From Kutaisi: Martvili & Okatse Canyons & Cave Guided Tour

If you’re looking for a day packed with breathtaking landscapes, this small-group tour from Kutaisi is a fantastic choice. For just over $27 per person, you’ll visit some of Georgia’s most impressive natural sites—Martvili Canyon, Okatse Canyon, and Prometheus Cave—all within approximately nine hours. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable locals, you’ll enjoy walking over hanging bridges, taking boat rides, and marveling at waterfalls and stalactites that seem straight out of a fantasy.

What really makes this trip stand out for us are two things: the variety of landscapes packed in a single day and the small-group setting, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. Plus, the scenery is truly stunning, perfect for capturing memorable photos. The only thing to consider is that some of the attractions have additional admission fees, so it’s worth budgeting accordingly if you want to go for all the optional activities.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Georgia’s wild side without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves. It suits those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking, boat rides, and minor hikes are involved. If you’re eager to see natural wonders—plus enjoy the company of like-minded explorers—this tour is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary combining caves, canyons, waterfalls, and a short stop at Tskaltubo sanatoriums
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and friendly service
• Value for money considering transportation, guide, and multiple sites for just over $27
• Flexible options for optional activities like boat rides and ziplining
• Small-group setting improves the experience and provides more personalized attention
• Convenient meeting point and WiFi on board make logistics easier

Discover Georgia’s Natural Beauty

This tour offers a fantastic overview of Georgia’s rugged, scenic landscape in one day. We loved the way your guide handles all the logistics—transport, tickets, and timing—so you can focus on soaking in the views. Starting in Kutaisi, the journey begins with the awe-inspiring Prometheus Cave, a vast network of stalactites and stalagmites that feel like a natural cathedral. It’s a cool, dark space that makes for dramatic photos and a refreshing break from the sun.

Next, you’ll visit Martvili Canyon—a verdant gorge carved by mountain rivers. Here, you can take a boat ride or walk along the canyon rim, admiring waterfalls and stone bridges. Many reviews talk about how spectacular the scenery is, with one traveler noting that the stops and views “were just incredible.” If you enjoy a bit of thrill, you can also try the zipline crossing the canyon, adding a dash of adventure to the day.

The Okatse Canyon is equally impressive, with its famous hanging bridge offering a vertiginous view of the lush valley below. The walk across the bridge is both exciting and panoramic, giving you a sense of Georgia’s wild, untouched environment. Many visitors mention how together with the Prometheus Cave, these sites are “very impressive,” making for memorable photos and stories.

A short stop at Zeda Gordi provides a chance to learn about local traditions through a “Churchkhela” masterclass—Georgia’s famous candied nut snack—and buy some sweets directly from a small factory. It’s a sweet way to connect with local culture and take home some authentic treats.

Before heading back, you’ll visit the abandoned sanatoriums in Tskaltubo—a haunting and fascinating look at Georgia’s Soviet-era health resorts. Many reviews describe this stop as “super cool,” adding an unexpected historical layer to the day. The tour wraps up with a drive back to Kutaisi, where you’ll be dropped off at your starting point.

What You’ll Experience and Why It Matters

Transportation and Guides: The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, making traveling between sites comfortable. Your guide is an English speaker, providing insight and answering questions along the way. Travelers consistently praise guides like Sandra for her friendliness and knowledge, which can really elevate the experience.

Cost and Value: At $27.28, the price is quite reasonable considering the number of sites visited, transportation, and guide services. However, admission fees to some locations—about $65 per adult—are extra, so budget accordingly if you want to see everything. Optional activities like boat rides at Martvili ($20) and a jeep ride at Okatse (~10-15 GEL) are also available, which can add fun but increase your total expense.

Timing and Pace: Starting at 10 a.m., the schedule is well thought-out, allowing enough time at each site without feeling rushed. The total duration of about nine hours includes travel, sightseeing, and breaks. This makes it suitable for most travelers who want a full day of outdoor adventure without a frantic pace.

Physical Activity: The tour involves walking, some minor hikes, and crossing bridges. Reviews mention that travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as some sites are physically engaging. Still, the walking is manageable for most, and guides are accommodating if you prefer to skip optional extras.

The Benefits of Booking This Tour

The most compelling aspect? The expertly curated itinerary packs in Georgia’s most photogenic and interesting natural sites. You’ll get a good mix of caves, waterfalls, and canyons, all within a manageable day trip. Many travelers note that the stunning views and knowledgeable guides make the experience memorable.

Another highlight is the small-group setting. With fewer people, you’ll find it easier to ask questions, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without dealing with large crowds. The convenient meeting point in Kutaisi and WiFi onboard also make logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying in the area.

The tour’s flexibility—optional activities and the ability to buy local sweets—adds a personal touch, making it more than just a sightseeing bus ride. Many reviewers, like Eloy and Nora, emphasize how well-organized and enjoyable the day was, with “spectacular views” and friendly locals contributing to a positive experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler eager to see Georgia’s natural wonders in one day without fussing with transport or tickets, this tour fits perfectly. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, and if you enjoy walking and some minor adventures like boat rides or crossing bridges, you’ll love it.

People who value local culture—like the churchkhela masterclass—and appreciate small groups will find this trip rewarding. It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a more leisurely, less physically active experience.

Final Thoughts

This From Kutaisi: Martvili & Okatse Canyons & Cave Guided Tour offers a concentrated dose of Georgia’s natural splendor. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and smooth logistics makes it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to maximize their outdoors experience in a day. You’ll return with a camera full of photos and a head full of stories about Georgia’s rugged beauty.

Ideal for adventurous travelers, families, or anyone keen on authentic natural sights, this tour balances value and discovery. The only thing to keep in mind is the extra costs for some attractions and optional activities, but overall, it’s a well-rounded, memorable adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, making the journey between sites comfortable and convenient.

Are the entry fees included?
No, the admission tickets to the canyons and caves are extra—about $65 per adult—and optional activities like boat rides and jeep rides cost additional.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and breaks, starting at 10 a.m. and returning to Kutaisi.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as there’s some walking and minor hikes involved. Weather-appropriate clothing is advisable, especially if visiting caves and outdoor sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children have moderate physical fitness, since some walking and crossing bridges are involved. Optional activities like boat rides can be skipped if preferred.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. The experience is weather-dependent, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Georgia’s natural beauty, with friendly guides and a flexible setup that makes exploring the canyons, caves, and waterfalls both accessible and memorable. It’s a day well spent for anyone eager to see Georgia’s outdoors in all their rugged glory.