Vashlovani Nature Reserve: Horse Riding Tour

If you’re craving a taste of Georgia’s wild side, a horseback riding tour through Vashlovani Nature Reserve offers a perfect escape. This two-day adventure takes you through one of the country’s most striking ecosystems—semi-desert landscapes dotted with towering cliffs, sprawling valleys, and swallows’ nests—set against the backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains. The tour, offered by Horse Riding Tours, balances natural beauty with comfort, making it accessible whether you’ve never touched a horse or are a seasoned rider.

What I particularly love about this experience is how it blends immersive scenery with relaxed pace and good facilities. Riding Tushetian horses, you’ll get close to landscapes that most travelers simply pass by in a car, giving you a more authentic sense of the region’s rugged charm. Plus, the support car and cozy guesthouse keep the experience stress-free, especially for those new to riding or with young children. One consideration: it’s a physical activity that involves spending about 4-5 hours in the saddle each day, so it’s best suited for active travelers.

Another appealing aspect is the variety of scenery you’ll encounter—riding through places like the City of Swallow, Pantishara Valley, and Devil’s Valley. Each stop offers unique views and photo opportunities, making this not just a ride but a visual feast. The tour’s emphasis on full board accommodation at a guesthouse, with hot and cold water and internet, means you can relax after your rides without losing comfort or connectivity.

However, keep in mind that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems. Also, while beginners are welcome, riders should bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water—just like they would for any outdoor adventure in Georgia’s unpredictable climate. All in all, it’s a well-rounded experience that offers stunning views, gentle riding, and a chance to connect with Georgia’s unique landscape.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning landscapes: Ride through semi-desert ecosystems, valleys, and cliffs with the Caucasus Mountains in the background.
• Accessible for all: Suitable for beginners, with expert guides and support vehicles ready to assist.
• Authentic experience: Ride on Tushetian horses, which are known for their endurance and calm temperament.
• Comfortable stay: Enjoy full board at a guesthouse equipped with modern amenities including hot water and internet.
• Flexible pace: Each day involves about 4-5 hours of riding, with opportunities to gallop for experienced riders.
• Unique stops: Explore notable sites like the City of Swallow, Pantishara Valley, and Devil’s Valley.

Discovering Vashlovani: A Natural Gem in Georgia

I’ll admit, when I first heard about a horseback riding tour through Georgia’s Vashlovani Nature Reserve, I was intrigued. Known for its semi-desert environment, it’s a landscape you wouldn’t typically associate with lush, green Georgia. Instead, Vashlovani offers a stark, rugged beauty, where towering cliffs and wide-open spaces create a dramatic setting—plus, the chance to see swallows nesting along the cliffs.

The tour begins with a convenient pickup in Tbilisi, which means you don’t have to worry about organizing transport or directions. From there, it’s a scenic drive eastward into Kvemo Kartli, where the landscape starts to change. The ride to the guesthouse is comfortable, and once you arrive, the friendly staff make sure you’re settled in comfortably. The guesthouse is quite a find—hot and cold water plus reliable internet—so you can unwind after your rides without missing out on modern comforts.

The Itinerary: A Day in the Life of a Georgia Horse Rider

Each day involves setting out from the guesthouse on loop routes that explore different facets of the reserve. The routes are designed to be enjoyable for all riders, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views or even gallop if you’re experienced. One guide I read about described the routes as “like riding through a painting,” which I think captures the vividness of the scenery perfectly.

On the first day, you might visit the City of Swallow, where cliffs are filled with nests, creating a striking contrast against the semi-desert terrain. The ride here is gentle but visually impressive. The second day takes you into the Pantishara Valley and Devil’s Valley, with panoramic views and perhaps some thrilling moments crossing narrow cliffs or open plains. Throughout, a support car follows along, carrying essentials and offering a break for tired legs or young riders.

What sets this tour apart is the combination of natural beauty and the chance to see it from horseback—something I find far more memorable than just sightseeing from a bus or car. The guide, who speaks English and Russian, is known for being knowledgeable and patient, which makes a big difference if you’re new to riding.

The Horses and the Guides

The Tushetian horses, a breed native to the Caucasus, are renowned for their endurance and calm demeanor. Riders consistently mention how friendly and easy to handle these horses are, making the experience suitable for beginners but still enjoyable for experienced riders who want to canter along open plains. The guides are careful to match horses to riders’ skill levels, which helps keep the ride enjoyable and safe.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Expect to spend around 4-5 hours in the saddle each day. If you’re not used to riding, you might want to bring some cushion or padding.
• Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water—Georgia’s sun can be unexpectedly intense.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems.
• The full board meal plan includes hearty local dishes, which help replenish your energy after a day in the saddle.
• The tour is booked as a private group, so you won’t be sharing your adventure with strangers, which adds a layer of comfort and flexibility.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers have praised the stunning views and the overall relaxed pace of the tour. One reviewer mentioned, “The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, especially riding with the mountains in the background.” Others appreciated the friendly guides who made the experience accessible for all skill levels. You’ll find that the combination of scenery, comfort, and the chance to try riding in a rugged setting makes this tour a standout activity in Georgia.

Price and Logistics: Good Value for Nature and Comfort

Considering the full package—pick-up from Tbilisi, two days of guided riding, full board accommodation, and a support car—the cost is quite reasonable. It’s definitely an experience that offers more than just the ride; it’s about enjoying Georgia’s landscape with the comfort of a cozy stay. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, and booking now with pay later options means you can plan without financial pressure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding experience is perfect for travelers who want a genuine connection with Georgia’s wild landscapes without the need for advanced riding skills. It’s suitable for beginners, active families, or anyone looking to add some adventure to their trip. Those with a love of scenic beauty and outdoor activity will find it especially rewarding. But keep in mind, if you’re pregnant or have back issues, this may not be the best choice.

The Sum Up: Authentic, Beautiful, and Well-Organized

In the end, the Vashlovani horseback riding tour offers an authentic glimpse into Georgia’s diverse ecosystems, delivered with comfort and care. You’ll love the sweeping views, the friendly guides, and the relaxed pace that lets you truly appreciate the rugged beauty of the semi-desert landscape. It’s a rare chance to experience nature on horseback, with the added bonus of staying comfortably at a guesthouse after each day’s ride.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy scenery, gentle adventure, and culture. If you’re looking for a memorable, scenic, and well-organized outdoor experience in Georgia, it’s a genuine value that will leave you with lasting impressions.

FAQ

How long is each day’s riding?
Expect around 4-5 hours in the saddle each day, which allows plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, including beginners, with guides matching horses to rider experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Don’t forget your camera for capturing stunning views.

Are there galloping opportunities?
Yes, experienced riders can enjoy galloping when the terrain permits, but the focus is on enjoyment and scenery, not speed.

What amenities are available at the guesthouse?
You’ll find hot and cold water, cable internet, and full board meals. It’s a comfortable place to unwind after riding.

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

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable in the saddle and not pregnant or with back problems, this tour can be a great family activity.

What makes the landscape special?
The semi-desert ecosystem, cliffs with swallow nests, and views of the Caucasus Mountains make this landscape visually dramatic and unique.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off in Tbilisi are included, making logistics straightforward.

Will I be riding on a specific breed of horse?
Yes, the tour uses Tushetian horses, known for their endurance and calm temperament, ideal for a relaxed yet scenic ride.

This horseback riding tour in Vashlovani combines adventure, comfort, and spectacular scenery—an experience well worth considering for your Georgian trip.