From Kutaisi: Guided Tour of Okatse, Martvili, & Prometheus

Key Points

• Includes transportation and a professional guide for a seamless day exploring Georgia’s stunning landscapes.
• Visit three major natural attractions: Prometheus Cave, Okatse Canyon, and Martvili Canyon, each offering unique views and activities.
• Highlights include high bridges at Okatse, boat rides in Martvili, and underground formations in Prometheus Cave.
• Tour departs from Kutaisi at 10:00 and returns around 19:00, with ample time at each site.
• Entry fees are not included, so budget for a total of approximately 63 GEL for all tickets and optional activities.
• Suitable for active travelers who are comfortable walking, as some stops involve significant trekking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Georgia’s Natural Treasures from Kutaisi

This guided day trip from Kutaisi offers a chance to experience some of the most impressive natural sights in the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region. The tour covers three main attractions: Prometheus Cave, Okatse Canyon, and Martvili Canyon, with transportation included and a local guide leading the way. Starting at 10:00 from the Budget Georgia office, the tour provides a full 10-hour adventure with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, walks, and boat rides.

While the tour promises to be filled with spectacular scenery, it involves a fair amount of walking and some physical activity, making it best suited for those in good mobility. The guide is known for sharing insights and keeping the energy lively, contributing to a memorable experience. One notable aspect is the inclusion of entry tickets for each site, though these are paid separately, and optional activities like boat rides and ziplining come at additional costs. Travelers should plan accordingly and come prepared for an active day of exploring Georgia’s remarkable landscapes.

Key Points

• Guided tour from Kutaisi with transportation included, starting at 10:00 and returning around 19:00
• Visits three key sites: Prometheus Cave, Okatse Canyon, and Martvili Canyon
• Includes scenic hikes, high bridges, boat rides, and underground formations
• Entry fees are paid separately, roughly 23 GEL for Prometheus Cave, 20 GEL for Okatse Canyon, and 20 GEL for Martvili Canyon
• Optional activities include boat rides and ziplining, with additional costs
• Suitable for active travelers comfortable with walking and some stairs
• Guide-led experience with informative commentary, highly praised for friendliness and knowledge

Starting at Kutaisi: Transportation and Check-In

The tour begins promptly at 10:00 at the Budget Georgia office in Kutaisi. Guests are advised to check in with the tour operator before departure, where they will meet their English-speaking guide. The transportation provided makes it easy to relax and enjoy the scenic drive between attractions. Group sizes tend to be manageable, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

The return trip is scheduled around 19:00, providing a full day of exploration without feeling rushed. The convenience of pickup and drop-off at the meeting point makes this tour an accessible choice for travelers based in Kutaisi looking to see Georgia’s natural highlights in one day.

Discovering Prometheus Cave’s Underground Wonders

The tour features a guided visit to Prometheus Cave, one of Georgia’s most famous underground attractions. The cave stretches 1.4 km beneath the surface and reaches a depth of 80 meters. Inside, visitors find spectacular formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and a Hall of Love, which is notably popular for weddings and romantic visits.

Visitors have the option to enjoy a serene boat ride inside the cave or take an open-air boat for a different perspective, with tickets costing around 20 GEL. The underground environment is cool and spacious, allowing for a comfortable walk through the illuminated galleries. The cave’s impressive size and formations make it a highlight of the tour, especially with the guide explaining the geology and history along the way.

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Walking on High Bridges at Okatse Canyon

Next, the tour moves to Okatse Canyon, Georgia’s deepest canyon, which measures over 800 meters deep. The main highlight here is walking on high suspension bridges and skywalks that give spectacular views of the canyon below. Access to these bridges involves a scenic 6 km trek or an off-road taxi ride, adding an adventurous element.

The guided walk around Okatse Canyon lasts roughly 2.5 hours, during which visitors can admire the dramatic cliffs and lush landscapes. Children shorter than 120 cm are not permitted to enter the bridges for safety reasons, and the canyon may be closed in case of heavy rain, with Sataplia Nature Reserve offered as an alternative. This stop provides a memorable blend of natural beauty and adrenaline, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Exploring Martvili Canyon by Boat

Following Okatse, the group visits Martvili Canyon, a location famous for its stunning waterfalls and clear waters. The guided tour here lasts about 80 minutes, during which visitors can embark on a boat ride that glides through the canyon, offering a different perspective on its impressive scenery.

For added excitement, ziplining is available in Martvili Canyon at 70 GEL, providing an aerial view of the gorge. The boat tour is optional and costs around 20 GEL, but is highly recommended for capturing the beauty of the waterfalls and the lush surroundings. The canyon’s dramatic cliffs and water features make it a favorite among visitors, with many comments highlighting the spectacular views and peaceful atmosphere.

Lunch at a Local Georgian Restaurant

After the canyon explorations, the tour makes a refreshing break for lunch at a local restaurant. The meal lasts approximately 80 minutes and offers a chance to taste authentic Georgian cuisine. Although specific dishes are not detailed, travelers often enjoy regional specialties during this time, providing a delicious pause before the final site visit.

The restaurant experience allows visitors to relax and recharge, sharing impressions of the morning’s adventures. It also offers an opportunity to enjoy Georgian hospitality and local flavors in a cozy setting.

Visiting the Hall of Love in Prometheus Cave

One of the unique features inside Prometheus Cave is the Hall of Love, a particular chamber that has gained fame for romantic weddings and ceremonies. Visitors walk through this large, well-lit space, marveling at its scenic formations and romantic ambiance. The hall’s popularity as a wedding venue adds a special charm to the underground tour, making it an unforgettable part of the experience.

The guide shares insights about the formations and the significance of the hall, enriching the visit with stories and background. This feature makes the cave not only a geological marvel but also a memorable setting for couples, adding a romantic touch to the adventure.

Optional Activities and Extra Costs

Beyond the primary attractions, several optional activities are available for an extra fee. These include boat rides inside Prometheus Cave (20 GEL), outside the cave (20 GEL), and in Martvili Canyon (20 GEL). For thrill-seekers, ziplining in Martvili Canyon costs 70 GEL when available, offering an exciting aerial view of the landscape.

Guests should budget for these extras if they wish to enhance their experience. The tour’s design allows flexibility so travelers can choose which activities suit their interests and energy levels.

Practical Details and Accessibility Considerations

The tour involves significant walking, including stairs at Okatse Canyon and walking along trails at Martvili and Prometheus Cave. While the guides are praised for their helpfulness, travelers should be prepared for up to 10 km of walking in total. Children under 120 cm are not permitted at Okatse for safety reasons, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.

Weather conditions can influence the experience, especially at Okatse Canyon, which may close during heavy rain. When this occurs, an alternative site, Sataplia Nature Reserve, is visited instead. Comfortable shoes and water are essential, and travelers are advised to wear appropriate clothing for outdoor activity.

The Value of This Full-Day Experience

This tour offers excellent value in terms of diverse natural sights and professional guidance. The entry fees are separate, but the tour price covers transportation and expert commentary, making it a convenient way to see multiple attractions in one day.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeability and friendliness of the guides, with George and Joseph receiving particular praise. The ease of organization, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes this trip especially appealing for nature lovers and active explorers.

Final Thoughts on the Kutaisi Guided Tour

This guided day trip from Kutaisi is a solid choice for travelers eager to explore Georgia’s impressive natural landscapes without the hassle of planning individual visits. The combination of caves, canyons, and boat rides provides a varied and engaging experience, suited for those who enjoy walking, scenic views, and outdoor activities.

While the long day and physical demands may not suit everyone, the informative guides and stunning locations make it worthwhile. The tour’s flexible options for optional activities and its well-organized itinerary help ensure a memorable visit, especially for travelers interested in Georgia’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Kutaisi?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 10:00 and returning around 19:00.

What sites are visited on this tour?
Guests visit Prometheus Cave, Okatse Canyon, and Martvili Canyon, with optional boat rides and ziplining.

Are the entry fees included in the tour price?
No, entry fees are paid separately: roughly 23 GEL for Prometheus Cave, 20 GEL for Okatse Canyon, and 20 GEL for Martvili Canyon.

Can I do the boat rides?
Yes, boat rides are optional in Prometheus Cave and Martvili Canyon, costing about 20 GEL each.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 120 cm are not permitted on Okatse Canyon’s bridges. The tour involves considerable walking and stairs, so it’s best for active, mobile travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and water are essential. Weather can change, so dress appropriately for outdoor activities.

What if it rains heavily?
Okatse Canyon may close for safety reasons, and an alternative, Sataplia Nature Reserve, is visited instead.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable due to walking and stairs involved at several sites.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Check availability for specific start times.

Who leads the tour?
The tour features English-speaking guides known for their friendliness and knowledge, enhancing the overall experience.

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