Discovering Turtle Lake (Kus Tba) in Tbilisi

Turtle Lake (Kus Tba) can be described as one of the most favored places for the locals to go around in Tbilisi. Turtle Lake is located on the northern cliff of Mtatsminda Park. Don’t be confused when you hear the name Kus Tba. Turtle Lake is often called Kus Tba since the name “Ku” means Turtle in English. 

Why you should visit Turtle Lake

 If you ask any Georgian where you can enjoy fresh air and a nice walk in Tbilisi, be prepared for your next journey to Turtle Lake. It’s not too far from the city center, it takes several minutes to get to Turtle Lake.

Do you have any additional hours?  In about two hours you’ll enjoy your time there. Turtle Lake is a quiet and cozy family-friendly recreational area which offers various kind of activities. It’s a good place if you find yourself tired and want a rest for a while in a peace.  You’ll be in love with the impressive Mountain View and air that fills you with harmony.

It doesn’t matter you are alone or not, you’ll find a suitable place for your mood. You can have relaxing hours in any café or on the grass near to the lake and enjoy the views. It’s a perfect spot for going out with friends and family members. Around the lake is the route which is about 1km. Turtle Lake has become a popular tourist destination in Tbilisi lately. And of course, it’s a first and the most important reason to visit Turtle Lake.

• Cafes around Turtle Lake

Turtle Lake is a small place to have a relaxing break from city life and some cozy cafes are around the lake. The prices are a bit expensive, but you’ll enjoy your time whether you’re alone or with friends. Coffee lovers definitely like being at these cafes since there are lovely coffee shops and bars. If you’re Digital Nomad that works and travels at the same time then pick any café and take a sit, you’ll have a good working environment in nature. However, you have to ask for the Wi-Fi password and then it’s free until you’re gone.

• Activities around Turtle Lake

You may wonder what type of activities you can take to enjoy your time there.

Are you curious where to run in Tbilisi?  If you love walking and running in the evening, it’s worth to have a walk on the route which is about 1km. Second, Turtle Lake often hosts diverse festivals and concerts.

Some playground is near to Turtle Lake, and you’ll be able to take participation in sports activities. And what tourists do often is hiring water cycles to go around where you can enjoy the atmosphere.

What is the way to get to Turtle Lake (Kus Tba)

Well, it’s your first time to visit Turtle Lake, and I’ll try to give you the best option of “How to reach Turtle Lake (Kus Tba) “. There are several ways to see Turtle Lake.

• Cable Car to Turtle Lake

Locals Cable Car is the best option if you want to have a budget, short and interesting trip. Cable Car is located in Vake Park and goes up to Turtle Lake in just about 5 minutes. The price is around two or one Lari.

• Take a Taxi

Locals who have the possibility to drive a car are the regular guests of Turtle Lake. But some of them take a taxi to get to the point. Taking a taxi is a good choice but it’s a more expensive way

•  Climb up the hill to reach to Turtle Lake

This way is optional if you love getting adventurous experiences and you are in a good physical shape. If you go this way and want to climb the hill, you may find yourself tired, however, you’ll get the unforgettable views of the city.

When is a good time to visit Turtle Lake?

It’s very hot in Tbilisi every summer and of course, this season is recommended to see Turtle Lake. You’ll enjoy your morning and evening around Turtle Lake as there are many activities in summer. You’ll find your consistent spot to escape from the hot of the city.

Summer is the season when everything is bloomed and green. But what about the other seasons? If you go to see Lake Turtle in autumn, be sure that you’ll be fascinated by the landscapes and views around Kus Tba. Everything is yellow and the route is covered with leaves. It will be beautiful to see, won’t it?

Anyways, winter and spring aren’t popular seasons for visiting Turtle Lake. In winter the lake is iced and several cafes closed. Though, you can have a walk and hot tea around the lake. In the spring, Turtle Lake is also a visited place. Sometimes, spring is windy and it’s hard to feel comfortable in the cold. In the last months of spring, when everything seems warm and nature starts to bloom, why not? Spring is suggested to be a nice season for having the picnic around Turtle Lake.

What else? - There’s One little thing you should know.

On your way to Turtle Lake, you can visit the Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography. It’s situated on the hill that overlooks Vake Park. Tbilisi Open Air Museum of Ethnography collects different examples of folk architecture and craftworks from various parts of Georgia.

Now, it’s your turn to tell me what the best season for visiting Turtle Lake is and what kind of activities you enjoy? Please, share your experiences. Always happy to hear from you.