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

4.9
456 reviews
5
432
4
24
3
0
2
0
1
0

Magnificent mountains

Really wonderful experience. Fantastic Mountain area. Very thoughtful and informative guide. Driver made the trip very safe and pleasant

705mettebMay 25, 2026TRIPADVISOR

10/10 recommendation

Everything’s was good, it was well organized & the guide Saba told us a lot about Georgia.

ljenna0201May 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR

What a nice day

Nice trip. Well organized. The guide was super knowlegble and sympathetic. Also the driver was super kind! I warmly reccomend

lauraaX8242RPMay 23, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Guide great - company questionable

I am leaving 5 star for the tour guide only The trip was a disappointment as it was wet and the company knew it was and they got us to do a small walk in clay at rainbow mountains It was useless due to weather conditions They offered a winery visit after we got in the van not prior trip We could have rescheduled if we knew all the facts They just want to grab your money and run

Hellena_LMay 22, 2026VIATOR

Great day!

We went on a rainy day but Gio still took us round all the sites and was incredibly informative! We were unable to do the full walk but were compensated with a wine tour - bonus! We have done 3 tours now with Gamarjoba tours and all the guides are all wonderful and very friendly! Highly recommend!

meganwM9710VKMay 22, 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.