From Kutaisi: Martvili & Okatse Canyons & Cave Guided Tour

If you’re thinking about venturing outside Kutaisi to see some of Georgia’s most striking landscapes, this tour offers a well-rounded day of canyon hikes, cave visits, and scenic stops. It’s designed for travelers who love nature, want a guided experience to take the stress out of planning, and appreciate stunning vistas and natural formations.

What really stands out is the combination of diverse sights—two canyons, a famous cave, and even a quick stop at abandoned sanatoriums—making it a compact but varied adventure. Plus, with a guide who’s praised for her knowledge and friendliness, you’re in good hands. That said, keep in mind that some attractions have entrance fees and optional extras, which can add up if you’re not prepared.

This tour is ideal if you’re eager to see Georgia’s natural beauty without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or transport. It’s especially suited for those with moderate physical fitness, as you’ll be walking and exploring outdoor sites. If you’re after a quick, immersive taste of Kutaisi’s surroundings, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• All-inclusive transport and guide make for a stress-free day.
• Stunning views and photo opportunities at every stop.
• Includes entry to caves and canyons for a full experience.
• Optional activities like boat rides and ziplining are available for extra fun.
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery.
• A good choice for travelers wanting a compact, well-organized day out.

An Overview of the Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive day out for those interested in Georgia’s natural landscapes. Meeting in Kutaisi, you’ll start your adventure with a visit to the Prometheus Cave, renowned for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It’s a highlight that offers a glimpse into underground beauty that’s both awe-inspiring and educational. The hour-long walk through the cave’s halls is a must for any nature lover.

Following this, your group heads to Martvili Canyon, where you’ll enjoy a boat or walking tour through a mountain river landscape filled with natural stone bridges, waterfalls, and turquoise water. Travelers often rave about the scenery here, with one review describing it as “stunning” and “incredible.” If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s an optional zipline over the canyon, which adds a burst of excitement.

Next, the itinerary takes you to Okatse Canyon, famous for its hanging bridge and panoramic views. The hour-long visit here is a mix of awe at the natural formations and the thrill of crossing a hanging bridge. You’ll want your camera ready for sweeping vistas of the canyon and the surrounding nature.

A short stop at Zeda Gordi offers an opportunity to learn how to make “Churchkhela,” a traditional Georgian sweet, and to buy local treats. It’s a quick cultural interlude that also supports local artisans.

The tour continues with a revisit to the Prometheus Cave for an hour-long exploration of its natural halls, giving you plenty of time to soak in the underground spectacle. This is a highlight for many, with reviews mentioning how impressive the stalactites and stalagmites are.

Before heading back, a brief stop at Tskaltubo’s abandoned sanatoriums adds a mysterious edge to the day, giving a glimpse into Georgia’s history and the eerie beauty of decay. The day wraps up with a scenic drive back to Kutaisi, making the whole trip a well-paced, full-day experience.

Transportation and Guide

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes traveling between sites comfortable, especially considering Georgia’s sometimes warm weather. The guide, praised for her friendly demeanor and good communication, is a key part of the experience. She’s been described as knowledgeable, making the visit more engaging with stories and insights about each location.

Plus, WiFi on board is a handy perk, letting you share your stunning photos in real time or just stay connected during the trip. Since it’s a private group activity, only your party will participate, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Cost and Value

At roughly $27 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the number of sites visited and the inclusions like transport and the guide. The entry fees for the attractions (around 65 GEL per adult and 16.50 GEL per child) are extra, but these are typical for such experiences. Optional activities like boat rides and ziplining come at additional costs, so if you’re eager to add those, budget accordingly.

From reviews, travelers felt this tour was well worth the price, especially given the stunning scenery and the expertise of the guide. The hassle-free organization and scenic diversity make it a solid choice for those wanting an all-in-one day trip.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Prometheus Cave

Starting your day here, you’ll get a guided walk through Georgia’s famous karst cave. The natural formations are remarkable, with impressive halls that feel almost surreal. It’s a good introduction to Georgia’s underground marvels. Visitors often mention the cave’s beauty and the ease of the visit, thanks to the guided tour that keeps you moving at a comfortable pace.

Stop 2: Martvili Canyon

The next stop is the canyon, a natural wonder that’s great for photos and relaxing walks. The boat ride through turquoise waters provides a different perspective, letting you see the canyon from below and above. The option to zipline adds a thrill for those craving a bit more adventure.

Stop 3: Okatse Canyon

Here, the hanging bridge is the highlight—an excellent spot for panoramic shots. The walk across the bridge is often described as exciting but safe, offering incredible views of the lush landscape. The canyon’s natural beauty makes it a favorite among travelers, with reviews praising the views and the friendly guide.

Stop 4: Zeda Gordi

A quick, cultural interlude with the “Churchkhela” masterclass, a traditional Georgian sweet. Visitors find this stop charming and a chance to buy local sweets directly from artisans. It’s a brief but authentic taste of Georgian craftsmanship.

Stop 5: Prometheus Cave Revisited

This second visit allows for a deeper exploration of the cave’s natural halls, giving you more time to marvel at stalactites, stalagmites, and sparkling mineral deposits. Many reviews mention how impressive and photogenic the cave is.

Stop 6: Tskaltubo Sanatoriums

The abandoned sanatoriums offer a glimpse into Georgia’s history and add a slightly eerie, atmospheric component to the tour. It’s a quick stop, but one that many find intriguing and worth seeing.

Final Drive Back

The scenic drive back to Kutaisi wraps up the day, with the guide often sharing additional stories or answering questions, making the journey as engaging as the stops.

Authentic Experiences and Visitor Feedback

The reviews highlight how much travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guide, often mentioning that she enhanced the trip with stories and insights. The stunning scenery across the canyons and caves is consistently praised, with many noting how memorable the views are.

One reviewer summed it up by saying, “The tour went really well. The places to see are stunning and the last stop at the abandoned sanatoriums was super cool,” highlighting the diverse appeal of the experience. Another called it “one of the best tours we’ve ever been on,” emphasizing the well-thought-out schedule and the variety of sights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures, natural wonders, and beautiful scenery, you’ll likely find this tour a great fit. It’s particularly suited to travelers comfortable with walking and moderate physical activity, as the stops involve some walking and light exploration.

The tour’s small-group setup means you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience, which is perfect if you prefer less crowded, more intimate outings. While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the stops are generally suitable for anyone with moderate fitness and an interest in nature.

The Sum Up

This Kutaisi-based tour offers a well-paced, diverse exploration of Georgia’s natural landscape. You’ll visit some of the country’s most captivating sites—caves, canyons, and scenic stops—that promise stunning photos and memorable moments. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide ensures that you’re not only seeing beautiful sights but also learning about what makes Georgia’s natural environment so special.

If you’re after a hassle-free, affordable day trip with a good mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty, this tour ticks many boxes. The flexibility of optional activities and the small-group format make it suitable for travelers who prefer a more personalized experience. It’s especially ideal if you want to maximize your time and see a variety of highlights without the stress of organizing transport and entrance logistics yourself.

For anyone craving spectacular views, interesting geological formations, and good company, this tour is a solid choice that delivers on its promises.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get air-conditioned transport, an English-speaking guide, and WiFi on board. Entry fees to the attractions are not included but can be purchased separately.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning to Kutaisi the same day.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, you can opt for a boat ride at Martvili Canyon for an additional $20 and a jeep ride at Okatse Canyon for about 10-15 GEL.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically labeled as family-friendly, the tour involves walking and outdoor exploration, so children with moderate fitness levels should be fine. Always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

How much does the entrance fee cost?
The combined entry fee for the three sites (caves and canyons) is approximately 65 GEL per adult and 16.50 GEL per child.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, making it flexible should your plans change.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides are often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Megobari Tours Meeting Point near Colchis Fountain in Kutaisi and ends back at the same spot after a full day of exploring.

If you’re after a day packed with Georgia’s natural beauty and want to enjoy it without the hassle of planning, this tour offers a thoughtful, memorable way to see some of the country’s most stunning landscapes.