CANYONS & CAVE Tour from Kutaisi – Okatse, Martvili & Prometheus

If you’re heading to Kutaisi and craving a day filled with breathtaking landscapes and fascinating geological sites, the Canyons & Cave Tour from Budget Georgia offers an enticing mix. This full-day excursion takes you through some of Georgia’s most iconic natural sites — Okatse Canyon, Martvili Canyon, and Prometheus Cave — with plenty of opportunities for awe-inspiring views, gentle adventure, and authentic local charm.

One of the standout features of this trip is the chance to see Georgia’s geological diversity up close, guided by knowledgeable hosts who bring the landscape to life. Plus, the small-group setting enriches the experience, making it more personal and flexible.

That said, this tour isn’t without its considerations. As with many outdoor adventures, weather can play a role — rain might limit some activities or change the itinerary slightly, which some reviewers pointed out. Also, ticket costs at each site are paid separately, so the advertised price doesn’t cover admission fees.

This tour suits nature lovers, those interested in geology, and travelers who appreciate guided trips that handle logistics — especially if you’re short on time but want to see multiple highlights in one go.

Key Points

• Diverse scenery: From deep canyons to underground caves, each stop offers something unique.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Saba and Giorgi are praised for their clear explanations and friendly manner.
• Good value for money: For around $33.60, you get a full-day experience with round-trip transport.
• Additional costs apply: Entrance fees and optional activities are paid separately, which is typical but worth planning for.
• Small group size: The tour maxes out at 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Flexible and well-organized: The itinerary gives ample time at each stop, and transportation is comfortable.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Pickup and Transport

The adventure kicks off at 9:00 am from a central spot in Kutaisi, specifically at Budget Georgia on Rustaveli Avenue. The transportation is an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief considering Georgia’s warm summers and the long drive between sites. The small group size, capped at 20, helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable, avoiding the sometimes overwhelming nature of large tours.

Our reviewers have highlighted the comfortable buses and safe driving as big pluses, with many appreciating the professional and friendly attitude of the guides. Giorgi, for example, was praised for his knowledge and friendliness, making the long drives feel more like a chat with a friend rather than a boring bus ride.

Okatse Canyon: Georgia’s Deepest Gorge

Our first stop is the Okatse Canyon, Georgia’s deepest gorge, where skywalks and hanging bridges create some of the most dramatic views. The hanging bridges are called out as part of the “unparalleled views” and are a highlight, offering a real thrill for those not afraid of heights.

The admission fee to enter Okatse Canyon is 20 GEL, payable on-site. The tour does not include this fee, so plan to carry cash. Reviewers loved the “great views” and the “skywalks,” with one describing it as a “majestic” experience. However, it’s worth noting that the walk to the canyon involves a hike of about 1.4 km with some stairs, so moderate fitness is recommended.

Martvili Canyon: The Crowd Favorite

Next is Martvili Canyon, renowned as the “highlight of the trip” for many. Here, the boat tour along the Abasha River is a highlight — a calming yet impressive ride through the canyon’s depths, with waterfalls and caves lining the route.

Reviewers describe Martvili as “very beautiful” and “a must-see” when in Kutaisi. The boat ride lasts about 10 minutes, but the experience is described as “charming” and “calm”. The admission fee is 20 GEL, and children shorter than 100 cm are not permitted, so be prepared for that if you’re traveling with little ones.

Some reviewers, like Colette, noted that bad weather can dampen the experience, as rain can make boat rides less enjoyable and limit outdoor activities. Still, the canyon’s natural beauty and the tranquil atmosphere are praised repeatedly.

Prometheus Cave: A Subterranean Wonder

The final stop is the Prometheus Cave, an underground marvel stretching 1.4 km beneath the surface. It’s a highlight for many, with underground boat rides through the cavern’s vast halls and stalactite formations. The “Hall of Love”— where some even get married — adds a romantic, surreal touch.

The admission fee for Prometheus Cave is 25 GEL, which is not included in the base price. Many reviewers found the cave’s formations “interesting” and the guided commentary informative. The underground boat ride costs an additional 20 GEL, so budget accordingly.

Additional Activities and Optional Extras

If you’re feeling adventurous, optional activities like ziplining at Martvili for 70 GEL or additional boat rides are available. While these aren’t part of the main package, they can enhance your experience if time and budget allow.

Food and Breaks

Lunch isn’t included, so many travelers opt for local eateries near the sites. Some reviewers mention that the restaurant choices aren’t extraordinary, but the local Georgian cuisine and tapas-style snacks are worth trying. A tip is to carry some snacks or water, especially since the tour involves some walking and exposure to the sun.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many travelers appreciated the expertise of the guides. Saba was praised for explaining the history and geology in a way that made the sites come alive. Giorgi was also highlighted for being friendly and knowledgeable, often making the long drives more enjoyable.

One reviewer noted, “The trip was well organized. The bus was comfortable, and the guide spoke well in English, giving interesting information along the way.” The flexibility at each stop is another praised aspect, with visitors able to explore at their own pace.

However, some reviews mention a slight disappointment in the Sataplia Cave, which was under construction when they visited, reducing the overall impact of that site. This underscores that opening conditions and site maintenance can vary, so it’s wise to check in advance.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring cash for entrance fees and optional activities.
• Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for some walking and stairs.
• Sun protection and water are essential, especially in hot weather.
• Booking in advance is recommended, with most people reserving about 11 days ahead.
• If you’re traveling with children, check height restrictions for certain sites like Martvili.
• Consider taking a car if you want to skip certain hikes or limit walking, especially for Okatse Canyon.

The Sum Up

This Canyons & Cave tour from Kutaisi offers a fantastic way to see Georgia’s natural highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The combination of spectacular views, underground marvels, and friendly guides makes it a solid choice, especially for those who want a guided experience that covers diverse terrains.

The value for money is evident, considering the full-day itinerary and the quality of experiences. While not everything is included in the base price, the extra fees are typical for such sites, and budget travelers should plan accordingly.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, love geological wonders, or simply want to enjoy a well-organized day out with stories and scenic photo ops, this tour is likely to satisfy. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate small groups and knowledgeable guides who can enrich your understanding of Georgia’s incredible landscapes.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from central Kutaisi.

What is the tour duration? The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to Kutaisi around 7:00 pm.

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees like Okatse (20 GEL), Martvili (20 GEL), and Prometheus (25 GEL) are paid separately on-site.

Can I bring children? Children shorter than 100 cm are not allowed in Martvili Canyon, so check height restrictions if traveling with kids.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? The tour involves walking and stairs at some sites, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What should I bring? Carry cash for tickets and optional activities, wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and stay hydrated.

Is food included? No, meals are not included, but there are local options near the sites.

Can I customize the experience? The tour is fixed, but optional activities like ziplining or additional boat rides can be added if available.

What if it rains? Bad weather might change or limit certain activities, especially boat rides; check the weather forecast before booking.

How far in advance should I book? Booking about 11 days in advance is typical, but earlier reservations are recommended to secure your spot.

This tour is a chance to see Georgia’s natural side in a curated, convenient way. With stunning landscapes, fascinating caves, and expert guides, it’s a memorable day out that balances adventure with comfort.