How to get here?

Public transport is safe, comfortable, and inexpensive for making long journeys in Georgia. The signage for destination place names is mostly in Georgian. It would be useful to learn the Georgian alphabet and numbers or have references close at hand. See Useful Words & Phrases.

Minibus timetable: Please click here to download information on minibus departure times and fares between Tbilisi, Telavi, Akhmeta and Jokolo. Please note that departure times and fares change from time to time and we try our best to keep this information up-to-date.

Minibuses from Tbilisi to Pankisi Valley (Duisi, Jokolo, Birkiani and Dzibakhevi) depart from Ortachala Station in Tbilisi at 07.30 am and 14.20 pm daily, or from the Chachava Street next to the Isani metro station at 07:40 am and 14:30 pm. The travel time is about 3 hours and the fare is approximately 12 to 15 GEL. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to secure a seat.

The Ortachala Bus Station is located 2.5 kilometers from the Old Town in the south-eastern part of Tbilisi. Minibuses to Pankisi Valley park at the front of the bus station in the open parking area next to the main road. There is a small convenience shop, bench, and toilets nearby. The bus station is easily reached by public transport and taxi from any point in the city.

Minibuses to Akhmeta and Telavi depart hourly from the Ortachala from 07:30 am. From Telavi or Akhmeta, you can easily get a minibus or taxi to take you the rest of the way to Pankisi Valley.

Your host in Pankisi Valley can also check and confirm minibus times. Returning from Pankisi Valley to Tbilisi, ask your host to reserve your seat on the minibus or to arrange a private taxi.