Dmanisi

Dmanisi is where human history runs deepest in Georgia: excavations since the 1980s uncovered 1.8-million-year-old Homo erectus skulls, the earliest known human remains outside Africa. You will walk the fossil beds and ruins, climb to the 9th-century medieval fortress, and study early-human exhibits in the museum. Beyond the science, this is pastoral Georgia at its most genuine, with scenic hill walks, farm bread and cheese, and villagers proud of their ancient heritage. An easy day trip from Tbilisi, best in spring.

Dmanisi's rural setting contrasts with its scientific fame, with locals proud of their ancient heritage. The site blends history with pastoral Georgian life.

Currency: GEL; cash for rural areas. Language: Georgian; some English at site. Safety: Safe; quiet area. Transport: Car from Tbilisi, 1.5 hours.