

Tsalka Canyon Tour from Tbilisi with Poka, Gorelovka and Asureti
About this activity
Explore Georgia's diverse cultural and natural heritage in a single 12-hour day trip from Tbilisi, spanning three distinct communities and one of the country's most dramatic canyons. This comprehensive tour connects Armenian-era religious sites, a Russian-origin spiritual settlement, a former German colony, and the striking Tsalka Canyon with its glass bridge and alpine lakes.
Private full day tour includes visiting Manglisi Cathedral built in 6th-7th centuries, Poka Nunnery of St. Nino well-known with its organic products, village Gorelovka near Georgia - Armenia border to visit Ethnographic Museum of Dukhabors - Christian spiritual religious group of Russian origin, former German colony of Asureti (Elizabettal) and Tsalka (Dashbashi) canyon complex that includes a 1800-metre path to the canyon with the cascade of small waterfalls and unique 240-meter long glass bridge with a diamond-shaped café in the middle. Tour includes exploring lakes: Tsalka, Paravani, Saghamo, Bugdasheni and Madatapa. Two options are available for the tour. Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting option includes tasting the best meals from local cuisine and tasting local endemic wines. Private tour to Tsalka Canyon is suitable for people who enjoy exploring unique nature and stunning lake views and tasting organic food and endemic wines. Total drive 385 km (235 miles).
Highlights
- ✓Walk the 240-metre glass bridge suspended above Tsalka Canyon with diamond-shaped café mid-span
- ✓Trek the scenic 1,800-metre path through Tsalka–Dashbashi canyon with waterfall cascades
- ✓Visit 6th–7th-century Manglisi Cathedral, one of Georgia's oldest religious structures
- ✓Tour Poka Nunnery and sample organic products made by resident monks
- ✓Explore Dukhobar Ethnographic Museum in Gorelovka—learn about this Russian Christian sect's unique history
- ✓See five pristine mountain lakes: Tsalka, Paravani, Saghamo, Bugdasheni, and Madatapa
Insider tips
- ★Opt for the lunch and wine-tasting package to sample local endemic wines and traditional Georgian cuisine—far better value than eating separately
- ★The glass bridge can feel vertiginous; those with heights anxiety can enjoy the canyon views from the lower paths without crossing
- ★Arrive early to beat crowds at the canyon and glass bridge, especially in peak summer months
- ★Wear proper hiking shoes; the canyon path is steep and can be muddy after rain
Good to know
- •Total journey is 385 km (235 miles) with 12 hours including stops; expect 4–5 hours of driving
- •Bring layers and a windproof jacket—weather in the canyon and at altitude changes rapidly
- •The tour involves moderate hiking (1,800 m trail with elevation gain); not suitable for limited mobility
- •Hotel pickup/drop-off in Tbilisi typically included; confirm exact meeting point and time when booking
Who it's for
Best time to visit
Visit April–October for reliable weather and open mountain roads. Early morning departures allow maximum daylight at the canyon; avoid July–August peak heat if you prefer cooler hiking conditions.











