Turtle Lake
Turtle Lake, known locally as Kus Tba, is one of Tbilisi’s most popular outdoor recreation areas. Located on the wooded slopes above the Vake district, almost 700 metres above sea level, it offers a welcome change from the traffic and busy streets of central Tbilisi.
Despite its name, Turtle Lake is quite small. Visitors mainly come for lakeside walks, exercise, cafés, seasonal water activities, forest trails and sunset views. The cooler air also makes it a popular local escape during Tbilisi’s hot summer evenings.
Turtle Lake Quick Information
- Georgian name: კუს ტბა – Kus Tba
- Location: Hills above Vake Park, Tbilisi
- Entrance fee: Free
- Lake access: Open throughout the day
- Cable car fare: 1 GEL each way
- Bicycle transport by cable car: Additional 1 GEL
- Recommended visit time: 1–3 hours
- Best for: Walking, relaxation, families, exercise, cafés and sunset views
- Best time to visit: Late afternoon and early evening
Café hours, rental services and seasonal attractions have their own schedules and may not operate throughout the year.
Why Visit Turtle Lake?
Turtle Lake is not a major historical monument or a typical Old Town attraction. Its appeal comes from its relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to experience an ordinary part of local life in Tbilisi.
The area is especially suitable for travelers who want to:
- take a break from sightseeing in the city centre;
- enjoy an easy walk around the lake;
- ride one of Tbilisi’s historic cable cars;
- have coffee or a meal outdoors;
- exercise or go jogging;
- spend time with children;
- watch the sunset over the city;
- combine nature with a visit to a nearby museum.
The lake is usually busiest during warm evenings, weekends and public holidays.
Things to Do at Turtle Lake
Walk Around the Lake
A paved walking and running path circles the lake. The complete loop is approximately one kilometre, making it suitable for a short and easy walk.
Benches and cafés are available around the shore, although the number of operating venues can vary by season. Locals regularly use the area for jogging, walking and outdoor exercise throughout the year.
Enjoy the Views and Sunset
Several points around Turtle Lake offer views over Vake, Saburtalo and other parts of Tbilisi. The cable car journey also provides an interesting aerial view over Vake Park and the surrounding residential districts.
Late afternoon is often the most enjoyable time to visit. You can walk around the lake in daylight, stop at a café and stay for sunset. Summer evenings can be busy, so arrive slightly earlier if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Seasonal Water Activities
During the warmer months, visitors may find paddle boats, water bicycles, sunbathing areas and other seasonal services around the lake.
Swimming has traditionally been possible during the official summer season, but conditions and supervision may change. Swim only in a permitted or managed area, follow all signs and check the current conditions before entering the water. Do not assume that a lifeguard is always present.
Cafés and Restaurants
Turtle Lake has several seasonal and year-round cafés, bars and restaurants. Options range from casual coffee and snacks to full meals and evening drinks.
Opening hours vary considerably, particularly outside summer. If you are travelling specifically for a particular restaurant or event, check its current schedule before leaving the city centre.
Forest Walks and Hiking
Wooded paths continue beyond the main lakeside area. Short walks are possible near the lake, while more experienced walkers can follow longer routes toward Mtatsminda Park.
The longer forest route should not be treated as a simple city-centre walk. Trail conditions and markings can vary, and some sections may be steep or uneven. Wear suitable shoes, carry water, use an offline navigation map and complete the walk during daylight.
Turtle Lake Zipline
A long zipline connecting the Turtle Lake area with Vake Park has operated as a seasonal attraction. Its availability depends on weather, maintenance and the operating season.
Confirm that it is open before planning your visit around it. Current information about the attraction may also be available through the official Georgia Travel Turtle Lake zipline page.
Visit the Open Air Museum of Ethnography
The Open Air Museum of Ethnography is located on the hillside close to Turtle Lake.
Spread across a large green territory, the museum contains traditional houses, household objects and architectural examples brought from different regions of Georgia. It is one of the best places in Tbilisi to learn about the country’s regional cultures and traditional rural life.
Turtle Lake and the museum can be combined into one half-day visit. Keep in mind that the museum has separate admission fees and working hours and is normally closed on Mondays.
How to Get to Turtle Lake
By Turtle Lake Cable Car
The most memorable way to reach Turtle Lake is by cable car from Ilia Chavchavadze Avenue. The lower station is located near the upper end of Vake Park.
The renovated blue gondolas travel above Vake Park and reach Turtle Lake in approximately six minutes.
The official Tbilisi Transport Company tariff currently lists:
- Passenger fare: 1 GEL each way;
- Round trip: 2 GEL per person;
- Bicycle transportation: Additional 1 GEL each way.
Payment is normally made using a rechargeable Metromoney transport card. Cable car schedules may change because of weather, technical inspections or maintenance, so check the current service before travelling.
Read the complete Tbilisi public transport guide for information about Metromoney cards, buses, the metro and other cable cars in Tbilisi.
By Bus to Vake Park
Municipal buses travel along Ilia Chavchavadze Avenue and stop close to Vake Park and the lower cable car station.
Bus routes may change because of construction, road closures or temporary traffic arrangements. Instead of relying on a fixed bus number, check the route using the official Tbilisi Transport Company journey planner or Google Maps on the day of your visit.
By Taxi
A taxi is usually the easiest option if the cable car is closed, if you are travelling with children or if you want to go directly to the lake.
Enter Turtle Lake or Kus Tba as the destination and check that the pin is located beside the lake rather than at the lower cable car station. The price depends on your starting point, traffic and current demand.
For app and safety information, see the guide to online taxi apps in Georgia.
By Car
A paved, winding road leads directly to Turtle Lake. Parking is available in the surrounding area, but finding a space can be difficult during summer evenings, weekends and events.
Drivers should also expect slower traffic on the access road at busy times.
Best Time to Visit Turtle Lake
Spring and Autumn
Spring and early autumn usually offer comfortable temperatures for walking, photography and hiking. These periods are particularly pleasant if you want to explore the surrounding forest paths.
Summer
Summer is the busiest season. Mornings are better for jogging and quieter walks, while late afternoons and evenings are popular for cafés, water activities and sunset views.
Although Turtle Lake is cooler than central Tbilisi, bring water, sunscreen and a hat during the hottest part of the day.
Winter
Turtle Lake remains accessible in winter, but cafés and seasonal attractions may operate on reduced schedules. Paths can become slippery after rain, frost or snow.
Do not walk onto the frozen surface of the lake. Ice thickness is not monitored for recreational skating.
Accessibility
The cable car stations and gondolas were renovated with accessibility in mind. The main lakeside area is relatively level, but some connecting paths, forest trails and the route toward the Ethnography Museum include slopes or uneven ground.
Travelers requiring step-free access should confirm that the cable car is operating and consider using a taxi directly to the lake.
Useful Tips for Visitors
- Bring a light jacket outside summer; the lake can feel cooler and windier than central Tbilisi.
- Wear proper walking shoes if you plan to leave the paved lakeside path.
- Check the cable car schedule before travelling.
- Do not depend on every café or rental service being open outside the summer season.
- Keep children supervised near the water.
- Visit on a weekday morning or early afternoon for fewer crowds.
- Allow extra time if combining the lake with the Ethnography Museum.
- Stay until sunset if the weather is clear.
Is Turtle Lake Worth Visiting?
Turtle Lake is worth visiting if you want a relaxing outdoor break, a scenic cable car ride or a glimpse of everyday local life outside Tbilisi’s historic centre.
It is particularly enjoyable during warm weather and can easily be combined with Vake Park or the Open Air Museum of Ethnography. Visitors with limited time may spend around one or two hours at the lake, while a museum visit, café stop or longer forest walk can turn it into a half-day trip.
FAQ
Is Turtle Lake free to visit?
Yes. There is no general entrance fee for the lake or the surrounding walking area. Cafés, boat rentals, the zipline and other activities are paid separately.
How much is the Turtle Lake cable car?
The official fare is 1 GEL per person in each direction. A return journey costs 2 GEL. Transporting a bicycle costs an additional 1 GEL each way.
Can you swim in Turtle Lake?
Swimming is traditionally available during the official summer season. Use only permitted or managed swimming areas and check current conditions and safety signs before entering the water.
How long should I spend at Turtle Lake?
Allow one to two hours for the cable car, a walk and a short café stop. Allow three or more hours if you also plan to visit the Ethnography Museum or explore the forest trails.
Is Turtle Lake suitable for children?
Yes. The walking area, open spaces and seasonal activities make it popular with families. Children should always be supervised beside the water and on crowded paths.
Can I visit Turtle Lake and Mtatsminda Park on the same day?
Yes, but the forest route between them is a proper hike rather than a short paved walk. Use a reliable navigation map, wear suitable shoes and travel during daylight.