WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE GOING SKIING
flights
A highly qualified travel advisor can assist with flight estimations or quotes if required. The flight tickets will not be included in the quotation that you will receive. Any queries regarding the flights can be addressed to her to ensure smooth sailing, or is it smooth skiing? You are in good hands.
Travel insurance
Taking out travel insurance depends on personal preference. Chat to your banker, your medical aid or insurance advisor.
visas
Whoop-whoop! NO VISA is necessary for South Africans.
when to go
Check out our package deals to know what dates will best suit you. However, if you are as excited about the snow as we are, stay tuned for weather updates.
Bakuriani, as per European standards, also has an official ski season. Depending on snow conditions, it starts from around middle December until the end of March, and some years even mid-April. Tourists visit Bakuriani all year round; peak seasons start from mid-December until the middle of March.
ski necessities
It might sound complicated, but in principle, you only need:
- one good warm ski jacket (any water-resistant jacket) will do
- two layers of warm and fluffy inners
- water-resistant ski pants
- warm socks
- waterproof gloves (debatable, but really handy)
off you go!
A special note: Pack shoes for when you’re not skiing. Trust us; it gets slippery. Rubber soles for good grip will make things much easier.
Top tip:
Check in with your friends and family and borrow whatever you can. What you can’t borrow you can find in Bakuriani. All the ski/winter clothing you need is readily available in Bakuriani at a very reasonable price.
By the way, skiing in jeans is not recommendable, believe us, we’ve tried!
currency and cash
The Georgian Lari is also referred to as GEL. There are plenty of ATMs in Bakuriani. Most vendors accept bank cards, but it’s always wise to have some cash on hand. By the way, just like in Europe, it could cost you a few cents to powder your nose. Currency converter.
getting around
Your transfer from the airport (about a 2 hour drive) to Bakuriani and back is included. Public transport is readily available everywhere and very safe. Georgia is rated as one of the safest countries in the world. Driving is on the right-hand side.
In Bakuriani (your ski town), using taxis to and from the more advanced slopes and ski lifts is the way to go. Find the relevant info in your villa. The larger and more advanced slopes are reachable by taxi (approximately 1.7km).
NB: Your home away from home is located in the heart of Bakuriani, right next to the family ski slopes (beginner slopes). Most enjoy walking to the family ski slopes and the nearby restaurants.
connectivity
Georgia enjoys comprehensive high-speed internet coverage provided by various network providers. Upon your arrival at the airport, you can conveniently acquire reasonably priced internet packages. Additionally, your accommodation is equipped with unlimited high-speed fiber internet for your connectivity needs.
food
Come to Georgia HUNGRY! Restaurants are everywhere. Traditional meals are comforting and hearty, and dishes are shared between everyone. It’s different, authentic, and delicious. Trust us, each member of the family will soon have their own favorite Georgian dish. Enjoy a Supra – the way the Georgians eat! It’s not just food. It’s where family and friends come together and share a looooonnnggg slow meal.
Most South Africans prefer self-catering. Your villa has a fully equipped kitchen to prep your own meals. The deli’s and general stores stock everything from organic food to alcohol. Don’t expect familiar brands, however. Beware! Georgian fresh bread (puri) and the famous khachapuri are addictive.
activities in and around bakuriani
For those that are not only into skiing, there are a million other things to do. Check out this website at https://villamtashi.ge/bakuriani-winteractivities/. However we dare you to jump on a snowboard or skis and be the adventurer you’ve always wanted to be!
dedicated hostess
During your stay in Bakuriani you decide what and how you want to do your thing. We’ve got your back, however! Once you are in Bakuriani you have access to a dedicated hostess to assist you with everything.
While English is not a common language in Georgia, your hostess Nino is fluent in English, Russian, and Georgian. She will assist you with anything, from where to purchase your groceries to making a reservation at the best local restaurants.
language
Georgian is the official language of The Republic of Georgia. The Georgian language is one of the oldest in the world with its own alphabet. Most youngsters speak English fluently. If you encounter any language barriers, don’t stress; phone your hostess Nino.
ბედნიერი ვარ რომ გყავს – mikharia sheni nakhva – “Happy to see you”!
vibe
The energy in Georgia is different from the traditional Western European ski culture. Georgia starts slow. Surprisingly, most lifts don’t open until 10 am, much later than the slopes in traditional skiing countries. It reflects the Georgians’ regular work hours. It is very different from South Africa’s early start to our days.
Though you will find modern comforts, most things are pleasantly laid-back. You will find the ski rental shops are nothing more than small sheds. For example, the on-mountain ‘restaurants’ are often small huts or shacks with bean bags or picnic tables outside. All of this compliments the ancient look and feel.
ski hire, ski passes and training
Don’t worry, we’ve got everything covered! Our packages typically include ski equipment rental, fitting, and lift passes. If you’re interested, we can also arrange ski lessons to help unleash your inner skiing champion.
ski slopes
Bakuriani boasts 3 major ski slopes plus multiple beginner/training slopes, of which the main training slope is right next to your accommodation. The three major ski slopes are Didveli, Kokhta, and Mitarbi. Your best bet to get there is by taxi.
By the way, in building up to the FIS World Ski and Snowboarding Championships, Bakuriani’s infrastructure is currently being upgraded with three brand new slopes, a new biathlon track, more ice rinks, and ski jump facilities right in front of your accommodation. We are very excited!
Holiday Packages
from
R 26,900
per person sharing
- 10 Nights in Private Villa
- Private Airport Transfer
- 9 Days Ski Gear
- 9 Days Ski Passes
- Daily Ski lift transfer
- Daily Cleaning Service
