From Tbilisi: David Gareji Monastery and Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path from Tbilisi and experience a slice of authentic Georgian culture, this day trip to Kakheti offers a lot. It combines two of the region’s highlights—the ancient David Gareji Monastery and a private wine tasting at a local winery—making it a well-rounded taste of history, scenery, and local craftsmanship.

What really stands out about this tour are the spectacular landscapes and the chance to learn wine-making secrets firsthand. Plus, visiting the monastery’s Martian-like rock formations adds a surreal touch to your day. On the flip side, it’s a fairly full schedule, so it’s not ideal if you’re after a slow, relaxing day, and the group size, limited to 10-18 people, means you’ll need to book ahead if you want to secure a spot.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy cultural sights, scenic drives, and sampling local drinks. It’s especially good for those with an interest in history, geology, and wine, but not so much for people needing accessibility accommodations, as the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers a more personalized feel.
• Includes tasting of four wines, chacha, and cognac, giving you a good taste of Georgian beverages.
• Highlights iconic landscapes and the historic David Gareji Monastery.
• Educational aspect—learn the secrets of making Kakheti wine.
• Scenic drives showcase Georgia’s diverse terrain.
• Duration is about a full day, with a packed itinerary to maximize your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect on This Tour

This is a well-structured day trip that mixes cultural exploration, outdoor scenery, and local flavors. From the moment you meet your guide, you’ll notice the tour’s focus on sharing authentic experiences rather than just ticking boxes. The small group size, limited to 10 participants, helps keep things intimate and allows for more personal interaction.

Starting Point and Early Drive to Kakheti

The journey begins right from a designated meeting point near the “I Love Tbilisi” sign—a convenient and recognizable spot. Once everyone is aboard, you’ll set off in a Mercedes Sprinter, a comfortable way to cover the roughly 2-hour drive eastward into Kakheti.

The scenery during the drive is quite lovely, with rolling hills and glimpses of vineyards. This part of Georgia has a reputation for producing some of the country’s best wine, and the landscape itself is often compared to a painter’s canvas, especially after rain when the rocks shimmer with rainbow colors.

The Private Winery Experience

First stop is at a private winery (KTW), where you’ll get to see wine-making in action. Here, the guide often shares insights into traditional Georgian wine production, which is quite different from modern methods—think of clay qvevri containers buried underground. You’ll get to sample four types of wine, along with chacha (a local grape brandy) and cognac, making this a true taste of Kakheti’s craftsmanship.

Guests often describe the wine tasting as “informative and relaxed”, with some noting that the host is generous and keen on sharing stories behind each drink. The price of this experience is value-rich, especially considering the variety of drinks and the chance to learn about local traditions firsthand.

Scenic Drive and Photo Stops

After enjoying the wine, you’ll hop back into the vehicle for a scenic drive through some of Kakheti’s most beautiful landscapes. The guide usually points out rainbow-colored rocks that glow after a rain—an especially photogenic moment—and offers a chance for some quick photo stops.

This part of the tour is ideal if you’re into landscape photography or just want to soak in Georgia’s countryside. The views help you understand why Kakheti is considered Georgia’s wine belt, with lush vineyards and dramatic terrain.

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Visiting David Gareji Monastery

Next is the highlight for many—the David Gareji Monastery complex. Founded in the 6th century by one of the 13 Syrian fathers, the monastery is a significant spiritual site and an impressive architectural relic. The monastery’s Martian-like rock formations are what make it particularly striking—layers of sedimentary rock that have taken on shimmering rainbow hues after rain.

The guided tour here is quite enriching, as your guide explains the historical significance while you wander through the caves, churches, and terraces carved into the rocks. The terrain can be uneven, so good shoes are recommended. Visitors often mention that the monastery feels like stepping into another world, with a peaceful yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.

From reviews, it seems most travelers appreciate the combination of natural beauty and history—”The rocks are incredible, almost surreal,” one said. The visit lasts about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Final Return to Tbilisi

After a full day, it’s a comfortable drive back to Tbilisi, arriving at the starting point around the same time you left. The tour ends where it began, making it a seamless experience without the stress of arranging transport or multiple pickups.

Is It Worth It?

Looking at the overall value, this tour offers a lot for the price. The combination of wine tasting, historical insight, and stunning scenery creates a well-rounded experience, especially for those new to Georgia or short on time. The small group size helps foster a friendly atmosphere, and the guide’s local knowledge adds depth to each site.

However, keep in mind that the day is packed—if you’re not used to early mornings or long drives, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, the terrain at the monastery involves some walking on uneven surfaces, which might not suit everyone. Meals are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re interested in a cultural and scenic overview of Kakheti with a focus on wine and history. It suits travelers who enjoy guided small-group outings with a relaxed vibe. It’s good for those wanting to learn about Georgian wine traditions and see iconic landscapes, without the need for strenuous hiking or heavy physical activity.

If you’re traveling with kids, it’s worth noting that the terrain and amount of walking might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. But for most adults eager to sample local drinks and see extraordinary scenery, it’s a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly one full day, with the itinerary including visits, tastings, and scenic stops covering about 5 to 6 hours of active sightseeing.

What’s included?
The tour includes wine tasting at the private winery, a visit to David Gareji Monastery, transport in a Mercedes Sprinter, water, and a small gift magnet. The guide speaks Russian, English, and Georgian.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat before the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, a camera, and water are recommended—especially since you’ll be walking and spending time outdoors.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
Probably not, as the tour involves some walking on uneven terrain at the monastery.

How big are the groups?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which helps if your schedule is uncertain.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve the spot now and pay later—this flexibility is handy if your plans might shift.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
The guide will communicate in Russian, English, and Georgian, depending on your preference.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a balanced taste of Georgia’s history, landscapes, and wine culture, this tour offers a compelling package. It’s especially suitable for curious travelers who appreciate learning stories behind the sights and enjoy sampling local drinks. The scenery at David Gareji alone makes it worth the trip, and the private winery experience adds a personal touch.

While it’s a busy day with some walking involved, the small group size helps keep things comfortable, and the guided approach ensures you get insights you might miss on your own. It’s a great way to see a less touristy side of Kakheti without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

For anyone who’s short on time but eager to experience Georgia’s natural beauty and heritage, this tour hits many of the high notes in just one day. Just be prepared for a full schedule, and you’ll come away with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Georgia’s unique cultural and natural landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: