Martvili + Okatse + Caves

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with breathtaking landscapes and geological marvels, this tour promises just that. It takes you through some of Georgia’s most impressive natural sites—caves, canyons, and scenic vistas—organized conveniently as a full-day experience from Tbilisi. While it’s not an exhaustive tour of every site available, the flexibility to choose three out of four stops makes it adaptable to your preferences.

What we genuinely appreciate about this experience is the chance to see some of Georgia’s most stunning natural formations—like the Martvili Canyon and the Okatse Canyon—plus the opportunity to walk through awe-inspiring caves. Also, the inclusion of local hospitality elements, like free Georgian wine, adds a warm touch to the adventure.

That said, a key thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite packed, given that you’re fitting in three major sights within roughly 9 to 10 hours. It means you’ll want to be prepared for a full day, with some walking involved at each stop. Also, because the entrance fees aren’t included, you’ll need some extra cash for tickets. This setup works well for travelers eager to see a good chunk of Imereti’s natural beauty in one go, but may feel rushed if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore one site extensively.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, scenic views, and a touch of adventure, and it’s especially good if you want a practical, organized way to explore Georgia’s outdoor highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Flexible site choices: You can customize the tour by selecting three of four major attractions.
• Great value: At $79 per person, it offers a full-day experience with private transport, guide, WiFi, and local wine.
• Time-efficient: About 9-10 hours, perfect for seeing multiple sites in one day.
• Natural beauty: Expect stunning caves, canyons, waterfalls, and mountain views.
• Packed itinerary: The full-day schedule can be quite busy, especially if you want to linger.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees are not included, so budget extra for tickets.

If you’re someone who loves geological wonders, outdoor scenery, and a bit of adventure, this tour ticks those boxes nicely. You’ll get to see some iconic spots like Martvili Canyon with its deep green river and waterfalls, and the towering cliffs of Okatse Canyon, which are perfect for photos and just soaking in nature. The caves add an atmospheric touch—walking through Prometheus Cave, with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, or the underground boat ride, offers a sense of exploring a hidden world beneath the earth.

The tour’s group discounts and private transport make it practical, and the WiFi on board ensures you stay connected. Plus, the guide’s role is highlighted as being friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience more engaging and smooth. But keep in mind, since the tour is quite full on time, it’s not ideal if you love slow, detailed exploration or photography at every stop. You’ll need to be ready for a day of moving between sites.

Now, let’s go through each stop in detail to give you a clearer picture of what to expect and the real highlights of each.

Prometheus Cave: A Subterranean Spectacle

Your trip begins at the famous Prometheus Cave, one of Georgia’s most visited caves, and for good reason. Surrounded by a landscaped area stretching 3 km, this site offers an immersive underground experience. You can choose between walking along a 1,600-meter route or hopping onto a boat ride along the underground river—each option offers a different perspective of this natural marvel.

The cave’s interior features spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations, illuminated to highlight their natural beauty. The atmosphere is cool and mysterious, with the sounds of dripping water and echoing footsteps adding to the sense of exploring a hidden world. The boat ride, in particular, is a highlight for many, providing a peaceful way to appreciate the cave’s quiet depths.

A note to keep in mind is that admission tickets are not included, so you should budget for this additional cost. Reviews mention that this site is a must-see, especially if you’re into geology or underground landscapes.

Sataplia Cave and Nature Reserve: Dinosaur Footprints & Views

Next, you’ll visit Sataplia, which combines a cave experience with a walk through the nature reserve. The highlight is the millions of years old dinosaur footprints, a must-see for those interested in prehistoric life. Plus, the glass platform overlooking Kutaisi offers sweeping views of the city below—a spot perfect for photos.

Along With the footprints, the reserve features a small museum and a charming heart-shaped stalagmite. Walking through the woods here is a calmer, more scenic experience compared to the caves, making it a nice contrast. You’ll get a glimpse of Georgia’s ancient past and natural beauty in one stop.

Similar to Prometheus Cave, admission fees are extra, so plan accordingly. It’s a relatively short visit—about an hour—but packed with interesting sights.

Okatse Canyon: Cliffs and Scenic Overlooks

Okatse Canyon stands out for its spectacular high-quality infrastructure, making it accessible and safe for visitors. You’ll walk along well-maintained stairs and footpaths that wind along the canyon’s edge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the towering cliffs and deep valley below.

The canyon isn’t just a pretty sight; it’s an experience of feeling the scale of Georgia’s natural forces. Visitors often comment on the magnificent views, and the sturdy infrastructure makes it a comfortable yet exhilarating activity. The walk takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

As with other sites, entrance fees are not included, so budget extra if you want to go inside specific areas or get a more in-depth experience.

Martvili Canyon: Waterfalls and Boat Tours

The final stop, Martvili Canyon, is a favorite for many travelers. Historically a bathing spot for Georgian Nobles, today it’s a lush, scenic destination. The highlight is a 300-meter boat tour along the river Abasha, where the deep green canyon walls and waterfalls create a tranquil yet dramatic setting.

Visitors often mention the beautiful scenery and the opportunity for a relaxed boat ride that offers a different perspective of the canyon’s grandeur. The waterfalls add movement to the landscape, and the surrounding mountains complete the picture of untouched nature.

It’s a peaceful spot for soaking in the views, but be mindful that the admission ticket isn’t included. If you’re into landscape photography or just want a peaceful moment in nature, this spot is perfect.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

The tour, priced at $79 per person, provides a private transport, guide, WiFi, and a small welcome gift of homemade Georgian wine—these touches add value. The driver and guide are described as friendly and helpful, making the long day more comfortable.

You’ll start early and spend about 9 to 10 hours exploring the sites, with a flexible itinerary—you choose which three sites to visit, based on your preferences. This means you can prioritize what interests you most, whether it’s the caves, the canyons, or a mix. The group discounts and private vehicle options make it a manageable, hassle-free way to see a handful of sites without renting a car or organizing transportation yourself.

However, since entrance fees are not included, and you might want to spend extra time at certain sites, it’s wise to bring some cash along. Be prepared for a busy schedule—this is a full day of moving around, with some walking involved at each stop.

What Travelers Say

Reviews are generally positive, with a solid 3.8 out of 5 stars. Commenters praise the friendly driver George and the stunning views, especially with snow or good weather added to the scenery. One reviewer mentioned that their trip was extended to 14 hours but still felt worthwhile, highlighting the tour’s value even on a long day.

Others appreciated the quick communication via WhatsApp before the trip, which made them feel more secure, although some found the schedule a bit rushed—particularly with the sites closing during heavy snowfall.

Ultimately, it seems that most travelers find this tour to be a good value for the price and a great way to see Georgia’s outdoor beauty, especially if you’re organized and ready for a full day.

This tour offers a convenient, cost-effective way to experience some of Georgia’s most impressive natural sites. You’ll enjoy stunning caves, dramatic canyons, and waterfalls, all within a manageable day trip. The ability to customize which sites you visit is a real plus, giving you some control over your experience.

The highlights such as Martvili Canyon’s boat ride and Okatse’s panoramic views are well-loved, and the inclusion of local Georgian wine adds a cultural touch. If you’re someone who values organized logistics, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure, this trip is likely to deliver.

However, be aware that entrance fees are extra, and the schedule can be quite busy, so patience and readiness for a full day are key. It’s best suited for travelers who are active and eager to see Georgia’s outdoors without the hassle of self-planning.

This experience is a good bang for your buck, especially if you want to tick multiple natural wonders off your list efficiently. Just come prepared for a packed day, and you’re set for an adventure among Georgia’s spectacular landscapes.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are not included. You’ll need to budget for tickets at each site.

Can I choose which sites to visit?
Yes, you select three out of four locations based on your preferences, which allows some flexibility in your day.

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts about 9 to 10 hours, making it a full-day experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation with WiFi is included, making the journey comfortable and convenient.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly aimed at families, the sites are mainly outdoor and scenic, so older children who enjoy nature might find it enjoyable.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for entrance fees, comfortable shoes for walking, and some snacks if desired. The tour provides bottled water and a small taste of Georgian wine.

Is this tour available year-round?
Most likely, but weather conditions (like snow or rain) can affect accessibility, especially at outdoor sites like canyons or caves.

This kind of adventure—focused on Georgia’s natural grandeur—is perfect for explorers eager to see some of the country’s most photogenic spots without sacrificing comfort or organization. If you love connecting with nature and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour can be a highlight of your Georgia trip.