Tbilisi: 2-Day South Georgia .Hiking plus peace of mind

Traveling from the bustling streets of Tbilisi into the peaceful countryside of Georgia’s Kvemo Kartli region, this 2-day tour offers a balance of scenic hikes, local culture, and stunning vistas. While it’s not a comprehensive tour of the entire country, it hits some of the most memorable sights in South Georgia, with enough flexibility to tailor your experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the spectacular views of the Diamond Bridge and the surrounding mountains are truly memorable. Second, the hike to a nearby waterfall offers a refreshing break from the car ride and a chance to connect with nature. Third, the opportunity to sample fresh honey and enjoy horseback riding adds a delightful local touch.

A potential consideration? The tour involves some walking and hiking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity. Also, the optional activities, like sky biking, come at extra costs, which are worth noting if you’re on a tight budget.

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate nature, scenic landscapes, and local culture but want a relaxed pace that doesn’t require strenuous trekking every day. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a day or two outside the city without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Contents show

Key Points

Stunning Views: The Diamond Bridge and waterfalls provide breathtaking photo opportunities.
Flexible Schedule: Free time in Tsalka allows for spontaneous exploration.
Optional Extras: Activities like sky biking and horseback riding can be added for extra fun.
Local Flavors: Sampling fresh honey and visiting a local house offers authentic tastes.
Comfort & Convenience: Transportation, guided hikes, and hotel drop-offs make it hassle-free.
Suitable for Moderate Activity: Ideal for those comfortable with light hiking and outdoor activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 2-Day South Georgia Tour

This tour from BFT GROUP is crafted for travelers eager to experience Georgia’s scenic side without the hassle of planning every detail. Starting at 9:00 AM in front of the famous Bicycle Monument at First Republic Square, you’re greeted by a guide and a small group, ensuring a more intimate, personalized experience.

Love being outdoors? Check out these other hiking spots we've covered in Tbilisi

Day 1: From Tbilisi to the Diamond Bridge and Waterfall Hike

The first leg involves a comfortable drive from the city into the lush landscapes of Kvemo Kartli. The highlight here is the Diamond Bridge, a spectacular suspension structure offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley. The bridge’s design and setting make it an ideal spot for photos and a quick walk to soak in the scenery.

Once you’ve crossed the bridge, you’ll embark on a guided hike to a nearby waterfall. The trail is accessible and offers a chance to enjoy Georgia’s natural beauty up close. The hike’s length and difficulty are manageable, making it suitable for most travelers with average fitness levels.

For those craving more adventure, optional activities like sky bicycle riding are available, adding an adrenaline rush to the day. These extras are offered at an additional cost, typically around $17-20 USD for the entrance to the Diamond Bridge, and provide a way to elevate your experience.

By late afternoon, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Tsalka around 3:00 PM, giving you a chance to unwind or explore the town at leisure. Travelers report that the drive itself is scenic and well-paced, with enough stops for photos and brief breaks.

Day 2: Free Time in Tsalka and Local Encounters

The second day emphasizes flexibility. You can choose to relax or explore at your own pace. Popular options include a peaceful walk to nearby waterfalls, which, according to reviews, are “beautiful and tranquil,” or visiting a local house to try fresh honey—a real treat for food lovers and those interested in local traditions.

Horseback riding through the countryside is another favored activity, offering a hands-on way to enjoy Georgia’s rural charm. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a more immersive experience.

By 3:00 PM, the group assembles again for the drive back to Tbilisi, arriving around 5:00 PM. The journey offers a last chance to reflect on the trip, with scenic views and relaxed conversation.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers transportation, a guided hike, and hotel drop-off in Tsalka, making it a convenient choice for travelers who want to skip logistics. However, meals, accommodations in Tsalka, optional activities, and the entrance fee to the Diamond Bridge (around $17-20 USD) are paid separately.

This setup allows flexibility—if you’re on a budget, you can skip optional extras; if you want to indulge, you can add sky biking or horseback riding at your discretion.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Tips for Travelers

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for hiking—layers are recommended as temperatures can vary.
Bring a water bottle and snacks, especially if you plan to explore further or visit waterfalls.
The tour is not suitable for people with vertigo due to the suspension bridge.
Remember that smoking is not allowed during the activity.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Tbilisi

Authentic Experiences on the Tour

Guests have shared that the scenery is truly stunning—the views from the Diamond Bridge are described as “breathtaking,” and the waterfalls are “peaceful and refreshing.” The opportunity to taste fresh honey at a local house resonated with many, providing a glimpse into rural Georgian life.

The horseback riding, in particular, received positive notes for its gentle pace and friendly guides, making it accessible even to beginners. Reviewers also appreciated the small group size and the expert guidance, which made the day feel personal and well-paced.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour strikes a good balance between adventure, relaxation, and culture. The scenic hikes and stunning bridges make it a highlight for nature lovers, while the optional activities add a playful element for those seeking a bit of adrenaline.

It’s well-suited for travelers who prefer a guided, hassle-free experience but still want to enjoy authentic local encounters. The inclusion of transportation, guided hikes, and hotel drop-off means you can focus on soaking up the scenery without worrying about logistics.

Overall, if you’re after a taste of Georgia’s natural beauty, with a relaxed itinerary and a touch of adventure, this tour offers solid value and memorable sights.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Tbilisi to South Georgia?
The drive takes about a few hours, with scenic stops along the way, so you’ll get a good feel for the landscape.

Are the hikes difficult?
The hikes are moderate and suitable for most travelers with reasonable fitness levels. The trail to the waterfall is accessible and manageable.

Is there free time to explore in Tsalka?
Yes, Day 2 is dedicated to free exploration. You can visit waterfalls, sample honey, or enjoy a horseback ride.

What optional activities are available?
Sky bicycle riding and horseback riding are available at an extra cost, offering additional fun and adventure.

Do I need to pay for the Diamond Bridge entrance?
Yes, the entrance fee is approximately $17-20 USD and is paid separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing, water, snacks, and a camera are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most children comfortable with walking and outdoor activities but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Will I have a guide throughout the tour?
Yes, all activities are guided by an English-speaking guide, ensuring you get information and assistance as needed.

Is hotel accommodation included?
No, the tour includes a hotel drop-off in Tsalka, but not the accommodation itself.

To sum it up, this 2-day South Georgia trip offers a balanced mix of stunning scenery, gentle adventure, and authentic local touches. It’s perfect for travelers who want a memorable escape into nature without the fuss of complex logistics. Whether you’re snapping photos of the suspension bridge, sampling honey at a local farm, or simply enjoying the tranquility of waterfalls, this tour provides a genuine taste of Georgia’s natural charm.