Rainbow Mountains & David Gareja Day Trip
FromGEL 29
7 hours
Tbilisi, Georgia
About this activity
Embark on a full-day adventure from Tbilisi to the stunning Rainbow Mountains and the historic David Gareja Monastery Complex, immersing yourself in Georgia's rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights
- Explore the vibrant Rainbow Mountains
- Discover ancient cave monasteries
- Enjoy scenic landscapes of Georgia
- Learn about Georgian history and culture
- Experience a full-day adventure from Tbilisi
Full description
Set off from Tbilisi on an unforgettable journey to the mesmerizing Rainbow Mountains, renowned for their vibrant hues and unique geological formations. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you'll traverse the semi-desert landscapes, capturing panoramic views and learning about the area's geological wonders. Next, delve into the ancient David Gareja Monastery Complex, a historic site nestled in the cliffs, offering insights into Georgia's monastic traditions and rich cultural heritage. This day trip combines natural beauty with historical exploration, providing a comprehensive experience of Georgia's diverse landscapes and history.
Included / Excluded
- Round-trip transportation from Tbilisi
- Guided tour of Rainbow Mountains
- Visit to David Gareja Monastery Complex
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
1
Traveler's Meeting Point - is a free space where you can meet new exciting people, play board games, listen to good music or enjoy a glass of wine.
Duration: 30 minAdmission: YES
2
The first place where you will stop is a shop to buy snacks. Since the area doesn't have good restaurants and we do not have a lunch stop, you should get some snacks not to feel too hungry and uncomfortable. And next, we go to a salty lake, where we have an outstanding possibility to take some nice pictures. The lake is on the way to David Gareji Lavra, and the views are astonishing for taking memorable photos. In total, for the shop and the lake, we will have 30 minutes.
Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
Pass by: After the lake, we continue driving through Udabno Village, translated as a desert. The area where we will be traveling is the only semidesert Georgia has, and it's more than amazing to see how diverse Georgian nature is.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4
We will start walking toward the famous Rainbow Mountains at the end of the driving. The most impressive feature of the landscape is the mineral-rich sedimentary rock, which looks like it’s been painted with brightly colored stripes. It’s possible to hike through the Rainbow Mountains, which astonish visitors with their colors. We will walk through the Rainbow Mountains, take many mesmerizing pictures, and prepare for the David Gareji Lavra historical tour. David Gareji Monastery Complex is one of the most spiritual places in the country. You will hear the stories of the monastery, do a bit of hiking and see a Georgian soldier at the border of Georgia and Azerbaijan. It’s believed that St. David chose this isolated location because he wanted his Disciples to lead a life of holiness independent from the rest of society.
Duration: 2h 45mAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
After David Gareji Lavra, you will return to Tbilisi and finish the tour at 5 pm.
Duration: 30 minAdmission: YES
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; ensure you understand the language.
- Be prepared for a full-day excursion with moderate physical activity.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly for the day's conditions.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against sun exposure.
- Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- The minimum age of a traveler is 5.
- Dress code for a church - It's not allowed for anyone to enter a church in shorts, and women need to cover their heads.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions. Therefore, please dress according to the weather.
Traveler reviews
5.0498 reviews
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Guide
The guide was friendly, and you could tell he loved his job; he answered all our questions, even when they weren't related to the tour. We also felt safe with the driver.
643pawelpJul 3, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Thank you Qeti for making me discover rainbow mountains
Very cool one day trip, Qeti was very good guide!
blualmazJul 2, 2026TRIPADVISOR
A view worth visiting if you have time
Gabriel is very nice and friendly.
hs00nmJul 1, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Tour
Amazing experience. Gabriel was a great guide who shared so much knowledge and enthusiasm
tc41121Jul 1, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Excellent tour
Tota (Nicholas) was a fantastic guide, he was very knowledgeable about the local history and answered my (many) questions. Zaza drove much safer than your average Marshutka driver and his van had seatbelts which I appreciated. The monastery and rainbow mountains were stunning, well worth the visit!
J kJun 29, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
The minimum age of a traveler is 5.
Dress code for a church - It's not allowed for anyone to enter a church in shorts, and women need to cover their heads.
The tour operates in all weather conditions. Therefore, please dress according to the weather.
