Best Seller5.0·Tbilisi·15h
Discover Javakheti National Park: Kartsakhi, Khanchali & Bughdasheni
Private full day tour to visit Javakheti National Park to explore Kartsakhi Lake, Khanchali Lake...
From€196.30
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1 / 10About this activity
Explore one of Georgia's most remote and historically significant monastic sites in a single day from Tbilisi, combining a scenic drive through dramatic steppe landscape with a guided walk through the ancient David Gareji monastery complex. This private tour pairs cultural immersion with wine tasting, offering authentic insight into Georgian Orthodox heritage and viticulture.
The path to the ancient monastery
We will meet in Tbilisi and head south-east towards the Georgian-Azerbaijani border. The only village that you will meet on the way to the monastery, as if making excuses because of its location in an arid area, is called Udabno (desert - in Georgian). On the way, you will see the natural landscape of the neighborhood - a waterless steppe that changes color depending on the season, ridges of bizarre "design" hills and the outlines of the Caucasus Mountains visible in the distance. After short stops for photographing at the salt lake and / or other places we like, we will arrive at the main destination - the monastery that still functions today.
We will meet in Tbilisi and head south-east towards the Georgian-Azerbaijani border. The only village that you will meet on the way to the monastery, as if making excuses because of its location in an arid area, is called Udabno (desert - in Georgian). On the way, you will see the natural landscape of the neighborhood - a waterless steppe that changes color depending on the season, ridges of bizarre "design" hills and the outlines of the Caucasus Mountains visible in the distance. After short stops for photographing at the salt lake and / or other places we like, we will arrive at the main destination - the monastery that still functions today.
Highlights
- ✓Ancient David Gareji monastery carved into cliff faces, still functioning today
- ✓Stark, otherworldly steppe landscape with seasonal colour shifts and unusual rock formations
- ✓Views of the Caucasus Mountains on the horizon from elevated vantage points
- ✓Stop at a scenic salt lake for photography and landscape appreciation
- ✓Georgian wine tasting experience paired with local hospitality
- ✓Private tour with personalised stops and pace control
Insider tips
- ★The steppe's appearance changes dramatically by season—spring brings wildflowers, autumn offers golden tones; plan accordingly for photography
- ★Udabno village is the only settlement en route; this remote location is intentional and part of the monastery's spiritual appeal
- ★Ask your guide to explain the monastery's rock-carved architecture and monastic traditions—local knowledge transforms the experience
Good to know
- •8-hour duration includes driving, walking, and tasting; wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain
- •Arid steppe environment means limited shade—bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and sufficient water
- •Private tour means flexible meeting arrangements in Tbilisi; confirm pick-up location and time with operator
- •Moderately active walking involved; not suitable for those with significant mobility constraints
Who it's for
History and archaeology enthusiasts seeking off-the-beaten-path Orthodox heritage sitesPhotography lovers drawn to dramatic natural landscapes and architectural subjectsWine curious travellers wanting to combine cultural exploration with Georgian viticultureSmall-group or couple travellers preferring flexible, personalised itineraries over large group tours
Best time to visit
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and dramatic landscape colours. Visit mid-morning to mid-afternoon to maximise daylight and avoid harsh midday heat on the exposed steppe.
Frequently asked questions
From
€174
per person
