Experience Georgia’s Natural Wonders with the CANYONS & CAVE Tour from Kutaisi
If you’re visiting Kutaisi and crave a taste of Georgia’s remarkable natural landscape, this Canyons & Cave tour offers a fantastic day out. For just around $34, you’ll spend approximately 10 hours exploring three of the region’s top outdoor attractions: Okatse Canyon, Martvili Canyon, and Prometheus Cave. Led by knowledgeable guides like Saba, this small-group experience promises an intimate encounter with some of Georgia’s most striking geological features.
What we love about this tour is the way it balances stunning scenery with easy accessibility—making it suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness levels. We also appreciate that round-trip transportation from Kutaisi is included, saving you the hassle of organizing separate transport. The guide’s insights help deepen your understanding of Georgia’s geological history, adding an educational element to the trip.
A few considerations: the admission fees are separate, and you’ll need to budget for these in addition to the tour price. Also, some attractions, like Okatse Canyon, require a small entry fee (20 GEL), and Prometheus Cave charges an additional 25 GEL. If the weather turns sour, certain activities might be affected, so keeping an eye on the forecast is wise.
This tour is especially well-suited for nature lovers, photographers, and curious travelers eager to see Georgia’s rugged landscapes without the stress of planning each stop.
Key Points
- Authentic Nature Experience: Visit three of Georgia’s spectacular outdoor sites and learn about their geological history.
- Small Group: Enjoy a more personalized experience with fewer travelers and dedicated guide attention.
- Inclusive Transportation: Round-trip transfers from Kutaisi make logistics simple and hassle-free.
- Multiple Activities: Includes walking, boat rides, skywalks, and optional zipline rides—appealing to a variety of interests.
- Additional Fees Apply: Expect to pay extra for entrance tickets and optional activities like boat rides or ziplining.
- Ideal for Moderate Fitness: Some walking and stairs are involved, so be prepared for physical activity.
A Detailed Look at the CANYONS & CAVE Tour
Starting Point: Easy and Punctual Collection from Kutaisi
The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am from Shota Rustaveli Ave in Kutaisi. The air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away to Georgia’s natural landmarks, with the comfort of a small group making for a relaxed atmosphere. The transportation is a significant value, especially considering the distances covered and the potential hassle of self-driving.
Okatse Canyon: Georgia’s Deepest Gorge
Our first stop is Okatse Canyon, a highlight for anyone who appreciates dramatic landscapes. Known as Georgia’s deepest canyon, it features hanging bridges and skywalks that extend out over the edge, giving views that feel almost vertiginous—and totally worth the slight adrenaline rush.
From reviews, it’s clear that the views are breathtaking—”the skywalk is awesome,” as one traveler put it. However, note that admission isn’t included (20 GEL), so be prepared for that small extra cost. The walk involves some moderate hikes and stairs, so a decent level of mobility is recommended. The scenery offers plenty of opportunities for photos, especially from the skywalk, which provides a chance to capture Georgia’s rugged terrain from eye-level.
Martvili Canyon: Nature’s Water Park
Next, we arrive at Martvili Canyon, often described as the trip’s highlight. The canyon’s lush greenery and tranquil waters create a perfect setting for a boat ride that weaves through waterfalls and along the river. It’s a great way to see the canyon’s depth and beauty with minimal effort, as the boat does much of the work.
According to reviews, many find Martvili the most memorable stop—”it’s very beautiful and a must-see,” one traveler remarked. The boat ride lasts about 10 minutes and is included in the entrance fee of 20 GEL. Keep in mind that children shorter than 100 cm are not allowed on the boat, a key consideration for families.
While the scenery is enchanting, some reviews noted that the optional zipline (70 GEL) and boat ride (20 GEL) are additional costs, so budget accordingly. It’s also a peaceful, quiet spot perfect for photography or just soaking in the natural serenity.
Prometheus Cave: An Underground Wonder
By afternoon, you’ll venture into Prometheus Cave, a spectacular limestone cavern stretching 1.4 km below ground. The cave’s size and formations are impressive, and the underground boat tour inside adds a unique dimension. There’s even a “hall of love,” where couples can get married—an unusual but charming bit of trivia.
The entrance fee here is 25 GEL, with optional boat rides costing 20 GEL. Several reviewers pointed out that the cave is very cool—literally—so dress accordingly. The guided tour inside explains the cave’s formations and history, making the visit both entertaining and educational.
One traveler noted, “The cave is amazing and the guide is very professional.” It’s a highlight for those interested in geology and underground landscapes. Expect a bit of walking and stairs, but most visitors find it manageable and rewarding.
Practical Tips: Budgeting and Timing
While the tour’s price point of $33.60 per person is quite reasonable considering the sites visited, remember that each attraction has separate entry fees and optional activities. Adding up these costs will bring your total spend closer to 80 GEL or more, so plan accordingly.
The entire day is well-paced, with enough time at each location to explore without feeling rushed. The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Kutaisi, usually around 7-8 pm, giving you a full day of Georgia’s best outdoor scenery.
What the Reviews Say
Feedback is overwhelmingly positive, especially regarding the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Many mention their guide, like Saba or Giorgi, as a highlight—”He explained everything perfectly,” noted one reviewer—adding depth and humor to the trip.
Some reviews mention that the tour could feel a bit rushed or that ticket purchases at each site are separate, which might be a minor inconvenience but doesn’t overshadow the overall experience. Others appreciated the good organization and transportation quality, describing the bus as comfortable and punctual.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone eager to see Georgia’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s well-suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and stairs are involved. Families with children over 100 cm tall will enjoy the boat rides and scenic walks, but those with very young kids should consider the terrain and distances.
If you’re interested in geology, photography, or simply want a day surrounded by nature, this tour delivers plenty of visual and experiential rewards.
The Sum Up
For a modest price, this tour packs a punch with three of Georgia’s most photogenic and fascinating outdoor attractions. You’ll appreciate the expert guidance, the convenient transportation, and the diversity of scenery—from vertiginous skywalks and lush waterfalls to underground caves. The additional costs for entrance fees and optional activities are worth budgeting for, but even with those, the overall value is excellent.
It’s an ideal choice for nature lovers, curious explorers, and those wanting a relaxed yet enriching experience outside the city. Just be prepared for some walking, and check the weather forecast to ensure your adventure isn’t dampened by rain.
If you’re seeking a memorable taste of Georgia’s wild side, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that captures the country’s natural beauty in one satisfying day.
FAQ
What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers the guided transportation from Kutaisi and back, plus guiding services in English. Entrance fees and optional activities are not included and paid separately at each site.
How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning by late afternoon or early evening.
Are there any physical activity requirements?
Yes, some walking, stairs, and hiking are involved, so travelers should have a moderate fitness level. Reviewers mention that stairs and uneven terrain are part of the experience.
What are the main attractions visited?
You’ll visit Okatse Canyon with its skywalks, Martvili Canyon for boat rides among waterfalls, and Prometheus Cave with underground boat tours and stunning formations.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food at the sites or nearby towns.
Are there any age restrictions?
Children shorter than 100 cm are not allowed on the boat at Martvili Canyon. Other than that, the tour is suitable for most with moderate mobility.
What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, sun protection, and a camera. Dress in layers for the cave’s cooler interior and expect some stairs and uneven terrain.
In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and educational glimpse into Georgia’s outdoors. Whether you’re snapping photos, learning about geology, or simply enjoying nature’s tranquility, it’s a worthwhile day trip from Kutaisi.