Tour to Canyons from Tbilisi (Okatse Trail, Kinchkha Waterfall, Martvili, Balda)

Discover Georgia’s Natural Wonders with a Full-Day Canyon Tour from Tbilisi

If you’re looking to escape the bustling city life of Tbilisi and dive into Georgia’s breathtaking landscapes, this full-day canyon adventure might just be what you need. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but based on reviews and the itinerary, it promises a solid mix of impressive natural sights and a comfortable, organized day out.

Two particular aspects stand out: the sheer beauty of the Okatse Canyon and the powerful Kinchkha Waterfall. Both are highlighted as truly awe-inspiring sights that make the trip worth every penny. A potential downside? The long drive—around 625 km, or roughly 385 miles—means you’ll spend quite a bit of time in transit, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic road trips.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Georgia’s canyons and waterfalls without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. It’s also ideal if you’re comfortable with a physically active day, given the nature of the stops. Let’s take a detailed look at what you can expect from this adventure.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Full-Day Experience: Covers four major canyon and waterfall sites in a single day.
• Private Transport: Ensures comfort and flexibility, with WiFi and bottled water included.
• Impressive Natural Sights: From the towering Okatse Canyon to the majestic Kinchkha Waterfall, the views are a highlight.
• Long Drive: Expect roughly 6 hours of driving, so be prepared for a full day on the road.
• Pricing: At $197.50 per person, it offers good value considering the sights and private transport.
• Weather Considerations: Visiting Okatse Canyon involves walking on hanging trails, which might be restricted in bad weather.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Bright and Early at 7:00 am

The tour kicks off early in the morning, perfect if you prefer to maximize your sightseeing time. The group departs from Tbilisi in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, making the long drive more pleasant. Bottled water is included, so you stay hydrated without extra fuss.

Stop 1: Okatse Canyon

Our first stop is Okatse Canyon, a natural wonder that quite impresses visitors. The canyon is famous for its dramatic cliffs and the hanging trail that offers spectacular views over the gorge. According to the review, “The tour was very impressive. I have never seen something beautiful like Okatse.” That pretty much sums it up—this place is a visual feast.

However, keep in mind that admission tickets aren’t included, and you must be at least 1.20 meters tall to walk the trail safely, especially because the trail can be slippery in rainy or snowy weather. The trail is not suitable in bad weather, so check the forecast if you’re planning to visit. The two hours spent here give you enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: Kinchkha Waterfall

Next up is the Kinchkha Waterfall, one of Georgia’s most impressive cascades. You’ll get an hour to marvel at the powerful water plunging down from great heights. The review mentions the sight as “awesome,” which many visitors agree with—it’s a classic Georgia postcard scene, especially if you like the sound of rushing water and lush surroundings.

Since admission isn’t included, you might want to budget a little extra if you’d like to get closer or explore more around the waterfall. This stop is straightforward but offers a great photo opportunity and a chance to feel the fresh mist of the falling water.

Stop 3: Balda Canyon

The third stop is Balda Canyon, another scenic spot that adds variety to the tour. It’s less talked about than the others, but you’ll get about an hour to explore its natural beauty. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and enjoy some quieter, less crowded scenery.

Final Stop: Martvili Canyon

The last major attraction is Martvili Canyon, famed for its clear blue waters, small waterfalls, and scenic boat rides (though boat rides aren’t included in this tour). The review mentions it as part of the “beautiful places of Georgia,” and it seems to be a favorite for many.

You’ll spend about an hour here, enough to appreciate the views and maybe take some photos to remember your day. It’s a fitting finale to a trip packed with natural beauty.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers private transportation, ensuring you and your group travel comfortably and efficiently. The vehicle is air-conditioned, with WiFi onboard, which is a nice touch for such a long day. Bottled water keeps you hydrated, a simple but thoughtful inclusion.

On the flip side, lunch and dinner are not included. Given the full-day nature of the tour, you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat somewhere during your stops or in Tbilisi afterward. The long drive means that having some provisions might be wise.

Cost and Value

At $197.50 per person, this tour is fairly priced considering the private transport, multiple scenic stops, and the fact that it’s all tailored to your group. The reviews suggest that the service is “pretty cheap,” which might reflect good affordability for such a packed day.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience seems best suited for travelers who love nature and outdoor scenery. If you’re comfortable with a full day of walking and some physical activity—especially on the Okatse hanging trail—it will be a rewarding day.

It’s also a good pick for those who want a guided, worry-free experience rather than trying to organize multiple day trips on their own. The private aspect means fewer crowds and more personalized service, though it’s not specifically tailored for families or children, so check the physical requirements if traveling with kids.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after stunning views and a taste of Georgia’s natural beauty, this canyon and waterfall tour offers plenty of it. The combination of four different sites ensures variety, and the early start gives you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

The long drive might be a consideration if you’re not keen on spending hours in transit, but the comfort of private transportation and the scenic views along the way help balance that out. Plus, the reviews confirm that the sights are worth it—many visitors come away truly impressed.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want to see Georgia’s best natural spots in one shot, especially if you appreciate well-organized, private excursions. Just be prepared for the physical aspects of some stops and the weather-dependent walking trails.

FAQs

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it runs approximately 15 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning in the evening.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat after the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If you plan to walk on the hanging trail at Okatse Canyon, be prepared for potentially slippery conditions, especially in bad weather.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for children, the physical requirements mean children should be of a suitable height (over 1.20 meters) and comfortable with walking on trails.

How is the transportation arranged?
You’ll be traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, which makes the long drive more pleasant.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, visits to Okatse Canyon, especially walking on the hanging trails, can be restricted in rainy or snowy weather for safety reasons.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $197.50 per person, offering good value considering the sights and private transport included.

In the end, if you’re craving Georgia’s striking natural scenery and don’t mind a long day in the car, this canyon tour is likely to leave you with memorable views and plenty of stories to tell. Just pack your sense of adventure, comfortable shoes, and a camera—this trip doesn’t disappoint on the visual front.