Health and Safety in Georgia — Drinking Water, Food, and Pharmacies

Health risks for tourists in Georgia are extremely low. This guide complements our [full safety overview](/blog/is-georgia-safe-to-travel).

Tap Water

Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, and regional centers: Tap water is perfectly drinkable. It comes from mountain springs (most of Tbilisi's water comes from the Sajavakho springs) and is filtered according to international standards. Many locals never buy bottled water at all.

Mountain Villages: Water piped directly from local springs is usually safe, but if you are in doubt, use a water filter (LifeStraw, Sawyer) or boil it.

Borjomi and Mineral Waters: World-famous and worth a taste, though they are not intended for everyday hydration.

Food — What Can You Eat Safely?

Georgian cuisine is one of the safest and richest in the region. The risk of issues is low if you:

• Avoid raw street meats during the height of summer heat.
• Choose restaurants with high customer turnover (more people = fresher food).
• Trust the home cooking of your hosts in mountain villages—a Supra (Georgian feast) is typically prepared with great care.

Safe must-tries: Khinkali, Khachapuri, Mtsvadi, Lobio, Churchkhela, local cheeses, and fruit (especially during the summer season).

A small warning: Georgian wine and Chacha can be quite potent for any tourist who is not used to such high alcohol content.

Pharmacies (Aptiaqi)

• PSP, Aversi, GPC — the three main chains. You will find many 24/7 pharmacies in Tbilisi.
• Most antibiotics formally require a prescription, though in practice, they are often available without one.
• Stomach remedies (Smecta, Imodium) and painkillers (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol) are freely available.
• Emergency dental care is readily available in Tbilisi at affordable prices.

Medical Insurance

All of our tours include basic tourist insurance. However, we recommend adding personal international insurance (World Nomads, SafetyWing), especially if you plan on mountain activities.

Altitude Sickness

Routes in Kazbegi and parts of Tusheti reach elevations of 3,000m+. Symptoms (headache, nausea) are usually mild, but if it is your first time at these heights:

• Consult your doctor about Diamox.
• Limit ascent to 200–300m per day when trekking high.
• Stay hydrated — drink 3–4 liters of water a day.

For more details on mountain preparation, check our [Caucasus Trekking Packing List](/blog/caucasus-trekking-packing-list).

Emergency Numbers

• 112 — General emergency services (Police, Ambulance, Fire).
• 0322 91 91 91 — Private Tbilisi ambulance service.
• Our 24/7 WhatsApp — included with every booking.

Summary

Health risks in Georgia are on par with standard European tourist destinations. The water is drinkable, the food is fresh, and pharmacies are accessible. Book your [tour in Georgia](/tours) for a safe and comfortable journey.