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The 16 Best Tours in Kutaisi
Kutaisi is a city that offers more than just its ancient temples and lively markets – it’s a perfect base for exploring Georgia’s natural beauty, history, and vibrant local culture. What makes Kutaisi especially appealing is its proximity to incredible outdoor sights and its accessibility for travelers wanting authentic experiences. Whether you’re into hiking high bridges, cruising through caves, or tasting legendary wines, Kutaisi has a tour for you. We especially like the Chiatura: Chiatura Tour with the Katskhi Pillar, which combines Soviet-era industrial history with a visit to a rock monastery, or the Martvili & Okatse Canyons tours that provide jaw-dropping scenery.
If you’re wondering where to start, our list below covers a variety of experiences—from full-day outdoor adventures to intimate walking tours—that show off Kutaisi’s best sides. Each of these tours has earned high praise, making it easier for you to pick your perfect adventure.
1. Kutaisi:Chiatura Tour with Katskhi Pillar & Cable Car
Rating: 4.9/5 (433 reviews)
This full-day trip is a fascinating look at Georgia’s Soviet-era mining town of Chiatura. The highlight is the Katskhi Pillar, a towering natural monolith topped with a tiny monastery—an impressive sight you can admire from the base or get a closer view of during the visit. The tour also includes riding Chiatura’s famous cable cars, which date back to the Soviet period, offering panoramic views of the town’s old factories and lush valleys.
A visit to a cave monastery adds a splash of spiritual history, and the entire day is a mix of natural scenery and industrial relics. With a 4.9 rating from 433 reviews and a very affordable $19 price, this tour offers an authentic peek into Georgia’s lesser-known industrial heritage. It’s perfect for travelers interested in history, unique landscapes, and local culture.
Bottom Line: A well-priced, immersive day that combines natural wonders with Soviet-era history, ideal for those curious about Georgia’s diverse past.
2. From Kutaisi: Martvili & Okatse Canyons & Cave Guided Tour
Rating: 4.9/5 (350 reviews)
This full-day guided journey takes you beyond Kutaisi’s city limits to explore some of Georgia’s most impressive natural sights. Starting at Martvili Canyon, you’ll enjoy a boat cruise in turquoise waters and walk across scenic bridges, soaking in the lush surroundings. Next, you’ll visit Okatse Canyon, famous for its high suspension bridges and breathtaking views, which you can admire while walking or standing on the glass-floor skywalk. The day caps off with a visit to Prometheus Cave, a 60-million-year-old limestone formation featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and an 80-meter-deep underground hall.
Guests consistently praise the tour’s well-coordinated logistics and engaging guides, with many remarking on how the day’s highlights stay fresh in memory. This trip is especially suited for nature lovers and those who enjoy walking and boat rides in striking scenery.
Bottom Line: For around $119, you get a full day of exploring Georgia’s best natural caves and canyons, with highly positive reviews confirming its value.
3. From Kutaisi: Guided Tour of Okatse, Martvili, & Prometheus
Rating: 4.7/5 (406 reviews)
A comprehensive guided tour that combines hiking at Okatse Canyon, boat rides in Martvili, and an underground tour of Prometheus Cave. The itinerary emphasizes walking and exploring, with stops to enjoy scenic views and learn about Georgia’s geological history. The high bridges at Okatse and the Hall of Love within Prometheus Cave** are standouts. The tour also features a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, allowing travelers to taste Georgian cuisine amid beautiful surroundings.
Guests appreciate the mix of adventure and relaxation, with many mentioning the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics. This tour is best if you want a well-rounded experience of natural wonders, with enough physical activity and local flavor.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a full day immersed in nature, with added comfort and cultural touches.
4. CANYONS & CAVE Tour from Kutaisi – Okatse, Martvili & Prometheus
Rating: 4.5/5 (289 reviews)
This small-group adventure offers a day packed with Georgia’s iconic canyons and caves. Starting at Okatse Canyon, you’ll walk along hanging bridges and enjoy panoramic views. Then, the tour moves to Martvili Canyon for a boat trip along its turquoise river, where waterfalls and lush scenery create a picture-perfect setting. The journey ends at Prometheus Cave, where you’ll explore vast underground halls filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The tour is priced at $33.60, making it a budget-friendly option for outdoor lovers.
Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guide and the stunning natural sights, though some mention the entrance fees are not included. This tour suits those who want a compact, outdoor-focused experience with excellent value.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective, small-group day trip that showcases Georgia’s remarkable natural underground and canyon landscapes.
5. Full Day Trip to Chiatura from Kutaisi
Rating: 5.0/5 (69 reviews)
Another way to explore Chiatura, this full-day tour starts at McDonald’s in Kutaisi, providing a convenient meeting point. The highlight is visiting the Katskhi Pillar, a natural monolith topped with a tiny monastery, offering incredible photo opportunities. The tour includes riding Chiatura’s famous Soviet-era cable cars, providing a nostalgic experience and great views. You’ll also meet a local guide who shares stories about the town’s industrial past and its unique culture.
Guests rave about the rock cave churches and the friendly local guide who makes the history come alive. The trip offers a more personal experience, perfect for curious travelers who want to understand Georgia’s industrial and spiritual history.
Bottom Line: An affordable, immersive day that combines natural wonders with local storytelling, great for history buffs and culture seekers.
6. From Kutaisi: Canyons and caves tour with transfer to Tbilisi
Rating: 4.8/5 (107 reviews)
This 12-hour tour takes you through Georgia’s stunning Imereti and Samegrelo regions. Starting at Martvili Canyon, you’ll enjoy waterfalls and river views, followed by a visit to Prometheus Cave for its dazzling stalactite formations. The tour also includes a fascinating story about Amirani, a legendary Georgian hero. You’ll travel comfortably via business class minivans and be transferred directly to Tbilisi, making it a perfect day trip if you’re headed to the capital afterward.
Travelers commend the professional organization and the quality of the guide, who shares engaging stories throughout the day. The tour is well-suited for those wanting to see major sights on a single trip, with the convenience of direct transfer to Tbilisi.
Bottom Line: For travelers combining Kutaisi and Tbilisi, this tour offers a seamless, activity-packed itinerary with excellent reviews.
7. From Kutaisi: Martvili & Okatse Canyons & Prometheus Cave Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (54 reviews)
This private tour makes exploring Georgia’s natural wonders more flexible. You’ll visit Martvili Canyon for a boat or walking tour, walk along the suspended bridges of Okatse Canyon, and finally explore Prometheus Cave with its stunning formation halls. The private vehicle and customizable pace mean you can focus on what interests you most, including the option to add a rafting adventure (own expense).
Guests praise the personalized attention and expert guidance. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a tailored experience and avoid large group schedules.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who value flexibility, with a well-rounded exploration of Georgia’s canyons and caves in one day.
8. Kutaisi Walking Tour
Rating: 5/5 (53 reviews)
This short but sweet walking tour is a great way to get acquainted with Kutaisi’s highlights. Your guide takes you to Bagrati Cathedral, the Colchis Fountain, the Kutaisi Opera House, and the lively Kutaisi Market. The tour includes some admissions and snacks, making it a relaxed, educational stroll through the city’s most significant sights.
Reviews note how knowledgeable and friendly the guide is, and many appreciate the opportunity to see Kutaisi’s streets through a local’s eyes. It’s perfect for travelers short on time wanting a taste of Kutaisi’s charm.
Bottom Line: A compact, informative walk that hits all the city’s key landmarks with a friendly guide.
9. From Kutaisi: Svaneti Mountain Villages 2-Day 4×4 Safari
Rating: 4.9/5 (69 reviews)
This two-day adventure takes you to Georgia’s Svaneti region, famous for Ushguli and Mestia. Traveling by 4×4, you’ll trek mountain roads, admire Caucasian peaks, and explore Svanetian towers, glaciers, and traditional villages. The tour emphasizes local cuisine and visits to daily life scenes in Ushguli, making it a favorite for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Many reviews highlight Teona’s knowledgeable guiding and the breathtaking mountain scenery. It’s suited for active travelers equipped for two days of travel, with plenty of scenic photo stops and authentic local experiences.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable multi-day trip into Georgia’s highest mountains, ideal for those seeking landscape and culture.
10. Gelati Monastery, Prometheus Cave, Sanatoriums and Winetour
Rating: 4.9/5 (57 reviews)
Combine Georgia’s spiritual and natural marvels in this one-day tour. You’ll visit the Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO site, and Prometheus Cave’s stunning formations. The tour also explores abandoned sanatoriums, offering a glimpse into Georgia’s past health tourism, and ends with a wine tasting of authentic Georgian wines.
Guests find the mix of historic, spiritual, and sensory experiences refreshing. It’s perfect for travelers who want cultural, natural, and culinary highlights in a single day. The wine tasting is especially popular, adding a flavorful touch to the trip.
Bottom Line: A diverse day tour blending Georgia’s religious monuments, caves, and wine, ideal for culture and food lovers.
11. Borjomi, Rabati & Vardzia – one day group tour from Kutaisi
Rating: 4.9/5 (55 reviews)
This long, 14-hour trip covers southern Georgia’s key historical sites. You’ll taste mineral waters in Borjomi, walk through Rabati Fortress, and explore the caves of Vardzia. The itinerary is packed with legends, medieval architecture, and panoramic views, meant for travelers with an appetite for history and scenic landscapes.
Reviews praise the well-organized schedule and the knowledgeable guide. It’s best suited for those willing to spend a full day on the road and eager to see Georgia’s medieval castles and cave cities.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive historical tour for travelers who want an in-depth look at Georgia’s past in a single, long day.
12. Kutaisi: Prometheus Cave & Martvili Canyon Guided Tours
Rating: 4.7/5 (91 reviews)
This half-day tour focuses on Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyon, two of Georgia’s best natural attractions. It includes easy transportation with business-class minivans and a well-informed guide who shares interesting facts about the formations and ecosystem. The cave and canyon are both awe-inspiring, with millions of years of natural history to explore.
Reviewers mention how impressed they were by the caves’ natural beauty and the smooth organization. This tour is perfect for travelers short on time but wanting a taste of Georgia’s underground and canyon landscapes.
Bottom Line: Compact, efficient, and highly rated—ideal for a quick natural escape from Kutaisi.
13. Kutaisi: Cultural Walking Tour
Rating: 5/5 (38 reviews)
This short walking tour is a fantastic way to understand Kutaisi’s cultural and historical fabric. Visiting landmarks like Bagrati Cathedral, Colchis Fountain, and the Kutaisi Market, the tour combines sightseeing with stories that bring the city’s past to life. The guide’s engaging narration ensures you won’t miss the city’s hidden stories.
Reviewers appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see Kutaisi’s highlights in a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for visitors wanting a cultural overview.
Bottom Line: A lively, informative stroll that gives you a concise yet comprehensive introduction to Kutaisi.
14. BAGRATI, GELATI & MOTSAMETA Group Tour from Kutaisi
Rating: 5/5 (37 reviews)
This half-day trip takes you to three important religious sites, starting with the Bagrati Cathedral—a symbol of Georgian unity. Then, visit the Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and end at Motsameta Monastery, set dramatically on a cliffside. The tour offers insights into Georgia’s medieval spiritual architecture in just three hours.
Guests praise the friendly guide and the beautiful architecture, with some noting the ongoing renovations at Gelati. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick but meaningful cultural experience.
Bottom Line: Short, insightful, and perfect for history and architecture lovers.
15. Wine Tour by Winemaker
Rating: 5/5 (37 reviews)
Georgia’s wine traditions are world-famous, and this tour offers a deep dive into traditional Georgian winemaking techniques. Visiting a family-owned winery, you’ll see how natural raw wine is produced using ancient methods. You’ll also sample diverse aromas of natural wine and listen to stories and legends about Georgia’s wine culture.
Guests love the authenticity and personal touch of this tour, with many saying it’s a highlight of their trip. The tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts or curious travelers wanting to learn about Georgia’s long-standing wine traditions.
Bottom Line: An authentic, hands-on experience that’s a must for wine lovers seeking genuine local flavors.
16. WINE & DINE Tour from Kutaisi
Rating: 5/5 (34 reviews)
Combine wine tasting with a Georgian feast on this small-group tour from Kutaisi. You visit a family-owned vineyard in Obcha, where you learn about the winemaking process, then enjoy local delicacies paired with regional wines. The tour includes round-trip transfers and a generous feast, making it ideal for food and drink enthusiasts.
Guests praise the informative guide and the delicious food, often remarking it’s their favorite part of the trip. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Georgia’s culinary traditions while enjoying a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, leisurely tour for those wanting to taste Georgia’s wines and traditional foods in a friendly setting.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour in Kutaisi
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. If you’re into outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, consider Martvili & Okatse Canyons or Okatse, Martvili, & Prometheus. For a culture, the Kutaisi Walking Tour or the Bagrati, Gelati & Motsameta are excellent choices. Wine lovers should not miss the Wine Tour by Winemaker or the Wine & Dine experience.
Budget travelers will find the Chiatura Tour and full-day canyon trips offer great value, while those with more time might enjoy the Svaneti Mountain Villages tour for a multi-day mountain experience. Remember to book early during peak seasons and consider your physical activity level when choosing adventures like hikes or boat rides.
Final Thoughts
Kutaisi offers a rich variety of tours that showcase Georgia’s natural beauty, historical sites, and culinary delights. For a quick city intro, the Cultural Walking Tour is perfect. For serious explorers, the Svaneti Mountain Villages or full-day canyon adventures deliver unforgettable scenery and culture. If you’re a wine enthusiast, the Wine Tour by Winemaker provides a taste of local traditions that you won’t forget.
No matter your interests, these highly-rated experiences give you a real taste of Georgia’s diverse attractions. To avoid missing out, consider booking your tours early, especially during busy seasons, and enjoy the variety of adventures waiting in Kutaisi.