Kojori fortress tour - best hike destination close to Tbilisi

From its green valleys spread with vineyards to its old churches and watchtowers perched in fantastic mountain scenery, Georgia (Saqartvelo, საქართველო) is one of the most beautiful countries on earth and a marvelous canvas for walkers, horse riders, cyclists, skiers, rafters and travelers of every kind. Equally special are its proud, high-spirited, cultured people: Georgia claims to be the birthplace of wine, and this is a place where guests are considered blessings and hospitality is the very stuff of life.

When you want to get out of Tbilisi, somewhere really close, with unreal views and very quiet place, some short hike, even for half day, for really cheap, somewhere at high altitude and fresh air -as high as 1400m – Then Kojori Fortress is for you. In a half and hour you can see the views of Algeti and Khrami river gorges in Kvemo Kartli and mountains of Armenia from the top of the fortress.

Duration of the tour is 4-5 hours. Pick up at hotel around 10:00 AM.

Kojori is a village (or maybe a small town) located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Tbilisi. The distance is not big, but the difference in the scenery and climate is huge. Kojori is located on hills. When you get there, you will spot the TV tower on the Mount Mtatsminda in Tbilisi far, far away and down below. The difference of altitude, the open space, and the surrounding hills are the reasons why the air is much fresher here during hot summer days. That’s why many Tbilisians choose it as a place to escape the summer heat.

First Destination will be The Udzo Monastery. This beautiful complex is situated on a hill above Kojori and offers a splendid view over Tbilisi on one side and beautiful green hills on the other. If you want to think, meditate or pray – this place will be perfect for you. Very quiet place hidden from traditional visitor destinations. The main reason to get there is the breathtaking scenery, clean air, and silence.  Even if you didn’t pray for 10 years, you might feel an urge to do so once you are there.

Next will be Kojori Fortress, you will need only a short walk and a bit scary but not difficult ascent with iron ladder (1 or 2 steps are missing so be careful). During the Red Army invasion of Georgia in February 1921, the heights of Kojori saw heavy fighting between the Georgian and Russian SFSR forces. A monument to the Georgian Junkers who died in this battle was erected on the site in the 1990s.

At the end of the tour arrival back to Tbilisi and drop off at your hotel in Tbilisi