Responsible tourism in Georgia
Tourism in Georgia has grown rapidly over the last five years, with international visitor numbers increasing from 2.8 million in 2011 to almost 7 million in 2017. Not surprising, as it has a lot going for it: the dramatic expanse of the Caucasus Mountains, wildlife filled nature reserves and rushing rivers. Culturally, too, it’s appealing, with UNESCO World Heritage sites aplenty, ancient towns carved out of rock, famously delicious cuisine, most of which is locally sourced, and well preserved cultural traditions.
However, Georgia’s cultural and natural wealth has not yet translated into wealth for its all of its inhabitants, and there are big divides between rich and poor, old and young, rural and urban. If not managed responsibly, tourism could end up destroying the very things that draw tourists to the area in the first place; with particular impact on rural communities and the environment.
Our Georgia Holidays
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The cultural and scenic highlights of Georgia and Armenia
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Journey through the Caucasus region of Central Asia
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Georgia holiday, tailor made
Mountain churches, ancient monasteries and Soviet Imperialism
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9 days
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Armenia - Georgia tailor made tours in 2019
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Armenia bird watching tour
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Georgia tour, jewel of the Caucasus
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Armenia and Georgia food and wine tour
Discover this mouthwatering Caucasian food and wine
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10 days
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Silk Road overland tour, Istanbul to Beijing
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96 days
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Georgia hiking tour
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Oman to Georgia tour, Persian Caravan
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27 days
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Caucasus holiday, Armenia and Georgia
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12 days
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Hiking in the Caucasus holiday
Hiking in the gorges of Georgia's Greater Caucasus Mountains
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8 days
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Encounter a welcoming land of mountains and monasteries.
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12 days
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Georgia highlights holiday, small group
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Georgia food and wine holiday with Carla Capalbo
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Caucasus tour
20 day tailor made tour to Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia
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Armenia archaeological tour
Explore the main archaeological sites of Armenia
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9 days
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16 days
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Georgia small group tour
An 8 day cultural adventure through Georgia
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People & culture in Georgia
Well managed tourism penetrates rural areas and undeveloped regions and offers sustainable employment to marginalised communities and women without destroying cultural ties and traditions. The money that it brings to rural communities can prevent migration to cities, encourage children to remain in school as their parents now have an income, and promote the creation of crafts, cuisine and other cultural traditions, which are now given greater value by tourism.
What can you do?
You can help ensure that tourist revenue gets to the people who need it by support businesses run by local communities. For example, when you’re in Georgia try to stay in locally run guesthouses and home stays rather than in international chains, where much of your money won’t stay in the country. Eat and drink at locally owned restaurants and bars, use local guides and shop at local markets and shops – perhaps buying some of Georgia’s handmade textiles while you’re at it.
As Mark Huggins, from our supplier Undiscovered Destinations, explains, small group tours are a great way to ensure your money ends up where it’s most needed:
“Some rural mountain villages may not be so used to tourism and numbers are increasing all the time, so this needs to be properly managed. Fortunately, we operate very small groups of maximum 12 clients and only three or four departures a year. We use locally owned accommodation such as the fantastic range of guesthouses in the High Caucasus Mountains. You can be sure of good food and a warm welcome.”
And remember that travelling responsibly means respecting the local culture. Georgia is a conservative country, so dress modestly, especially if in rural areas, and avoid public displays of affection.
Wildlife & environment in Georgia
Georgia has a diverse selection of plant, bird and animal life that’s impressive for a country of such diminutive size. Add to this the dramatic Caucasus mountains and lush green national parks and it’s unsurprising that the country’s wild landscapes are drawing increasing numbers of visitors. While the main threat to Georgia’s environment currently comes from big business, such as the logging industry, tourists can also play their part in preserving the county’s natural beauty.
What can you do?
The most important thing you can do is to dispose of your waste responsibly. Never drop litter, whether in the town or the countryside, and try to avoid single use plastics by carrying a reusable water bottle. If you’re walking in the mountains, remember to stick to the proscribed paths so as not to disturb the landscape or the wildlife.
Jonny Bealby, from our supplier Wild Frontiers:
“I don’t think Georgia is different to anywhere else that is emerging from the shadows of poverty to become a wonderful tourist destination. Travellers should be respectful of local cultures, try to use local suppliers – guides, cooks, drivers – so their tourist dollars stays with the local communities they are visiting. If walking and camping, have regard for the environment and use and discard as little single use plastic as possible. Georgia is finally becoming a lot more popular. In the last couple of years tourist numbers doubled, this does put a strain on limited tourist infrastructure meaning it is better wherever possible to book before you go.”
“I don’t think Georgia is different to anywhere else that is emerging from the shadows of poverty to become a wonderful tourist destination. Travellers should be respectful of local cultures, try to use local suppliers – guides, cooks, drivers – so their tourist dollars stays with the local communities they are visiting. If walking and camping, have regard for the environment and use and discard as little single use plastic as possible. Georgia is finally becoming a lot more popular. In the last couple of years tourist numbers doubled, this does put a strain on limited tourist infrastructure meaning it is better wherever possible to book before you go.”
Responsible tourism tips
More about Georgia
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A crossroads of civilisations, the birthplace of wine, bordered by the Caucasus and the Black Sea - Georgia has a long history and incredible hospitality...
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If you've always wanted to explore in the furthest reaches of Eastern Europe but didn't know where to start then read on as we explain why visiting Armenia and Georgia together is a really worthwhile experience.
Georgia may not be an obvious destination for kids, but gung-ho types will be in their element. Read our advice and find out what our experts recommend...
Travelling to Georgia deepens understanding of Eastern Europe, especially where the Georgian Orthodox Church is concerned.
Get advice from our Georgia experts on everything from where to stay, local culture, and hiking in the mountains to ensure that your holiday runs smoothly...
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