From Kutaisi:Canyons and caves tour with transfer to Tbilisi

Exploring Georgia’s Natural Wonders: A Review of the Canyons and Caves Tour from Kutaisi

If you’re planning a trip to Georgia and want a day packed with natural beauty, this Canyons and Caves Tour from Kutaisi could be right up your alley. It promises to take you into the heart of Georgia’s Imereti and Samegrelo regions, where lush green canyons, shimmering caves, and waterfalls await. The fact that it includes both prominent natural sites and a transfer to Tbilisi makes it an appealing option for travelers looking to maximize their day without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible and well-organized it appears. The tour guides seem knowledgeable, and the sights are genuinely impressive. Plus, it’s a fairly flexible day—offering the option to end in Kutaisi or continue on to Tbilisi, which makes it adaptable to different travel plans. However, one thing to keep in mind is that some of the costs for entrance tickets aren’t included, so you should budget an extra couple of dollars for that.

This tour seems perfect for those who love outdoor adventures, natural scenery, and a bit of storytelling about local legends. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a full day of exploration with the convenience of transportation and a friendly guide. If you’re curious about Georgia’s landscapes and looking for a mix of adventure and culture, this trip could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Stunning natural sites including Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave
• Expert guides who know the area and make the experience more engaging
• Flexible ending options—either back in Kutaisi or continuing to Tbilisi
• Cost considerations include some entrance fees not included in the price
• Comfortable transportation with a small, modern bus
• Good value for travelers wanting a full-day adventure

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

When you sign up for this Canyons and Caves Tour, you’re signing up for a full day of Georgia’s most eye-catching outdoor sights, combined with local legends and some light adventure. The tour starts at a convenient meeting point in Kutaisi—specifically, in front of McDonald’s, a familiar spot that’s easy to find. The tour kicks off at around 10:00 am, and from there, the day unfolds with a well-paced itinerary.

First Stop: Martvili Canyon

The journey begins with a visit to Martvili Canyon, just half an hour from Kutaisi. This spot is beloved for its vivid green canyons, waterfalls, and moss-covered walls. We’ve seen many reviews praising the scenery here—it’s described as “brilliant,” “sensational,” and “gorgeous,” making it clear that this is a highlight. The canyon’s natural beauty is best experienced on foot and via a boat trip on the river, which adds a playful element to the day.

Many visitors mention that the boat ride is particularly memorable, with a deep green hue that makes it feel like a secret world. One reviewer shared that “the boat was very fun,” and it’s a fantastic way to see the canyon from a different perspective. The two-hour stop allows enough time to enjoy the views, take photos, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Second Stop: Prometheus Cave

Next, the group heads to Kumistavi, home to Georgia’s most famous cave, often called the Prometheus Cave. This spot is famous not only for its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites but also for a legend about Amirani, tying it to local folklore. The cave’s interior is illuminated with colorful lights—from orange to pink and blue—which really accentuate the formations and underground lakes.

Visitors consistently mention how impressive and mesmerizing the cave is. One reviewer notes, “The cave has colorful lights, ranging from orange-red to pink and blue,” which enhances the surreal atmosphere. Plus, the views of Khvamli Mountain from the cave add to the sense of being in a place filled with myth and legend.

While the admission fee for the cave isn’t included in the tour price, it’s roughly 23 GEL (around $7 USD) per person, which many feel is a reasonable cost considering the spectacle of sights inside. It’s a cool experience that adds a sense of adventure and discovery to the day.

Final Options: Endings and Transfers

The tour offers two options for the finish: either returning to Kutaisi around 6 pm or extending the day until about 10 pm at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Tbilisi. This flexibility is handy for travelers who want to continue their exploration or have a later flight.

The transportation is described as comfortable, with a small, modern bus (many mention a Mercedes), and the transfer service seems well-organized, with friendly guides ensuring the smooth flow of the day. The group size appears manageable, allowing for a more personalized experience.

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What People Are Saying: Honest Feedback from Travelers

The reviews speak volumes about the tour’s quality. Many mention the guides, like Anna and Nika, praising them for their knowledge, friendliness, and organization. One reviewer said, “Anna is an experienced and kind guide,” emphasizing how important a good guide is for making the experience memorable.

Participants also appreciate the value for money. One reviewer highlighted that “everything was on time and the price-quality ratio was great,” and that the tour was “well-planned” and “a fantastic day in nature.” They also noted the “nice small bus” and smooth driving, which can make a big difference on long day trips.

Of course, some small critiques appear, such as wishing for more time in the canyon or the cave, especially if you’re a nature lover who wants to linger. Also, since entrance fees aren’t included, it’s worth budgeting around $12 for both sites, but many agree that the sights are worth the extra cost.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, with times starting around 10 am and either ending in Kutaisi or continuing to Tbilisi later in the evening. The luggage allowance is generous—up to 40kg per person—so you won’t need to worry about packing light if you’re transferring to another city afterward.

The guides speak English, and the tour is fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind. You’ll be met at a set location and guided through each stop, making logistics straightforward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Anyone with a love for outdoor scenery, caves, waterfalls, and legends will find this tour engaging. It’s especially fitting for travelers who want a full day of exploration, combined with the convenience of transportation. While not explicitly aimed at families, the stops are natural and safe, suited for most fit travelers. If you enjoy adventure, nature, and stories, this trip delivers on value, scenery, and cultural insight.

The Sum Up

This Canyons and Caves Tour from Kutaisi offers a comprehensive taste of Georgia’s wild side. With breathtaking landscapes, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to see iconic sites like Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to explore beyond the city. The flexible end options give you room to customize your day, whether you want to return to Kutaisi or continue onward to Tbilisi.

The experience balances adventure, culture, and natural beauty, all at a reasonable price considering the sights and comfort provided. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, mostly thanks to the friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and well-organized schedule. If you’re after a day that combines outdoor activity with storytelling and good value, this tour could be a highlight of your Georgian trip.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves walking in canyons and caves, so it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate level of fitness. Families with older children who enjoy outdoor adventures will likely find it enjoyable.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and the experience of visiting Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave. Luggage space up to 40kg per person is also provided. Entrance fees for the sites are not included but are reasonably priced at around 17.25 GEL for Martvili Canyon and 23 GEL for the cave.

Can I extend the tour to Tbilisi?
Yes, you can choose to finish in Kutaisi at 18:00 or extend the experience until about 22:00 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Tbilisi, which is convenient for onward travel.

What is the duration of the tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 12 hours, with the starting time generally around 10:00 am.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
Guides operate in English, making it accessible for international travelers.

Do I need to pay for entrance tickets?
Yes, for Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave, entrance fees are paid separately—about 5.5 USD and 7 USD per person, respectively.

Is the transportation comfortable?
According to reviews, yes. A smaller, comfortable Mercedes bus is used, and driving is smooth.

Is food included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan accordingly.

What kind of scenery can I expect?
Expect lush green canyons, waterfalls, underground lakes, stalactites, stalagmites, and colorful cave formations—truly some of Georgia’s best natural sights.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely. It offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally interesting day, especially for those who enjoy nature and storytelling. Just be prepared for some walking and an extra budget for entrance fees.

This tour strikes a good balance of adventure, scenery, and convenience. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or a small group, it’s a solid way to experience Georgia’s natural treasures without the hassle of organizing logistics yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: