Turtle Lake

Turtle Lake, or Kus Tba (კუს ტბა) in Georgian, is a well-known and highly popular small lake situated on the wooded northern slope of the Mtatsminda ridge overlooking Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital city. Easily accessible from the Vake district via road or a scenic cable car ride originating from Vake Park, the lake serves as a major recreational destination for both locals and tourists. Despite its modest size, Turtle Lake offers a refreshing escape from the urban bustle, especially during the hot summer months when it becomes a prime spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying paddle boats. The area surrounding the lake is well-developed with numerous cafes, bars, restaurants, and walking paths, creating a lively atmosphere. It frequently hosts open-air concerts, festivals, and other events. Adding to its appeal is its close proximity to the expansive Giorgi Chitaia Open Air Museum of Ethnography, located just above the lake, showcasing traditional Georgian architecture and ways of life. Its elevated position also provides pleasant views and a slightly cooler climate compared to the city center below.

Identification and Location

• Name: Turtle Lake (English), Kus Tba / კუს ტბა (Georgian). Also less commonly known as K’ork’i / ქორქის ტბა.
• Location:
  • Country: Georgia
  • City: Tbilisi
  • District: Vake
  • Landmark: Located on the northern slope of the Mtatsminda mountain ridge, overlooking the city. Accessible via road and cable car from Vake Park.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 41.700∘N, 44.754∘E.
  • Relationship to other bodies of water: Small, relatively isolated lake fed primarily by groundwater.

Physical Characteristics

• Surface Area: Small, approximately 0.034 square kilometers (3.4 hectares).
• Maximum Depth: Shallow, around 2.6 meters.
• Average Depth: Very shallow, approximately 1.7 meters.
• Elevation: High relative to the city center, approximately 687 meters above sea level.
• Shoreline Length: Short, easily walkable, roughly 1 kilometer perimeter path exists.
• Water Source(s): Primarily fed by underground streams (groundwater) and precipitation. Some sources mention inflow from the small Varaziskhevi stream.
• Outlet(s): Likely managed outlets or seepage.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Basin Geology: Situated in a small depression on the mountainside, likely formed due to landslide activity or local tectonic processes (exotectonic origin suggested).

Ecological Information

• Flora: Surrounded by deciduous forest characteristic of the Mtatsminda slopes. Limited aquatic vegetation like reeds may be present along the edges.
• Fauna: Historically named for an abundance of turtles, though they are reportedly rare now. Common fish species adapted to small lakes may be present (carp family, potentially Gambusia introduced for mosquito control). Waterfowl are common visitors. Amphibians likely inhabit the surrounding moist areas.
• Trophic Level: Likely mesotrophic to eutrophic, influenced by its small size, recreational use, and urban proximity.
• Water Clarity: Variable, can be affected by recreational activity, runoff, and potential algal growth.
• Water Temperature: Shows significant seasonal variation; warms sufficiently for swimming in summer.
• Conservation Status: No specific high-level conservation status, but functions as a vital part of Tbilisi’s protected green spaces and recreational zones.

Human Interaction and Significance

• Historical Significance: Long-standing recreational spot for Tbilisi residents. Its name reflects past ecological conditions. Located near the historically significant area of Mtatsminda.
• Current Uses: Major recreational hub: swimming, sunbathing, paddle boating, cafes, restaurants, bars, walking/jogging path, venue for concerts, festivals, and social gatherings. Not used for drinking water or irrigation.
• Environmental Issues: Potential pressures include littering due to high visitor numbers, water quality impacts from recreation and runoff, and general urban environmental stresses.
• Management and Conservation Efforts: Managed by Tbilisi city authorities as a public park and recreational area. Efforts focus on maintaining facilities, managing events, and general upkeep.
• Local Communities: Extremely popular and highly valued by Tbilisi residents as an accessible natural escape, social hub, and place for exercise and relaxation. Also a significant tourist attraction.

Interesting or Unique Facts

• The name “Kus Tba” literally means “Turtle Lake,” attributed to the historical presence of numerous turtles.
• A scenic cable car connects Vake Park directly to the lake, offering panoramic views during the ascent.
• It is located immediately adjacent to the large and important Giorgi Chitaia Open Air Museum of Ethnography.
• Its elevated location provides good views over parts of Tbilisi.
• It transforms into a lively social and nightlife spot during summer evenings.