Martvili Canyon and Hanged Bridges of Okatse

If you’re visiting Kutaisi and craving an escape into Georgia’s dramatic outdoors, a full-day guided tour to Martvili Canyon and Okatse is hard to beat. This trip packs in a variety of sights — from the awe-inspiring cliffs and waterfalls of Martvili to the hanging bridges crossing Okatse Canyon — all without the hassle of renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads. We especially love how this tour combines multiple highlights into one seamless day, with a professional guide leading the way and transport sorted for you.

Of course, the full itinerary includes some walking — roughly 6 km altogether — so it’s better suited for those with a moderate level of fitness. Plus, as with all outdoor adventures, weather can influence your experience, especially at the canyon and bridge sites. Still, if you’re after an authentic taste of Georgian nature and scenery, this tour offers a fantastic balance of activity, landscape, and cultural insights, making it ideal for curious travelers and nature lovers alike.

Key Points

• All-in-one Day Trip: Combines Martvili Canyon, Okatse Hanging Bridges, Prometheus Cave, and Tskaltubo, providing a comprehensive outdoor experience.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in an air-conditioned minivan with a small group, ensuring easy movement between sites.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides offer insights into Georgian culture and scenery, enhancing the visit.
• Active Experience: Includes walking, boat rides, and crossing hanging bridges, suitable for those with moderate fitness.
• Value for Money: At around $32, this tour offers a lot of diverse sights in one day for a reasonable price.
• Weather Consideration: The tour operates in good weather; heavy rains can affect site access, as noted in reviews.

An Inside Look at the Tour Experience

This full-day tour from Kutaisi is a well-structured way to explore some of western Georgia’s most impressive natural and historical sites — all without the stress of planning logistics yourself. Starting at 9:30 am from Kutaisi’s central square, you’ll hop into a cozy, air-conditioned minivan with a small group limited to 10 travelers, which keeps things intimate and manageable. Your guide, whose knowledge and friendliness come highly praised, will share stories and facts about Georgia’s landscape, history, and local culture throughout the day.

The Journey Out of Kutaisi

The drive from the city center to the countryside provides a scenic introduction to the region. Passing by the Parliament of Georgia, your guide might share some tidbits about the country’s political landscape, but the real highlight begins once you leave the urban areas behind. Expect about an hour of smooth driving through lush countryside before reaching your first stop.

Okatse Canyon and the Hanging Bridges

The Okatse Canyon is famous for its vertiginous hanging bridges that stretch across the canyon, offering breathtaking views. You’ll walk roughly 2.5 km to reach the bridges, which are about 900 meters long. The total walking distance around the site is about 6 km, so comfortable footwear is recommended. As one reviewer notes, the bridges are quite a sight, but they can be closed due to weather, which was the case on a recent visit. An alternative is available — an off-road vehicle (for an extra €15) that can whisk you directly to the bridge, wait while you cross, and return.

The bridges themselves are a blend of thrill and awe, suspended high above the canyon with views of dense forests and rugged cliffs. The walk to the bridges is not overly strenuous, but the height and exposure might be daunting for some. The experience is made more accessible by the option to skip the walk for a small fee, which many travelers find helpful.

Martvili Canyon and Waterfalls

Next up is Martvili Canyon, a favorite for its striking waterfalls and tranquil waters. Here, you’ll get close-up views of waterfalls cascading into the gorge, with the chance to enjoy a short boat ride on the smooth waters — a peaceful way to see the canyon’s best features. The boat ride is optional, but many appreciate it for the chance to relax and take photos from a different perspective.

Reviewers describe the experience as “fabulous,” with one noting that the walk along the gorge offers “very close views of waterfalls.” The site is well-maintained, with paths that allow for leisurely exploration but still require some walking.

Prometheus Cave and Caving Adventures

The tour’s third highlight is Prometheus Cave, one of Georgia’s largest and most impressive caves. The guided walk through the cave takes about an hour, revealing stalactites, stalagmites, and underground formations. This is a highlight for those interested in geology and stunning natural architecture. The cave is well-lit, making exploration easy and safe, but be prepared for some cool temperatures underground.

While the cave is a must-see, keep in mind that admission isn’t included in the tour price, and you might want to allocate extra time or money for the entrance fee. The experience is described as “fantastic,” and many visitors find it a surreal, otherworldly environment worth the visit.

Tskaltubo and Soviet Architecture

After the caves, the tour visits Tskaltubo, a town famous for its abandoned sanatoriums and Soviet-era architecture. This stop is more about observing the decay and history rather than active exploration. You’ll have about an hour to walk among the ruins, which some find fascinating for their eerie beauty and historical value.

Final Stop and Return

The tour wraps up in the early evening, back at Kutaisi’s central square. The overall length of the trip is approximately 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and learn from your guide without feeling rushed.

The Value of This Tour

Priced at just over $32 per person, this tour offers remarkably good value considering the diversity of experiences packed into one day. Entrance fees are not included, but the included features — transportation, guide, bottled water, and a variety of stunning sites — make it a budget-friendly option for travelers wanting a comprehensive outdoor adventure. The small group size (maximum 10 travelers) ensures personalized attention and easier interaction.

Why It Works Well

The tour is particularly praised for having knowledgeable guides, who manage to blend storytelling with practical information, making each site more meaningful. According to reviews, guides like David and Giorgi stand out for their friendliness and insight, helping you understand Georgia’s landscapes and history.

Potential Drawbacks

Weather can influence what you see and do; heavy rains have caused some sites, like the Hanging Bridges, to close temporarily. As noted by a reviewer, the tour staff can’t control weather, but they do their best to inform and adapt. Also, the walking involved might not suit everyone, especially those who find uneven terrain or heights challenging.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those eager to see Georgia’s natural beauty without the hassle of self-driving. It’s ideal for people with moderate fitness levels comfortable with some walking and outdoor exploration. History buffs and nature lovers will find the combination of caves, waterfalls, and bridges captivating. It also suits visitors who value small-group experiences and guided insights.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Kutaisi offers a well-rounded taste of Georgia’s stunning landscapes, blending active outdoor experiences with cultural highlights. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transport, and a range of sites from waterfalls to caves, it provides excellent value for a day out. While weather can be unpredictable, the flexibility of options and the diversity of stops make it a solid choice for anyone wanting to explore Georgia’s natural side.

If you’re after a manageable, engaging way to discover some of Georgia’s most photogenic spots and learn about the terrain and history from local guides, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy gentle hikes, scenic boat rides, and exploring unique geological formations — all in one memorable day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
It can be, provided the children are comfortable with walking and outdoor environments. The walking distances and heights involved at the bridges should be considered.

Do I need to bring my own water?
Bottled water is included, so you can stay hydrated without bringing your own, though it’s always good to carry some if you prefer.

Are the sites accessible if it rains?
Heavy rains can cause some sites, like the hanging bridges, to close temporarily. The tour staff tries to adapt, but weather may affect access.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable footwear for walking and outdoor clothes suitable for variable weather are recommended. Layers are a good idea, especially for caves and higher elevations.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Moderate. Expect around 6 km of walking over the day, including uneven terrain and some elevation changes. It’s suitable for those with average fitness levels.

How long are the stops at each site?
Expect about 1 hour at Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave, 3 hours at Okatse Canyon (including optional off-road transport), and about 1 hour at Tskaltubo.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets for sites like Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave are paid separately.

What makes the guides stand out?
Reviews highlight guides like David and Giorgi for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the experience engaging and informative.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a guided tour, the schedule is fixed. However, guides are often helpful in sharing insights and making the trip personalized.

Would I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking at least 13 days in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see Georgia’s diverse landscapes without the stress of planning. With a good mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and friendly guides, it’s a trip that’s likely to leave you with lasting memories of Georgia’s outdoor charm.