From Kutaisi: Martvili & Okatse Canyons & Prometheus Cave Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Georgia and want to see some of the country’s most stunning natural sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this tour from Kutaisi might just be the perfect fit. It’s a well-rated, private day trip that packs in visits to two breathtaking canyons and an underground cave, all with the comfort of transportation and the guidance of local experts.

What immediately catches your eye about this experience is its focus on convenience and variety — you get to skip the logistics nightmare of trying to navigate multiple sites on your own, and instead, enjoy a carefully curated itinerary. Plus, the reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery — two things that really can make or break a day trip like this.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind. Entry to each site isn’t included in the base price, so you’ll need to budget for tickets and optional extras like a boat ride or jeep at Okatse Canyon. Also, since the tour involves about 1-2 hours of walking, comfortable shoes are a must. This trip is best suited for travelers who are moderate in physical activity, eager to explore nature, and appreciate the value of having local insights along the way.

This tour appeals most to those who want a full day of sightseeing, packed with variety, and appreciate the ease of private transportation. It’s ideal if you have limited time in Georgia but want to see a broad slice of its natural beauty with guidance and flexibility.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip with visits to two canyons and a cave, saving you time and effort.
• Private transportation offers comfort, flexibility, and WiFi, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, enhancing the overall experience.
• Entry fees are not included, so plan for additional costs at each site.
• Optional activities like rafting, boat rides, and jeep rentals are available but come at extra expense.
• The tour is well-suited for those with moderate physical fitness, comfortable walking shoes, and curiosity for Georgia’s landscapes.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Convenient Pickup and Transport

The tour kicks off from Megobari Tours Meeting Point in Kutaisi, with the promise of private, air-conditioned transportation. This means you won’t have to worry about navigating or dealing with public transport — just sit back and enjoy the ride. The inclusion of WiFi on board is a bonus, allowing you to share your adventure or catch up on some offline planning during the drive.

Martvili Canyon: A Natural Wonder

Your first stop is Martvili Canyon, a place that impresses with its mountain river, waterfalls, and natural stone bridges. The experience here is flexible — you can choose between a boat tour (at an extra cost of $20) or explore on foot, taking in the scenery at your own pace.

Guests often mention how beautiful and peaceful the canyon is. One reviewer said, “The canyon left us speechless,” highlighting just how captivating this spot can be. The boat ride is not included in the base price but is well worth considering if you want a different perspective of the canyon’s natural beauty.

Okatse Canyon: Spectacular Views and Nature Walks

Next up is Okatse Canyon, which many reviewers describe as “one of the most beautiful canyons in the region.” You’ll have around two hours here, walking along scenic paths that offer sweeping vistas of the rugged landscape. For a bit of adventure, you can rent a jeep (10-15 GEL) to explore the area more freely, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk with plenty of photo opportunities.

The reviews rave about the stunning views and the chance to experience nature up close. One traveler shared, “The canyon was breathtaking, and the walk was very enjoyable,” emphasizing how this stop offers a memorable glimpse of Georgia’s diverse terrain.

Prometheus Cave: Underground Marvels

Finally, your day concludes with a visit to Prometheus Cave, an underground spectacle filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and impressive natural halls. The guided walk lasts about an hour and provides an inside look at Georgia’s subterranean beauty.

While the entry fee (~$65 per adult) isn’t included in the tour price, many guests find it worthwhile given the cave’s impressive formations. One reviewer called it “fascinating,” and noted how the cave’s natural acoustics and lighting added to the experience.

End of the Day and Returning to Kutaisi

After a full day of exploring, the tour wraps up with your return journey to the original meeting point. The entire experience lasts roughly 8 to 9 hours, providing ample time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

What Travelers Are Saying

The overwhelmingly positive reviews suggest this trip strikes a good balance between packed sightseeing and relaxed enjoyment. One reviewer expressed how “there was more than enough time to appreciate each stop,” emphasizing the well-paced nature.

Multiple users praised their guides, describing them as “very knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “helpful,” making the whole day more engaging and less like a rushed tour. Melanie G. even called her guide Ana “well informed and incredibly helpful,” which shows how the right guide can elevate the experience.

A common highlight across reviews was the stunning scenery. Travelers frequently mention the “spectacular” canyons and the “fascinating” cave formations. Several reviews also mention the opportunity to sample local wine and pomegranate juice, adding a taste of Georgian hospitality.

Potential Drawbacks Noted

While most reviews are glowing, some mention the extra costs—notably for entry tickets, boat rides, or jeep rentals—which can add up. It’s important to budget around $65 for cave entry, plus extras. Also, a few reviewers pointed out the physical demands — about 1-2 hours of walking — so comfortable shoes and moderate fitness are recommended.

Value for Money

At just over $32 per person, this tour is a bargain considering the number of sites visited and the private transport included. When you factor in the convenience, guide expertise, and scenic variety, many feel it’s well worth the price. It’s a packed day that offers a lot of value, especially if you’re short on time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day of nature and cave exploring. It’s especially suited for those who prefer private, flexible transportation over public options. If you enjoy walking and outdoor activities but want to avoid the logistical stress, this tour hits the right notes.

While it’s not overly strenuous, being comfortable with some walking is necessary. It’s also well-loved by those who appreciate local guides with a friendly attitude and deep knowledge.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour provides private, air-conditioned transportation from Kutaisi, making logistics one less thing to worry about.

Are entry fees to the sites included?
No, the entry fees (~$65 per adult, $16.50 per child) are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately.

Can I do optional activities like rafting or boat rides?
Yes, you can opt for a boat ride at Martvili Canyon (costing around $20) or rent a jeep at Okatse Canyon (10-15 GEL), but these are paid separately.

How much walking is involved?
Expect about 1-2 hours of walking throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity and outdoor nature suggest it’s suitable for children who can handle walking and are comfortable in outdoor environments.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire trip lasts about 8 to 9 hours, from pickup to return.

Is food or snacks included?
No, snacks aren’t included. However, some reviews mention local wine and juice being offered, adding a nice local touch.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through Viator, with most bookings made about two weeks in advance, ensuring availability.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic day out in Georgia, this tour from Kutaisi offers a solid mix of adventure and natural beauty. The private transport and knowledgeable guides make it especially appealing, transforming what could be a complicated day into a seamless experience.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see a variety of landscapes without the hassle of multiple bookings or driving themselves. Expect stunning views, friendly local insights, and enough flexibility to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

While extra costs at the sites are something to plan for, most guests find the overall value, convenience, and quality of the experience well worth it. If you’re ready for a day immersed in Georgia’s striking scenery, this tour is likely to deliver.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a curious explorer, or just someone looking to tick off some of Georgia’s best sights in one go, this trip is worth considering. Just remember to bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and a spirit for adventure.