Hot Air Balloon in Tbilisi

By Mariam Lomidze, GTour desk · Fact-checked against the sources listed · Last checked 17 October 2026 · Editorial policy

Overview

The hot air balloon experience near Tbilisi operates from open fields in Kvemo Kartli, the region bordering the capital to the south. Launch sites are chosen for their flat terrain and predictable morning winds, close enough to the city that a flight can be combined with a half-day itinerary from Tbilisi. The activity is marketed as a family attraction rather than a historic monument, and it draws visitors who want an aerial perspective of the Mtkvari River valley, the hills around Tbilisi, and the steppe landscape that defines much of Kvemo Kartli.

The appeal lies in the view: from altitude, passengers can pick out Narikala Fortress, the domes of Tbilisi’s Old Town, the Tbilisi Sea reservoir, and the patchwork of vineyards and pastureland that stretches toward the Armenian and Azerbaijani borders. For families and photographers it is one of the few ways to see the capital and its rural hinterland together in a single outing, and GTour includes it on request as an add-on to private day tours in the region.

History

Recreational hot air ballooning is a modern addition to Georgia’s tourism offer, developing alongside the broader expansion of adventure and outdoor activities that followed the growth of international tourism after the country’s post-Soviet opening. Operators in Georgia have run scenic balloon flights near Tbilisi since the 2010s, taking advantage of the open, low-relief terrain of Kvemo Kartli, which is better suited to launch and landing than the steep terrain closer to the city centre. The activity is promoted by Georgia’s National Tourism Administration among the country’s adventure tourism products, alongside paragliding, rafting, and ballooning festivals held periodically in the Tbilisi area.

What to see

The balloon flight itself

A standard flight lasts roughly 45 minutes to an hour in the air, preceded by about 30–45 minutes of inflation and briefing. Passengers stand in a wicker basket beneath the envelope, with a pilot controlling altitude using the burner; the flight path depends entirely on wind direction on the day.

Views over Tbilisi and the Mtkvari valley

On clear mornings, flights can offer views toward the Old Town, Narikala Fortress, and the Mtkvari River as it curves through the city, with the Caucasus foothills visible on the horizon. The exact vantage depends on wind and launch location on a given day.

Kvemo Kartli steppe and villages

Away from the city, the terrain opens into the dry steppe and vineyard country typical of Kvemo Kartli, dotted with small villages, grazing land, and the wine cellars that the region is increasingly known for.

Sunrise flights

Most operators fly at or shortly after dawn, when winds are calmest; this is also when light conditions are best for photography of both the city skyline and the surrounding countryside.

Getting there

From central Tbilisi, the launch field is normally reached by car in 30–45 minutes, depending on the exact site chosen for the day’s wind conditions; GTour arranges private transfers with an English-speaking driver or guide. There is no direct marshrutka or train service to the launch points, so a taxi or private transfer is the practical option; check current road conditions on the road status page before travelling in winter. From Kutaisi, allow around 3.5–4 hours by road via the main Tbilisi highway; from Batumi, allow 5–6 hours. Both routes are more comfortably covered as part of a multi-day private tour rather than a same-day round trip.

When to go

Hot air ballooning is weather-dependent and flies best in calm, low-wind conditions, typically found in spring and autumn mornings. Flights are usually scheduled at dawn, when wind speeds are lowest and temperatures are cooler; operators commonly cancel or reschedule if winds are too strong, so travellers should keep a flexible day free rather than booking it as the sole activity.

Where to stay and eat

Most visitors base themselves in Tbilisi and travel out for the flight, though the Kvemo Kartli countryside also offers wine-focused stops worth combining with the trip. For wine tasting and cellar visits near the launch area, GTour’s verified register includes Georgian German Wine House, Amate Winery, Saduni, Demi’s Winery, Shavnabada Monastery Winery, and Shalos Marani. For travel planning and transfers, HAPPY TRAVEL and landmarkofgeorgia are listed in the register. GTour’s verified register lists more options below for accommodation and dining in the wider Kvemo Kartli and Tbilisi area.

Practical notes

Book flights in advance, since operators limit the number of passengers per basket and schedules shift with weather forecasts. Dress in layers, as mornings are cool even in summer, and wear closed shoes suitable for standing in a basket for an hour. Flights are generally not recommended for very young children, pregnant travellers, or those with certain heart or mobility conditions; check with the operator when booking. GTour can combine the balloon flight with wine tastings or a private day tour of Kvemo Kartli to make efficient use of the morning slot.

Questions travellers ask

Where exactly does the hot air balloon launch from?

Launch sites are open fields in Kvemo Kartli, south of Tbilisi; the exact location can change day to day depending on wind direction, and operators confirm the meeting point the evening before or morning of the flight.

How long does a flight last?

The airborne portion is typically 45 minutes to an hour, with an additional 30–45 minutes for inflation, safety briefing, and landing logistics.

Is it safe for children?

Most operators set a minimum age or height requirement for safety reasons inside the basket; families should confirm current policy when booking, and GTour can check this in advance.

What is the best time of day or year to fly?

Dawn flights in spring and autumn offer the calmest winds and clearest light; summer midday heat and winter winds are less favourable for ballooning.

How far in advance should I book?

Booking a day or two ahead is advisable, since flights depend on weather confirmation and basket space is limited; GTour can arrange this as part of a private itinerary.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Flights are postponed or cancelled if wind speed, visibility, or precipitation make launching unsafe; most operators offer rescheduling rather than flying in marginal conditions.

Can this be combined with a wine tour in Kvemo Kartli?

Yes, several wineries from GTour’s register, including Amate Winery and Shalos Marani, are in the same region and can be visited the same day following a morning flight.

How do I get there without a car?

There is no direct public transport to the launch fields, so a taxi or a private transfer arranged through GTour is the standard way to reach the site from Tbilisi.

What should I bring on the day?

A light jacket for the cool morning air, closed-toe shoes, and a camera are recommended; heavy bags are usually not permitted in the basket.

Is it suitable for people afraid of heights?

Many visitors with mild unease find balloon flight less intense than other heights-based activities, since the basket is stable and movement is gentle, but travellers with severe acrophobia should consider this carefully before booking.

Sources

• Hot air balloon
• Kvemo Kartli
• Tbilisi
• Georgian National Tourism Administration