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Georgia

David Gareja & the Rainbow Mountains

Visit the accessible monastery areas of David Gareja and explore the layered hills and open semi-desert landscapes of southeastern Georgia.

1 DAYCultural · Historical · Nature & Scenic
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The experience

Overview

Discover a different side of Georgia on a journey through the dramatic semi-desert landscapes of Kakheti, where ancient monasteries, colorful hills, and extraordinary natural scenery create an unforgettable experience. Away from the busy tourist routes, this tour combines history, spirituality, and the untouched beauty of Georgia’s southeastern region.

Along the way

Schedule

  1. We’ll visit the remarkable David Gareja Monastery Complex, founded in the 6th century and carved into the rocky hills of eastern Georgia. Explore the historic Lavra Monastery, admire its ancient architecture, and discover the fascinating story of the monks who established this spiritual sanctuary centuries ago.

  2. Continue through the spectacular Rainbow Mountains, known for their colorful layers of rock and striking desert scenery. Enjoy breathtaking views, unique photo opportunities, and the peaceful atmosphere of one of Georgia’s most unusual natural landscapes.

  3. Travel through the vast, open landscapes of the Gareja region, where rolling hills, dramatic rock formations, and endless horizons offer a completely different perspective on Georgia’s natural beauty.

Destination Highlights

  • David Gareja Monastery Complex
  • Rainbow Mountains of Gareja
  • Gareja Semi-Desert Landscape

Signature Experiences

  • Exploring the accessible areas of Lavra Monastery
  • Seeing the coloured rock layers of the Rainbow Mountains
  • Travelling through the open landscapes of the Gareja semi-desert
Inclusions and Exclusions

What’s included

  • Private Transportation — Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the journey from Tbilisi to the David Gareja region and back.
  • Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off — Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Tbilisi.
  • Professional Guide — Professional guide speaking your preferred language throughout the tour.
  • David Gareja Monastery Visit — Visit to the accessible areas of the David Gareja Monastery Complex, subject to local conditions and access restrictions.
  • Bottled Water — One 0.5-liter bottle of water per person.

Not included

  • Meals and Additional Beverages — Lunch, snacks, and drinks.
  • Optional Experiences — Guided hiking in the Rainbow Mountains, professional photography, traditional Georgian lunch, and wine tasting in Kakheti. These experiences are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
  • Entrance Fees — Entrance tickets or access fees, if applicable.
  • Personal Travel Insurance — Travel insurance is recommended.
  • Any services not expressly listed as included in the tour price.

Make it your own

Optional experiences

  • Rainbow Mountains Hiking

    Enjoy a guided walk among the colorful hills and discover their remarkable geological formations.

  • Professional Photography Experience

    Capture the unique landscapes with a professional photographer.

    Private Photography Tour
  • Traditional Georgian Lunch

    Enjoy authentic Georgian cuisine at a local restaurant or family-run establishment.

    Lunch overlooking a traditional street in Tbilisi
  • Wine Tasting in Kakheti

    Discover local wines and Georgian winemaking traditions.

    Georgian wine tasting with traditional clay pitchers

A sense of belonging

Signature Stays

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Discover our collection of places to stay in Georgia, chosen to complement your journey. Stays can be arranged separately around your travel plans.

Your journey with Arivio

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David Gareja & the Rainbow Mountains

info@ariviotravel.com