Is Shida Kartli safe? Practical tips and the occupation line

Georgia is one of the safest countries in the region for travellers, and Gori and the sights of Shida Kartli are calm, friendly places. Violent crime against visitors is rare. There is, however, one thing about this region that every visitor should understand before they go.

The occupation line

Since the war of August 2008, the Tskhinvali region, often called South Ossetia, has been occupied by Russian forces. The line between it and the rest of Georgia, which officials call the administrative boundary line, runs only a few kilometres north of Gori. During the war, Gori itself was bombed and briefly occupied.

• Do not go near the line. It is not always clearly marked, and it has been moved in places. People, including local farmers, have been detained for crossing it by mistake.
• You cannot enter the region from Georgia. Crossing from the Georgian-controlled side is not possible, and entering from Russia is illegal under Georgian law.
• Stick to the main sights. Gori, Uplistsikhe, Ateni, Kaspi, Kareli, Khashuri and Surami are all well away from the line and are visited by thousands of tourists every year.
• Check official advice. Most governments advise against all travel to the occupied region. Read your government’s current advice before you travel.

Roads and driving

The biggest everyday risk in Georgia is the traffic. Driving can be fast, and overtaking on blind bends is common. Wear a seat belt, including in taxis and marshrutkas where they are fitted, choose a reputable driver and avoid driving at night on country roads, where livestock may be on the road.

Taxis and money

• Agree the price before you get in, or ask your guesthouse to call a taxi.
• Use ATMs inside banks or shops, and carry some cash in small notes.
• Pickpocketing is rare, but keep an eye on your things in crowded marshrutkas.

Health and nature

• Heat: summer days often pass 30 °C. Carry water and a hat at Uplistsikhe and the fortress.
• Dogs: stray dogs are common, some with ear tags showing they have been vaccinated. Most are calm; do not feed or approach them.
• Uneven ground: the rock at Uplistsikhe and the paths at Gori Fortress are smooth and steep, with few railings.
• Water: tap water is generally safe in towns, but many visitors prefer bottled or mineral water.

Emergencies

Call 112 for police, ambulance or fire. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical care.

Plan your trip

Read our travel guide for the weather, money and etiquette, and our one-day Gori itinerary to get started.