Georgia's Rainbow Mountain
- Work To Wonders
- Apr 17
- 2 min read
Few small countries can boast such an incredibly varied terrain as Georgia. The semi-arid landscape of its Ubadbo region, where hasty chopping of trees to smelt copper created Georgia's version of the Sahara, is enchanting enough.
This is a land of truths and legends. The truth is that Stalin's Soviet government forced villagers to move from a remote mountain village with tactical importance and offered them ‘good' land in the middle of nowhere in this desert-like landscape. The truth is that the desert was created when the locals were a little too enthusiastic about the possibilities presented by smelting the iron ore in the ground and chopped down all the trees to use in the furnaces.
The legends surround local hero David Gareja, a figure who fled to this place to escape false rumours of having impregnated a woman in Tbilisi. He allegedly had the gift of talking to animals and birds, who brought him food. An ancient sixth-century monastery now stands close to the cave where he once lived.
But the real star of the show is the stunning landscape and the minerals that cause it to be rainbow-coloured (or to resemble rashers of bacon, depending on your perspective).
This is an incredible tour and a huge insight into the history, psychology, and theology of this utterly remarkable country.
One word of warning, though: the monastery and the climb to the cave are strictly not for those with mobility issues.
Food is not available here, so you should bring your own packed lunch.
How to get there
British Airways and EasyJet have direct flights to Tbilisi from London. EasyJet is currently by far the cheapest (by around 50%!). Other airlines may also have indirect flights, but are likely to be much more expensive.
There are plenty of tour agencies in Tbilisi offering tours to this remarkable place. We suggest shopping around and booking online as it seems to be much cheaper than booking in person.
How we did it
Due to timing to fit it neatly into our annual leave, we flew from Glasgow to Geneva and picked up the flight to Tbilisi the next day. On the way back, we flew via London Luton. There is quite a long layover between the flights on the way back, so you may want to book a hotel in Luton, or change flights in Geneva.
Hotel: Citadel Narikala, through Expedia. This is a very unique hotel with a top-notch breakfast which we heartily recommend—except if you have mobility issues as it's on a steep hill.
Flights: EasyJet
Tours: Our tour was provided by Gamarjoba Tours, booked through Viator.
Our top tips
Check the weather. If it has been raining heavily, or if it is raining, you won't be able to ascend to the cave. Your view of the Rainbow Mountains will also be impeded.
Wear walking shoes with a good grip. The walk up to the cave is very steep.
Remember that you will be entering an active place of worship. Dress respectfully.
Want to see where we visited? Click here
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