What is the history of the German settlement in Georgia?

German emigrants began settling in South Caucasus villages around two centuries ago, establishing communities like Asureti. They prospered significantly until 1941, when the Soviet government deported all Germans to Central Asia. Georgian families were subsequently resettled in these villages, where they remain today.

Can we enter the old German houses?

Most half-timbered houses are private residences and not open for interior access. The tour focuses on viewing the exterior architecture and learning their history from street level.

How long is the drive from Tbilisi?

The full tour is 11 hours total, which includes travel time from central Tbilisi. Expect roughly 1–1.5 hours each way depending on traffic and exact pickup/drop-off location.

Is Dashbashi Canyon difficult to walk?

The canyon involves walking on natural terrain and potentially uneven paths. Sturdy footwear and a moderate level of fitness are recommended, though the hike is generally accessible to most active travellers.

Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes suitable for unpaved paths. Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), water, and a light jacket for temperature changes. A camera is advised for the distinctive architecture.

The price includes transportation and guided access; meals are not typically included. Limited food options exist in the villages, so bring snacks or arrange dining in Tbilisi before departure.

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Small Germany and Dashbashi canyon

(5)

Tbilisi, Georgia

Cultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursCity ToursClassic Car Tours

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About this activity

Explore the preserved half-timbered architecture of Asureti (formerly Elisabethtal), a Georgian village with a hidden German heritage spanning two centuries. This 11-hour excursion combines cultural history with natural beauty, visiting authentic remnants of early 19th-century German settlement before descending into the dramatic Dashbashi Canyon.

Two hundred years ago, Germans emigrated to the South Caucasus. Settling in villages like Asureti (formerly Elisabethtal) in Georgia, they became quite wealthy. In 1941, the Germans were deported to Central Asia and Georgians were resettled in the empty villages. In Asureti there still exist numerous impressive, albeit poorly conserved half-timbered houses that are a witness to this history.

Highlights

✓Walk through Asureti's distinctive half-timbered houses—rare architectural survivors from the German diaspora
✓Learn the story of German emigrants who built wealth in the South Caucasus before 1941 deportation
✓Explore Dashbashi Canyon with its striking rock formations and river gorge
✓See how Georgian culture reclaimed these villages after resettlement in the 1940s
✓Access rural Georgia rarely included on standard Tbilisi tours

Insider tips

★Bring sturdy walking shoes; village streets are unpaved and canyon paths can be steep or uneven
★Visit in spring or autumn when temperatures are mild and light is ideal for photographing the historic architecture
★The half-timbered houses are still inhabited—be respectful when photographing and ask permission when possible

Good to know

•Total duration is 11 hours including drive time from Tbilisi; plan for early morning pickup
•Tour is minivan-based; confirm exact meeting point and time with supplier upon booking
•Most buildings are externally viewable only; interiors are private residences
•Limited food options in the villages—consider bringing snacks or eat in Tbilisi before departure

Who it's for

History enthusiasts interested in diaspora heritage and lesser-known cultural narrativesArchitecture lovers drawn to vernacular design and preservation challengesNature explorers seeking off-the-beaten-path landscapes near TbilisiCultural tourists wanting depth beyond mainstream Georgia itineraries

Best time to visit

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most comfortable climate and clearest skies for both architecture photography and canyon exploration. Summer heat can be intense in the valley, while winter may affect road conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Joe C.

Feb 2026

So nice this one, the zipline straight over the gorge was amazing and Joseph the instructor explain everything good. Better than Athens for sure, we go again!

Carlos M.

Oct 2025

the free-fall bit unreal. for our anniversary

Adam K.

Jul 2025

our instructor Hassan couldnt do enough for us and the free-fall bit was the highlight, and handy if youre short on time, and ran the full session, no rushing.

Claire R.

Jun 2025

our instructor Kenji had so many stories and launching off the top dune was the highlight, and worked great for a solo traveller like me, and ran the full session, no rushing.

Lucy V.

Jan 2025

our instructor Beatriz had so many stories and the free-fall bit was the highlight. First thing in the morning so it wasnt too busy. Ideal with kids (ours are 6 and 9), and 3 runs in total, and first thing in the morning. Would book again no question.

from€140.04€139.8/ person

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