Prometheus Caves, Martvili Canyons Private Day Trip

If you’re dreaming of getting out of the city and into nature during your visit to Georgia, this private day trip from Tbilisi offers a balanced mix of underground marvels and stunning landscapes. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews consistently highlight how this tour packs in some of Georgia’s most scenic and interesting sights all in one full day.

What we really like about this experience is how tailored it seems—especially with a private guide and transportation, making it more flexible and personal than group tours. Plus, the stops at Prometheus Caves and Martvili Canyon are genuinely breathtaking, offering plenty of photo opportunities and moments of awe.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that entrance fees aren’t included in the tour price, which means you’ll need to budget a little extra if you want to go inside the caves or enjoy the boat ride in Martvili Canyon. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a full day of nature and don’t mind moderate physical activity—think walking and some light hiking. If you love discovering Georgia’s natural side with a guide who knows the area well, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Guided tour with transportation makes for a comfortable, flexible day.
• Stunning landscapes: Expect breathtaking views at Martvili Canyon, Prometheus Caves, and Kinchkha Waterfall.
• Underground wonder: The Prometheus Caves are a major highlight, with massive halls and stalactites.
• Active but manageable: Moderate physical activity required, suitable for most travelers in decent shape.
• Cost considerations: Entrance tickets aren’t included, so budget an extra ~$22 USD per person.
• Highly praised guides: Multiple reviews mention knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience.

The tour covers a lot of ground, and the main value lies in the convenience—your own driver and guide for the day. For $139 per person, you get pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Tbilisi, private transportation, and a guide who’s there to make the day smooth.

You’ll also get a bottle of water, which is a small but thoughtful touch, especially on a full-day trip. The tour also offers online support around the clock, so if you have questions beforehand or during, someone is there to help.

However, admission to Prometheus Caves costs about 23 GEL (~$9 USD), and Martvili Canyon’s boat ride is 33 GEL (~$13 USD). These are optional extras, but they definitely add to the experience. Many reviewers find the cost worth it, given the quality of the sights and the guide’s helpfulness.

Let’s walk through what you can expect from each stop, and what makes these places worth the visit.

Early Morning Pickup in Tbilisi

Your day kicks off with a private driver and guide meeting you at your hotel. This sets the tone—no rushed group starts, just a relaxed pickup. The drive out to Kutaisi takes roughly 2-3 hours, but with a private vehicle, you can enjoy the scenery and even chat with your guide about Georgia’s history and culture.

Martvili Canyon

One of the first stops is Martvili Canyon, a favorite among travelers for its diverse natural beauty. The reviews rave about the brilliant scenery, waterfalls, and the boat trip that takes you through the deep-green waters of the canyon.

The boat ride is a highlight—gliding between towering rocks and feeling the cool spray of waterfalls. Many mention how special it is to float through such a dramatic setting, with the guide providing context and commentary. You can also have the option to grab some traditional Georgian dishes for lunch nearby, adding a tasty local touch to your day.

Expect to spend about an hour and a half here, enough time to enjoy the views, take photos, and relax. Keep in mind, boat rides and canyon entrance aren’t included in the price, so plan accordingly.

Prometheus Cave

Next up is the famous Prometheus Cave, a natural wonder that’s often described as otherworldly. Spanning about 11 km in length, only 1,060 meters are accessible to visitors, revealing a stunning display of stalactites, stalagmites, and massive halls.

The guided tour here typically lasts around an hour and a half, allowing you to really soak in the spectacular formations and learn about the cave’s geology. Many reviewers highlight the guides’ knowledge and how they help make the underground scenery come alive.

While the entrance fee is extra, some reviews mention that the experience is worth the additional cost. The cool underground air and impressive scale of the cave make it a memorable highlight of the trip.

Kinchkha Waterfall

Although not explicitly included in the main itinerary details, the tour does mention visiting Kinchkha Waterfall, one of Georgia’s tallest waterfalls. If weather and road conditions permit, this is a fantastic spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the power of nature.

From reviews, many travelers say the waterfall offers great photo opportunities and a peaceful environment. Keep in mind, since the waterfall is part of the broader landscape, visiting it might involve some light walking or hiking, so bring appropriate footwear.

Return to Tbilisi

After a day packed with natural wonders, your private guide takes you back to Tbilisi, with plenty of time to reflect on a day well spent. Most travelers find the drive relaxing and appreciate having someone knowledgeable to answer questions about Georgia’s history and culture along the way.

At $139 per person, this tour offers a lot—especially considering the private guide and transportation. The access to spots like the Prometheus Caves and Martvili Canyon, which usually involve separate entrance fees, makes the overall experience feel fairly priced. Many reviews emphasize how guides make a difference, providing local insights and keeping the day engaging.

While it’s not a cheap day out, you’re paying for convenience, personalized service, and high-quality sights. If you’re someone who values getting off the beaten path without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Remember, some elements like entrance tickets are extra, so budgeting around $22 USD for those makes sense. Also, consider your physical fitness—most stops involve walking or light hiking, but it’s manageable for most travelers.

This trip suits travelers who want a hassle-free way to see Georgia’s natural gems in one day. If you enjoy a balance of underground exploration and scenic outdoor spots, you’ll love the way this tour combines both. It’s especially good for those who prefer private guides and transportation, making the experience more personal and less rushed.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy nature and comfortable logistics, this tour can cater to those needs, provided they’re okay with some moderate activity. It’s not tailored specifically for kids, but older children who are comfortable with walking and standing will find it enjoyable.

If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer to explore at your own pace, but still want to see these highlights, this guided day trip offers a fantastic shortcut to experiencing Georgia’s outdoors without the stress of logistics.

All in all, the Prometheus Caves and Martvili Canyons private day trip offers a compelling package of natural wonders, guided by knowledgeable locals who enhance each stop with insights and care. The scenery is genuinely stunning, and the underground caves are sure to be a highlight of your Georgian trip.

While you’ll need to budget for entrance tickets separately and be prepared for some walking, the overall value and convenience make it a strong choice for those wanting a full day immersed in nature. It’s a solid pick for travelers who appreciate comfort, expert guidance, and authentic scenic experiences.

If Georgia’s landscapes call to you and you want the peace of mind of a private tour, this is definitely worth considering. Just make sure to book in advance, since this tour is popular and tends to fill up about 40 days ahead.

Are pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Tbilisi, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience runs about 10 to 12 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop and travel comfortably.

Do I need to pay for entrance tickets separately?
Yes, entrance tickets to Prometheus Caves and Martvili Canyon are not included in the $139 price. Expect to pay around 22 USD total for both.

Is transportation private?
Absolutely. You’ll travel in a private vehicle with a driver, ensuring a relaxed and personalized experience.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and possibly light hiking, so it’s better suited to those with moderate physical fitness.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly family-focused, most older children who enjoy outdoor adventures and can walk comfortably will find it fine.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 40 days ahead, as this tour is popular among visitors.

What’s the best time of year for this trip?
Spring through early fall typically offers the best weather for outdoor activities and canyon visits.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. A small backpack for water and essentials is also handy.

This tour offers a thoughtful mix of adventure, scenery, and local insights—perfect if you want to experience Georgia’s natural side without the fuss of planning every detail yourself.