currently no train service between Azerbaijan and Georgia.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

There are frequent small earthquakes in Georgia. The most recent significant earthquake took place in 2022 – an earthquake measuring 6.2 struck 104km south-west of Tbilisi. Read the US Federal Emergency Management Agency advice on what to do before, during and after an earthquake .

Lightning and wildfires are a risk in summer, particularly in the mountains.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Georgia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise normal precautions in Georgia. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do Not Travel To:

• The Russian-occupied Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia due to risk of  crime, civil unrest, and landmines .

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Georgia.

If you decide to travel to Georgia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for Georgia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

South Ossetia and Abkhazia – Do Not Travel

Russian troops and border guards occupy both South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The precise locations of administrative boundary lines are difficult to identify. Entering the occupied territories will likely result in your arrest, imprisonment, and/or a fine. Violent attacks and criminal incidents occur in the region. Landmines pose a danger to travelers near the boundary lines of both territories.

The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens traveling in South Ossetia and Abkhazia, as U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling there.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid at the time of entry.  

One page is required for an entry stamp.

Not required for stays of 365 days or less.

Hepatitis A and pre-exposure rabies are recommended. 

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy tbilisi.

29 Georgian-American Friendship Avenue Didi Dighomi Tbilisi, Georgia, 0131 Telephone: +(995)(32) 227-7724 (M-F 8:30-5:30) Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(995)(32) 227-7000 Website: https://ge.usembassy.gov/ Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Georgia  for information on U.S.-Georgia relations

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You need a valid passport to enter Georgia . U.S. citizens may enter, reside, work or study in Georgia without a visa for up to 365 days. Border authorities are free to conduct questioning and deny entry to anyone at their discretion, regardless of the traveler's citizenship. U.S. Embassy Tbilisi is unable to intercede on behalf of U.S. citizens or petition the government of Georgia to allow entry into Georgia. Visit  the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website  for the most current visa information. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control ( CDC) website  for immunization information.

• U.S. citizens who overstay the permitted 365-day period are subject to a fine.
• If transiting Georgia , law enforcement and border officials may inquire about the purpose of your travel, funds, insurance, reservations, return tickets, and invitations before granting entry.
• Georgian law requires travelers to enter and depart using travel documents of the same nationality.
• Georgian law requires that Georgian citizens, including dual nationals, enter and depart Georgia on Georgian passports. The government of Georgia may consider naturalized U.S. citizens a Georgian citizen.
• Under Georgian law, U.S.-Georgian dual-national males between the ages of 18 and 27 may be subject to military conscription. For more information, please review the  Georgian Ministry of Defense  webpage.
• Foreign documents intended for official use   in Georgia must be authenticated with an apostille. This includes documents used to apply for a Georgian residency permit or to document the birth of a child born in Georgia.
• The U.S. Embassy cannot, under any circumstances, authenticate a document issued in the United States , regardless of whether the document has been notarized in the United States. See the Department’s webpages on  Judicial Assistance  and  Notarial and/or Authentication Service  for more information on apostilles.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Georgia.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs information  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations continue to plot possible attacks throughout Europe. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism  page.

Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and Adjacent Areas:  The United States and most other countries consider these regions part of Georgia. However, de facto local authorities claim independence, and Russian troops and border guards occupy both regions. Attacks, criminal incidents, and kidnappings have occurred in and around the areas. While none of the activity has been anti-American in nature, there is a high risk of travelers finding themselves in a wrong place/wrong time situation. Follow the guidance in our Travel Advisory for Georgia and do not travel to these regions. If you choose to travel there, you should be aware:

• U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling to the Russian-occupied regions of Abkhazia or South Ossetia. We are unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in either territory.  U.S. government employees also are restricted from traveling within five kilometers of the administrative boundary line (ABL) dividing these regions from Tbilisi-administered territory.
• The administrative boundary line (ABL) of South Ossetia is not clearly marked in many places and frequently moving in other places. There is an elevated risk of wandering into South Ossetia unknowingly while hiking, particularly on the ABL’s eastern side , which could result in detention by security forces.
• Unexploded ordnance left over from previous conflicts pose a danger near the administrative boundary line of South Ossetia.
• You may only legally enter these regions from the Georgian side, per Georgian law.
• You may be arrested, detained, imprisoned, and/or fined by Russian, Georgian or de facto authorities if you enter without proper documentation. 
• Medical services in the occupied territories are extremely limited. Hospitals do not accept credit cards or medical insurance, have little to no infectious disease control, and lack medicine.
• There are no commercial airports in either region making air ambulance evacuations impossible during medical emergencies.
• It is illegal to undertake any type of economic activity in Abkhazia or South Ossetia that requires permits, licenses, or registration, per Georgian law. Laws also ban mineral exploration, money transfers, and international transit via Abkhazia or South Ossetia.

Pankisi Gorge: The Department of State cautions U.S. citizens against travel to the Pankisi Gorge region (north of the villages of Matane and Chorale, to the border with Russia, including the city of Duisk) because of the current security environment and the potential for civil unrest. There are restrictions on U.S. Embassy personnel traveling to this region or within five kilometers of it. While the Georgian government has had success in combating terrorism within its borders, U.S. citizens should remain vigilant. ISIS recruiting has occurred in Pankisi in the past, and some known terrorists have confirmed ties to the Pankisi Gorge region.  

Crime : Criminals may target foreigners. Take precautions against becoming a victim of crime as you would in any large city.

• Firearms are readily available in Georgia, assailants may be armed, and disputes with firearms could occur.
• Alcohol consumption is prevalent and has been attributed to escalating or exacerbating otherwise minor disputes.
• Carrying pocket knives or other cutting devices in Georgia is illegal under most circumstances .  You may be detained or cited if found in violation.
• There has been an increase in reports of “ confidence scams” where a traveler who orders drinks or food in a bar or restaurant is presented with a bill for exorbitantly high sums and then physically threatened if they do not pay. These are sometimes combined with “ romance scams ” wherein a traveler is taken to these establishments by someone they met online through a dating or other social meetup site.
• U.S. and other visitors have reported occurrences of sexual assault in Georgia.
• Avoid walking alone at night . 
• Exercise caution  when riding alone in private taxis or “marshrutka” mini buses.
• Maintain a low profile, do not carry large amounts of cash, and do not draw unnecessary attention to yourself.
• Use caution at  ATMs , and always check for skimming devices or other tampering.
• Avoid using  public WIFI networks or internet terminals  as they did not protect your data or personal information.
• Foreign visitors report having items stolen from locked hotel rooms. Review additional information on crime threats in the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) Georgia Country Security Report .

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredicatable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Security alerts about demonstrations can be found on the Embassy’s website here .

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime : U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.  Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112, and contact the  U.S. Embassy  in Tbilisi at (+ 995) (32) 227-7724 (after hours + 995 32 227-7000). 

The  Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs  (MOIA) operates a 24-hour emergency response center similar to 911 (dial 112) and transfers emergency calls to the fire and rescue service, police, or the nearest medical emergency center. Most dispatchers speak only Georgian and Russian but will transfer calls to English-speaking operators.

Remember that the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.  The U.S. Embassy has no law enforcement or legal authority overseas, nor can it investigate crimes in Georgia. U.S. embassy staff are prohibited by federal regulation from acting as agents, attorneys, or in a fiduciary capacity on behalf of U.S. citizens involved in legal disputes overseas.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of  local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Local resources for victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, or human trafficking include a hotline dial 116-006), temporary shelters, medical and rehabilitation services, interpretation and legal assistance. These may be available through a government agency known as  Atipfund Georgia .

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are not routine. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified by host government orby recognized authorities in the field. . In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities.  First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Personal Safety in Remote Areas: If you intend to camp , climb , or hike in the mountains or any remote area in Georgia:

• Research local conditions in advance.
• Go with a companion or a group. Avoid traveling alone.
• Provide route and contact information to someone not traveling with you.
• Maintain communication with your family and friends.
• If in trouble, call the emergency number 112. Most dispatchers speak Georgian and Russian but will transfer calls to English-speaking operators.

In the case of a crisis or natural disaster , U.S. citizens in Georgia may check the  Embassy’s website for U.S. Embassy emergency messages, or receive them by email by signing up for the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP).

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be fined, arrested, deported, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or praticing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

If arrested, you may be held in pre-trial detention for up to nine months. Review the State Department’s page on  Arrests or Detention of U.S Citizens Abroad.

Furthermore, some lawsare also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Notification to U.S. Embassy Tbilisi of the arrest of U.S. citizens is typically significantly delayed in Georgia. In addition, the Georgian police have the authority under the Administration Violation Code to detain individuals for up to 24 hours without court intervention and 48 hours with court approval (this is referred to as “administrative detention”). There are no due process rights assigned during an administrative hold, meaning the person has no right to counsel.

Special Circumstances : Georgia has strict regulations concerning:

• Possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in accordance with Georgian laws and controlled substance classifications. Penalties are severe and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. 
• The import or export of alcohol, tobacco, jewelry, religious materials, art or artifacts, antiquities, and business equipment.
• Export of items of historical value , such as artwork, antiques, jewelry, or paintings. You must obtain a license. Contact the  Embassy of Georgia  or see our  customs regulations  webpage.
• Firearms  cannot be imported into Georgia.
• Georgian law prohibits the  sale of real property  (land and houses) in the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Prior owners may have the right to reclaim the property in the future.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. If you attempt to bring counterfeit or pirated goods into the United States you may incur a fine or have the items seized. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers : See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual conduct or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Georgia. However, traditional cultural attitudes result in LGBTQI+ individuals often facing discrimination and harassment. Some LGBTQI+ persons in Georgia have been targets of attacks. In addition, violent anti-LGBTQI+ protests have occurred in Tbilisi, including in response to public LGBTQI+ related events.

See our  LGBTQI+ travel information  page and section 6 of the  Department of State’s Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities : Georgian law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, but the government does not enforce the law effectively. In July 2020, Georgia adopted legislation on the rights of persons with disabilities that establishes principles to guide the government’s implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The government has until this year (2023) to develop an implementation action plan and 15 years to complete accessibility of government buildings, infrastructure, and services. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited or nonexistent in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for  Women Travelers

For emergency services in Georgia, dial 112 (the equivalent of 911 in the United States)

Ambulance services  are not widely available outside Tbilisi and training and availability of emergency responders may fall below U.S. standards. Ambulances are not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Limited Medical Services in Rural Areas:  In the event of injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

We do not pay for medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most health care providers in Georgia only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription . Check with the  Ministry of Health  to ensure the medication is legal in Georgia . Georgia strictly regulates types and quantities of prescription medications that may be brought into the country. Travelers carrying prohibited prescription drugs have been detained and face heavy fines or arrest.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of English-speaking doctors and hospitals in Georgia. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.   Air pollution is a significant problem in Tbilisi. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling, if necessary. Georgia has installed and maintains air quality monitors around the country. Real-time data is available at: https://air.gov.ge/en/ .

Health Facilities in General:

• Adequate healthcare facilities are available in Tbilisi, although below U.S. standards. Outside major cities, medical facilities in Georgia are limited.
• Hospitals and doctors may require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:

• If you are considering traveling to Georgia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• The Georgian government has announced it intends to pass legislation that would ban surrogacy for foreigners starting January 1, 2024. Breaking the law will be a criminal offense. Currently, the law is in draft form and several issues related to surrogacy services, including if and how pre-existing contracts with ART facilities and surrogates in Georgia would be honored, will not be known until the law is passed. You might not be able to receive a refund if you enter into a contract for surrogacy services. Babies born through illegal arrangements might be prevented from leaving Georgia. Before you commit to a surrogacy arrangement, seek independent legal advice. A list of local attorneys in Georgia who have expressed interest in assisting U.S. citizens can be found on Embassy Tbilisi’s website.

Adventure Travel : Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel . 

• Travelers with  existing health problems  may be at risk due to inadequate medical facilities.
• There is a significant risk of rabies in Georgia. The CDC recommends some travelers complete the rabies vaccine series prior to arriving in country.
• Some spices made in Georgia contain high levels of lead. Consider purchasing spices only from recognized U.S. or international manufacturers.
• Georgia has a high rate of Hepatitis C . Exercise caution if you plan to get a tattoo, piercing, dental work , or other procedure with potential for blood exposure. Ensure the provider uses proper sterilization procedures.
• Ensure food is cooked thoroughly to reduce the risk of food-borne illness.
• Georgia has eight venomous snake  species that are active between March and October. Few medical facilities have antivenin serum.  Treat all snakes as potentially venomous.

Tuberculosis is prevalent in Georgia. Visit the CDC website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Georgia.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Road conditions in Georgia differ significantly from those in the United States. Many roads are in poor condition with stretches of road missing pavement and having large potholes.  Driving at night  can be dangerous due to varying road and traffic conditions, poor lighting, and the presence of open range livestock.

• Avoid traveling at night.  U.S. Embassy official travel at night outside of urban areas is prohibited, except for emergencies.
• Exercise caution when driving in Georgia at all times . Reckless driving is common, and drivers frequently ignore traffic laws.
• Be careful when crossing streets, as pedestrians are not given right-of-way .
• Winter travel can also be hazardous , especially in mountainous areas.

Traffic Laws:  Vehicles drive on the right. Speed limits range from 80 to 110 km/hr. (50 to 69 m/hr.) on highways and 30 to 70 km/hr. (19 to 44 m/hr.) on urban thoroughfares. Motorists are not permitted to make right turns at red traffic lights.

• Wear seat belts when driving.  Children under four  must travel in child-safety seats.  Children under twelve  may not ride in the front seat.
• There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol . Anything above a blood alcohol content of 0.0% is illegal.
• Vehicle safety inspections are being phased in since January 2018, but there are still many vehicles on the road in poor condition or lacking basic features such as working lights.
• The Georgian Patrol Police maintain traffic safety in Georgia, but enforcement of traffic regulations is inconsistent.

Public Transportation : Public transportation, while inexpensive, may be unreliable and uncomfortable.  Minibuses (“marshrutkas”) are often overcrowded, poorly maintained, lack seat belts, and are frequently involved in accidents.

See our  Road Safety page  and the website of the  Georgian National Tourism Agency  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight : As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Georgia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Georgia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Georgia should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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Is Georgia Safe to Visit? Read This Before Going

November 22, 2022

Georgia is one of my favorite places on the planet, and I keep coming back again and again.

But there seems to be some weird prevailing idea that the nation is somehow unsafe, and filled with bloodthirsty mafiosos who are always eagerly hunting for a new tourist to torture and rob.

But that isn’t true—and any claims to Georgia’s apparent unsafety are founded on theories as reliable as a taxi driver in an airport parking lot.

So is Georgia safe to visit? Is there anything you should be wary of? And are you going to come back from your vacation alive? Come find out!

Is Georgia Safe to Visit?

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Yes, Georgia is a very safe country to visit . According to Numbeo’s study, Georgia is one of the least criminal countries on the planet… and it has a very low crime index ( source ). The nation has a safety index of 63 (which puts it at a similar safety level to France, if that makes you feel any better) ( source ).

I’ve visited the place on two separate occasions as a tourist. And, most recently, I also lived there for almost an entire year.

I love the nation much more than I could ever describe—and in the future, I want to live there again.

Let’s be honest—I wouldn’t be saying these things if I kept getting assaulted at gunpoint, or if all my friends had been kidnapped and killed by a maniacal psychopath operating in Tbilisi.

Obviously, no place is ever 100% safe . I have friends here who’ve had phones stolen, and I know people who’ve encountered some trouble. And most famously, the nation was recently the site of two high-profile tourist murders (detailed here and here ).

But without wanting to sound callous, these horrible things happen everywhere—and the reason those two crimes received so much infamy and outrage in Georgia is because such incidents are incredibly rare.

Admittedly, I’m not really the sort of person that worries excessively about safety, cos I have the scatterbrained mentality of a 3-year-old child on a sugar rush. But of all the places I’ve been to, Georgia feels one of the safest. And all my friends from Georgia (both native and foreign) are always expressing similar sentiments.

That said, there are some things you need to look out for in your quest to stay safe in Georgia. I’ll cover these in detail a little later, but potential pesky problems include:

• terrible drivers
• small-scale earthquakes
• horrible attitudes towards women and towards homosexuality
• and the crippling self-consciousness of war-hungry Vladimir Putin.

All of that said, I don’t think you have anything to worry about. Live your life, stop needlessly fretting, and don’t go around worrying about what might or might not happen on your vacation (the entire world is not trying to maim and murder you).

Overall, Georgia is outrageously hospitable and warm . You’ll be asked into people’s homes for food and drinks; you’ll be given free rides; strangers will invite you to special occasions; people will smile at you on the street. Does that sound like an unsafe place?

Again, I lived in Tbilisi for almost a year. And I want to keep living in Tbilisi for many years in the future.

If it was unsafe, I wouldn’t want to keep living there.

Tbilisi is a safe city to visit . It is a super-friendly city with a cosmopolitan atmosphere and inhabitants from all over the planet. Crime rates are low, serious crime rates are very low, and I’ve heard very few bad reports from any of my friends.

Of course, lots of the dangers that exist throughout Georgia also exist in Tbilisi. And we’ll come to all those soon. But, anecdotally speaking, I always feel very safe in the city, and I’ve never had any major troubles or problems.

You’ll see police everywhere, you’ll see families everywhere, and you’ll see smiling faces everywhere—and you’ll be very unlucky if you ever see or experience anything that makes you feel unsafe.

According to this safety index , Tbilisi (as of 2022) is the 26th-safest city in the world, beating big names like Valencia, Vienna, Krakow, and Singapore —and you wouldn’t worry about visiting those places would you, you little panicky poo-poo?

It’s a little more difficult for me to answer this question because I’m not a woman, I never have been a woman, and I have no immediate plans to become a woman.

That said, I have female friends who’ve visited Georgia alone, and I have female friends who’ve lived in Georgia alone. None of those people have ever had any major complaints about safety.

In the past, I visited Georgia with a girlfriend, and with my sister. They both felt safe at all times, and neither of them had any safety-related complaints (although admittedly, they weren’t solo—they were in the presence of big brave me) .

So although my opinion can’t be 100% reliable on this one, I think Georgia is safe for solo female travelers.

But before you get excited, it’s not all good news. Sadly, women still need to take extra precautions compared to men. Just like anywhere, women should try to avoid walking alone at night… especially in quiet, unlit areas.

Women should also be vigilant around some Georgian men. A minority has horrendously old-school mentalities and demonstrates pretty non-existent levels of respect when talking to females . When it comes to women, some Georgian men have the mentality of medieval priests—but medieval priests who like overtly and unrelentingly staring at your chest.

Here’s a top tip for you : if any male idiot is harassing you, tell them you have a Georgian boyfriend, and they’ll leave you alone. You shouldn’t need to say that, because you shouldn’t need to imply a male presence to command respect… but at least it works.

Dressing modestly can also help , as most local women also dress modestly (especially outside of big cities). Again, you shouldn’t need to adjust your dress according to some arbitrary outside perspective. But it might help you to feel safer.

On a semi-related note, Georgia is a pretty unwelcoming place for anyone in the LGBT+ community , with many archaic homophobic attitudes. If you aren’t heterosexual, you should avoid flaunting your sexuality, to avoid being abused or attacked.

That said, I have non-heterosexual friends in Georgia, and none of them have ever encountered any trouble. So although the problem prevails, things are getting safer (some places in Georgia now hold pride festivals, and some city venues host LGBT+ evenings). Bigger cities are usually more open-minded than smaller settlements (but only vaguely).

Pickpockets are pretty rife in Georgia, and lots of my friends have had phones and money stolen . Be vigilant when on public transport (especially when it’s busy, and everyone’s shoulder-to-shoulder). You should also be careful at busy music festivals, particularly after you’ve had a few drinks—that’s a Georgian pickpocket’s favorite time to pounce.

Some areas of the city have large groups of wandering Romani people (especially in the Old Town, and in Marjanishvili, where I used to live). Some of these people (especially the kids) like to steal from pockets, from tables, and from bags. Don’t interact with them, don’t give them money, and don’t let them touch you. I know that sounds prejudiced, but the truth is the truth.

Aside from petty robbery, I’m not aware of any other prevailing crimes.

It’s worth noting that some (though only some) Georgians will try to rip you off whenever they can , and charge you more money than they should. So if you’re buying from a market, taking a taxi, or hopping on a minivan (or attempting any other cash-based transaction where the prices aren’t displayed), you should always ask for prices, or agree a fee in advance.

11 Georgia Safety Tips

Quick disclaimer: I regularly hitchhike in Georgia, and I like using marshrutkas (public transport minivans) for both long journeys and short ones. So this isn’t something I ever think about or worry about.

But I’m an idiot who has no sense of personal responsibility—so most people would tell you to ignore my cavalier attitude and have a bit more common sense instead.

Those same people will tell you that lots of Georgian drivers are unsafe, unreliable, and often drunk (that last one is partially true, but it’s much less of a problem these days) . So if you’re a cautious person who’s understandably scared of having their head rammed through a windshield, here are the precautions you can take:

If a driver seems aggressive or in a hurry, don’t get into their vehicle. If a driver seems drunk, don’t get into their vehicle. If you have a friend who’s a famously-reckless driver, don’t get into their vehicle. If a vehicle looks broken or unsafe, find another one. And if you ever do feel unsafe in a vehicle, just get out.

Again, this isn’t advice I follow myself—but it’s advice I’ve heard and read over and over again.

And I get it—roads are poorly lit, night-time rides mean higher chances of drunk drivers, after-dark drivers don’t slow down to accommodate the poor visibility, and motorists are pretty reckless even at the best of times.

Because of all these factors and more, Georgia’s roads can be pretty unsafe places . Around 450 people died in traffic-related incidents in the nation in 2020 ( source ), but things are improving.

So if you want to stay safe on the road, you might want to avoid being in a car at night (especially if you’re driving between cities and towns on long journeys).

The Georgian political situation is a complicated beast—and the nation has a difficult relationship with some of its neighbors. Local people are (justifiably) super passionate about politics, so it’s best not to get into any debate or conversation. It’ll probably turn nasty.

The nation’s most disruptive and troublesome neighbor is Russia, which occupies 2 separate regions of Georgia, making up a total 20% of the country ( source ). These two regions are South Ossetia and Abkhazia —and as a regular tourist, you absolutely shouldn’t visit them.

Despite what Putin and his pals will tell you, these ‘parts of Russia’ are actually parts of Georgia . And if you disagree, Georgian people will understandably be unhappy.

If you think these parts of Georgia are Russian, keep that opinion to yourself. And if you think these parts of Georgia are Russian, you should find a different nation to visit.

This isn’t a problem for me, cos I absolutely love Georgia (though it does have its flaws, like anywhere else).

But Georgian people are super proud of their people, their country, and their history and heritage . Sometimes, when discussing the flaws of the place (especially with non-natives), Georgians can get pretty stubborn, defensive, and aggressive.

So even if you think you’re saying it in a nice way, try to avoid any overt criticism of Georgia . It makes sense—no one likes hearing their home criticized by an outsider.

When they’re drunk, Georgian men can often get pretty angry and aggressive.

I’ve found myself in quite a lot of would-be fights (if I was the sort of person who liked to escalate a fight). Luckily, Georgian people are pretty easy to talk down when they realize their aggression will go unmatched.

So if you find yourself in a seemingly-aggressive situation, just be nice about it. Everything will probably be alright.

Either that, or you can carry some knuckle dusters in your luggage.

If you do get into some trouble, it’s good to know the necessary phone number (luckily for you, there’s only one of them).

That’s 112, and it covers all general emergencies (bringing you into contact with police, medical services, and fire services) . Even if you have no SIM card in your phone, calling this number will still work.

Alright, if you’re using your common sense, you should be able to avoid this one . And (controversial opinion incoming) I think anyone who falls for this probably is a bit of an idiot.

But as we all know, we stupid men often get blinded by lust.

This scam takes various different forms. But it often starts on Tinder, and here’s how it works:

Some (usually sexy) woman will send you a message , saying she wants to meet. But she wants to meet at a very specific place, and she won’t deviate. When you arrive at the bar, there’s no menu, so you order your drinks off-menu, without knowing the price. But who cares: this is Georgia, so surely the prices can’t be very high… right?

Wrong! You’re then hit with a massive bill of hundreds of dollars, and you need to pay before you’re allowed to leave.

This one happens pretty often , especially in the touristy areas around the river in the Old Town. So if an impending date seems too good to be true (or just a bit weird), don’t bother.

Broadly speaking, most people in Georgia now follow road-crossing rules—they stop for red lights, they give pedestrians the right of way, and they don’t try to mindlessly mow everyone down. This isn’t Vietnam.

That said, that’s not always the case… and some drivers will still run red lights, take last-minute risks, or not stop when they should .

So when you’re crossing the road, be mindful and vigilant, and don’t rely on anyone else to keep you safe.

I love Georgia’s street dogs. You’ll see these cute little guys everywhere, and their omnipresence is one of my favorite things about the nation . Apparently, there are around half a million stray animals in the nation, that’s in a place with a population of less than four million people! ( source 1 , source 2 )

They’re usually super friendly because they live harmoniously with the people of Georgia . People feed them, pet them, and give them water… so the dogs rarely have any need to be hostile or frightened.

That said, that’s not always 100% true, especially if you’re in a rural area, or if a dog is protecting its puppies or its territory, or if you have a dog of your own. If that’s the case, don’t make eye contact, and give the dog(s) a wide berth—and if they get too close, you can always use that trick where you pretend you’re gonna throw a stone.

To avoid (the very tiny risk) of catching rabies in Georgia , get to know the nation’s tag system. If a dog has a tag on its ear, it’s been neutered and vaccinated by the government, so it can’t have rabies. If a dog doesn’t have a tag, there’s a (very small) chance it might have rabies, so it’s best to resist the temptation to pet its cute little head. Not that it stops me.

As I’ll cover soon, sheepdogs don’t fit into this category. Those maniacs are terrifying.

Depending on who you ask, around 85% of Georgia is considered mountainous —and the loftiest mountainous areas can be very cold at night (even in the height of summer).

So take some warm clothes with you, especially if you’re camping —you don’t want to freeze to death at the top of a Georgian mountain. I’ve spent a load of time in Georgia, and I’m still surprised by how cold some of the most mountainous places can be.

This isn’t a big problem, and Georgia isn’t the Philippines… but you have three potential problems to look out for:

First up, the nation experiences frequent small-scale earthquakes (I’ve felt a couple of them), but they’re very rarely disruptive. If they are disruptive, here’s what you need to do:

• Drop to your knees, and seek shelter under a sturdy table or desk if you can
• Cover your head with your arms, or grab the legs of the table or desk
• Hold on tight
• If you’re outdoors, stay as far away as you can from any buildings or landslide dangers

Landslides are also a relatively common problem , particularly in mountainous areas—but the Georgian government is beginning to get a grip on them by building some anti-slide measures along various cliffs, mountains, and sheer drops.

Wildfires also happen pretty regularly . So if you’ll be camping during very hot weather, keep your tent away from any trees or forests, and make sure you put out your campfires properly.

Is Georgia Safe to Visit? Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it’s absolutely safe, across all parts of Georgia.

Some people seem to think you should only drink bottled water here, but I don’t know what those people are talking about.

They’re usually safe, but you should exercise some caution before you use them.

My #1 taxi-related tip is this: use an app. Bolt and Yandex (which are both just like Uber) are both very popular in Georgia, and they’re easy to download and use . If you use one of them, you won’t get ripped off by the on-street taxi drivers—those pesky little guys love overcharging for rides.

As I’ve already said, drivers in Georgia are often pretty reckless and unsafe, but that’s true whether they’re driving a taxi or some other type of vehicle.

It can be. I personally wouldn’t rent a car and drive it myself, but that’s because I’m an absolutely terrible driver no matter which part of the world I’m careering around in.

If you rent or buy a car in Georgia, make sure you test it out, and make sure you’re covered by some form of insurance.

When you’re driving, have an idea of the route in advance (most signs are also written in English, but not all of them are), remember to drive on the right-hand side of the road, be wary of any careless drivers (you’ll see plenty of them), and know that, in rural areas, some roads might not be fully or properly paved.

Oh, and I wouldn’t recommend tackling the Tusheti road without any experience.

Broadly speaking, though inner-city driving can be crazy, driving between cities and towns can be a bit more simple and stress-free.

It isn’t inherently dangerous, but it does involve some dangers that it’s best to be aware of (and plan for).

To keep your strolling safe, here are my top tips for hiking without hazards in Georgia, based on my personal experience:

• Watch out for sheepdogs : it’s not their fault, but these savage lunatics are trained to protect their flock no matter what. I’m not even remotely scared of dogs, and I’m terrified of these guys. If they’re snarling or barking, back off, wait for the shepherd to come, and devise some escape route with his help.
• Look out for snakes: Georgia has lots of snakes in lots of places, and they’re especially prevalent in late spring and early summer. So don’t trod where you can’t see, and make sure you wear both long trousers and ankle-high boots.
• Plan your route, and carry at least an online map: unlike lots of other hike-haven nations, many of Georgia’s routes aren’t waymarked or signposted. So expect to get lost, and make sure you’re at least vaguely familiar with where you’ll be wandering.
• Don’t make friends with street dogs: this one makes me sad, because there’s nothing more fun than making mid-hike friends with a street dog, and taking it along on your wander (surprisingly, this happens in Georgia all the time). But during the walk, they’ll get all protective over you, and start attacking cows and other dogs on your behalf.
• Overestimate how much time you need: because of the above factors, and because you’ll likely get frequently lost, your hikes will probably take longer than you think.

Even though I’ve probably made hiking in Georgia sound like some ultra-insane danger-fest, that isn’t the case. Outside of winter, I hike most weekends, and I’ve never had any major problems. So follow my tips and you’ll be alright.

As a tourist, you shouldn’t be venturing to South Ossetia or Abkhazia , two separate parts of Georgia that—as we’ve covered—are occupied by Russia. Theoretically, it’s possible to visit them both, but I don’t recommend it. You’re entering areas that are politically complicated, you’re risking the wrath of both Georgia and Russia, and both places are pretty unsafe.

Both regions occasionally experience both car bombs and terrorist attacks, and there are (allegedly) unexploded landmines in both areas.

It’s also important to know that some parts of Georgia are inaccessible during some periods of the year —so if you’re planning to head somewhere mountainous (or somewhere down a rural road) check whether or not you can actually get there during colder months. You don’t want to waste your time, or wind up getting yourself in trouble.

There are no must-avoid places in Tbilisi that I know of.

Obviously, you should trust your instincts, and you should avoid walking alone in any dimly-lit areas at night (especially if you’re female).

You should also be careful in and around some of the bars in the most touristy part of the Old Town (especially the riverside area) . As we’ve already mentioned, a small few of them like trying to scam tourists… so always ask for a menu before you order a drink (or at least confirm the price you’ll be paying).

And just like that, we’ve worried, panicked, and fretted our way to the end of this guide.

As you can probably tell by now, here’s my final verdict: Yes, Georgia is safe to visit .

So stop worrying, stop calling the police, and get yourself to Georgia.

For more information on safety, you can explore official sources here and here .

Also, check out my comprehensive guide about whether Georgia is in Europe or in Asia . And for extra detail on adventuring around one of my favorite nations on the planet, check out our guides on what Tbilisi is famous for , and the top reasons I love the place .

Thanks for reading, thanks for visiting Travelness, and thanks in advance for coming back for more!

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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Georgia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

Backpacking Georgia was everything I thought it would be.

For years, I’d heard from my more well-traveled friends that Georgia was the place to be; it’s cheap, has delicious food and wine, incredible hikes and mountain scenery, and is devoid of huge numbers of tourists.

When I finally traveled around Georgia, I found they were right. I loved Georgia. It was better than I thought it could possibly be.

The country is in the Caucasus region and has a rich history, owing to its location at the intersection of Europe and Asia. It’s long been a cultural crossroads. Artifacts, including evidence of wine production, date to 6000 BCE, earning Georgia the nickname the “Cradle of Wine.”

From ancient monasteries to vineyards to tiny mountain towns to the Black Sea beaches, Georgia has it all — without the prices or crowds of Europe . The capital, Tbilisi, known for its diverse architecture and maze-like cobblestone streets, has a hip art and robust foodie scene. ( I loved Tbilisi so much I extended my time there .)

This travel guide to the country of Georgia can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Georgia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Georgia

1. Explore Tbilisi

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is incredible. Its cobblestoned old town has ancient streets, beautiful buildings, and thermal baths. Its modern district is filled with old Soviet buildings turned into co-working and art spaces. It’s a fun, youthful, energetic city. Stay awhile.

2. Check out Batumi

Batumi is the country’s famous Black Sea resort and port city, with a beautiful waterfront promenade, parks, and beaches. The towering Alphabetic Tower, adorned with Georgian script, has a seaside observation deck at the top (10 GEL). The old town district is lined with renovated 19th-century buildings.

3. Explore Stepantsminda

Located on the Georgian Military Highway, Stepantsminda is a valley town at the foot of Mount Kazbek. Often referred to as Kazbegi (its former name), it’s home to the famous hilltop silhouette of Tsminda Sameba Church. It makes a great base for hiking, climbing, and mountain-biking.

4. See Mtskheta

Mtskheta, the country’s former capital, is one of the oldest cities of Georgia. As the birthplace and one of the most vibrant centers of Christianity in Georgia, Mtskheta was declared as the “Holy City” by the Georgian Orthodox Church in 2014. It’s another must see place in the country.

5. Tour Gelati Monastery

One of the most spectacular monasteries in the country is the Gelati Monastery outside of Kutaisi. It is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Georgian’s Golden Age. It’s one of my favorite places in the entire country — it’s just beautiful. Free admission.

Other Things to See and Do in Georgia

1. visit vardzia cave monastery.

This unique monastery was built into the side of Erusheli mountain during the Georgian Golden Age (11th-13th century) for Queen Tamar the Great as a sanctuary to hide from invaders. The fortress contains 6,000 apartments as well as a throne room, 25 wine cellars, a bakery, and a large church. Today, the monastery is occupied by a small number of monks with about 300 of the original 6,000 apartments in use. It is easy to get here by marshrutka (minibus) from Akhaltsikhe. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Admission is 15 GEL.

2. Wander the Batumi Botanical Garden

Located 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) from Batumi, these expansive gardens are located on a hillside overlooking the sea, covering over 275 acres. The main trail takes about 1.5 hours, on which you can see a diverse range of flora and fauna as well as waterfalls and a river in which you can swim. There are nine sections to the park, including areas dedicated to plants from the Caucasian subtropics, the Himalayas, the Mediterranean, New Zealand, East Asia, and more. The entrance fee is 8 GEL and camping overnight is possible for 20 GEL (includes admission).

3. Take a day trip to the town in a cave

Founded in the late Bronze Age, Uplistsikhe Cave Town is an ancient rock-hewn town located outside Gori. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, and between the 6th century BCE and the 11th century CE, this was one of the most important political and religious centers in the country. The town was abandoned in the 13th century after multiple invasions by the Mongols. Admission is 15 GEL.

4. Soak in the sulfur baths

Mineral sulfur baths are central to the history and culture of Georgia’s capital. In fact, Tbilisi comes from the word for “warm place.” Although there were once 63 bathhouses in Tbilisi, sadly, there are now only a handful left. The baths are still wildly popular and are supposed to have healing powers and be good for your skin. The historic bathhouses straddle a small river that feeds them and then meanders through a canyon leading to the amazing Dzveli Tbilisi sulfur waterfall. Prices for an hour soak start at 20 GEL at public facilities and go all the way up to 200 GEL for a private room in fancier bathhouses. You can also opt to get a scrub down for an additional 10-20 GEL.

5. Visit Svaneti and the Caucasian Mountains

One of the most visited places in the mountains is Svaneti, thanks to its hundreds of ancient watchtowers dotted around the landscape. Historically, these watchtowers were used to keep citizens safe from invaders. While you can fly there, I’d recommend taking the long winding road through the mountains. It’s more scenic and there are lots of great photo ops.

6. Explore the Caves of Gareji

Located on the border with Azerbaijan , the David Gareji monastery complex consists of hundreds of rooms and churches, constructed on the side of the hilly landscape. Due to ongoing border disputes with Azerbaijan, only half of the complex is open to visitors. You can easily visit as a day trip from Tbilisi for around 108 GEL or you can travel by bus and stay locally. The entrance fee is 7 GEL, with an audio guide costing an additional 10 GEL.

7. Go Skiing

Thanks to the high Caucasus mountains, there is some really underrated skiing in the country. The most popular resorts are Gudauri, Bakuriani, and Mestia. Expect to pay around 40-50 GEL for a day pass. You can find accommodation from 140 GEL a night.

8. Visit the Georgian National Museum

One of the best museums in Tbilisi, this massive museum complex consists of several museums wrapped in one. It has a wealth of pre-Christian gold, silver, and precious stonework from burials in Georgia going back to the 3rd millennium BCE. Most stunning are the fabulously detailed gold adornments from Colchis (western Georgia). On the top floor, the Museum of Soviet Occupation focuses in copious detail on Soviet repression and resistance to it. Admission to all the museums in the complex costs 20 GEL.

9. Enjoy Mtatsminda Park

Mtatsminda Park sits at the top of Mount Mtatsminda overlooking Tbilisi. It’s a famous amusement park with a killer view from the highest point in Tbilisi and is worth the funicular trip just for the view. The park costs nothing to enter, but if you want to go on the rides you need to buy a card for 2 GEL and then top it up to pay. Rides include a Ferris wheel, carousels, water slides, and a roller coaster.

10. See Katskhi Pillar

The Katskhi Pillar is a 40-meter (130-foot) limestone monolith with the ruins of a small medieval hermitage at the top. The site was used between the 9th-13th centuries by an early Christian group called the “Stylites” who were known as “pillar monks.” They would spend long periods of time sitting (or standing) on top of pillars as they believed the practice would bring them closer to God. You cannot ascend the pillar, but it makes for gorgeous views and photos.

11. Visit the Stalin Museum

Stalin’s birthplace of Gori, Georgia, is now home to a weird museum that pays homage to his life (and forgets all the bad stuff he did). The museum takes you through Stalin’s life, from his early years growing up in Gori to his leadership of the USSR and finally his death in 1953. It’s a whitewashed exhibition but worth a visit as it’s a weird experience. Admission is 15 GEL including an English-speaking guide.

12. Explore the Tusheti region

The Tusheti region is located in the northeast of Georgia on the northern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains. If you want to go hiking in Georgia and get off the beaten path, head here. It’s incredibly beautiful and panoramic, and many people hike village to village to stay in guesthouses. The Omalo Loop Trek is a good one, although long (it takes several days). If you’re just looking to do some day hikes, do Omalo to Diklo Fort (4 hours) or Ghele to Parsma (8-9 hours).

Georgia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Georgia is a great budget backpacker destination, with a ton of cheap accommodation options. A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs around 15-20 GEL per night. For a private room in a hostel, expect to pay around 50-80 GEL per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities.

Budget hotels cost between 40-67 GEL per night and come with basic amenities like Wi-Fi, TV, and coffee/tea makers. Mountain guesthouses start from 55-67 GEL and often require a minimum stay of 2-3 nights. Airbnb is another great budget option, with private rooms starting at 45 GEL per night. Entire apartments start at around 60-90 GEL.

Camping is available around the country. There are a few hundred campgrounds scattered around, with prices costing around 10-25 GEL per night for two people and a tent. Wild camping is legal in Georgia as long as you’re not camping on someone’s private property.

Food – Georgian cuisine is a flavorful and healthy mix of meats, produce, fresh cheeses, and lots of spices. Soups and salads are plentiful, as are all kinds of fresh bread. Be sure to try khachapuri (a gooey, cheesy bread), khinkali (Georgian dumplings), bean soup, and sulguni (a popular local cheese). Wine, of course, is the drink of choice and can be found everywhere for incredibly affordable prices.

Overall, food is very cheap in Georgia — especially if you stick to eating the local cuisine. For an inexpensive lunch at a restaurant serving traditional Georgian cuisine, expect to pay around 20 GEL. Fast food (think burger and fries) is around 15 GEL while a medium pizza is 14 GEL.

If you want to splash out, a nicer meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 35-40 GEL, including a drink.

Expect to pay around 4-5 GEL for a beer and 5-7 GEL for a glass of wine. A latte/cappuccino is around 6 GEL.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs between 68-95 GEL. This gets you basic stapes like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Georgia Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Georgia, my suggested budget is 70 GEL per day. This covers the cost of a hostel dorm, eating only cheap meals but mostly your own food, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and sticking mostly to free and cheap activities like free walking tours and hiking.

On a mid-range budget of about 185 GEL per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most of your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting museums or doing a guided hike.

On a “luxury” budget of 360 GEL per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, rent a car or hire a driver to explore, enjoy more drinks, take taxis when you need to, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GEL.

Georgia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Georgia is a great place for backpackers as both food and accommodation are affordable. However, there are still ways you can cut costs even further. Here are some tips on how to save money in Georgia:

• Take a free walking tour – Tbilisi Free Walking Tour offers free walking tours which are a great way to get familiar with the city and the culture. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Drink the tap water – The water in Georgia is perfectly safe to drink, so an easy way to save money is to bring a reusable water bottle. LifeStraw is my go-to brand since their bottles have built-in filters that ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Wild camp – If you really want to save money in Georgia, bring a tent. Camping is perfectly legal on public land.
• Cook your own meals – Many hostels here include kitchen facilities, so if you want to save money, book accommodation with a kitchen. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it definitely saves money!
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing (or similar sharing economy sites) is a great way to save money and meet a knowledgeable local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Walk everywhere – All of the major towns and cities in Georgia are quite walkable, so skip the public transportation (and the taxis) if you want to save a few extra Lari.

Where to Stay in Georgia

You can find some incredibly cheap accommodation options throughout Georgia. These are some of my suggested places to stay in Georgia:

• Guest House Darejani (Kutaisi)
• Boutique Hotel and Hostel Medusa (Batumi)
• Rock Hotel First Line (Batumi)
• Nino Ratiani Guesthouse (Mestia)
• Nato and Lado Guesthouse (Sighnaghi)
• My Moon Hostel Zugdidi (Zugdidi)

How to Get Around Georgia

Public Transportation – Larger cities in Georgia are served by buses, mini-buses, and taxis. Tbilisi is the only city that has a metro system, costing 0.5 GEL per ride. You can also get a “Metromoney” card for 2 GEL that gives discounts on Tbilisi public transport and can be topped up as you go.

Public transportation prices vary by city but expect to pay around 0.5 GEL for a standard adult ticket. Most cities are walkable, although Tbilisi, with the exception of the old town, is pretty spread out so you may want to try and navigate the city’s public transport system.

If you need to take a taxi, prices start around 3 GEL and cost around 0.60 GEL per kilometer. Be sure to negotiate a fare before you get in.

Alternatively, if you are in Tbilisi and don’t want to take the bus then you can use Yandex, which is Georgia’s answer to Uber. You can download the app and use it to book a driver. Most journeys cost no more than 5 GEL.

Trains – Train travel within Georgia is slow and most of the trains are old and don’t have AC. If you do decide to travel by train and are traveling in high season, you need to book at least a day or two in advance or risk your train being sold out.

If you are entering or leaving Georgia by train, you can find direct routes from Armenia and Azerbaijan . Prices are very budget friendly with the overnight train from Baku in Azerbaijan costing from 62 GEL for a second-class ticket to Tbilisi. The journey is around 13 hours, so it may be worth paying a little extra for first class (around 100 GEL).

Bus – Buses, known locally as a marshrutka , are the best way to get around the country on a budget. Expect to pay 35 GEL to get from Tbilisi to Yerevan in Armenia.

Airlines – You can fly between Tbilisi and Batumi. Flights cost anything from 215-1,078 GEL so this is not the most economical option. I’d only recommend it if you’re short on time and have lots of money to spend.

Car rental – One of the best ways to see Georgia is by renting a car. This way you are free to roam without restrictions. Car rentals can be as low as 94 GEL per day for a multi-day rental. However, the roads in Georgia really aren’t the best and accidents are common so you’ll need to drive carefully. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for renting a vehicle.

When to Go to Georgia

The best time to visit Georgia is during the spring or autumn. Georgia can get extremely hot during the summer months and winters can be bitterly cold, making the shoulder seasons the best time to visit.

As the weather begins to get warmer from April to June, the cities come alive with people taking advantage of the weather. The temperatures also make hiking and outdoor activities more pleasant; the summer can be too warm to hike comfortably. Expect spring and autumn daily highs around 18°C (65°F).

The ski season in Georgia is from December through to April. Expect temperatures to hover around freezing. If you don’t plan on skiing or doing other winter sports, I’d avoid a winter visit to Georgia.

How to Stay Safe in Georgia

Georgia is a very safe country and violent crime against travelers is rare. The only areas to be avoided are the Russian-occupied areas of Georgia in the north (Abkhazia and South Ossetia) where things are still a bit rough and contentious.

As in any destination, don’t flash your valuables and keep an eye out for pickpockets in busy tourist areas and on crowded public transportation.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Road accidents are very common so be sure to always wear your seatbelt when in a vehicle and always look twice when crossing busy streets. If you rent car, make sure you don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Scams here are rare, but you can read about common travel scams to avoid if you’re concerned.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Georgia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Georgia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Georgia and continue planning your trip:

My 15 Favorite Things to See and Do in Georgia

Is Georgia Safe to Visit?

Finding Love and Home in Tbilisi, Georgia

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Georgia.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Georgia. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Georgia.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Georgia. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Georgia, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Georgia. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Georgia, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Georgia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Georgia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Georgia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Georgia may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Georgia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Georgia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Tips & how to travel to Georgia in 2024

By Joan Torres 23 Comments Last updated on April 11, 2024

Georgia is the ultimate European travel destination. 

This Caucasian country is home to, definitely, the most striking mountains in Europe, composed of massive glaciers, fairy meadows, and 5,000-meter snowed capped peaks; and great, vibrant capital, very Eastern European on the one hand but, on the other, with its unique Caucasian and Georgian identity and filled with the most unimaginable chaos. 

Barely discovered by the average traveler, Georgia is a country with a very strong national character, visible in many aspects, from having their own Christian branch to a unique architectural style, a very elaborate cuisine considered the best in the former Soviet Union and a deeply rooted wine culture. 

I lived and traveled in Georgia for more than 7 months, and it is truly one of those countries which, every time I write about its beautiful things, I can’t avoid falling into nostalgia. 

Georgia is a great country and this guide contains everything you need to know for traveling to Georgia , from how to get a visa to cultural facts, trekking advice, and plenty of travel tips, making it the most detailed Georgia travel blog. 

In this Georgia travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Best time to visit Georgia
• Travel Insurance
• How to get in
• 5 Top experiences
• Is Georgia safe?
• The people and the culture
• Non-recognized republics
• Get off the beaten track
• Soviet heritage in Georgia
• Georgian food
• Transportation in Georgia
• Accommodation
• More information

eSIM card for browsing when traveling in Georgia

With Holafly , you can now get an electronic SIM card for Georgia from home with just 2 clicks.

5% discount with the following code:

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🪪 Visa for traveling to Georgia

Free one-year visa.

Georgia has one of the greatest visa regimes in the world, as you can get a 1-year FREE visa upon arrival in the country. 

You can live in Georgia for the rest of your life

The best part is that this 1 year gets automatically renewed once you leave and re-enter the country, even if you cross the Armenian border and come back after one minute. This means that you can stay in Georgia forever. 

Which nationalities?

Here you can see the list of the countries (94) which are eligible for the 1-year travel visa, which includes all Western Nationalities, Latin America, and all high GDP Asian nationalities. 

By the way, apparently, EU citizens can enter the country without a passport, with just their national ID but, just in case, I recommend you bring both. 

Other nationalities can get an online visa

Then, some countries like India, China or Egypt , among many others, can apply for an e-visa through this portal . 

Remember to read my Tbilisi travel guide

⛅ Best time to visit Georgia

First of all, you should know that Tbilisi can be visited all year long as, in winter, it never gets too cold plus you won’t find tourists. Summer is particularly hot in Tbilisi but it is the best season to enjoy the rest of the country. 

• Visit Georgia in winter – Georgia has a few ski resorts, Gudauri being the most popular one, around 3 hours away from Tbilisi. Obviously, their ski resorts are not as great as the ones in Europe, but they are all right and for people living in Dubai and other warm areas, Georgia might be the best nearby ski destination.
• Visit Georgia in spring – Beautiful landscapes and many sunny days but it might be too early to go trekking in the Georgian Caucasus . 
• Visit Georgia in summer – The best time for trekking in the high Caucasus and visiting the coastal area. 
• Visit Georgia in autumn – Mid-September is the harvest season, so for wine lovers, this is the best time to visit Kakheti region . 

I personally think that September would be the ideal month to travel to Georgia because the trekking season is not over yet, it is harvest season, the weather in Tbilisi is great and the big crowds have already gone. 

🚑 Insurance for traveling to Georgia

Georgia is a trekking destination, so get travel insurance that covers adventure destinations and activities.

For this, I strongly recommend IATI Insurance :

• It covers adventure activities, including trekking in high-altitudes
• Multi-country coverage and up to 1-year trips
• Covers senior citizens too.
• 5% discount for being a readers of this blog

🛫 How to get to Georgia

How to travel to georgia by air.

• Via Tbilisi – Tbilisi has many connections with Europe, some Asian destinations and Dubai and other Middle Eastern cities. 
• Via Kutaisi – There is a low-cost airport, with many Wizzair flights coming from several European cities, so it would also be a great chance to visit Kutaisi .

How to travel to Georgia by land

• Russia – Officially, only one border with Russia is open, which is the one in Kazbegi . Then, you have the South Ossetian border, which can’t be used for entering/exiting Georgia, and the border with Abkhazia, which can be used for exiting but not entering. For more information, read my travel guide to Abkhazia . 
• Azerbaijan – There are two official borders, one closer to Tbilisi, which can be crossed by train, and the other one in the Kakheti region . Both are friendly and very easy to cross. Read my Azerbaijan itinerary for more information. 
• Armenia – There are three borders to choose from, depending on where you want to go. 
• Turkey – The are two very friendly borders, the easiest being the coastal one, which takes you straight to Batumi. 
• Ukraine – You can travel to Georgia by ferry from Odesa in Ukraine. There are two companies offering this service, Ukrferry , and Ferrysped , and detailed schedules may be found on their websites. A ticket costs around 100USD. Read my travel guide to Ukraine

Read: Everything you must know for visiting Iran

📚 The best books on Georgia

These are just my favorite 2 books. For more options, check the best 15 books on Georgia

Georgia Diary: A Chronicle of War and Political Chaos in the Post-Soviet Caucasus – Thomas Goltz

In this insightful book, Thomas Goltz tells all the struggles Georgia went through after the independence from the Soviet Union, ranging from separatists conflicts (Abkhazia), the war of neighboring Chechenya, corruption, crime, and endless politicals problems.

Bread And Ashes: A Walk Through the Mountains of Georgia – Tony Anderson

If you ever traveled to Georgia and had to read one single book on the country, I would definitely recommend this one.

The author Tony Anderson traveled across the Georgian High Caucasus in 1998, on foot, through Tusheti, Khevsureti, Racha and Svaneti. In his journey, he discovered something that I have always been saying in all my articles, which is that despite belonging to the Soviet Union and basically, being the crossroads of the world, this part of Georgia managed to keep their culture and ancient traditions intact.

This book is great not only to also understand Georgian’s national identity but also to learn about the Caucasian ethnicity and culture.

🛖 5 Top experiences in Georgia

1 – explore the capital, tbilisi.

Whether you come for sightseeing, partying or to live your life as a digital nomad, Tbilisi is a great capital to spend a couple of days in.

2 – Discover the Communist Heritage of Georgia

From abandoned factories to masterpieces of Soviet Modernism, Communist buildings and functioning infrastructure, as a former Soviet Union country, Georgia has the largest Communist heritage I have ever seen.

Check this Soviet modernist building:

3 – Wander around unspoiled Mountain villages of Tusheti

One of the remotest mountain regions in Georgia, only accessible by a 4×4 through a 3,000-meter pass, and where you find some of the most unspoiled mountain villages in the country.

4 – Visit Kakheti during harvest season

Georgia was the first country ever to produce wine and Kakheti is the region where most wine is produced, so I recommend you go there during harvest season and visit small, random wineries to see how wine is made most traditionally.

Read my Kakheti travel guide

5 – Visit the Muslim villages of Adjara

Georgia was never fully under Ottoman rule, just a small part of it one occupied part being the mountains that stretch from the coast along the Turkish border, and that is the reason why most people living there are Muslims.

That area is named Adjara, and its tiny villages are home to absolutely hospitable people and aluminum-made mosques.

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Georgia?

Get travel insurance for trekking in Georgia I strongly recommend IATI Insurance as it provides coverage for a very big bunch of adventure activities. Get an exclusive 5% discount if purchasing via this link

There is not much to say here other than Georgia is very safe to visit, as it enjoys some of the lowest crime rates ever. 

In fact, I used to work in different cafés around Tbilisi every day and I was very surprised that the Georgians would always leave their laptops and belongings on the table and go outside for a couple of minutes, something I would never do in Spain or in pretty much any European city.

Traveling to Georgia is safe, really, including for solo women. 

Are you traveling to Central Asia? Check my travel guide to Central Asia

🕌 The people, the culture and the country

The country.

Georgia is a country located in the Caucasus region that used to be part of the Soviet Union until its dissolution in 1991. It is located at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, which made it particularly appealing and convenient to occupy for several empires, from the Mongols to the Ottomans, the Persians and, of course, the Russians, both the Russian Empire and the USSR.

Georgia is a country with many layers of history, absolutely fascinating, yet, and, surprisingly, they have been able to maintain their strong culture and character, very different from anywhere else you may have been to. 

Read: What to do in Iran for 1 month

Is it part of Europe or not?

From a geographical point of view, the country is literally, right in between Asia and Europe, in Eurasia, so some people may argue when it comes to allocating it.

To be honest, I don’t really care where it sits because I personally think that its culture is more important than its geographic location and, in my opinion, Georgia has many similarities to Eastern Europe, more than even Turkey, which is geographically closer; and it barely shares any similarity with its Central Asian cousins and it is extremely different from any country in the Middle East . 

Moreover, as a Spaniard, I will even tell you that they have many similarities with South Europeans, especially Greeks and Spaniards, not only in the way we look like but also, in the way we eat, drink and sit around the table.

Actually, some studies confirm that Georgians have common ancestry with Basque people, a separate nation within Spain. 

So yes, I think that Georgia is part of Europe. 

Georgia and Russia

Heads-up. Georgians don’t like Russians, for many reasons, but mainly due to the Georgian-Russian war in 2008 . I don’t really want to enter into politics but, basically, Georgia went to war with South Ossetia, a region that wanted to separate from Georgia and had the support of Russia, which ended up into a military invasion of Georgia with Russian tanks. 

It is, of course, much more complicated than that, but this is what most Georgians will tell you and, if you meet some Georgians, you are likely to hear them complaining about Russians all the time. 

This topic is kind of controversial because Georgia largely depends on Russian tourism, and they can actually travel to Georgia visa-free, but Georgians need to go through a very tedious process to enter Russia. 

My country is 20% occupied by Russia If you stay in the country for long enough, you are going to hear this sentence quite often, directly from Georgians or even written on blackboards from the most progressive bars. This 20% refers to South Ossetia and the Republic of Abkhazia .    

Georgia is where traditional and European values collapse

Tbilisi is one of those capitals which, on the one hand, is home to a very traditional and super religious, conservative society which still lives in the last century and, on the other hand, a large young population, very open-minded in all senses and with very strong European values. 

From not hiding their homosexuality to fighting for gender equality, the young crowd is really demanding change.

They would like to be at the level of any EU country, to be part of it even, but, unfortunately, they are in conflict with the large, utterly conservative branch, who are supported by the powerful Church and, as a result, many of their demonstrations end up with violence. 

Really, when I was living there in 2018, I witnessed quite a few extremely violent episodes. 

The language 

Georgians speak Georgian , a language whose origins are a bit uncertain plus it is similar to nothing you ever listened to. They also have their own alphabet, pretty beautiful in my opinion. 

How to communicate with the locals

In Tbilisi, most young people speak good English but outside of Tbilisi not that much. Unlike in most former Soviet countries, in Georgia, they stopped teaching Russian at school right after their independence, which means that people who were born after 1991 don’t speak Russian at all, and some of the older generation who do don’t really like to speak it for the above-mentioned reasons. 

85% of Georgians belong to a Christian branch named Georgian Orthodox, one of the world’s most ancient Churches, founded in the 1st Century and the main reason why Georgians have been able to preserve their national identity despite all the invasions. 

Georgia is the most religious Christian country I have ever been to, a country where you are going to see a lot of young people crossing themselves every time they pass a Church. 

By the way, visiting the endless Georgian Orthodox churches and monasteries is one of the highlights, as they tend to be built in epic locations, plus they have their own architectural style. 

Furthermore, 10% are Muslims, mainly living in Adjara, a region bordering Turkey, as that area used to be part of the Ottoman Empire. 

Read: What to do in Azerbaijan in 3 weeks

The unrecognized republics within Georgia

In this Georgia travel guide, I think it is a good idea to mention some independent, yet, non-recognized, countries you may not have heard of. 

Basically, an unrecognized republic is a country that has got its independence, but, nobody in the international community recognizes it, which means that the UN doesn’t acknowledge its existence. 

There are many ghost countries around the world and in Georgia, you find two: Abkhazia and South Ossetia. 

Those countries declared themselves independent from Georgia, which led to a bloody war and, since nobody recognized them, they weren’t able to be part of the international banking system and their borders were closed, so today, they are economically backed up by Russia, in exchange for recognition, influence and military presence. 

However, entering these enclaves feels like being in a totally different country, as they have a border, require separate visas, have a distinct culture and Georgia has absolutely zero power and influence over them. 

• Abkhazia – You can easily visit it from Georgia and all you need is an e-visa which takes one week to process. For more information, read: How to travel to Abkhazia . 
• South Ossetia – Not accessible from Georgia: you can only enter from Russia and you may need to have a double-entry Russian visa. 

Read my articles to other unrecognized countries:

• Transnistria

🧭 Getting off the beaten track when you go backpacking in Georgia

Georgia is an emerging tourist destination but I think that, in a couple of years, it will enter the mass tourism destination stage. 

In fact, some parts of Georgia, like Kazbegi or Mestia are already quite commercialized, which means that taxi rip-offs are common and the locals don’t care about anything but the money you have in your pocket. 

It is a pity because Georgians are known for their humble hospitality and it seems that this commercialization came too quickly.

Nevertheless, don’t be disappointed because most of the country has been barely visited by tourists and there are many pure regions, pretty raw, where the locals will bless you with their hospitality. These are the best off the beaten track places to go backpacking in Georgia:

• The mountains of Adjara (bordering Turkey)
• Some villages of Kakheti

Soviet Heritage in Georgia

Like I said before, the Georgia-Russia relationship is kind of controversial because, on one side, they want to erase any Russian influence from their culture but, on the other side, here you find a shit load of Soviet Heritage, much more than in its neighbor Azerbaijan , a Soviet Country that decided to eliminate most Soviet buildings, yet, they have good relations with mother Russia. 

Some Soviet relics you may find:

• Soviet Modernism – Soviet Modernism was an artistic movement that flourished during the last decades of the USSR and mainly consisted of buildings with particularly weird shapes. Well, in Tbilisi you find traces of this movement everywhere. 
• Concrete Soviet buildings – Outside of the Old City, most of the buildings are from the Communist era, especially in the suburbs, where everything remains untouched. 
• Abandoned factories – There are loads of abandoned Soviet factories all over the country, my favorite being the one in Zestaponi. 
• Mining towns – Chiatura used to be one of the most important centers for the mining industry in the Soviet Union (Stalin himself used to live here) and the town hasn’t changed much since then.

Here you can learn more about Soviet countries in Europe

🏔️ Trekking in Georgia

Georgia is the ultimate trekking destination, home to some of the highest mountains in Europe, with its highest peak being Shkhara , located at 5,193 meters. 

A few things you should know about trekking in Georgia:

• Most of the high mountains are located in the north of the country, at the heart of the Greater Caucasus. 
• If you are planning to trek in high altitudes, summer is the ideal season but the end of spring and beginning of autumn should be good as well.
• The Greater Caucasus is no joke, as it offers some really challenging treks and the weather is highly unpredictable. If you don’t have much experience, don’t go alone, or try doing one of the busy, popular treks.
• Except in some parts of Svaneti and Tusheti, you won’t find any guesthouses along the way, so you must bring proper mountain equipment. 
• From epic glaciers to mind-blowing snow-capped peaks, the mountains of Georgia are a real wonder, so enjoy. 

For more information, including my personal tips + a packing list, read my trekking guide to Georgia .

If you really want to know about all the hiking trails in Georgia, I recommend you check this website: Caucasus Trekking – It contains very detailed guides to pretty much any trek in Georgia. 

🍷 Wine in Georgia (and chacha )

Wine is part of Georgian’s identity and, therefore, the highlight of traveling to Georgia and it truly deserves a single section in this Georgia travel guide. 

Archaeological evidence shows that they have been producing wine for nearly 8,000 years, making them one of the oldest countries in the world , if not the oldest, to ever produce wine. 

Traditionally, they used to make wine in something called qvevri , which are some clay vessels which are placed on the floor of a room called marani . This used to be the traditional way and, like most traditions in Georgia, many wineries still use it. 

In rural areas and smaller towns, it seems that everybody produces their own wine at home and, if you are staying in a traditional guest house, it is not uncommon that your host will probably offer you some for breakfast, no kidding. 

It also happened to us that random people stopped us in the middle of the street to just greet us and give a few litters of wine, for free. 

The fact is that Georgian wine is everywhere, and you are going to find good wine and bad wine but the most important is that for just a few €, you can find some good stuff. 

If you want to really witness the wine culture in Georgia, you must visit Georgia in September, during the harvest season, when all Kakheti is filled with Soviet trucks extra loaded with grapes and all the small wineries are in their production stages. 

By the way, Georgia produces a large variety of grapes but the most common ones would be Saperavi for red wine and Rkatsiteli for white wine. 

What about chacha ?

When Georgians don’t drink wine, they drink chacha, a really strong liquor usually made from grape which can easily contain up to 60-70% of alcohol.

You will be surprised to know that some guest houses also offer you chacha for breakfast. 

We also got offered chacha by many taxi drivers, bus drivers and just random people we bumped into. 

Moldova has a very similar wine culture. Read my Moldova travel guide

🍲 Georgian cuisine: what are you like to eat when visiting Georgia

The food is another of the highlights of visiting Georgia. 

In fact, Georgian cuisine is the cuisine of reference in the Soviet Union, to the extent that the best local restaurants in Ukraine and Russia are Georgian restaurants. 

Their food, however, tends to be heavy but they offer a large variety of dishes and, unlike all the developing countries I have been to, in Tbilisi you already find quite a few restaurants serving high local cuisine.

Cheese, walnuts and meat, loads of meat, are usually the core of any of their meals but they also have many vegetarian options, especially eggplant dishes. 

Some of the dishes you are likely to taste are:

Churchkhela

Churchkhela is not really a dish but a traditional candle-shaped candy, and I am putting it on the top of the list because you find it everywhere.

Basically, it consists of walnuts and almonds dipped into a super thick, and extremely hot, grape juice, which they need to hang for a couple of hours to dry out.

Don’t buy it in touristic areas, as they charge 4 or 5 times the actual price. The local price is 2-3GEL per unit. 

The local dumplings, typically stuffed with meat. You may also find them stuffed with cheese and other ingredients but those are aimed at tourists.

By the way, the local way to eat them is biting one a tiny bit to suck all the meat broth and then eating it as if it was an apple. 

Khachapuri Adjaluri

Khachapuri is, basically baked bread with melted cheese, but they have many variations and adjaluri is boat-shaped khachapuri with loads of melted cheese, butter and an egg floating over on top of it.

Badridzhani Nigvsit

Grilled eggplants with walnut paste. Perhaps, my favorite. 

Chicken in walnut sauce. This dish tends to be expensive and not available on most menus but I strongly recommend you order it, at least once. 

Bean stew, usually served with cornbread and pickles. 

Gobi is a special starter dish containing several vegetarian snacks such as phkali , which are spinach balls with walnut paste. 

The local grilled sausage.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Georgia

Wi-Fi – Wi-Fi is great throughout the country. In the mountains, the signal is bad, of course, but you can still connect to pretty much anywhere, even in Tusheti. 

SIM Card – Magticom is the mobile company I was using and I remember that for just a few €, you can get loads of GB every month. The best is that you can top-up your phone online. Check their website for the latest deals. 

eSIM for browsing, calling and traveling in Georgia

Basically, an eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical SIM card, with the added benefit that you can buy it from home before the beginning of your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it at your destination. 

With Holafly , you can get a SIM Card for a wide range of destinations, including Georgia . 

Moreover, you can benefit from a 5% discount with the following code:  AGAINSTTHECOMPASS

Get a VPN for traveling in Georgia

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Georgia. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 Money in Georgia – Georgia travel budget

In Georgia, they use the Georgian Lari (GEL) and, approximately:

1 USD = 2.64 GEL

They call the small currency Tetris.

Credit cards and ATMs

In Tbilisi, you can pay by credit card pretty much anywhere and ATMs abound, all of them accepting international credit cards. You will need cash for taxis and the traditional shops. Outside of Tbilisi, do bring cash. 

Exchanging money

Exchanging money is easy and € and USD are accepted everywhere. 

How much does it cost to travel in Georgia? 

The good news is that Georgia is really, really cheap. 

How much does food cost in Georgia?

• A meal in budget, local eateries – Around 7-10GEL
• A meal in higher quality restaurants – Around 15-25GEL
• A meal in top-end restaurants – From 50-60GEL
• Cappuccino – 4-5GEL
• Local beer – 2-3GEL
• A glass of local wine – 2-4GEL
• A glass of good quality wine – 8-11GEL

How much does transportation cost in Georgia?

• Taxis within Tbilisi – 3-5GEL
• Bus/metro ride – 0.50GEL
• Marshrutka to Mtskheta – 1GEL
• Marshrutka to Kazbegi – 10GEL
• Train to Batumi – 50GEL

How much does accommodation cost in Georgia?

• Budget Hostels – From 15GEL
• Double room in a budget guest house – From 40-50GEL
• Double room in a mid-range hotel – From 80GEL

Backpacking Budget for Georgia: from 25-30€ a day

🛺 Transportation – How to go backpacking Georgia

How to move around tbilisi:.

• Taxi – If you want to get the cheapest rates (and avoid bargaining), download Yandex or Taxify. Most rides cost around 3-5GEL. 
• Metro – There are two metro lines. A single metro ride costs 0.50GEL, but you need to first buy a metro card for 2GEL. 
• Bus – It works with the same metro card and Google Maps tells you the bus number of your route. 
• Yellow mini-vans – You will also see some yellow mini-vans roaming around Tbilisi. They are private and one single ticket costs 0.80GEL. However, they are more difficult to use because the signs are in the Georgian alphabet. 

How to move around Georgia:

Marshrutka – Marshrutkas are the tiny mini-vans used to move around the country. They go pretty much anywhere, are the cheapest way to move around and leave once they are full. However, the drivers are literally crazy, seriously, some of the craziest I have ever met, and note that I have been traveling in places known for their crazy driving like Saudi Arabia and Pakistan . 

Train – There is a train line that goes all the way to Zugdidi, Batumi and also to Armenia and Azerbaijan. You can book your train tickets at the train station itself but I used to buy them online through this website . Do book them in advance, especially in summer because they run out pretty quickly. 

Renting a car – When my parents came to visit us in Georgia, we traveled around Georgia for a week by car. It is very convenient and, if you drive carefully, you should be all right. We used a local company named parent.ge , which is significantly cheaper than most international branches. The owner of this company was our landlord, Dato. He is a cool guy. 

Here you can find more information on renting a car in Georgia .

🏨 Accommodation in Georgia

In Georgia, you find a wide range of accommodation throughout the country:

Hostels – In Tbilisi, you can find a shit load of hostels.

Guest Houses – Budget, lovely guesthouses also abound all over Georgia. 

Hotels – From 5-star hotels in Tbilisi to the mountain lodges in Kazbegi, the hotel options are endless. 

Homestays – In Svaneti and Tusheti, homestays are the way to go. 

❗ More information for traveling to Georgia

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Georgia destination

• Travel Guide to Kakheti
• Travel Guide to Kazbegi
• Tbilisi Travel Guide
• Georgia Itinerary
• Best Books on Georgia
• Trekking Guide to Georgia

Facebook Groups – Expats in Tbilisi and Georgian Wanderers are some great Facebook Groups where you can ask questions. 

Travel guides to former Soviet countries

• Belarus Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Moldova
• Azerbaijan Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Kyrgyzstan
• Travel Guide to Tajikistan
• Uzbekistan Travel Guide
• Kazakhstan Travel Guide

23 comments

Georgia is a beautiful country and you also described it more beautifully and worthy. Nice photos with good content.

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

Hi Joan, Thanks for sharing. Very informative content and quite different from other travel blogs especially the Russian buildings. BTW, I will be travelling from Tbilisi to Chiatura on June 23, do you have any idea how much does it cost by shared taxi (We are a group of 3 adults) so that I have some ideas on it rather than being ripped off. Actually I did ask for private transfer, it quotes 270 GEL, seem quite expensive for me. Hope you can give me some advice on this as you have been in Tbilisi for quite a time. Thanks in advance for your help! Cheers!

Hi Paulina, I don’t know if there are shared taxis going to Chiatura but, from Didube station, you can take the marshrutka that goes to Kutaisi, which costs 15GEl if I am not mistaken, drop off in Zestaponi and from there, take a second marshrutka to Chiatura.

Joan, as always a very informative and comprehensive post – thanks a lot!

But to be honest I have never thought of Georgia as “barely discovered by the average traveler”. Quite the contrary to be honest. By average you mean western European tourists? Because it is (and has been for quite some years) one of key tourism destination for eastern Europe and Russia… Gone are the days when Georgia was an unknown country. Last time I visited (in 2016 and off season) only to find that it is quite prepared for mass tourism and even then (January) there were quite a lot of tourists not only in Tbilisi, but also in Kutaisi and, of course, Singhnaghi. Very different to how it was, let’s say 10 years ago. I will be back again in few days and I wonder or rather I am a bit afraid, how things have changed in these 3 years and how is Georgia during high season. Even now, without Russian tourists.

I will check the tarmac road in Kazbegi 😉 Hope it will decrease a bit the taxi mafia… Cheers!

very interestingly written and informative content. Different and unique from other blogs same like Georgia. Thanks for sharing your experience in so detail , it was very helpful

Really fantastic blog! My wife and I are in the early stages of planning a 6 week trip to Georgia,Azerbaijan and possibly Armenia and I’m delighted to read that there is a border crossing between Sighnaghi and Azerbaijan,as we’d like to travel the High Caucasus on our way to Baku before catching the train back to Tbilisi. Can you confirm that there is definitely no border crossing from Agstafa into Armenia as without that,I think we may have to give Armenia a miss this time. Will now get your Georgia guide! Thanks,Peter

Hey Peter, thanks for your kind message! No border crossing between Armenia & Azerbaijan, 100%, unfortunately.

Hi Joan, My buddy and I are looking at visiting for a 3 day weekend from Frankfurt (COVID travel pending of course). We saw some pretty nice looking tours on Trip Advisor to Vardzia-Rabati-borjomi-back to Tbilsi, and another to Kazbegi. Both tours are 10 to 14 hours. Do you have any suggested tours. Due to COVID we had to announce our vacation time a lot earlier from work so we figured we would try to get a taste of Georgia, and then return next year if it is as it seems, beautiful.

Hi Aaron, I don’t know about any specific tours, other than the one recommended in the articles from GetYourGuide, sorry

Nicely informative narrative but of course impossible to evaluate for what may have been left out for a first time tourist that could be of interest. Well, that’s the adventure aspect in travel, isn’t it. Like, hooking up, female sexual mores, clubbing, etc. Also missing was any mention of medical, dentistry, and hospital services in the nation. All in all a good, readable word on Georgia. Thanks.

Hi Joan, I am planning to visit Georgia and other neighbouring countries such as Mongolia post-COVID 19, in 2022. Thank you so much for a very informative blog and beautiful photos of Georgia. I will need a visa as I am a Papua New Guinean. I reckon the closest place to get a Georgian visa will be Australia our neighbour to the south. I am not a trekker but love walks and want to find out if Tbilisi has lakes in the city or near the city. I am interested in buying your book so will check out Amazon. Would love a copy of your book ‘Against the Compass’ – it sounds exciting and different.

Thanks, Mari, I wish you all the best with your visa, and let me know if you need anything

Hey Joan! Incredible post. I’m fully vaccinated (yayyy) and planning a trip to Georgia this spring – so soon. I can’t wait to buy your book and learn more. I’m curious, have you heard anything about the country actually being open? I know that I can travel there with vaccine proof but I’m curious what it will be like once I arrive.

Hi Kylee! I think Georgia is now requiring a mandatory quarantine, but they kept it changing every now and then, and not sure how it works with people who are vaccinated. Did you check on IATA?

Hi Joan, I just came across your account of living in Georgia, I enjoyed the read and have subscribed!

I’m a solo female traveller from Canada and I have a specific question I’d like to ask you about the South Ossetia region. I’d like to visit the Gudauri Ski Area, and from what I can tell this area “seems” to fall within the South Ossetia region. I say “seems’ because I’m finding a lot of different information. From what I can understand the border is not static and is always fluctuating. My government’s travel website says that this region is not recommended for travel, and as such my insurance would not cover me if I have an incident in this region. So I’m just trying to find out from someone who’s been there what their take on it is, is the ski resort in this region and is it a generally safe place to visit? It looks like a chill place with new hotels opening up. And a great place to spend a few days playing in the snow! (I heard about the chair lift incident in 2018, but hopefully they’ve worked out this issues)

I hope that you are able to help me out, any information you can provide would be great.

Hi Leslie, thanks for your message! Gudauri is near South Ossetia but it doesn’t belong to the region. It’s a very safe touristic area, however, and as you well said, there are many hotels.

South Ossetia on the other hand is a breakaway territory today only accessible from Russia. I would not say it’s dangerous but you cannot access from Georgia anyways and even from Russia is tricky.

Thank you for the quick reply! I will continue to plan my ski trip and I can’t wait to get out there!

> Really, when I was living there in 2018, I witnessed quite a few extremely violent episodes.

Sad to say, but things are getting only worse. Orthodox priests were just yesterday beating journalists and gays while police was just watching and enjoying the show. The ruling mafia and extremist Georgian Orthodox church are promoting violence, intolerance and racism against sexual minorities, Russians and everyone who threatens their Jihadist values and way of life. And high level of nationalism is boosting xenophobia.

We are planning a lengthy European trip from early spring to late autumn in ’25 or ’26 , I am planning buying or renting a camper van for ease of travel, the trip includes Western Turkey. How easy is it to drive along the Black Sea coast and enter Georgia by private vehicle, any insurance problems ? Could the return trip be via Russia and/or Ukraine, is there a vehicle ferry from Georgia to the Ukraine ? PS, I have driven to India via Turkey in the past, so I am aware of many potential problems for the traveler. Thank you, David

Hi David, driving along the route is super easy, no hassle at all, but I am not sure about travel insurance. That’s something you’ll need to figure out. Via Russia is also OMK, as long as you have a visa. No VOA available.

Hi David, Thanks for sharing! We were considering Georgia for travel in 2022, however with the eastern europe conflict, is this something you think would make Georgia unsafe for travel in 2022?

What a fantastic resource for discovering Georgia in 2023! This article gives such a clear impression of this lovely nation, from its breath taking surroundings to its distinct culture and welcoming people. Every phrase shows the author’s obvious passion for Georgia, which makes me want to go on my own adventure there. The helpful advice on visas, travel insurance, and the ideal times to visit is of the utmost value. Additionally, the inhabitants’ emphasis on safety and friendliness is quite touching. It is excellent to emphasise Georgia’s extensive history, diverse language, and, of course, its renowned wine culture. This page serves as a travel guide as well as an open invitation to first-hand experience Georgia’s charm. I’m grateful to you for sharing this amazing story, and I’m looking forward to experiencing it myself!

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Georgia travel advice

Latest updates: Safety and security – information added about ongoing protests

Last updated: April 17, 2024 02:59 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, georgia - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Georgia.

The border with Russia, the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia and surrounding areas - Avoid all travel

• within 5 km of the border with Russia
• the occupied regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia
• within 5 km of the administrative boundary line with the occupied regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia

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Protests related to the Foreign Agent Bill

On April 15, 2024, thousands of people gathered around Georgia's Parliament in Tbilisi to protest against the "foreign agent bill." There have also been protests in other cities, such as Batumi and Kutaisi, and additional ones are expected in the coming days.

Local authorities heightened security measures, especially around government buildings. They may use tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.

Transport and services may be disrupted. Violent incidents or clashes between protestors and security forces or between opposing groups could occur.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time.

If you are in Georgia:

• monitor local media for the most recent information
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• be prepared to modify your plans in case of disturbances
• expect enhanced security measures and an increased police presence

Abkhazia and South Ossetia

The administrative boundary lines between Georgia, South Ossetia and Abkhazia are not well defined and change frequently. The Russian military and border guards regularly patrol the area. You could be detained and arrested if you cross into South Ossetia and Abkhazia, even by mistake.

The checkpoints with South Ossetia and Abkhazia are only open a few days a month and are subject to unexpected and prolonged closures.

Tensions are high in both occupied regions. Unexploded ordnance, explosions and landmines may pose a risk where military operations have occurred, especially in areas along the administrative boundary lines with South Ossetia and Abkhazia and near the border with Azerbaijan (Red Bridge area).

Terrorists have carried out attacks in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. They typically use car bombs to target military and security facilities.

If you choose to travel to South Ossetia or Abkhazia despite this advisory:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• only cross at official checkpoints
• carry valid ID with you at all times
• monitor local media to stay informed on the security situation and on checkpoint closures

Canadian officials may not be in a position to provide consular assistance to Canadians in these areas, due to security concerns and travel restrictions.

Russian border regions

Georgian authorities only recognize the Kazbegi-Verkhnii Lars border crossing with Russia. If you choose to travel to the Russian border regions despite this advisory, avoid crossing at unofficial land borders connecting to the following Russian republics:

• Kabardino-Balkaria
• Karachay-Cherkessia

Kidnappings have occurred in Abkhazia, South Ossetia and other areas bordering Russia.

If you travel to these areas despite the advisories in effect:

• don’t walk alone, especially after dark
• vary your itinerary
• keep doors and windows locked at all times
• don’t show signs of affluence
• exercise vigilance in crowded places, such as markets and public transportation facilities

There is a low threat of terrorism, but an attack can occur at any time.

Although there have been no recent attacks, there is a terrorist threat due to the return of Georgian fighters from abroad and the use of the country as a transit route between North Caucasus and the Middle East.

Targets could include: 

• government buildings 
• schools 
• places of worship 
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks 
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners 

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. 

Be particularly vigilant during: 

• sporting events 
• religious holidays  
• public celebrations  
• major political events, such as elections  

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.  

Demonstrations

Planned and unplanned political demonstrations take place regularly in Georgia, especially in Tbilisi during international events and around election periods.

There have been violent attacks against 2SLGBTQI+ persons during the Pride festivities in Tbilisi, resulting in casualties.

In 2023, large-scale demonstrations took place in Tbilisi. They led to vandalism and violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces who used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, especially in crowded urban areas and at public gatherings.

• Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• Keep doors and windows locked at all times 

Violent crime

Violent crimes targeting foreigners occur occasionally. Incidents include:

• carjackings
• sexual assaults

The police patrol frequently, but their response in remote areas and outside of larger cities can be significantly longer.

During your stay:

• avoid travelling alone after dark
• beware of people walking behind you
• avoid inadequately lit and deserted streets

ATM and credit card fraud occurs.

Be cautious when using debit or credit cards.

• Pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• Use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Romance scams and overcharging

Romance scams on dating sites or through social media have occurred. Typical scenarios involve locals luring tourists met online into bars or nightclubs. Tourists are forced to pay high bills after ordering expensive food and drinks.

Discussions about overcharging have turned violent. Tourists have been threatened and forced to pay the bill by the establishment's security guards. 

• Beware of people who show a keen interest online 
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location  
• Always confirm the price of an item before ordering 
• Don’t leave an open tab at bars and nightclubs
• Avoid giving your credit card to bar or restaurant staff 
• Check your bill for accuracy before paying 

Overseas fraud

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment or verbal abuse.  

Sexual assaults have been committed, including against foreign women.

If you’re the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to the nearest Canadian consulate or embassy and seek medical assistance. You should also report the incident to Georgian authorities and ensure that local police will file the report with the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia .

• avoid deserted streets at night and isolated areas
• don’t travel by yourself in a taxi, especially at night

Useful links

• Contact information - Prosecutor’s Offices of Georgia 
• Advice for women travellers  

Due to previous military operations, landmines and unexploded ordnance may pose a threat to your safety in various areas of Georgia, including:

• near the Red Bridge border crossing with Azerbaijan
• in South Ossetia, Abkhazia and along the administrative boundary lines

If you choose to travel to these areas:

• stay on main and paved roads 
• avoid walking in fields
• avoid roadside ditches, shoulders and unmarked trails  
• pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance
• keep in mind that landmines and unexploded ordnance fields may not always be clearly marked 

Adventure tourism

Adventure tourism, such as zip-lining, rock climbing or trekking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well-organized. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly.

Tour operators may not meet international standards.

If you are participating in adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your tour companions  
• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out  
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation   
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• refrain from using equipment if you have doubts on their safety  

Road safety

Road conditions.

Road conditions vary considerably across the country and fatal accidents are frequent.

Roads are generally in good condition in Tbilisi and in major cities. However, they are sometimes poorly maintained and dangerous in rural areas due to:

• unpaved and uneven surfaces
• raised and sunken manholes
• stray livestock
• lack of traffic signs
• insufficient lighting

In rural areas, traffic signs may only be written in Georgian.

Driving habits

Road accidents are one of the main causes of death in Georgia. It is common for drivers to:

• fail to maintain one lane
• drive at excessive speeds
• drive under the influence
• engage in road rage

Pedestrians often cross in the middle of the road and drivers don’t always give pedestrians the right of way. If you drive in Georgia:

• always drive defensively
• don’t engage with drivers showing signs of road rage
• plan your trip in advance, especially if you are visiting rural areas 
• avoid travelling after dark
• always carry a cell phone and charger  

Road restrictions – Roads Department of Georgia

Right of way

The right of way system is in effect in Georgia.

Drivers must yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections if they are not in a priority lane, and to vehicles entering roundabouts.

Public transportation

In Georgia, taxis are regulated and vehicles are recognizable by their white colour and roof-mounted taxi signs. However, unofficial taxis continue to operate and drivers generally don’t use meters. They may overcharge you for the ride.

Drivers can be reckless and drive at excessive speed.

Ride-sharing apps are popular throughout Georgia.

If you choose to take taxis during your stay:

• arrange your pickup with a reputable company before arrival when travelling by air, or use authorized cabs at the airport 
• order your taxi at the reception if you are staying at a hotel
• don’t use unmarked taxis
• never share a taxi with strangers
• negotiate the fare in advance
• have small bills available for payment

Buses and metro

Buses and metro are generally safe and reliable, but pickpockets may target tourists.

Mini-buses called "marshrutka" are poorly maintained and often lack security features like seatbelts.

• Always carry your valuables and identification with you
• Avoid storing bags in the overhead compartment or under your seat
• Don't take buses that look overloaded or in poor condition

The condition and cleanliness of trains vary greatly from route to route.

• Make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Don’t leave your compartment unattended
• Keep the door locked from the inside

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Georgian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Georgia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 365 days Business visa: not required for stays of up to 365 days Student visa: not required for stays of up to 365 days

If you are planning to stay in Georgia for more than 365 days, you must obtain a visa before entering the country. If you overstay your visa, you may be fined.

• Georgian visa information – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia
• Visa-free countries - State Commission on Migration Issues of Georgia
• Postponing the obligation to leave – State Commission on Migration Issues of Georgia

If you choose to travel to the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, you will need prior authorization from Georgian authorities who don’t recognize border crossings between Russia and the occupied regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. If you enter Georgia via Abkhazia or South Ossetia at an unofficial border crossing, you could face heavy fines and jail sentences.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

High quality medical services and facilities are generally available in major cities, such as Tbilisi and Batumi.

In rural areas, there are shortages of medical supplies and personnel. Facilities may not meet the quality standards you may be used to in Canada.

Medical services can be expensive, and immediate up-front cash payment is often required.

Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Georgia are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Georgia to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Georgian authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Reforms are underway to improve the efficiency and the transparency of the judicial system, but if you are arrested in Georgia, you could be detained for several months and there could be long delays to resolve your case.

In 2017, Georgia decriminalized cannabis and various cannabis-based products for personal use. Production, distribution and sale remain illegal. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Some prescription medication may not be available in Georgia.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in the country.

Georgian authorities strictly regulate the possession and import of prescription medication under special control, including narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, and some over-the-counter medication that is commonly available in Canada.

• Bring a sufficient supply of your medication
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions along with an English translation
• Declare all medications in your possession to customs officials upon entry
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

If you carry illegal prescription medication according to Georgian Law, you could face deportation and jail sentences.

Contact the nearest diplomatic representation of Georgia for more information on imports of medication.

• Medicinal products subject to special control – Revenue service of Georgia
• Foreign Representatives in Canada  

Imports and exports

You may need to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Georgia to import or export cultural valuables.

Cultural valuables include:

• archeological items
• coins, old inscriptions and seals
• handmade canvas, paintings and drawings
• postal stamps removed from circulation

Cultural valuables – Revenue service of Georgia

Photography

Taking photographs of military installations or government buildings may result in a penalty.

You should seek permission from local authorities before taking photographs.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Georgia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Georgia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

Military service

Georgian-Canadian dual citizens may be subject to military service.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Georgia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Georgia, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Georgian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Georgia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Georgia has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving.

Penalties for drinking and driving include:

• heavy fines
• prohibition from driving for several months or years

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Georgian law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

In 2023, the government of Georgia proposed a law to prohibit surrogacy arrangements to foreigners.

If you’re planning to visit Georgia for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy and seek legal advice on Georgian and Canadian laws and citizenship procedures prior to making any arrangements.

Same-sex couples may encounter issues when engaging in surrogacy arrangements in Georgia.

The Embassy of Canada to Türkiye in Ankara is unable to provide recommendations on surrogacy arrangements.

The currency of Georgia is the lari (GEL). 

U.S. dollars and euros are widely accepted and exchanged for local currency.

Credit cards may not be widely accepted in rural areas.

• Avoid exchanging money in unlicensed facilities
• Make sure you have cash at all times for payment

Currency declaration

There are restrictions on the import and export of currency. You must declare to customs officials if you have more than 30 000 GEL or its equivalent in your possession.

This requirement applies to:

• any other type of financial instrument

Failure to comply with this requirement could result in fines and confiscation.

Movement of currency – Revenue service of Georgia

The rainy season usually extends from April to July. Heavy rains may result in significant flooding and landslides, especially in the following regions:

• Kvemo Kartli
• Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti
• Shida Kartli

Excessive rainfall can hamper overland travel and roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. 

It can disrupt the provision of the following essential services:

• transportation
• power distribution
• water and food supply
• telecommunications networks
• emergency services
• medical care

Seismic activity

Earthquakes.

Georgia is located in an active seismic zone. Earthquakes may cause landslides in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur up after the initial tremor.

Earthquakes - What to Do?  

Local services

In case of emergency, dial 112

Consular assistance

Azerbaijan, Georgia. Offering consular services to Canadians in Iran.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Türkiye in Ankara and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Wander-Lush

Is Georgia Safe for Tourists in 2024? Common Concerns & Helpful Tips

Georgia’s popularity as a tourist destination has grown exponentially in recent years. Still, many people who are unfamiliar with the region tend to think that travelling in Georgia and the Caucasus is somehow unsafe.

Some of the misconceptions surrounding Tbilisi and Georgia are likely due to the country’s geographic location. Some people assume Georgia is dangerous because of past and present geopolitical struggles.

A lot of it is probably down to the fact that Georgia is still quite unknown on the world stage – and we tend to fear what we don’t understand.

In reality, Georgia is one of the safest countries I’ve travelled to or lived in . I feel safer in Tbilisi than I do in almost any capital city in Western Europe.

This is, of course, my personal opinion. But there is data to back it up.

In this post, I’ll run through a few of the biggest concerns tourists normally have when visiting Georgia for the first time . I’ll also share my top safety tips based on my experience travelling and living here for four years.

I hope this advice will help you make informed decisions during your visit.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Update: Is Georgia still a safe country in 2024?

A lot has changed since I moved to Georgia in 2020 – not to mention since I first travelled here in 2017. On the whole, Georgia remains a very safe destination . But there are a few specific things you need to watch out for, which I cover below.

In the 2024 International Crime Index , Georgia ranks 20th in the world in terms of safety behind countries including Croatia , Qatar , Taiwan, Oman , Slovenia, Armenia and the UAE.

This is just one data point (and it is worth noting that Georgia was way up in 4th position in 2020). But it still says something.

Tbilisi , Georgia’s capital, is consistently cited as one of the safest cities in the world (currently 32nd according to the 2024 Safety Index ). Having also lived in Batumi , Kutaisi and Gori , I think Georgia’s other major cities are comparably safe for tourists.

Back in 2021, Georgia scored 88 out of 100 in the Gallup Law and Order Index , placing it among the top 20 safest countries in the world (of the 115 surveyed). This poll is interesting because it’s based on people’s perceptions and asked questions such as “Do you feel safe walking alone at night in the city or area where you live?”

The number of reported crimes in Georgia remains low – if you’re interested, you can see the latest crime stats in these monthly Geo Stat reports .

So, is Georgia still a safe country for tourists? I think the answer is a resounding yes. Anecdotally, it does feel like petty crime is becoming more common in Tbilisi, but it’s hard to say whether that’s because of an increasing number of incidents or because people are more likely to report it now.

I have always said that just because the stats say Georgia is safe, you should never drop your guard and not worry about personal safety when travelling in Georgia . Every country has its problems, and there are certainly some things you should be aware of.

Child beggars

Child beggars have only really become a problem in Georgia in the past 24 months. There is a lot of discussion about this on travel forums including Trip Advisor, which is why I’m mentioning it here.

While it is definitely something to be aware of, it is nowhere near the level it is in some other cities such as Athens or Rome for example.

Sometimes kids will approach you for money when you are sitting in a cafe or standing on the street. Once you give them a firm no , they are likely to walk away.

More concerning are incidents of pickpocketing . The ploy is pretty standard: One kid will distract you by grabbing onto your arms or legs while another attempts to pinch your wallet/phone.

Though extremely concerning, these incidents have so far been limited to a few locations in Tbilisi and Batumi. The sidewalk outside Galleria Mall in Tbilisi is a known hotspot, as is the area around Marjanishvili Metro Station, Shardeni Street in the Old Town, and Europe Square near the Bridge of Peace.

I recommend avoiding these areas when possible. If you see a group of child beggars, give them a wide berth. Keep your money and valuables in your bag and not in your pockets.

Because they are minors, the police are apparently limited in how they can respond, which makes incidents like these extra frustrating.

The war in Ukraine

Another recent development that many travellers are understandably concerned about is the Ukraine war. Certainly there have been noticeable impacts in Georgia: Many Russians (and Ukrainians too) have fled here, which has had various knock-on effects.

Most Georgians are resolute in their support of Ukraine. In spring and summer 2022, there were non-violent demonstrations in many cities, but there have been fewer solidarity protests of late.

Anti-Russia sentiment has become amplified. For this reason, I do not recommend speaking Russian in Tbilisi. Most Georgians understandably prefer it if you use English.

Aside from the pro-Ukrainian flags and slogans you see around the place, there are no other obvious hints that a war is going on.

In terms of personal safety, I am yet to see any compelling evidence of an imminent threat. At the time of writing, official travel advisories classify Georgia as follows:

• Level 1: Exercise normal precautions ( US Department of State )
• Take normal security precautions ( Government of Canada )
• Exercise normal safety precautions ( Australian Government )

I recommend following your own country’s travel advice both before and during your trip.

At present, there is no issue with travelling to areas that are close to the Russian border . It is business as usual in places such as Gudauri , Kazbegi, Tusheti , etc.

I do not have any special insights into geopolitics. All I can say is that Ukraine is a long way from Georgia, and on a personal note, I would not still be living here if I thought it was unsafe.

Crime in Georgia

As mentioned, Georgia and Tbilisi both rank very low in terms of crime. Of course petty crime and burglary exist in Georgia, but tourists are rarely targeted.

In Tbilisi, it’s not unusual to hand your wallet over to a stranger so they can swipe your bus pass or to give someone your handbag to hold while you stand on the metro. I regularly see people lay their mobile phones down on the seat next to them when they’re on the train. There is a sense of trust and familiarity here that I think is quite rare.

Even in the bigger cities, there is a prevailing sense of community and a feeling that everyone looks out for each other. Georgian culture, the impacts of communism, the events of the 1990s that forced everyone to come together to overcome adversity – and of course the massive influence of the Orthodox Church – are probably all contributing factors.

As I’m sure you’ve already heard, hospitality is a big deal here. Georgians pride themselves on extending that same neighbourly kindness to guests and strangers.

You often see security bars on lower level windows in Tbilisi. These are leftover from the 1990s when crime was a serious problem.

In 2003, things changed with the Rose Revolution. The police force underwent major reform and corruption and bribery were virtually stamped out (on paper at least).

Trust in law enforcement went up, and crime rates went down. As well as improving the quality of life for Georgians, this went a long way to improving Georgia’s reputation internationally. There is a strong police presence in most cities today, and CCTV and security cameras are widespread.

Having said all that, of course I still recommend using common sense . Keep your valuables secure and avoid leaving your things unattended, especially when you’re on the metro in Tbilisi or in a crowded tourist area.

Last summer, there were a few bag snatching incidents in Tbilisi. Be extra careful with your belongings if you’re sitting outside at a bar or a restaurant late at night. Take care at hostels and look for places that provide secure storage. The same applies when using left luggage services .

Lock your doors and windows at night and when you leave your accommodation – even if your neighbours don’t – and avoid being out alone in quiet areas after dark. Do not go hiking or walking in secluded parts of Tbilisi alone.

If you do need to report a crime, police are generally pretty good when dealing with foreigners. English-speaking officers and/or interpreters are available at all police stations.

It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with these emergency numbers in Georgia:

• 112 – General emergency
• 112 1 – Police and fire service

I also suggest you download the 112 Georgia app . It allows you to contact emergency services directly and send a GPS marker of your location in case something goes wrong.

Touts in Tbilisi

A couple of years ago there were hardly any touts in Tbilisi. Starting from two summers ago, I was shocked at the number of people selling tours and boat trips, advertising casinos and bars – often using mildly aggressive tactics and getting right up in your face.

If you’re walking around Old Tbilisi (especially near Shardeni Street), the Bridge of Peace or the pedestrianised part of Aghmashenebeli Avenue, you are bound to encounter them. It’s far worse in the busy summer months compared to shoulder or low season.

I personally detest this kind of thing and hate having to be on-guard when walking around the city. My advice is to avoid these areas during the middle of the day. If you’re ever approached and you feel uncomfortable, make eye contact and give them a firm no .

Touts are more of an annoyance than a safety issue.

Tourist scams in Georgia

Tourist scams are far less prevalent in Georgia than in most Western European countries. Dual pricing and the ‘tourist tax’ are a reality (especially at markets ), but getting scammed isn’t something the average tourist needs to be overly concerned about.

Dodgy currency exchange desks sometimes take advantage of tourists with fake banknotes or by skewing their rates. I recommend avoiding them all together – just use your bank card to withdraw cash at an ATM.

I have heard of people getting scammed in Tbilisi in broad daylight. In one case, a foreign visitor was charged 30 GEL (about $10) for a glass of orange juice. (It was freshly squeezed, but still.)

When buying food, drinks or souvenirs from a market, always ask the price before you commit to buy . Never buy something in a restaurant or bar without checking the price on the menu. Never pay your bill without checking the itemised docket.

I also suggest you avoid shopping from street vendors or visiting restaurants in the touristy parts of the Old Town or on the pedestrianised part of Aghmashenebeli Avenue. These are known hotspots.

The bar scam in Tbilisi

If you’re planning to dabble in Tbilisi’s nightlife, one thing you do need to be cautious of is the dreaded bar/nightclub scam . Usually scammers prey on single men via Tinder. But a few years ago this happened to friends of ours (a couple) at a certain bar in the Old Town. It has since closed down, thankfully.

The swindle goes something like this: After a few drinks, a friendly bartender will talk you into buying a bottle of wine or champagne. When it comes time to settle the bill, there are a few more (actually a lot more) zeros on the bill than you were expecting. But you agreed to buy the bottle, and you drank it, so you have to pay up.

When this happened to our friends, they were taken to the nearest ATM and forced to cough up the several thousand laris they apparently owed the bar. They went to the police and managed to get some of their money back, but not all of it.

The good news is that police are cracking down on these scams and in 2022/23, several people were charged.

One giveaway for these dodgy bars is that they aren’t listed on Google Maps. Before you go anywhere for a drink, check to see if the venue is marked on Google. If you meet someone online, set the meeting point yourself. In general, I recommend sticking to bars and clubs that have lots of reviews, like these ones .

Avoid visiting bars and clubs that appear on this list of the worst-rated places in Tbilisi.

Using taxis in Georgia

Taxis are another major pressure point for tourists. Taxis in Georgia are unmetered so if you don’t speak the same language as your driver, things can get very confusing.

Drivers sometimes take advantage of tourists in these situations. This is especially common when travelling from the airport to the city, which is why I recommend avoiding airport taxis at all costs (see my guide on how to get to and from Tbilisi Airport for alternatives).

Instead of using street taxis, I highly highly recommend using a ride-hailing app . Bolt is my top choice. This will completely remove the language barrier and any confusion over directions or price.

If you want to use the app, you will need to pick up a local sim card and a cheap data package when you arrive.

Occasionally people report issues with taxi apps where the driver takes the scenic route on purpose or ‘forgets’ to end the trip, resulting in an overcharge. It has happened to me on occasion. A good tip here is to always make sure the driver completes your trip before you get out of the car (Bolt now gives the passenger the option to manually end the trip as well).

Bolt has great support so if you have any issues, use the app to get in touch with them. I have received a full refund on several occasions.

Bolt is currently only available in bigger cities and towns. Maxim is an alternative app that also works in smaller towns. In rural areas, you should go through your guesthouse – they will be able to advise you on approximate fares and can usually organise taxis for you (most guesthouse owners have at least a few favourite drivers on speed dial).

Road safety in Georgia

Road safety is by far my biggest concern in Georgia and it’s something you really do have to be mindful of. Treacherous mountain roads like the one up to Tusheti are notoriously dangerous. But you have to take care everywhere, even in the city.

The driving style in Georgia could best be described as ‘fast and aggressive’ . Overtaking on two-lane highways at high speed is common.

Bad driving isn’t just limited to men, but there is definitely an element of machismo involved. Honestly, it’s one of the things I dislike most about Georgia.

There is a level of risk that comes with road travel anywhere in the world. In Georgia, that risk is amplified by poor road conditions, the prevalence of old and poorly maintained vehicles (and the mix of left and right-hand carriages), lack of regulation around day tour providers, the drinking culture, and the lax approach to road rules in general.

There are well over 5,000 reported traffic accidents here every year, and there’s usually at least one major accident involving tourists every season. I was astonished to learn that the cost of injuries and damage caused by road accidents amounts to 5% of Georgia’s GDP.

The risk is lower for shorter trips or rides around the city. Marshrutka vans are great for travelling between cities, but increased competition in recent years has put immense pressure on drivers. They often cut corners (speed to squeeze in an extra trip) as a result.

Thankfully road fatalities are decreasing and many roads are being upgraded, including the main highway between Tbilisi and Batumi. But there’s still a long way to go.

If it’s within your budget, I recommend using a reputable private driver for longer trips, especially in the mountains. GoTrip is a reliable and well-priced service for this.

Tips for staying safe on the road in Georgia:

• Never travel after dark
• Avoid trying to cover long distances in one day (3-4 hours of driving is about my limit)
• Choose tour operators carefully – don’t be afraid to question them about their road safety measures
• Always wear a seatbelt (mandatory for front-seat passengers)
• Never, ever get into a car or a marshrutka if you suspect the driver has been drinking

If you plan on hiring a car and driving around Georgia yourself, read up on my safety tips first. Familiarise yourself with weather conditions and avoid high-risk roads such as the Military Highway or the road to Mestia.

Hitchhiking and ride-sharing were once common in Georgia, but not so much anymore. Approach these interactions with caution.

Pedestrians also need to take extra care on Georgian roads. Zebra crossings and lights are common throughout Tbilisi and all cities, but never assume cars will stop for you . Turning cars are especially bad when it comes to cutting off pedestrians. I’ve had a few close calls myself.

Never try to cross a major street in Tbilisi if there’s no zebra crossing. Look for an underground passage instead.

Street dogs & mountain dogs

There are a lot of stray dogs in Georgia. According to the latest survey, there are 30,000 street dogs in Tbilisi alone.

In the cities, many dogs have a yellow or green plastic tag on their ear – this means they’ve been de-sexed and vaccinated as part of a government program. They might be strays, but they’re fed and cared for by the community as a collective.

Georgia’s street dogs are generally very sweet and affectionate. Often they congregate around tourist sites because they know they’ll get attention and food. I’ve never seen an urban dog be aggressive towards humans, even when there are snacks involved.

The shepherd dogs you see in the Caucasus mountains and rural areas are a whole different kettle of fish. These dogs are born and bred to guard their flock/herd from wolves and thieves, and they do so fiercely. It’s their job after all.

If you encounter sheep or cows when hiking or walking in rural areas, be aware that there is probably a dog nearby. The best course is to try and find an alternative route. If that’s not possible, walk at a normal pace and with purpose; show the dog that you’re moving through and you’re not a threat.

If the dog becomes aggressive and starts gnashing its teeth, yell out – oftentimes the shepherd (or a more confident bystander) will be close enough to call the dog off.

If you’re concerned about dogs and you plan on doing a lot of hiking, consider investing in an ultrasonic dog deterrent zapper .

Meeting locals

Interacting with locals is one of the most rewarding aspects of travelling in Georgia. The hospitality here is legendary – but don’t expect to be treated like a king or queen just because you’re a tourist.

In rural areas especially people may feel obliged to share what little they have with you. There’s nothing wrong with this – it’s a beautiful thing – but just be careful not to overstep or take advantage of people’s good will.

Getting invited into someone’s home for food or drink is fairly common, especially in small towns and villages. Exercise common sense in these situations, especially if you’re alone.

Be polite and learn a bit of the language – even just a few basic phrases can make interactions with people a lot smoother.

Georgia’s ethnic and cultural diversity is one of its greatest strengths. Places like Pankisi Valley offer some of the most genuine and rewarding travel experiences you can find anywhere in the country. It’s important to remember that different communities have their own traditions and customs. Life in the mountains is very different to life in urban Tbilisi.

I always recommend dressing conservatively in rural Georgia out of respect.

Hiking in Georgia

It can be difficult to find accurate information about weather and conditions in Georgia’s remote mountain areas, so it’s important to consult locals and have a backup plan in place when trekking.

The quantity and quality of marked trails is slowly improving thanks to initiatives such as the Transcaucasian Trail, but some of these routes are still very rugged and might not be suitable for inexperienced hikers.

If you’re a solo female traveller, I highly recommend linking up with hiking buddies rather than hiking on your own. This goes for both rural trails and hikes around Tbilisi .

Jozef at Caucasus Trekking is an expert on this topic – I highly recommend consulting his website before you go hiking in Georgia.

Adventure sports

Skiing and snowboarding and all kinds of other adventure activities are available in Georgia nowadays. Safety standards might not be what you’re used to, though.

I do not recommend paragliding in Georgia as the industry is largely unregulated. In 2022, paragliding was temporarily banned in Georgia following a devastating accident in Gudauri.

As of 2024, there are several developments in this area, no doubt connected to Georgia’s EU ambitions. Firstly, new safety standards have been introduced for paragliding operators. And secondly, Professional Liability Insurance will become mandatory for all high-risk tourism service providers in June.

Again, this is not at all my area of expertise – all I can say is do your research, go with a reputable company, and make sure you have travel insurance that covers high-risk activities.

It’s always worth seeking advice from an experienced guide or tour provider if you’re unsure.

Political unrest & demonstrations

It’s important to remember that Georgia is a young democracy and there are ongoing political and territorial issues. In August 2008, for example, tensions with Russia bubbled over into conflict along Georgia’s northern border.

It’s highly unlikely that a territorial dispute would impact tourists, but it’s best to avoid the South Ossetia (AKA Tskhinvali / Samachablo) ‘border zone’ area for this reason.

Georgians are passionate about their independence (who wouldn’t be after everything the country has been through), and people aren’t afraid to raise their voice against injustice, be it related to the borders, local politics, corruption, or something else entirely. As mentioned, many demonstrations have been held across Georgia in the wake of the events in Ukraine in early 2022.

Planned protests and demonstrations often occur in Tbilisi during the summer months. They are almost always peaceful, but things can escalate quickly, so I recommend keeping a safe distance. If you want to show your support, do so from the sidelines.

Travelling to Abkhazia or South Ossetia

Abkhazia is located on western Georgia’s Black Sea Coast. How Abkhazia became ‘separated’ from the rest of the country is a tragic and complicated story. I’m not going to rehash it here, but you can read this if you’re interested.

If you’re thinking of travelling to Abkhazia, you need to be aware that there are separate safety concerns that don’t apply to the rest of Georgia. I know people who have travelled to Abkhazia and had a great time. And I’ve heard some horror stories, too.

The situation in Abkhazia is tenuous. The crossing often closes at short notice, and it can be very difficult for tourists to accurately read the situation.

There is no consular assistance in Abkhazia as far as I’m aware, so if something goes wrong, you’re on your own. Also note that most standard travel insurance policies won’t cover you for travel to Abkhazia.

It is not possible to enter South Ossetia (AKA Tskhinvali / Samachablo) from Georgia. Travellers are advised to give the ‘border zone’ a wide berth.

It is still safe to travel on the highway through Gori and to Stepantsminda / Racha .

Eating & drinking in Georgia

On a lighter note, I often get questions about food hygiene and whether or not you can drink the tap water in Georgia.

I eat out at least 3-4 times a week (more when I’m travelling) and have never once gotten food poisoning in Georgia. Food is generally pretty fresh and additives such as MSG are not used in Georgian cooking.

As always, I suggest eating where locals eat (this list of Tbilisi’s best restaurants is a good place to start) to reduce the risk of a dodgy meal.

Generally speaking, it’s safe to drink the tap water in Georgia. In many parts of the country, tap water isn’t just potable, it’s highly coveted spring mineral water. You should always carry an empty with you when you visit mountain areas so you can bottle some for later.

The only exception is Tbilisi, where the tap water has a high mineral content (this is more due to the old pipes in many buildings rather than the water itself).

Tap water doesn’t agree with everyone, so I suggest starting with small doses and switching to bottled water if you need to.

Is Georgia safe for solo female travellers?

As a female, I always feel safe in Georgia. But I have noticed that when I travel without my partner (or even go around Tbilisi on my own), it’s often a very different experience.

Georgia is a patriarchal society and women here face particular issues. Awkward and unwanted stares from men is the most common complaint, while I have heard of women (expats and tourists) being followed by men in public areas. Harassment and public indecency (being flashed) are more rare, but it does happen.

I know plenty of women who travel and hike in Georgia solo. But as fellow travel blogger Amy says, “there are jerks everywhere.” Even in Georgia.

If you’re a solo female traveller, I recommend being proactive and taking extra steps around personal safety. Don’t walk alone late at night. Make sure your bedroom door has a lock, and always secure the door at night (especially if you’re staying at a guesthouse in a rural area). Avoid staying by yourself in apartments or Airbnbs with shared ‘Italian yards’ as they offer little privacy from the neighbours.

And yes, this also means dressing conservatively – not because I think what you wear should determine how you’re treated, but because Georgia is a conservative society in many ways, and dressing accordingly is a sign of respect (and a way to blend into the crowd more than anything).

You might want to avoid travelling solo in very remote mountain areas. Pairing up with other travellers is never a bad idea. It’s also good practice to have your accommodation organised in advance in these situations, and to be in touch with your guesthouse owner.

For further reading, here is an interview about travelling and hiking in Georgia solo . This website correlates first-hand reports from solo travellers in Tbilisi and is very useful for getting a picture of what it’s like on the ground.

LGBTQ travellers will find some useful insights in this article . I should also point out that in 2023, the Tbilisi Pride event was cancelled following protests that unfortunately turned violent.

Is Georgia safe for kids?

While Georgia remains popular with younger travellers and backpackers, more and more families are considering it as a holiday destination. I have encountered families of all sizes and kids of all ages travelling here.

In Georgian culture, children (especially babies) are adored, so you’ll get big brownie points if you show up to a restaurant or guesthouse with a little one. 

The biggest thing to be aware of is the lack of safety barricades and rails at heritage sites such as Vardzia , Uplistsikhe and Martvili Canyon . The crumbling walls at Tbilisi’s Narikala Fortress are an accident waiting to happen.

Some hotels and guesthouses similarly might not be set up for kids – it always pays to ask first.

Overall though, Georgia is perfectly safe for kids and there are plenty of child-friendly things to do here.

Do you need travel insurance for Georgia?

I always recommend taking out travel insurance no matter where in the world you’re going. Even though Georgia is a safe place for tourists, I personally wouldn’t consider travelling here without insurance.

From June 1, 2024, it will be compulsory for all international citizens entering Georgia to hold proof of health and accident insurance.

My preferred provider for travel insurance is Hey Mondo. Compare policies and save 5% when you use my referral link .

Final words: Is Georgia safe?

My many and varied experiences travelling in Georgia and living in several different cities have shown me that Georgia is an overwhelmingly safe destination for travellers . I think most other expats and travellers would agree with me.

Road safety should be your main concern, and I recommend taking proactive measures to ensure any road travel you do is as safe as it can possibly be. Risk mitigation is key.

English is widely spoken in Georgia, and people here are renowned for their hospitality and kindness towards strangers. This, combined with the very low crime rate, makes Tbilisi a safe city and Georgia a safe country in general.

Overall, you should exercise common sense when it comes to personal safety in Georgia, especially when you’re on the road or in the mountains.

Solo female travellers need to be on-guard more than other travellers, especially on hiking trails or when visiting remote areas.

Georgia essentials

Here are the websites and services I personally use and recommend for Georgia. Check out my full list of travel resources for more tips.

FLIGHTS: Search for affordable flights to Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance (get 5% off when you book with my link).

SIM CARD: Magti is my preferred provider, with prices starting from 9 GEL/week for unlimited data. See this guide for all the details about buying a Georgian SIM card .

AIRPORT TRANSFERS: Most flights into Georgia arrive in the early hours. For ease, pre-book a private transfer from Tbilisi Airport to your hotel (from $17) or from Kutaisi Airport to Tbilisi (from $90) with my partners at GoTrip.ge.

ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is the most widely used platform in Georgia. Use it to find family guesthouses, private apartments, hostels and hotels around the country.

CAR HIRE: Find a great deal on a rental car in Georgia – use the Local Rent website to book through a local agent (prices start from $20/day).

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Use Viator or Get Your Guide to browse a range of day trips and city tours. For off-beat programs, I recommend Friendly.ge (use the promocode wanderlush for 10% off). For in-depth day trips to Georgia’s wine regions, I recommend Eat This! Tours (use the promo code wanderlush for 5% off).

PRIVATE TRANSFERS: GoTrip.ge is a terrific service for booking a private professional driver and car for the day. Use it for A-to-B transfers, a customised round-trip itinerary, or a multi-day trip. You can stop wherever you like for as long as you like without the fixed price going up.

NEED SOME HELP?: Need feedback on your itinerary or personalised travel tips? I offer a one-on-one consultation call service for Tbilisi and Georgia. More information and bookings here .

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You might also be interested in….

• The ultimate Georgia itinerary : Four detailed & custom-designed itineraries
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• Georgia travel tips : 25 essential things to know before you go
• Places to visit in Georgia : 50+ unique & underrated destinations around the country
• The best things to do in Tbilisi : Favourites, hidden gems & local picks
• 35+ best restaurants in Tbilisi : Where to eat Georgian food
• 15 best day trips from Tbilisi : With detailed transport instructions
• The best time to visit Georgia : Month-by-month guide to weather, festivals & events

26 Comments

Hi Emily, I stumbled across your page on the Sulphur Baths of Tbilisi, but have since read a few. There is a lot of useful data in these pages (especially this one on safety) – much more so than many other sites I’ve looked at. I’m hoping to get to Tbilisi later this year, so will be referring to your info. Phil

Thanks Phil, glad to hear it!

Thank you for this excellent overview which is very helpful, especially because it’s based on a real person’s exprerience and therefore IMHO much more trustworthy than all those generic “travel safety” pages on tourist and government websites.

I’d like to comment on one minor detail. You seem to suggest that the “prevailing sense of community and a feeling that everyone looks out for each other” emerged with the downfall of the Soviet Union. Actually, that WAS the general attitude in the Soviet Union. Speaking of Estonia, another former Russian colony, it was hard to imagine back in the 1980’s that a minor could walk on the street, smoking, without being severely scolded by the passersby. When you didn’t offer your seat in a bus to an old woman, you were likely to get heavy verbal abuse. Things like that. Then came democracy, human rights, property laws, privacy laws, and suddenly nothing was anybody’s business. People started looking the other way and pretending they weren’t seeing anything. That’s one of the (very few) downsides of a normal society.

Far be it from me to deny that the prevailing sense of community is there in Georgia of today. I’ve never been to Georgia, so I couldn’t know. All I’m saying is that it’s probably an age-old Georgian tradition and surely not a by-product of Georgia’s independence form Russia.

Hi Lawless – actually I wasn’t trying to suggest that at all. I don’t know enough about social dynamics in the USSR to have a strong opinion either way – just noting it as a massive historical force that has influenced the way things are today. I will leave your comment here as an interesting aside for others to read. Thank you for your input!

Hey Emily Thanks so much for this fantastic blog! Myself and two female friends are heading there this September, so this is very useful. My brother went in June and said all his drivers in the mountains were drunk, so we will definitely be more picky with our choices like you mention! We are debating doing Nakra to Mestia or Mestia to Ushguli but think we will go with the popular route just to feel safer for our first trip. thanks again

Thank you so much for this wonderfully rich guide to Georgia! I hope to visit soon from the United States.

Could I ask in general, how accessible is Georgia for older adults who occasionally need to use a wheelchair? Do buildings generally have elevators and is public transportation generally accessible? Or is the infrastructure still being updated for those kinds of measures?

Thank you so much!

Hello Ann! Sorry to say that Georgia still has a long way to go in terms of accessibility – the new city buses in Tbilisi are accessible, but many venues and hotels are not.

Hi ! thank you for your useful advice. We are planning on travelling to Georgia in April. Would you change any of your recommendations considering the latest demonstrations in Tbilisi? thank you

Hi Lisa, no I wouldn’t – the demonstrations have ended. Have a great trip!

Emily Lush, I agree in general with your assessment about security and safety in Georgia, having lived in this lovely country from 2003 to 2009, then from 2012 to 2016 and currently from 2021. Please, stop using the offensive term “romani” that you are using with regards to the gypsy (tsigani) children committing petty crimes in Tbilisi. Once and for all, with this anglo-saxon offensive term “romani” that you have borrowed while referring to the gypsy minority of Sinti or Egyptian origin, you are offending the whole country Romania, who has inherited its name from the Holy Roman Empire, and whose name does not have anything to do with Sinti gypsies.

My apologies – I did not mean to cause any offence.

According to the European Roma Rights Centre, the term Tsigani that you have suggested and the term Gypsy are both “highly offensive racial slurs”. I have seen some academics use the terms Lom and Dom to refer to communities in the South Caucasus, but I am not 100% sure these people are associated with those particular groups. The term Romani is more mainstream, which is why I chose to use it. I think most people understand by now that there is no association with Romania.

If you can suggest a non-offensive alternative, I am all ears.

I accept that you did not want to offend, but to be helpful, but please, be careful with what you are writing, such as: “These kids are from Roma/Gypsy families who have entered Georgia from neighbouring countries. Because they don’t have documents (and because they are minors), the police are apparently limited in how they can respond.” How do you know these kids belong to this minority? Do you speak “Roma”/”Gypsy”/”Sinti” language? How do you know they are from neighbouring countries and not residents of Georgia? The neighbouring countries of Georgia are Russian Federation, Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan. The land border of Georgia with Azerbaijan is closed since Covid started, therefore these kids could Not come from there. The border with Russian Federation was widely opened in September 2022 when partial mobilisation was declared, but I doubt that these kids “without documents” could have crossed that heavily controlled border into Georgia. The border between Turkey and Georgia can be crossed by Georgians with the ID only, however the Turkish authorities are known as being extremely serious and thorough at doing their border control, so I do not think they could have crossed the Turkish border from Turkey into Georgia without documents. Armenian-Georgian border seems to be the friendliest, but for those who crossed it, the border control is very seriously done, firstly by the Armenian Border Guards and then by the Georgian Border Guards (green border) and by Patrol Police at Border Check Points. So, in conclusion your statement is probably taken from some locals, who feel embarrassed by the delinquent kids, and tried to unfairly suggest that they are “foreigners”. No, these kids are not foreigners, as they do not have documents to prove this statement, and they could not cross the borders from a neighbouring country without documents. Unless they were brought in by an adult, and forced here to do delinquencies, and in this case the local police does have a case, and must do the job to find the adult and prosecute him.

I’m not sure how this is relevant. This is a post about safety advice, and I am simply trying to offer some insight into why this continues to be an issue.

Many of these families have been here since before COVID.

News, police, embassies and travel advisories are all reporting that these children are from Roma/Gypsy/Sinti families. If you can point me to a reliable source that says otherwise, I would appreciate it. They do not come alone, they come with their families/parents.

Hi, I had used your blog during our trip to Georgia. We travelled as a family of four. Why I am writing here is to highlight the child beggar ploy into which we got to be a victim. As you had clearly mentioned that, four to five child beggars would hold on to your legs and hands and cleanly pickpocket you and at the exact location you had mentioned near Galleria Tbilisi. Let me explain clearly the scene of robbery/pickpocketing… There were a group of four to five girls sitting in the road bench along the pavement on the road. They noticed us and judged us, then they started to follow us, walking along with us for a while, then moving past and came back to us from the opposite direction. They surrounded me and two girls held my hands pretending to beg and the other two girls immediately caught onto my legs, meanwhile I clearly felt they were flicking out my 2 wallets from my back pant pockets within seconds. Knowing my loss I caught hold of the girl who flicked my wallet, but I pretty well knew that the wallet had been immediately transferred to the other girls and would have reached to the head girl. Though I tried to catch hold of the girl and immediately called the police, but a local man who should be among the team, started to threaten me and i did not give up but at the end he started to attack me so i lost the grip of the girl hand and all the girls started to run. I chased them but they crossed the main road as that should be their regular passage for their escape. I did not give up and I followed the man for a few hundred meters and he started to harass me and finally police arrived to the spot but they did not make any enquiry on the culprits as they said the guy is mentally challenged which is highly a false statement. As an usual practice, the police complaint was lodged and the formalities are going on…….. So the lesson learnt is “we need to protect our personal belongings carefully” especially when we are foreigners in a new country. And I also recommend not to react in the crowd when such an incident happens, as they could go to any extent and mainly language is barrier. Simply ignore, stay calm and claim your insurance. Anyway, safe travelling!

I’m so very sorry to hear this happened to you. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience, I hope it will help others to avoid something similar happening to them. I hope you see some justice as a result of the police report.

I sincerely hope this didn’t spoil your trip and your family still enjoyed your time together in Georgia!

Kindest wishes.

‘Romani’ has nothing to do with Romania and Romanian. Romani is in fact the language of the Roma people who do have different names in different countries (Dom, Nawar, Sinti etc) but it is their own organizations who have encouraged the use of Roma instead of Gypsy which they, the people concerned, find offensive.

Hi Emily I used your blog extensively for my travel to Georgia recently. Thank you for this wonderful resource. In terms of safety I wanted to add my experience. Overall, I felt very safe but I had some bad experiences at the airport. I’d kept some money (token to be taken home as souvenirs) in my bag’s front pocket, which was stolen, possibly during check in at Tbilisi International airport. It wasn’t a whole lot but it did leave a bad taste. I’d also recommend avoiding the SIM card resellers at at the airport who offer a discount but the SIM card I’d purchased stopped working mid term. The taxi drivers are also excessively aggressive (especially for a solo traveler) Bolt is such a blessing.

So sorry to hear that Smita! What a terrible end to the trip. Yes, I always recommend buying a sim in the city rather than at the airport and using Bolt whenever possible. Hope you still had a great time in Georgia!

Hi Emily, Thank you very much for a lot of great information! My friend and I are going to Georgia later this week. We are going for a day hike in Bordzjomi and Kazbegi respectively (to the glacier and later for a two day hike back and forth to Roshka from Juta via the Sadzele pass and the Chaukhi pass). We are two female travellers doing these hikes, and I’m interested in knowing if there in general are many people doing these hikes regarding not being alone as you describe in your post? Furthermore: Are there any other thoughts you want to share regarding safety in these areas that you haven’t already described ? We are staying at guesthouses in Kazbegi and Roshka and a hotel in Bordzjomi.

Kind regards, Christina

Hi Christina, I’m not sure how many people will be out on the trails but since it’s July, I’m sure you will encounter a few!

Borjomi is a popular resort for families so there’s nothing special to keep in mind regarding safety there.

I am not familiar with the Roshka area but you can see this post for specific tips: https://www.caucasus-trekking.com/treks/roshka-to-juta-by-sadzele-pass

Sadly we have different experience with street dogs than you have. We have seen multiple urban dogs be aggressive towards humans, and witnessed dog bites. We spoke with locals about it and with doctors in a Tbilisi hospital. According to the people we spoke it sadly is still a big problem in Georgia, and quite a lot of people get bitten. Luckily RIG, anti-rabies and tetanus shots are available in bigger cities (for example Tbilisi, but also Telavi). It is true that the tagged dogs are generally safe, but it’s best to be careful around dogs in general, especially at the outer edges of villages. Still 90% of the dogs won’t do you any harm, and will only keep you company for a while. It’s best to be warned about this as a first time visitor in Georgia.

Hi Maurits – yes I totally agree and this is the same advice I provide in the post. Street dogs in cities are very different to those in rural areas, as I explain. Thanks for your insights!

Thank you so much for all this great information! In terms of avoiding solo female travel to more remote areas, what would you think safety-wise of a solo female traveler traveling to the Pankisi valley? Thanks!

Hi Elisa – I have travelled solo to Pankisi and know many others who have as well. I recommend you stay at Nazy’s Guest House – she will make you feel like family and sort out everything you need for your stay.

Thanks for this fantastic post, planning to visit Georgia for the first time next year, so I find your post very useful and informative, the best to you from Mexico!

Thanks Manuel for your comment! Happy to hear that.

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Latest update

We advise: 

Exercise normal safety precautions overall in Georgia.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Georgia (PDF 207.94 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 112, or contact the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise normal safety precautions in Georgia.

Do not travel to South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Do not travel to South Ossetia and Abkhazia due to the risk of landmines, violence and fighting.

See Safety  

• Political rallies are common in Georgia, including Tbilisi. They can turn violent. Monitor the media. Avoid public protests and demonstrations.
• Don't travel to South Ossetia or Abkhazia. There's a high risk of terrorist attacks, unexploded landmines and violence in these regions. We can't provide consular help to Australians who are there.
• Violent crime can occur. Financial, import and export scams also happen. Be wary of strangers. Be extra careful when walking after dark.
• Earthquakes and floods can happen in Georgia. Monitor the media. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Malaria is a risk in south-eastern Georgia. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases occur. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water. Avoid ice cubes, unpasteurised dairy products, and raw and undercooked food.
• Medical care is limited and of poor quality. If you become ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated. Make sure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice: Health

• Georgia has announced it intends to ban surrogacy for foreigners. The ban was due to start on 1 January, but the bill is currently still before the Georgian parliament.
• Babies born through illegal arrangements may be prevented from leaving. If you plan to engage in surrogacy in Georgia, be aware of all the risks. Get legal advice from a Georgian solicitor with knowledge of this area of law.

Always carry your passport, visa or migration card (or copies).

• Taking photos near military or strategic sites, such as airports, is illegal. It's also illegal to export items of national heritage without a licence.
• Georgia doesn't always recognise dual nationality. If you're a dual national, get advice from an  embassy  or  consulate  of Georgia before you travel.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You can visit Georgia for up to 12 months without a visa if you have an Australian passport. You'll need a visa for longer stays. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Georgia for the latest details.
• Land and sea borders are open, except for the border with Azerbaijan, which requires special permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan to cross. The Georgian land border with Russia near Stepantsminda (Kazbegi) is open 24/7.
• Don't enter or exit Georgia via land borders with Russia. It's illegal to enter Georgia via Abkhazia or South Ossetia. There's no official border control in these regions.
• You need travel insurance in Georgia. Check the  Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia e-Visa Portal  for details. 

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Georgia. For consular assistance, contact the  Australian Embassy in Türkiye .
• Limited consular assistance is also available from the  British Embassy in Tbilisi .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Political rallies are common in Georgia, including Tbilisi.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid public protests and rallies
• monitor local media and other sources for possible threats
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Conflict zones

South Ossetia and Abkhazia, and the surrounding areas are unsafe. Unexploded landmines exist in these areas.

Violence and fighting between the military and, militia and criminals, including terrorists, is common.

Some roads in the Abkhazia region may have landmines.

We can't provide consular assistance to Australians in Abkhazia or South Ossetia.

Georgia has a risk of violent crime, including:

• carjackings
• sexual assaults
• home invasions
• drink spiking

Financial, import and export  scams  have increased in recent years.

To protect yourself from crime:

• be careful when walking after dark
• always keep car doors locked and windows up, even when moving
• always keep sight of your credit card
• check for card skimming devices before using ATMs

To protect yourself around people you don't know:

• don't accept food or drinks from strangers
• don't leave your food or drink unattended
• be wary of friendly strangers
• be wary of people who mention business or trade opportunities

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Since 2008, car bombings have occurred in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. This started when the conflict between Georgia and the Russian Federation ended.

Attacks target military and security sites, but civilians have been hurt.

Recent terrorist targets include:

• public transport
• commercial and public places where foreigners might be present

To reduce your risk:

• report suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the media for new threats
• listen to official warnings

Be alert in public places, especially around known terrorist targets, including:

• shopping areas
• places of worship
• sporting venues
• airports and other transport hubs
• places of mass gathering

If there's an attack, leave the affected area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.

Adventure activities

It's difficult to get accurate updates on mountain conditions.

Emergency responses may be limited if you get into trouble while mountaineering or hiking.

Contact Georgian companies with specialist guides if you're thinking about trekking or mountaineering.

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes mountaineering and hiking.

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

Earthquakes  and floods can happen in Georgia.

If there is a  natural disaster  or  severe weather :

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with friends and family
• check local media and other sources
• take official warnings seriously
• don't enter flood-affected areas

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

• Travel insurance

Ensure you get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave, as you may be asked to provide evidence at check-in or by the immigration authorities on arrival in Georgia.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you travel to South Ossetia and Abkhazia despite our advice, you'll need a special insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to these areas.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication you can buy over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Georgia has a very strict anti-drug policy. There are legal limits on how much you can take into Georgia for some medications. If you travel without the required permits, you may be detained at the border and face heavy fines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medication, you'll need to contact the Embassy of Georgia.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Georgia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Malaria  is a risk in the southeastern part of Georgia.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Measles cases can routinely occur in Georgia, which is currently experiencing increased measles activity. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.

• Measles Outbreak 2019 (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Measles immunisation service (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, and other infectious diseases occur. These include:

• tuberculosis
• brucellosis

Sometimes serious outbreaks occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs, cats and other animals

Get medical attention straight away if an animal scratches or bites you

Get medical advice if you think you have food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical care in Georgia can be limited, particularly outside Tbilisi.

International medical supplies are available, but the quality of services and facilities is poor.

If you become ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.  Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Georgia has announced it intends to ban surrogacy for foreigners. The ban was due to start on 1 January, but the bill is currently still before the Georgian parliament. Contravening this law would be a criminal offence. ​It's unclear what transitional arrangements would be in place if the bill passes. 

Babies born through illegal arrangements may be prevented from leaving Georgia. Be aware that you may not be able to get your money back if you enter into a contract for surrogacy services. 

Before you commit to a surrogacy arrangement, seek independent legal advice from a Georgian solicitor with knowledge of this area of law. See our advice on  going overseas for international surrogacy .

To bring children born through surrogacy to Australia, you must apply for an Australian passport. Check the website of  the Australian Embassy in Türkiye  for details on how to apply. 

If you're going to Georgia for surrogacy, before leaving Australia, get prepared:

• Australians often find surrogacy in Georgia to be an extremely stressful experience. 
• Tell us about your travel - [email protected]
• The entire process will likely take longer than you think. Plan for delays.
• Prepare your documents. Ensure you understand which documents you'll need and in what form (do they need to be apostilled, translated, or notarised?). Third-country documents (e.g. if your marriage certificate is not from Australia) may be scrutinised closely by the Georgian authorities and may cause delays.  
• Understand what to expect from your surrogacy agency. Couples often experience a lack of information or sympathy from their surrogacy agency. Realise your agency will be managing multiple births at the same time as yours.
• Understand your surrogacy contracts, including contracted timeframes. Be cautious of verbal agreements from your surrogacy agency that differ from your contract documents. Have funds set aside for legal costs should a dispute arise.  
• You'll need to travel to an Australian Embassy to obtain a passport for your child. Your child must stay in Georgia until you return to Georgia with the passport.
• Don't book return tickets before you have your child's passport. When to travel from Georgia to an Australian mission for a passport is your decision. We can't guarantee when a passport will be issued.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Georgia. Consular services in Georgia are limited. Obtaining a birth certificate, citizenship, and passport takes time. Processing times vary. 
• Children born through surrogacy can experience medical complications. Medical complications could extend your stay in Georgia and the costs of surrogacy. Medical evacuation is your responsibility.
• Don't expect special treatment from Georgian authorities. Georgian authorities will issue a birth certificate according to their requirements and timelines; they will not expedite your application simply because you need to leave Georgia. The embassy can't intervene with Georgian authorities on your behalf.
• Be prepared to change your plans. Due to Georgian authorities ' requirements, you may need to travel unexpectedly to Tbilisi.
• Due to language difficulties, you may find it frustrating to engage with medical and hospital staff. 
• You may meet other clients undertaking surrogacy in Georgia. Every case is different. Don't compare how long it takes for others to leave Georgia. Be cautious about taking advice from other surrogacy clients; only seek advice from official sources. 

It's your choice to travel to Georgia for surrogacy, and you're responsible for your safety, the safety of your child, and any legal or medical risks. 

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• For  Georgian birth certificates  – the  Local Government  or via your surrogacy agency
• For  Australian citizenship  – The Department of Home Affairs ( [email protected] )
• For an  Australian Passport  - the Specialised Case Management Section ( [email protected] ) in Australia for assessment and the Australian Embassy Ankara for your passport interview and printing of the emergency passport.
• For  consular assistance  – the Australian Embassy in Ankara ( [email protected] )

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They can include heavy fines and long prison sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

It's illegal to take photos:

• near military sites
• of strategic sites, such as airports

You need a licence from the Ministry of Culture and Sport's Department of Expertise and Evaluation to export items of national heritage.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you’re overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Georgia doesn't always recognise Australians with Georgian dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this may limit the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Georgia has compulsory military service.

Dual nationals should get advice from an  embassy  or  consulate  of Georgia before travelling.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal in Georgia but aren't widely accepted.

Consider avoiding public displays of affection.

Advice for LGBTI T ravellers

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa-free travel for short stays

You can visit Georgia for up to 12 months without a visa if you have an Australian passport. You'll need a visa for longer stays.

Entry and exit requirements can change at short notice. Contact the  Georgian Foreign Ministry  or an  embassy  or  consulate  of Georgia for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia e-Visa Portal

Travelling with children

Children  under 18 years travelling alone or with one parent may need a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent or parents.

They'll also need a copy of their birth certificate and passport.

Check requirements with an  embassy  or  consulate  of Georgia.

We advise against all travel to the North Caucasus region of Russia due to the high threat of terrorist activity. See our  travel advice for Russia .

It's illegal to enter Georgia via Abkhazia or South Ossetia, where there's no official border control.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact  the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with X gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Lari (GEL).

When entering or leaving, you must declare any foreign currency worth $US10,000 or more. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

By law, all goods and services must be paid for in GEL.

Credit cards are widely used in Tbilisi, but less so in regional areas.

ATMs are available in major towns.

Traveller's cheques aren't widely accepted.

Local travel

Abkhazia and south ossetia.

Do not travel to South Ossetia or Abkhazia and nearby areas. There's a risk of terrorist and criminal activity.

Unexploded weapons are in these areas.

We can't help Australians who are in these regions.

Driver's licence

You need an Australian driver's licence to drive in Georgia.

You may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for insurance.

Before you drive in Georgia, check with your insurance and vehicle providers on what you need to do.

Vehicle insurance

Civil liability insurance is compulsory for vehicles registered outside Georgia.

You can buy insurance from centres at most border crossings.

• Compulsory Insurance Centre

Road travel

Driving in Georgia can be dangerous. Hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• poorly lit roads
• not enough signs
• drivers not following the road rules

Traffic signals and road rules are often ignored.

Mountain roads can be dangerous. Take extra care in winter.

Driving with a blood alcohol reading above 0% is illegal.

If you plan to drive in Georgia, check if your travel insurance will cover driving.

• Driving or riding

Use registered taxis and limousines arranged through your hotel.

To avoid issues with taxis:

• don't hail taxis on the street
• sit in the back seat

Public transport

Public transport  can be unsafe due to poor road conditions.

Theft and  assault  happen on trains and around the Tbilisi station.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Georgia's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, you could contact:

• your family and friends
• travel agent
• tour operator
• travel insurer

English-speaking operators are usually available.

Always get a police report when reporting a crime.

Your travel insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can’t do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Georgia. For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Turkiye.

Australian Embassy, Ankara

MNG Building, 7th floor

88 Uğur Mumcu Caddesi

Gaziosmanpaşa

Ankara, Turkey

Phone: +90 312 459 9500

Website: turkey.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in Turkiye

X: @AusAmbTurk iye

Limited consular assistance is also available from the British Embassy in Tbilisi.

British Embassy, Tbilisi

51 Krtsanisi Street

Tbilisi, 0114

Phone: (+995) 32 227 4747

Website: ukingeorgia.fco.gov.uk

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

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• Why Georgia
• Destinations
• Things To Do
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• Useful Info

Is Georgia a Safe Country?

Georgia on the list of top ten safest countries.

In January 2022, Usebounce published a list of the safest countries for solo travelers, and Georgia ranked thirteenth in conjunction with Italy. 

According to to See.place, a popular travelers website, Georgia is one the top ten safest countries in the world due to its low crime rate, after Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Malta, and Luxembourg. 

The Crime Rate in Numbers

20% of Georgia is occupied by Russia, and in two regions, Abkhazeti and Samachablo, Georgian jurisdiction is not currently in effect. This statistic may be what gives people the impression that traveling in our country might be dangerous.

However, a variety of reforms have come into effect in Georgia in recent years that have increased the development of this European-style country, making living and traveling here safe.

According to Numbeo’s research carried out in the first half of 2020 by comparing 133 countries in the world safety and crime rates, Georgia came in 4th in the world and 1st in Europe. 

The national yearly statistics of the country prove that crimes like theft, robbery, murder, terrorism, human trafficking, and so on have significantly decreased, while the rate of crimes solved has increased. 

In populated areas or on highways, you’ll encounter the Georgian police force. These peacekeepers, who have undergone intensive training, can help with any problem, even one as simple as directions. The Georgian police force has a high confidence rating among the populace. 

112 is the number for safety assistance. If you witness a crime, road or public accident, domestic violence, crisis, or experience an unexpected health issue, call 112 for free from any telephone network, landline, or mobile, after which the Public Safety Command Center will respond operationally to any information 24/7. 

While you are in Georgia, download the 112 mobile app, and press “allow my location”, then if needed, you can call officers quickly.

Safety on the Roads

The majority of Georgia’s territory is equipped with video cameras, which are connected to a unified video surveillance system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Your journey’s safety is guaranteed by 5,439 cameras, of which 1,849 are license plate recognition cameras, and 3,590 are general view cameras, working in tandem. Road warning signs are set up before video cameras to inform drivers in advance of surveillance. 

Video cameras have been set up in the centers of the capital and other cities, in well-developed tourist areas, in hotels, near historical monuments , near caves, and along the paths in national parks.

Red Button on Transport, Police in the Subway

Complete comfort has been set up for every traveler, especially on public transport. There are many police officers in the Tbilisi subway and your safety is no less protected on the buses, which are equipped with video cameras and a red safety button.

The Guide - Your Journey’s Friend

The institution of the guide has been fully refined in Georgia, keeping up with the development of tourism. The certified guides do not just tell you about the diverse history and culture of our country but are also responsible for your safety. They will teach you how to hike peacefully over the mountainous landscapes, how to go see the fortress towers usually raised atop cliffs, how to take a trip through a cave , and how to safely enjoy the beautiful forests, lakes, and waterfalls. 

The guide companions for extreme adventure lovers are a separate category. The well-trained alpine groups take responsibility for your safety when climbing up Kazbegi (Mkinvartsveri), Ushba, Tetnuldi , and other peaks. 

Rafting enthusiasts will find rafting specialists who are well-trained with special safety equipment.

Extreme sports are often accompanied by accidents, a number that has significantly decreased in recent years.

Coast Guard

The Coast Guard reform is one of the Ministry of Internal Affairs' most successful reforms. The Black Sea resorts of Georgia stand out for their safe beaches and the 310 kilometers of the coastline are defended by more than 320 coastguards. During the 2022 season alone, they managed to save the lives of more than 100 people. 

The Covid-19 Pandemic

The Covid pandemic has made it more essential to think about safety while traveling in recent years. 

In 2020, the European Council selected the following countries that would be on the safe countries list: Australia, Canada, Georgia , Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, and Uruguay.

Nowadays the risks of Covid-19 have significantly decreased throughout the world, and, rest assured Georgia has ensured the health and safety of all its visitors.

Hospitality

Georgian hospitality is a superior tradition from ancient times. It is said that among us, “a guest is from God”.

Every guest in Georgia, no matter nationality or religion, is seen as sent by God, so don’t be surprised in you are invited to a stranger’s house, where they will give you a supra and bless your journey with noble Georgian wine.

Visitors won’t feel like tourists here, even if it’s your first time visiting. In addition to all her other charms, the pleasant environment makes everyone fall in love with our country and sends them home with a desire to return.

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Is Savannah Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Georgia : Safety by City

• Cartersville
• East Columbus
• Johns Creek
• Lawrenceville
• Peachtree City
• Peachtree Corners
• Sandy Springs
• South Fulton
• Stockbridge
• Tybee Island
• Warner Robins

Savannah, Georgia, is a city so rich with Southern culture that you can almost see it from the Spanish moss canopies that spread from tree branches.

Here you get a world of history, a walk through Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil, ghost stories, stunning architecture, modern amenities, and all that near some of the best East Coast beaches and golf courses.

U.S. News & World Report ranks Savannah as the country’s #1 Most Relaxing Getaway, so it’s no surprise you’re looking for a safe and quaint place to enjoy during your travels.

While it has a lot of similarities to Charleston, South Carolina, the two are different in some key areas.

Sometimes referred to as “Slow-vannah,” you’ll need to adapt to the Southern pace of life, which is walking, talking, and driving slower than you might be used to in your hometown.

Here you’ll find that strangers wave to you when passing while the tea is sweet and the food scene is bustling with Southern food and home-cooked deliciousness.

You’re also less than an hour from Hilton Head, South Carolina, or Tybee Island if you want to explore the beaches and oceanfront amenities.

• Warnings & Dangers in Savannah

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

There's a medium overall risk with elevated crime rates, and a new crime action plan is lowering some crime categories but not helping others. Even between the 2021 full-year numbers and a partial look at 2022, there are some real concerning areas for tourists to be aware of, but it's not risky enough that you should avoid visiting.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Chatham Area Transit (CAT) is a public transportation system with fixed-route buses and direct routes to and from the Savannah airport. A free system called "DOT" offers shuttles around the top 20 or so stops in the downtown area. A ferry takes tourists between Savannah and Hutchinson Island, which is especially important for those attending conventions to know, as the convention center is on the island. You can also get taxis, rideshares, or rental cars easily.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

The Savannah Police Department (SPD) refers to this crime as "Sudden Snatching." In 2021, there were 58 of them, yet as of November 5, 2022, there had already been 78 - a three-year high. Since there's a lot of transient traffic here and busy tourist areas, treat this as a medium risk.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

You should be aware of tropical weather from June through November, as hurricane season can send storms directly toward Savannah. Severe thunderstorms, flooding, and tornadoes are also possible. Extreme heat can happen in the summer.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

SPD calls this a "Street Robbery" instead of a "Highway Robbery" as other cities do. Street robberies far outnumber residential or commercial robberies, and in 2021 there were 157 of them, making up 66% of all robberies. By November 11, 2022, the number of street robberies was at 153 - on track to break the previous year's number. Treat this with medium risk and avoid walking around at night by yourself or wearing flashy and expensive things.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

The only part of Savannah that makes it a more likely target is the port, which is one of the top 5 busiest in the nation. From a tourist perspective, there's a bigger risk of petty crime, but you should always be prepared for random acts of terrorism - even domestic attacks. Check out the Homeland Security website for advice on how to be vigilant when traveling.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

The biggest scams tourists need to be aware of involve where they stay during their visit. Rental scams are common in any tourist city, and scammers will post fake listings at low prices to get your money wired ahead of time. Then you arrive with no place to stay because the house wasn't actually for rent. Even staying at a well-known hotel can make people fall prey to the "Front Desk Scam." This is when someone calls the hotel room phone and says they are from the front desk. They claim a processing error requires you to give your credit card number again. If you get one of these calls, refuse to give info over the phone and head to the front desk to confirm if it's legit.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Sexual assault is another case where the 2022 numbers already surpassed the 2021 official data. That said, the risk is about 25% higher than the national average. This is a fun city, but you should use caution when you're drinking alcohol or walking at night. The city has a certain lure to it that makes people want to spend time outdoors at night, so always travel with a buddy and never go alone with someone you don't know well.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

There are several different water quality regions in the Savannah area, so if you aren't staying in the central part of the city, visit SavannahWaterQuality.com. Savannah's 2021 Water Quality Report shows no violations and full compliance in all water testing. If flooding happens during your visit, check for water quality alerts from the city.

• Safest Places to Visit in Savannah

VisitSavannah.com is the official tourism site, meaning you search on a secure website with safe options for things to do during your visit.

Check the Deals & Special Offers section for ways to save money on restaurants, hotels, or tours.

The Historic District, the Victorian District, and the Starland District are three of the most popular districts in Savannah.

Moon River’s District, which inspired the song of the same name, is a place for those who want to get close to the outdoors and learn about marine and wetland life.

For first-timers, take a tour or two of Savannah.

There are a lot of options. You can do tours ranging from a standard walking history tour to a graveyard tour of the “Garden of Good & Evil” to the “Savannah for Morons” tour, and then there’s a slew of haunted tours too.

You can learn a lot about the city and the things to do by taking a tour first.

A daytime walk along River Street is like a mix of several eras.

You’re walking on cobblestones while impressive cargo ships pull into port and the smell of Southern food fills the air.

NOTE: You will have to walk down steep, historic (aka “somewhat tricky”) stone stairs to get to the west end of River Street. Ask the visitors center if you need more ADA or less exhaustive ways to get there.

The City Market has brought tourists and locals to gather since the 1700s and has impressive food selections and shopping boutiques.

There is a lot of history in this market area as well, but I won’t ruin the history tour for you.

It’s quite amazing what this area has withstood in its lifetime.

Savannah has a lot of museums for art, architecture, and history, but you can explore that on the tourism website.

One of the newest museums I wanted to tell you about is the American Prohibition Museum.

This museum is the only one of its kind and shows the moment in time when alcohol was banned in America (and how unsuccessful that was in practice and economy).

There’s also a speakeasy at the conclusion of the tour to celebrate the end of Prohibition!

The Starland District is an up-and-coming neighborhood rich with art and an eclectic hipster mentality.

This is a perfect neighborhood to grab that morning cup of coffee or an afternoon pick me up, and the pastry shops are popular too – I’m told the “Back in the Day” bakery has the best sweets in town.

Take a drive through a Spanish moss canopy in the Moon River District and visit Wormsloe, the remains of the estate of Noble Jones, who passed in 1775.

To be clear, the home is in ruins, and this isn’t one of those stately homes you can walk through, but WOW, is the drive there gorgeous, and the history of the land is impressive.

There’s really SO much more to learn about safe places to visit in Savannah.

The tourism site is well planned, and I don’t want to stop writing about it, but we must move on.

• Places to Avoid in Savannah

The higher crime areas are west of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

There are also a few places on the city’s northeast side, just south of the river, with elevated crime rates.

The good news is that those areas aren’t in the places tourists are going to visit.

While the police do tell us their crime control strategy does include “hot spots” in the community, they won’t disclose which areas those are.

The busy tourism districts keep tax money coming into the city, so there’s a healthy police presence.

Plus, this region has survived a Civil War and a massive hurricane in the past.

It will not be impacted by rising crime rates, and city leaders aren’t letting Savannah become “too dangerous to visit.”

I can’t really tell you to avoid walking around at night because that’s why some people come to Savannah!

I would recommend sticking with the Ghost Tours if you want to explore cemeteries and “spooky” places.

Don’t let your tour guide leave until you have a way to get back to your hotel or next location.

Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid dark streets.

• Safety Tips for Traveling to Savannah
• Savannah Police has one of the best, easiest-to-read crime statistics outlines I’ve seen in hundreds of travel research stories. You can look at the data weekly or yearly. There’s also an interactive crime map so you can see crime from yesterday if you want!
• Sign up for emergency alerts through Chatham County. While mostly the alerts will keep you informed about severe weather, they also give details of water quality issues, major accidents, or civil issues. This was especially important during the civil unrest and protests of 2020.
• If you’re traveling during hurricane season, research the risks if a tropical system is headed that way. While Savannah can take a direct hit, it can also get remnants of a storm that hit Florida. A small tropical storm might keep the city open but close the beaches. A hurricane could lead to evacuations and closures, but there’s also a chance the storm could turn and not have much of an impact. Our advice? Don’t risk it. We’ve lived through hurricanes and the aftermath. It’s not worth staying in the humidity without power or hot food.
• If you have any information or suspicion of crime while you’re visiting, call the SPD Crime Tip Line at (912)525-3124. Too much of the American violence problem is from people who don’t trust the police or don’t want retaliation for speaking out against a criminal. You can report the information anonymously as a tourist and then go home knowing you helped make a difference in the community.
• For those out drinking, there’s a way to signal for help even if you can’t be direct. You can order an Angel Shot at the bar, which shows someone bothering you or being aggressive. The bartender or manager will take it from there. If you are out late, ask if a security team member can walk you to the car.
• Don’t walk around with headphones on or while distracted by your mobile device. Try to avoid looking lost, even if you are. This could be a signal to thieves looking for a crime of opportunity. Even though the people of Savannah are very nice, always ask specific questions of an employee of a business or a police officer. Each police district has a headquarters you can call or stop by.
• SPD has a lot of safety videos on its website to show how to limit the risk of common crimes, like car break-ins, assaults, or even just feeling unsafe in an area. This is a great resource to use and a lot more helpful than a pamphlet.
• If you see a protest or fight happening, walk the other way. It’s human nature to be curious about what is going on, but it’s not worth the risk of unexpected gun violence happening.
• A rash of violence has happened in the popular City Market area. The police are adding more lighting and more patrols to the area, but there is talk of a possible curfew or limiting alcohol sales if the problem continues. It’s worth researching the City Market before your visit to see if the crime improves or if those warnings hold up.
• If you’re going to the beach, head there early. Traffic can get very backed up, and you can exponentially increase your travel time if you wait too long. I am a fan of getting to a beach area before 9:00 am and finding my spot in the sand. You can also drive there early to get a good parking spot and then Uber around to the different wilderness areas.
• So... How Safe Is Savannah Really?

This is a challenging one to answer.

Savannah once was a more dangerous city with high crime rates, which then tapered off.

The surge in gun crime in America has brought those numbers back up.

The Savannah mayor stated in late 2022 that the plan to reduce gun violence is working.

“Homicides down 36% … commercial robbery down 67%, residential robbery down 22%, domestic assault with a gun down 40%.

It works,” Savannah Mayor Johnson said.

Here’s what the mayor DID NOT say:

• Rape is up 17%
• Street robberies are up 27%
• Aggravated assault with a gun (non-domestic) is up 58%
• Aggravated assault without a gun (non-domestic) is up 46%
• Sudden snatching is up 36%

Another challenge in Savannah is that crime has moved out of the “bad” neighborhoods and into popular public areas in some cases.

On top of that, juveniles are more likely to commit gun crimes than in the past, but their age makes it challenging to hold them accountable for it.

There’s a new police chief in Savannah and large incentives to get more officers on the force.

Staffing shortages are hitting many American cities as there just aren’t enough police officers.

While there are some reports that say Savannah is more dangerous than Atlanta, that’s likely just data twisted to make a point.

You’ll need to have exceptional situational awareness here, a lot of common sense, and a confident walk to help keep anyone from trying to find a weak person.

Basic personal security will go a long way; there’s just so much history to see here.

You shouldn’t miss it because of some manipulated crime data, but you also shouldn’t write off the risks either.

• How Does Savannah Compare?
• Useful Information

The U.S. State Department oversees the issuance of all Visas. You'll either need a Visa or a Visa Waiver, but there's a detailed process before you get the right paperwork. Start planning a few months out. Once you're in Savannah, you can travel between Georgia and South Carolina without having to go through processing.

You can only use the U.S. Dollar here, but please don't use public ATMs to do currency exchange. Go into a bank, and limit how much cash you carry with you. Most purchases here can be made with a credit card or mobile device. If you get a receipt, don't throw it in a public trash can. Take it back to the hotel to be shredded.

Savannah gets relatively mild to hot weather throughout the year. There will be times in winter you might need a heavy jacket or coat, but usually, some layers of sweaters or sweatshirts will be fine. Summers are going to be humid, so plan to sweat a lot, and don't bring clothing that won't absorb sweat well. You'll want comfortable walking shoes because there are many steps to take to see it all.

Savannah Hilton Head International Airport is just 11 miles from downtown. You can also drive two hours to Jacksonville, with the Savannah airport should have plenty of flights without too many legs to get there.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend travel insurance for trips to the U.S. Healthcare is expensive, and if you don't have a health plan covered here, a sprained ankle could cost hundreds of dollars. You also want to ensure you can get airfare reimbursed if a hurricane causes cancellations.

Savannah Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Georgia - Safety by City

Explore savannah.

• 10 Safest Neighborhoods in Savannah GA
• 10 Things to Do in Savannah GA With Kids
• Are There Alligators in Savannah, Georgia?
• 16 Pros and Cons of Living in Savannah, GA
• Where to Next?

12 Reviews on Savannah

What!? Savannah is rated as the top 20 dangerous US Cities!!!!!!!!!!

A great way to spend a week or so.

If you like historic cities this is one place you should visit. Art galleries, beautiful parks, restaurants and shops make Savannah a place to visit and stay for a while. A great way to spend a week or so.

Informative!

Thanks for the information. I generally think that if you follow these, you will have a safe and enjoyable trip to Savannah GA! I also suggest you find the best hotels in safe locations to really make sure you are in a secured place!

Plenty to see but not very safe

While I agree with a lot of things, I would not rate Savannah as a 70 on the Safety Index. I think it wouldn’t pass 55 tops. The city has interesting things to see and do but there are pickpockets everywhere and just like the article mentions, everything is at a medium risk for sure. Muggings happen in the nighttime but also in the daytime and you need to be careful especially in the rough neighborhoods. There are all sorts of scams going around here, not just credit card frauds so be careful who is watching you while you withdraw money from an ATM. As a woman, I would never come here alone. Even if you’d pay me.

Pickpockets seem to be the biggest problem. Any crowded area or event is filled with them. It’s easy to spot them in most cases but they are getting more sophisticated and sometimes they won’t be so easy to see. Keep your valuables in a safe place and your phone tucked away. I saw someone steal a phone from a person’s hand and it took them a few seconds to disappear in the crowd.

Like I said, the Safety index should be updated. I don’t know if Savannah was once safer and maybe deserved a 70 but now it is not that anymore.

As for things to do if you are here I would visit Cathedral of St. John the Baptist which is a delightful piece or art in my opinion (especially the inside of it). The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is one of the best WWII museums and I’ve been to plenty of them since both me and my husband are fans. This place is a treasure trove of stories and information about all phases of that conflict. I highly recommend you visit it while in Savannah as it’s easily one of the best things to see here.

Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences was opened in 1886 and includes both American and European works of art from the 19-20 centuries period.

I really think Savannah Georgia is safe in general and I’ve been there on so many occasions. It’s even my favorite place actually. Thanks to sites like visitsavannah.com , I was able to get to know about the beauty of Downtown Savannah!

Had a wonderful, fabulous, fantastic trip to Savannah on 6/26-7/2/22-just 2 weeks ago.

Everything: from picking up the rental car at the Savannah Airport, to our perfect hotel on Bay Street in the Historic District, to our Sunset Cruise on the Atlantic/Savannah River bay, day-trip to Jekyll Island to see the Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Hospital, to the walk around this J.W. Marriott historic hotel-Gem and Mineral Exhibit, to walking and flying our drone on Riverstreet-by the river at night, to eating at the Churchill Rooftop Patio Bar, to walking through City market and visiting artists galleries and visiting with artists in their studio.

We had zero problems! We felt safe walking to some of the squares from our hotel; we walked around in the evening- honestly this article is just a repeat -saying the same thing over and over from previous articles on how unsafe Savannah is.

Well, we found it to be beautiful, clean, historic, romantic, the nicest -sweetest -calm and friendly people; and we are in our 50’s-so please take this article with a grain of salt. We got along really well while in the heart of Savannah.

The only complaint would be the lack of public use -restrooms on Tybee Island. And on the 4th of July, there were supposed to be 46,000 people there for the fireworks. So tell me, if there wasn’t a single Rent-a-toilet on any of the beaches, where did they use the restroom? The ocean? oh my!

Savannah is a lovely city. The live oaks covered by Spanish moss canopies are magical. The architecture and town squares are charming beyond description.

Truthfully, crime is a problem. Don not let anyone tell you otherwise. The percentage of scamming incidents is growing and commonplace to be asked for money.

During the day tourists areas are filled with diverse peoples- in my experience enjoying the city in the daytime is safer- Ladies: it is best if you do not carry a hand bag! Place your monies or cards on your person and always appear you know where you are going. If you need assistance, ask tour guides, restaurant staff or retail workers for guidance.

You can most definitely enjoy Savannah, but stay on course by visiting tourist attractions only,

The local police presence was noticeable, and I encountered friendly locals who were more than happy to offer recommendations for safe places to visit.

We stuck to well-known tourist areas and followed basic safety precautions. It’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings, but overall, we had a fantastic and secure experience.

I did some solo travel to Savannah, and I can say it’s a welcoming city with a charm that extends to its safety.

Savannah’s historic charm comes with a side of safety. During my stay, I found the locals to be helpful and the city well-maintained.

I read up on safety tips before my trip to Savannah and implemented them during my stay. The city has a relaxed vibe, and I encountered no issues. Like any destination, using common sense and being aware of your surroundings goes a long way.

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Article Contents

• Savannah : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Tap Water Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

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Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

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