From Tbilisi: Tsalka Hills Off-Road Jeep Tour with BBQ

Explore Tsalka Hills on a Full-Day Off-Road Jeep Adventure from Tbilisi

This Tsalka Hills Off-Road Jeep Tour with BBQ offers an engaging way to see the scenic landscapes of Kvemo Kartli, Georgia. Starting from Tbilisi, the tour lasts approximately 11 hours and combines thrilling off-road driving, spectacular mountain views, and a delicious barbecue lunch. The tour is conducted with a fully equipped Toyota 4Runner SUV and is led by a bilingual guide speaking English and Russian.

Designed for those with a sense of adventure, this private group experience is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of nature, driving skills, and cultural sights. With an emphasis on scenic landscapes and authentic Georgian countryside, it’s an excellent choice for outdoor lovers and those wanting to escape the city for a day.

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Key Points

• Duration: 11 hours, starting from Tbilisi with a scenic drive en route
• Activities: Off-road driving, photo stops, hikes with mountain views, visiting Dashbashi Canyon’s Diamond Bridge
• Included: Off-road driving lesson, Toyota 4Runner, barbecue lunch, coffee at Tsalka Lake, scenic mountain and valley views
• Highlights: Untouched nature of Tsalka Lake Hills, sunset at the lake, optional visit to the Diamond Bridge
• Suitability: Best for active travelers, ages 10 and up, who are comfortable with bumpy terrain and outdoor conditions

Starting Point at Perogico Cafe with Warm Welcome

The tour begins at the Perogico cafe in Tbilisi, where friendly hosts provide restrooms and a welcome coffee included in the experience. The guide, identifiable by the red Toyota 4Runner, meets guests inside the cafe, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. The cafe serves as an easy, central meeting spot for travelers before heading out into the Georgian countryside.

The Scenic Drive from Tbilisi to Tsalka Lake

After meeting at the cafe, the group embarks on a 1.5-hour drive featuring sweeping views of mountains and valleys. This part of the journey offers a glimpse of Tbilisi’s outskirts, gradually giving way to the more rugged terrain of Kvemo Kartli. Travelers appreciate the comfortable ride and the chance to take in the landscape before reaching Tsalka Lake.

Off-Road Experience in the Tsalka Hills

Once at Tsalka Lake, the tour leaves the paved roads behind to begin a dynamic overlanding journey through the untouched nature of the hills. The overlanding involves driving off-road to hilltops that rise into the clouds, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and distant glaciers.

Participants are encouraged to learn the fundamentals of 4×4 driving, with the option to take the wheel, feel the adrenaline as a passenger, or simply enjoy the scenery from the comfort of the vehicle. The guides explain the basics clearly, making this accessible even for those new to off-road driving.

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Seeing Cows, Sheep, and Natural Beauty on the Way

During the drive, expect to pass herds of cows and sheep, adding to the authentic rural atmosphere. The journey pauses at photo-worthy spots where the wild landscape provides perfect opportunities for photographs. The sense of being immersed in the Georgian countryside makes the experience memorable, with natural beauty including mountains, valleys, and meadows.

Lunch and a Short Hike for Better Views

At a scenic stop, the guide prepares a barbecue lunch as you soak in breathtaking mountain vistas. While the food is being readied, there is an option to take a short hike uphill for even more impressive views, including the chance to spot a distant glacier. The lunch offers a chance to relax and enjoy authentic Georgian cuisine in a stunning outdoor setting.

Visit to the Dashbashi Canyon and Diamond Bridge

Guests can choose between an extended off-road route or a visit to the Diamond Bridge over Dashbashi Canyon. The Diamond Bridge is a notable structure designed to offer visitors a unique perspective as they walk inside a transparent glass bridge, with the canyon stretching beneath. This optional stop is an exciting highlight for those seeking a bit of modern engineering amid natural beauty.

Watching the Sunset at Tsalka Lake with Coffee

As the day winds down, the tour offers a peaceful moment at Tsalka Lake to enjoy the sunset with a cup of fresh-made coffee. Alternatively, travelers can sip a drink inside the glass bridge during sunset, experiencing a dramatic view of the canyon as the sun dips behind the mountains.

Return Drive to Tbilisi in the Evening

With the sun setting, the journey back begins, retracing the scenic route towards Tbilisi. The drive offers a relaxed atmosphere after a day filled with adventure, stunning vistas, and authentic countryside experiences. The tour concludes at the starting point, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour includes a comprehensive off-road driving lesson for those interested, the use of a fully equipped Toyota 4Runner SUV, a barbecue lunch, and a coffee stop at Tsalka Lake for sunset viewing. The scenic drive showcases mountain and valley views, making it perfect for photography and outdoor enthusiasts.

Important to note, the tour does not include the entrance fee to the Diamond Bridge (~80 GEL), which is optional. The activity is suitable for private groups and is conducted in English and Russian.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a jacket for changing weather, and comfortable clothes suitable for hiking. Since the terrain can be bumpy, those prone to motion sickness should prepare accordingly. The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with back problems or motion sickness.

Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so packing an extra warm layer and rain protection is advised. Shoes are likely to get dirty during the drive and hikes, so dress accordingly.

Offroad Georgia’s Expert Guidance

The activity is facilitated by Offroad Georgia, known for their knowledgeable guides and well-maintained vehicles. The guides are fluent in English and Russian, ensuring clear explanations and safety instructions throughout the day. The private group setting allows for a personalized experience, with flexibility in routes and stops.

A Well-Rounded Day of Adventure and Scenery

This Tsalka Hills Off-Road Jeep Tour pushes beyond typical sightseeing, offering thrilling off-road driving, authentic rural landscapes, and spectacular views of mountains and glaciers. The barbecue lunch and sunset experience at Tsalka Lake** add a warm, social touch to the day.

While the off-road terrain can be bumpy and weather conditions variable, the overall experience offers a beautiful combination of nature, adventure, and relaxation. It caters especially to those eager to explore Georgia’s less-traveled landscapes and enjoy a full-day outdoor adventure from the comfort of a modern SUV.

Visiting the Tsalka Hills: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers, nature lovers, and those interested in driving or learning new skills. The private group format makes it suitable for families (over age 10), friends, or couples looking for a unique day trip outside Tbilisi.

If you appreciate stunning mountain scenery, enjoy outdoor activities, and want an authentic Georgian countryside experience combined with a modern twist at the Diamond Bridge, this tour delivers. It’s a well-organized, scenic adventure that balances thrilling drives with moments of peaceful reflection at Tsalka Lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
This experience is not suitable for children under 10 years old, as the terrain can be bumpy and physically demanding for younger kids.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a jacket, and comfortable clothes are recommended. Motion sickness prevention may also be helpful due to the off-road driving.

How much does the entrance to the Diamond Bridge cost?
The entrance fee to the Diamond Bridge is approximately 80 GEL and is optional.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
Yes, a barbecue lunch is included, along with a coffee stop at Tsalka Lake for viewing the sunset.

Can I take the wheel during the off-road drive?
Yes, there is an off-road driving lesson, and participants have the option to take the wheel or simply enjoy the ride.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English and Russian by guides from Offroad Georgia.

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