Azerbaijan, Georgia · Desert Adventure

10-Hour Jeep Tour to David Gareja and Rainbow Mountains with Wine Tasting

10 Hours Round trip from Georgia Moderate pace

Discover the beauty of Rainbow Mountains

Vinicunca also called as Rainbow Mountains

Tower at the David Gareja Monastery Complex

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Journey through the Georgian Desert to David Gareja Monastery and the Rainbow Mountains
02 Explore scenic Mravaltkharo Lake with off-the-beaten-track views and birdwatching opportunities
03 Visit St John the Baptist Monastery and get to know the hermit monks
04 Discover the hidden beauty of the Salty Lakes
05 Enjoy a wine tasting stop on the way back

Discover martian landscapes on Earth on this jeep tour into the Georgian Desert. Admire incredible scenery as you explore the stunning Rainbow Mountains, scenic Mravaltkharo Lake, and the hidden Salty Lakes. Visit the David Gareja Monastery complex, one of Georgia's most ancient and important religious sites, and stop at St John the Baptist Monastery to learn about its unique monastic life. This short but eventful journey combines Georgia's remarkable natural beauty with its rich cultural and historic heritage.

Discover martian landscapes on Earth on this jeep tour into the Georgian Desert.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Tbilisi, David Gareja

Languages English, Georgian, Russian, Ukrainian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

David Gareja Monastery and Rainbow Mountains Jeep Adventure

Join our small group tour on an exclusive itinerary to explore the David Gareja Monastery complex and the stunning Rainbow Mountains. Meet your Georgian guide at the agreed location to begin this unforgettable adventure.
Trek through the stunning Rainbow Mountains and explore scenic Mravaltkharo Lake. This off-the-beaten-track destination offers beautiful views and birdwatching opportunities.
Embark on a journey to one of the oldest and most significant religious sites in Georgia. Founded in the 6th century by David (St David Garejeli), the David Gareja Monastery Complex is located 100 km south-east of Tbilisi and offers exceptional semi-desert landscapes, with a temple complex stretching along the border with Azerbaijan.
Visit St John the Baptist Monastery, where you can mingle with the hermit monks and learn about their unique way of life.
Discover the hidden beauty of the Salty Lakes, an off-the-beaten-track location that adds a unique touch to your journey.
Be prepared to walk and climb on uneven ground as you explore these incredible sites. The walking route is approximately 4 km (2.5 miles).
On the way back, stop at a cosy house for a delicious lunch (not included) and enjoy a wine tasting experience.
End your tour with a sense of awe and appreciation for Georgia's rich history and natural beauty.

Book now to secure your place on this exclusive small group tour and experience the best of David Gareja and the Rainbow Mountains!

Where this trip takes you

David Gareja Monastery complex, Rainbow Mountains, Mravaltkharo Lake, Salty Lakes

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Georgia 2 cities · 10 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All taxes, fees, and handling charges
Fuel surcharge
Bottled water
Wine tasting
Professional English-speaking Georgian tour guide

What's Not Included

Lunch
Gratuities
Hotel pick-up and drop-off

What to bring

Comfortable clothing: Wear light, breathable clothing suitable for walking and hiking. Dressing in layers is recommended, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
Sturdy footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe hiking or walking shoes with good traction are essential for uneven terrain.
Sun protection: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, especially as we will be in open and semi-desert areas.
Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day. We recommend that you bring a refillable water bottle.
Snacks: Although lunch will be available for purchase during the tour, you may wish to bring some light snacks for the journey.
Camera/Smartphone: Capture the stunning scenery and memorable moments. Make sure your devices are fully charged.
Day pack/backpack: Bring a small backpack to carry your personal items, water, and snacks.
Weather-appropriate gear: Depending on the season, bring a light jacket or raincoat. The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.
Personal medication: If you have any medical conditions or require specific medication, please bring it with you.
Cash/Card: Bring some cash or a card for lunch and other personal expenses.
ID/Passport: Always carry a valid ID or passport, especially if we are near the Azerbaijan border.
Sunglasses and hat: Protect yourself from the sun, especially during the trek.
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes: Bring these for personal hygiene throughout the trek.

Know before you go

We would like to reassure all our guests that this tour is absolutely safe and takes place exclusively on Georgian territory. Please be advised that the Udabno Monastery is not part of our itinerary, and the road leading to it is completely closed. Rest assured that even without this, our tour remains a unique and beautiful experience, offering a true taste of Georgia's natural wonders. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priority.
You will walk approximately 4 km (2.5 miles). Please ensure you have suitable closed-toe footwear for the walk.
The ambient temperature can reach over 30ºC (86F) from May to October, so be prepared for hot weather.
The trek takes place at an altitude of 350 m (1150 ft), similar to Tbilisi.
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness.
Remember that there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. Check the weather forecast and choose the best day for the tour.
When visiting Orthodox churches, women must cover their heads and wear skirts, while men should wear trousers.
For your comfort and safety, we strongly recommend that you wear closed-toe, sturdy shoes suitable for potentially muddy and steep terrain.
The dirt road can cause motion sickness for some people. It's a good idea to bring personal medication in case you need it.
Our group tours are occasionally conducted in both Russian and English. While we aim to provide an equal experience for all participants, this may result in a slower pace or longer explanations.
Please note that the guide may be in different parts of the group to assist and make sure everyone is comfortable. It is important to listen to the guide's instructions and not put yourself or others in a stressful situation.
This is not just an opportunity to see breathtaking scenery, but also a chance to challenge yourself and feel proud of your achievements. Come prepared for a real adventure!