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

Imagine trading the city’s hustle for the quiet beauty of Georgian mountain landscapes. This Tsalka Hills Off-Road Jeep Tour offers an exciting day of adventure, scenic views, and authentic countryside charm—all just a short drive from Tbilisi. Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush behind the wheel, a relaxed picnic with breathtaking vistas, or a peek into rural life, this tour blends it all smoothly.

What really stands out is the stunning scenery—from mountain panoramas to the wild, untouched nature around Tsalka Lake. We love that it combines off-road driving skills with cultural moments, like stopping for a barbecue lunch or enjoying a sunset coffee by the lake. The Diamond Bridge over Dashbashi Canyon is an iconic highlight that offers a perfect photo opportunity.

That said, it’s worth considering that the off-road conditions can be bumpy, so this tour isn’t ideal for those with back issues or motion sickness. This experience suits adventurous travelers who want a mix of thrill, nature, and authentic Georgian hospitality in a private setting.

Good To Know

• Stunning mountain and valley views make this tour picture-perfect.
• Learn off-road driving with the option to take the wheel yourself.
• A scenic barbecue lunch with breathtaking mountain scenery.
• Visit the Diamond Bridge over Dashbashi Canyon for a unique photo.
• Sunset coffee at Tsalka Lake offers a peaceful end to the day.
• Private group experience with flexible routes and timings.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Tsalka Hills Off-Road Jeep Tour

An 11-Hour Journey into Georgia’s Mountain Beauty

This full-day adventure from Tbilisi is designed for those eager to see the less-trodden side of Georgia. Starting with a 1.5-hour scenic drive, you’ll leave the city behind and head toward the lush hills of Kvemo Kartli. The initial stretch offers a chance to admire the mountains and valleys that surround Tbilisi, giving you a taste of Georgia’s diverse landscape before you even reach Tsalka.

The real magic begins once you arrive at Tsalka Lake. Known for its peaceful waters and mountainous backdrop, it sets the perfect scene for the off-road experience. The journey from paved roads to rugged trails is where the fun begins, as you leave behind the urban and venture into the countryside.

Off-Road Driving: Skills, Thrills, and Scenic Stops

Driving a fully equipped Toyota 4Runner SUV, you’ll be taken through some of Georgia’s most beautiful, untouched landscapes. The guide provides a driving lesson, making it accessible whether you want to take the wheel yourself or relax as a passenger. The terrain varies from gentle slopes to more technical sections, giving you a taste of real overlanding without being overly challenging.

Traveling through herds of cows and sheep, you’ll experience authentic rural life and nature. Multiple stops for photos allow you to capture the wild, scenic beauty—think rolling hills, distant glaciers, and panoramic mountain views. One reviewer shared how the views are breathtaking, especially when you pause on hilltops that seem to rise into the clouds.

Lunch with a View: Barbecue and Short Hikes

Midday, you’ll settle at a scenic spot for a barbecue lunch prepared by your guide. This is no ordinary picnic; the smoky aroma of grilled meats and vegetables will mingle with the mountain air, creating a delicious break. While the BBQ is being prepared, many choose to take a short hike uphill to get even better views, including distant glaciers—an authentic Georgian countryside experience.

Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to soak in the scenery without rush. The lunch spot offers a chance to enjoy the landscape from a higher vantage point, making your meal all the more memorable.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Diamond Bridge and Dashbashi Canyon

One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to the Diamond Bridge over Dashbashi Canyon. This glass-bottomed bridge offers a thrilling view of the canyon below and is perfect for those looking for a unique photo. While visiting the bridge is optional (there’s an entrance fee of about 80 GEL), many find it worth the extra step for the spectacular views and the adrenaline rush.

According to reviews, the bridge provides a “thrilling experience” and a different perspective of Georgia’s natural grandeur. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, you can skip the bridge and continue exploring the area or enjoy the scenery from other viewpoints.

Sunset at Tsalka Lake: Coffee and Relaxation

As the day winds down, the tour offers a peaceful moment with a sunset by Tsalka Lake. With a fresh cup of coffee in hand, you can unwind, reflect on the day’s adventures, and admire the changing colors of the sky. For those who want an extra thrill, sitting inside the glass bridge as the sun sets behind the canyon is an unforgettable sight.

Return to Tbilisi

Around sunset, the group begins the drive back to Tbilisi. The return journey, approximately 1.5 hours, provides an opportunity to relax, share stories, or review the day’s highlights. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, Perogico cafe, where you can enjoy a warm welcome and perhaps a last coffee to seal the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers off-road driving lessons, use of the Toyota 4Runner SUV, a barbecue lunch, and a coffee stop at Tsalka Lake during sunset. These inclusions offer great value, especially considering the personalized nature of a private group.

However, the entrance to the Diamond Bridge (~80 GEL) is optional and not included, so if you want to cross it, be prepared for the extra fee. The tour is designed to be flexible—participants can choose longer or more technical routes or stick to the easier, scenic path.

Practical Details for Travelers

This experience is suitable for those with a spirit of adventure and an interest in outdoor activities. It’s not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems or motion sickness, due to the bumpy off-road driving.

Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket—mountain weather can change quickly. Since the terrain gets dirty, be prepared for some mud and dust.

The tour is conducted in English and Russian, with a live guide who is knowledgeable about the area. It’s a private group experience, making it more intimate and tailored to your interests.

Final Thoughts

This jeep tour offers an exhilarating way to explore Georgia’s stunning mountain landscapes beyond the usual tourist routes. The combination of off-road driving, scenic stops, and cultural touches like the barbecue and the Diamond Bridge make it a well-rounded day of adventure and relaxation.

For travelers who love nature, scenic photography, and a hint of adrenaline, this experience delivers in spades. The sunset coffee by Tsalka Lake is the perfect closing gesture—quiet, beautiful, and memorable.

If you’re after an authentic Georgian countryside adventure with a good dose of thrill and breathtaking views, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate flexible routes, private groups, and the chance to learn a bit about off-road driving, all set against Georgia’s extraordinary natural backdrop.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s typically not recommended for children under 10 years old due to the off-road driving conditions, which can be bumpy.

Can I take the wheel myself?
Yes, the guide provides a driving lesson and allows you to either take the wheel or relax as a passenger.

How long is the drive back to Tbilisi?
The return journey takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a jacket, and suitable clothes for mountain weather are advised. Be prepared for a bit of dirt!

Is the Diamond Bridge included in the tour?
No, entrance to the Diamond Bridge (~80 GEL) is optional and not included, but many find it worth the small extra fee.

Is this tour available in other languages?
Yes, the guide speaks both English and Russian.

What’s the price value like?
Considering the private group, the scenic stops, and the included activities, it offers good value for a full-day adventure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

Overall, the Tsalka Hills Off-Road Jeep Tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting an authentic taste of Georgia’s rugged beauty, combined with a touch of adventure and cultural charm. It balances excitement, scenic beauty, and comfort, making it a memorable addition to your Georgian itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: