Kutaisi: Okatse-Martvili Canyons,Prometheus Cave, Waterfalls

Experience the Natural and Historic Splendors of Kutaisi in a Day

If you’re visiting Kutaisi and looking to escape into Georgia’s stunning scenery, this comprehensive tour offers an excellent way to see some of the best natural and historical highlights in the region. For around 9 hours, you’ll explore Okatse and Martvili Canyons, visit the awe-inspiring Prometheus Cave, and enjoy a refreshing stop at Ogueshi Waterfall. The tour also includes a peek into Tskaltubo’s Soviet-era sanatoriums, making it a well-rounded experience for lovers of nature and history alike.

What we love most about this experience is how smoothly it combines adventure, with that thrill of crossing hanged bridges 150 meters above the canyon floor, with moments of peaceful reflection on a boat trip through Martvili’s serene waters. Plus, the guide’s stories and local insights elevate the visit, making it more than just sightseeing.

The only possible drawback? With so many stops packed into one day, you might find yourself wishing for more time at your favorite sites—especially the caves or waterfalls. Still, if you’re curious about Georgia’s diverse landscapes and cultural relics, this tour offers excellent value and an authentic taste of the region.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, nature photography, and cultural exploration. It’s perfect for those who appreciate professional guiding, want to maximize their sightseeing in a limited time, and enjoy a small group setting for a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience breathtaking vistas from the hanging bridges at Okatse Canyon.
• Authentic Boat Trip: Glide through Martvili Canyon’s tranquil waters for a memorable perspective.
• Spectacular Cave: Marvel at the unique formations inside Prometheus Cave.
• Waterfall Fun: Take a dip or just enjoy the beauty of Ogueshi Waterfall.
• Historical Insights: Visit abandoned sanatoriums and Soviet architecture at Tskaltubo.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and share engaging stories about Georgia’s history and nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Georgia’s Nature and History in a Day

This tour from Kutaisi offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural relics, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want a full, fulfilling day without the hassle of planning every detail. We found it particularly appealing because of how accessible everything feels—even the hanged bridges at Okatse, which provide a heart-pumping experience, are managed with safety and awe in mind.

The tour begins early, around 9 a.m., giving you a full day packed with diverse activities. Your day kicks off at Okatse Canyon, where you’ll be treated to magnificent panoramic views. The highlight here is crossing hanged bridges that hang 150 meters above the gorge. The transparent floors allow you to see straight down into the canyon, making for an adrenaline-fueled photo opportunity. For those who prefer a more grounded experience, there’s also the option to hire off-road vehicles to reach the canyon, adding a layer of flexibility.

Next, about an hour’s drive brings you to Martvili Canyon. Here, the star attraction is the boat trip through the narrow, lush canyon, which is often described as magical. Travelers have shared that this boat ride, combined with walking through beautiful scenery, creates an unforgettable experience. Nearby, there’s also a zipline for the more adventurous, adding some extra excitement.

After this, the tour takes you just minutes away to visit the Martvili Dam and Ogueshi Waterfall. If you’re visiting in good weather, swimming here is definitely an option—refreshing after a day of walking and sightseeing. Many reviews highlight how enjoyable this stop is, especially after the boat trip.

The journey continues to Tskaltubo, a town famous for its Soviet sanatorium architecture. Walking among abandoned sanatoriums of Stalin’s era gives a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s recent past. The surreal atmosphere of these structures adds a different layer of interest for history buffs.

Finally, the tour culminates with a visit to the Prometheus Cave. This extensive limestone cave features stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams, and is guided by a local expert. The tour includes optional exits—by boat or on foot—so you can choose your preferred way out of this underground wonder.

What to Expect from Each Stop

Okatse Canyon

The real highlight here is the hanged bridges suspended at 150 meters height. The transparent floors make every step feel like a daring adventure, and the views are simply breathtaking. Many travelers, including those who are usually cautious about heights, find this experience exhilarating and safe, thanks to well-maintained infrastructure. Expect to walk approximately 2.5 km through forested paths from the visitor center to the canyon.

Martvili Canyon

This site is best known for the boat trip that takes you into the heart of Georgia’s lush, tranquil canyon. As one reviewer put it, “the boat ride is unforgettable,” allowing you to see nature from a different perspective. The nearby zipline offers a quick adrenaline rush, perfect for those seeking a bit more thrill.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ogueshi Waterfall & Dam

A short drive from Martvili, this waterfall is a refreshing stop. If weather permits, you can swim here, making it a perfect place to cool off. The dam also offers opportunities for photos and relaxing by the water.

Tskaltubo

Here, you’ll walk among abandoned sanatoriums, some built during Stalin’s time. The architecture is striking, and the eerie silence lends a sense of stepping back in time. Many reviews mention how interesting it is to see the Soviet-era architecture firsthand, and it offers a different kind of sightseeing compared to the natural sites.

Prometheus Cave

This is Georgia’s most famous limestone cave, with guided tours lasting about an hour. The underground formations are stunning and give you an almost otherworldly feeling. You get the option to exit via a motor boat or walk out, depending on your preference.

The Value and Overall Experience

At roughly Gel 17.25 for entrance fees (per site), the costs add up, but many consider it worth the price, especially given the quality of the guides and the diversity of sights. The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics and maximizes your sightseeing time.

What really makes this tour stand out is the balance of active outdoor experiences with moments of peaceful reflection, such as the boat trip and waterfalls. The small group size (limited to 7 participants) ensures a more intimate experience, with guides who are well-versed in local stories and history. Multiple reviews praise guides like David for their professionalism, friendliness, and storytelling skills, which significantly enhances the trip.

In terms of value, considering the transportation, guided experience, and access to multiple attractions—all in one day—the cost is quite reasonable. It’s a good option for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Georgia’s natural beauty and history, without the need to organize multiple separate excursions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous spirits who enjoy scenic hikes and boat rides, as well as those interested in Soviet architecture and history. It suits visitors who appreciate small-group tours for a more personalized experience and are comfortable with a busy schedule that covers several sites. If you’re traveling with family, many reviews note the tour’s accessibility and engaging guides make it suitable for all ages, provided you’re prepared for some walking and outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Kutaisi eager to see Georgia’s wild side, this tour delivers a well-rounded day of spectacular views, cultural insights, and outdoor fun. The combination of adventure at the canyons, the wonder of underground caves, and the history of Soviet sanatoriums makes it a rich experience. The generally high praise from past travelers, especially regarding guides like David and the stunning scenery, speaks volumes about its quality.

While it’s a full day, the variety keeps things exciting—every stop offers a new perspective. If you’re after a value-filled experience that combines nature, history, and some adrenaline, this tour is an excellent choice for your Georgia itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 9 a.m. and returning in the evening, around 7 p.m., depending on conditions.

What is included in the price?
The tour package includes a guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, but not entrance fees. Entrance fees are paid separately at each site.

Are entrance fees expensive?
Entrance fees are around Gel 17.25 for Okatse and Martvili Canyons, Gel 23 for Prometheus Cave, plus optional boat rides and other activities.

Can I opt out of any stops?
The tour is designed as a package, but some optional activities like boat rides are available. If you prefer not to participate, you can simply enjoy the scenery from the shore.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 6 are free, and the experience is family-friendly, with some walking and outdoor activities suitable for most ages.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a swimsuit if you plan to swim at Ogueshi Waterfall.

Is there any walking involved?
Yes, expect to walk about 2.5 km at Okatse Canyon and some additional walking at other sites, but the pace is manageable.

What is the guide like?
Reviews praise guides like David for being friendly, professional, and knowledgeable, making the experience engaging and informative.

Are there any seasonal considerations?
Rain might cause some sites to close or become slippery, so check the weather forecast before booking.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is fixed, but the guide’s local knowledge helps tailor the experience as much as possible within the schedule.

In summary, this tour from Kutaisi offers a compact, adventure-filled day that balances stunning natural sights with a touch of history and local culture. Whether you’re snapping photos from hanging bridges, marveling at cave formations, or strolling among Soviet sanatoriums, you’ll leave with an appreciation for Georgia’s diverse landscape and heritage. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager for a robust, authentic experience without the stress of planning every detail.

You can check availability for your dates here: