Discover Georgia’s semi-desert beauty on a half-day hike from Tbilisi, exploring David Gareja Monastery and vibrant Rainbow Hills.
Discover Georgia’s semi-desert beauty on a half-day hike from Tbilisi, exploring David Gareja Monastery and vibrant Rainbow Hills.
- Kapatadze Lake - En route to the David Gareja Monastery Complex, there is a photo opportunity near a salt lake, perfect for capturing stunning landscape images. Often, local farmers bring sheep and cows to graze, enhancing the serene and authentic rural charm of the scenery, making it even more picturesque.
- Udabno - A brief stop in the…
- Kapatadze Lake - En route to the David Gareja Monastery Complex, there is a photo opportunity near a salt lake, perfect for capturing stunning landscape images. Often, local farmers bring sheep and cows to graze, enhancing the serene and authentic rural charm of the scenery, making it even more picturesque.
- Udabno - A brief stop in the village of Udabno, a community of eco-migrants situated in a semi-desert landscape. Here, one can observe the local rural lifestyle and traditional farming practices in a distinctive and remote setting.
- David Gareja Monastery - Take a short hike near the David Gareja Monastery Complex to discover a small cave where holy spring water trickles from the rock. According to local legend, this water was the monks’ sole source of clean drinking water in ancient times, symbolizing hope and survival. It is referred to as the “Tears of David,” based on the tale of the monastery’s founder. Visitors will also explore parts of the David Gareja Monastery Complex and learn about its history and legends.
- Gareja colorful dunes viewpoint - Delight in the views of the vibrant hills known as the “Rainbow Mountains” near the David Gareja Monastery Complex. The length of the short hike may vary depending on weather conditions. Regardless, the main viewpoints for panoramic photos are accessible. However, after rain, the clay soil can become slippery and more challenging to navigate within the hills.
Therefore, the time spent in this area is flexible, typically ranging from 30–60 minutes.

- Bottled water
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Guiding during short hike
- Professional and experienced guide service
- Bottled water
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Guiding during short hike
- Professional and experienced guide service
- Meals
- Meals
Embark on a half-day journey from Tbilisi to explore the varied terrains of eastern Georgia. Experience the striking shift from city outskirts to captivating semi-desert landscapes, with scenic stops along the route, including viewpoints over Udabno and a charming salt lake.
Discover the ancient David Gareja Monastery Complex, renowned for its remarkable…
Embark on a half-day journey from Tbilisi to explore the varied terrains of eastern Georgia. Experience the striking shift from city outskirts to captivating semi-desert landscapes, with scenic stops along the route, including viewpoints over Udabno and a charming salt lake.
Discover the ancient David Gareja Monastery Complex, renowned for its remarkable cliff-carved structures. Enjoy a brief walk to a cave chapel and a natural spring called “David’s Tears,” offering stunning desert vistas.
Proceed to the vibrant Rainbow Hills. If weather permits and the ground is dry, there will be a chance to hike within the area, where colorful mineral formations create a distinctive landscape.
- Half-day excursion through eastern Georgia’s semi-desert landscapes from Tbilisi
- Scenic photo opportunities at Udabno and a salt lake
- Hike to the cave of “David’s Tears” and explore Rainbow Hills viewpoints
- Explore the historic David Gareja Monastery Complex
- Not recommended for travelers with impaired mobility
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.