The active tourist season in Georgia’s Racha region has effectively shortened to about one month, according to Giorgi Isakadze, founder of Glamping Georgia in the village of Krikhi. He told BM.GE that the season started later this year, with unfavorable weather also contributing to the shorter period of high activity. The facility operated at full capacity mainly in August, while bookings have already started to decline.
“Previously, the active period lasted around six months, with approximately three months being particularly busy. Now that period has effectively fallen to one month,” Isakadze said. He added that the region’s summer weather was frequently cloudy, with visitors waiting for clearer conditions before traveling.
Georgian and foreign visitors each account for around half of Glamping Georgia’s guests. Isakadze said the return of European tourists this year is particularly encouraging after the increase in Russian visitors following the pandemic. He believes Racha needs new attractions to extend the season, as its natural landscapes and historical sites alone are no longer sufficient to generate sustained tourist demand.
The short season also creates staffing challenges for local businesses, as it is difficult to attract and retain qualified employees for only one or two months of work. Isakadze noted that services and dining options in Ambrolauri have improved, but longer seasons are essential for sustainable business development. Glamping Georgia Krikhi opened in 2018 and has 10 glamping tents. Nightly rates start at GEL 210 per person and reach up to GEL 500, depending on the room type.
