Holidays in Ureki (Georgia): tours from Almaty from 445,000 ₸

Holidays in Ureki suit those who want to combine the sea and therapeutic procedures on magnetic sand. The resort is located in Georgia, on the Adjarian coast, an hour's drive from Batumi. The season lasts from May to October, with the peak in July and August. From Almaty the journey takes almost a day, usually with a transfer. Sand baths are taken in the morning and evening, accommodation is booked in advance.

Magnetic sand: therapeutic season and rules of procedures?

The local holidays are built around the main wealth of the resort. Magnetic sand here heals only dry and warm, so the season of procedures depends on the weather.

Morning and evening: when the sand works

The best time for procedures in Ureki is from early morning until eleven and after five in the evening. At noon the sand heats up so much that lying on it for long is impossible. Magnetic titanomagnetite shows its properties only in a dry state, so after rain and a storm the beach loses its healing power for a day or two. Locals advise coming by eight, when the sun is still soft and the sand has already warmed up. In the evening the body warms up more evenly, without the risk of getting burned. Beginners need twenty minutes per session. The course is usually stretched over ten to fourteen days so that the effect takes hold. Between sessions it is useful to rest in the shade, and afterwards to rinse off in the shower. Such a regimen gives health benefits without overheating and burns.

Who should not warm up

Warming up with magnetic sand does not suit everyone, and this is the first thing to discuss with a doctor. Oncology, pregnancy, heart and vascular diseases are direct reasons to refuse the procedures. For children under three, sand baths are not prescribed at all. With hypertension and exacerbation of chronic diseases, the load on the body grows, so a consultation before the trip is needed. People with skin damage should also refrain. If the doctor has allowed it, start with short sessions and monitor your well-being. A trip here can also be built without the sand: the sea, the air and walks give no less benefit. At the first signs of dizziness, the procedure is stopped immediately.

How to get from Almaty and what to consider regarding documents?

The journey from Almaty to the Adjarian coast takes almost a whole day. Tours to Ureki are usually built with a transfer, and this should be taken into account when planning.

Flight, transfer and evening departures

There may be no direct flights Almaty — Batumi in the low season. Then a flight with a transfer in Istanbul or Tbilisi lengthens the journey by five to ten hours. From Batumi to Ureki there are minibuses and trains, the journey takes about an hour. The schedule of evening departures is limited, so do not plan to arrive late. A pre-ordered transfer meets you at the airport and takes you to the guest house. This option is more convenient if the flight lands at night. Tours to Ureki with an included transfer remove this concern. In winter some flights are reduced, in summer they are added.

Insurance, first aid kit and copies of documents

Medical insurance is not included in the mandatory package, however the tourist bears the costs of a doctor and pharmacy themselves. For holidays in Ureki this is important: there are few pharmacies at the resort. Bring essential medicines from home, while Georgian pharmacies in Batumi work late and keep a wide range. Keep copies of documents separate from the originals. Tours to Ureki from agencies often include help with processing, but clarify the basic requirements in advance. This is calmer both at the border and on the spot.

Guest houses and mini-hotels: how to choose a place

There are no large chain hotels at the resort. Accommodation here is private guest houses and mini-hotels, and the choice depends on the budget.

Distance from the sea and transfer

The resort area of Ureki stretches along the beach for several kilometers. From the distant guest houses to the sea it is a fifteen to twenty-five minute walk. In the heat such a path is tiring, especially with children and bags. Owners often offer a transfer to the beach, but not all. Clarify this before booking, otherwise daily walks will become an ordeal. Renting a bicycle or scooter solves the problem in high season. Closer to the sea accommodation is more expensive, but it saves energy. A trip with little ones is better planned within walking distance of the water.

Booking at peak season

In July and August there are almost no free places left. Guest houses in Ureki are booked one to two months before the trip. Prices at peak season rise, and the choice shrinks every day. Some owners accept prepayment, some only upon check-in. Tours to Ureki from agencies fix accommodation in advance and remove the risk of being left without a room. If you are traveling on your own, check reviews and clarify the availability of air conditioning. In June and September the choice is wider and prices are lower. Booking through trusted platforms is safer.

Gastronomy and leisure outside the beach

Evening leisure in Ureki is limited to walks along the promenade and cafes. But Georgian cuisine and local wine give separate impressions.

Family wine cellars and homemade chacha

Small family cellars in Ureki are open to tourists almost every evening. The hosts treat guests to homemade wine and chacha of their own production. The tasting usually includes several varieties and a light snack. Prices are negotiable, but haggling is inappropriate here. The Georgian tradition of feasting involves toasts and unhurried conversation. It is better to buy wine to take home in bottles, not on tap. Chacha is tried in small portions, it is strong. Such an evening is remembered more strongly than a beach day. A holiday here without a visit to a cellar remains incomplete.

Sightseeing tours of Adjara with local drivers

Local drivers organize trips to Makhuntseti Waterfall, Gonio Fortress and Batumi Botanical Garden. Prices are negotiable and depend on the number of passengers and the route. Groups are usually small, which is convenient for families. Mountain routes in Adjara require a separate day and a transfer; public transport hardly goes there. It is better to arrange a trip a day in advance, not in the morning. Georgian nature in the mountains is strikingly different from the coast. Take water and comfortable shoes. A holiday here is easy to diversify with two or three such outings.

Visa and entry rules change: check with the primary source — the Embassy of Georgia in the Republic of Kazakhstan, https://kazakhstan.mfa.gov.ge/en/e-visa-portal. The information on this page was verified on 14.09.2026.

What to put in your suitcase and where to withdraw cash

Magnetic sand dictates its own packing rules. Some items will come in handy specifically at this resort.

Dark swimwear and protection against the film

Magnetic sand leaves a dark film on light-colored swimsuits and towels. It is hard to wash out, so take swimwear in dark shades. Choose practical beach shoes as well: sand gets stuck in sandals. After swimming, rinse items immediately while the film is fresh. Dark long-sleeved T-shirts are suitable for children. A hat and sunscreen are essential from June to September. Magnetic sand is sold in bags as a souvenir, but it is not worth taking it out in large quantities. The trip will become easier if you pack your suitcase taking these little things into account.

Pharmacies, ATMs and shopping in Batumi

There are few pharmacies and round-the-clock stores in Ureki. Do your main shopping in Batumi or Kobuleti along the way. There are few ATMs in the resort area, and they may not accept cards from Kazakh banks. It is worth having cash in lari with you in advance. Bring essential medicines from home. Georgian pharmacies in Batumi are open late, and the range there is wider. Large supermarkets are also located in the city. Plan your shopping trip in advance. A stay here without a supply of cash can become complicated.

In brief

• Magnetic sand heals only when dry and warm; sessions are held in the morning and evening.
• From Almaty to the resort it takes almost a day, usually with a transfer in Istanbul or Tbilisi.
• Accommodation at peak season is booked one to two months in advance; distant houses are a twenty-minute walk from the sea.
• Swimsuits are taken in dark shades; cash in lari and medicines are brought with you.
• Wine cellars and trips with local drivers complement beach holidays.