From Tbilisi: Picturesque Truso Valley & New Gudauri

Exploring Georgia’s Natural Beauty: A Guide to the Tbilisi Day Trip to Truso Valley & New Gudauri

If you’re craving a break from the hustle and bustle of Tbilisi, this day trip promises a refreshing escape into the lush, mountainous scenery of Georgia. Based on what travelers have shared, the adventure takes you through some of the most picturesque spots in the region — from shimmering reservoirs to mountain resorts and tranquil gorges. It’s a chance to see a different side of Georgia, one full of natural wonder and quiet charm.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances scenic drives with opportunities for exploring on foot. The stops at Zhinvali Reservoir and Kobi Gorge let you breathe in the mountain air and snap photos that will make everyone back home jealous. Plus, the gondola ride at Gudauri offers a fun, elevated perspective of the landscape. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that this isn’t a leisurely stroll — you’ll be on your feet quite a bit, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This trip is best suited for those who love scenic views, outdoor activities, and a taste of Georgia’s mountain culture. If you’re drawn to stunning natural settings and want to see a slice of the countryside, it’s a solid choice. Just be aware that it’s not ideal if you’re pregnant, have back issues, or need wheelchair access.

Key Points

• Gorgeous scenery: The tour highlights some of Georgia’s most beautiful mountain vistas and lakes.
• Variety of stops: From reservoirs to gorges, you get a well-rounded look at the landscape.
• Comfortable transportation: Travel is in a small, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, making the long drives more pleasant.
• Guided experience: A professional guide helps you navigate and understand the significance of each site.
• Active elements: Includes walking and hiking, so good shoes are recommended.
• Value for price: The package includes admission fees to attractions and a gondola ride, adding to its appeal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting from Tbilisi, this day trip is designed to give you a full, immersive experience of Georgia’s mountainous landscape in about 9 hours. It’s a good balance of sightseeing, light activity, and relaxing moments, making it a manageable day out.

First Stop: Zhinvali Reservoir

Your journey begins with a quick stop at the Zhinvali Reservoir, where you’ll get your first taste of Georgian nature. The views here are often described as picture-perfect — the reservoir’s water surrounded by rugged mountains and bright blue skies. It’s a brief break, around 15 minutes, but enough to snap some photos or just breathe in the fresh air. Travelers often mention how stunning the scenery is, and many appreciate the opportunity to stretch their legs after the drive.

Next Up: Gudauri Ski Resort and Gondola Ride

From there, the tour moves to New Gudauri, a popular ski resort that transforms into a scenic spot even outside winter. Here, you’ll enjoy a gondola ride that takes you up to around 2,100 meters. The views from the gondola are worth the ride — you’ll see vast mountain ranges and, if the weather cooperates, maybe some snow-capped peaks.

Many travelers find the gondola rides a highlight, providing a different perspective on the landscape. If you’re into activities, some might consider wakeboarding at the resort, although that’s an optional extra and isn’t included in the tour fee. There’s also a chance for a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, offering good food with mountain views — a perfect break to recharge.

Exploring Truso Valley and Kobi Gorge

Then comes the part that many find the most memorable — the walk through Truso Valley and a visit to the mineral Kobi Lake. The guided hike here is about an hour, with scenic views along the way. The valley is known for its rugged beauty, with rocky terrain and natural springs. The lake, with its mineral waters, offers a peaceful spot to pause and take photos.

Travelers often comment on how serene and unspoiled this area feels. The walk isn’t strenuous but does involve some uneven paths, so sturdy shoes are best. The natural beauty here is what makes this trip stand out — it’s a genuine glimpse into Georgia’s wild side, away from tourist crowds.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Stop: Georgia Friendship Monument

The last scenic stop is the Arch of Friendship of Peoples, which features an impressive mosaic by Zurab Tsereteli. Sitting at an elevation of about 2,384 meters, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a good photo opportunity to cap off your day, and many travelers find the monument both symbolic and visually striking.

Returning to Tbilisi

After this, it’s back to the city, with the journey wrapping up roughly 9 hours after departure. The return trip offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day while enjoying the comfort of the vehicle, which includes Wi-Fi and bottled water.

Is It Worth the Cost?

At a glance, this tour offers a lot in terms of scenery and activity — and it’s especially appealing for those who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning each stop. The price covers transportation, a professional guide, and entry fees, including the gondola ride, so you don’t have to worry about extra costs.

Travelers consistently say this is good value, especially given the quality of the guides and the well-organized itinerary. It’s not a cheap tour, but considering the diverse sights and the convenience, most feel it’s worth it for a full day of adventure.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable walking shoes — the terrain in Truso Valley and Kobi Gorge isn’t flat.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses since you’ll be exposed to the sun for much of the day.
• Pack a camera or smartphone for capturing the incredible views.
• Hydrate regularly, especially since Georgia’s mountains can get warm.
• If you’re interested in wakeboarding or other activities, check if you need to pre-arrange or pay extra.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you love outdoor adventures and want to see Georgia’s stunning mountain scenery in one day. It suits travelers who are comfortable with some walking and enjoy a mix of driving and exploring on foot. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users due to uneven paths and walking involved.

It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate guided experiences and want a hassle-free way to tick off multiple scenic spots without renting a car or navigating public transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire trip lasts about 9 hours, starting and ending in Tbilisi.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers professional guide services, transportation in a comfortable vehicle, water, child safety seats if needed, Wi-Fi, and gondola ride fees.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there will be a chance to buy lunch at a local restaurant during the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome, especially if they enjoy outdoor activities, but keep in mind the walking involved. Child safety seats are available upon request.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and water are recommended to stay comfortable and capture the scenery.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Is there any shopping or additional activities included?
No, this is primarily a sightseeing and outdoor activity tour with no shopping stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially as the group size is limited to 10 participants.

Is the tour available in other languages?
Yes, tour guides speak both Russian and English, making it accessible for many travelers.

To sum it up, if you’re after a scenic, active day out with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of Georgia’s mountain charm, this tour from Tbilisi is a solid pick. It’s especially good if you’re looking to escape the city for a few hours and enjoy diverse landscapes in one go. Just remember that some walking is involved, so come prepared with the right shoes and attitude for an adventure.

Happy travels!

You can check availability for your dates here: