Batumi, Waterfalls & Folklore – A Group Tour from Kutaisi

Explore Georgia’s Waterfalls and Historic Landmarks with a Full-Day Tour from Kutaisi

This 12-hour group tour offers an engaging way to see some of Georgia’s most stunning natural sights, historic structures, and cultural traditions. Priced at $62.81 per person, it includes visits to impressive waterfalls like Makhuntseti and Mirveti, a walk across the King Tamar’s Bridge, and a memorable lunch with folklore entertainment in the Matchakhela Valley. The tour departs from Kutaisi at 8:00 am, with pickup included, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city.

Designed for those who want a balanced mix of outdoor beauty, history, and local flavor, this tour is well-paced despite a lengthy drive. It’s perfect for visitors interested in Georgia’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage, especially those eager to explore beyond the city.

Key Points

• Full-day experience lasting approximately 12 hours, including 6 hours of driving
• Visits to key waterfalls: Makhuntseti and Mirveti, both free to explore
• Historic Stone Arch Bridge built in the 14th century over the Acharistskali River
• Lunch and folklore show at a local family restaurant in the Matchakhela Valley
• Scenic route through the Matchakhela River gorge with waterfalls and lush forests
• Limited group size of up to 20 travelers, ensuring personalized attention

Starting the Day in Kutaisi and Heading to Batumi

The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am in Kutaisi, with a convenient pickup option. After leaving the city, the first stop is in Batumi, which offers a quick scenic pause. This initial stop sets the tone for the day, blending Georgia’s urban charm with the natural adventures to come. The focus remains on experiencing Georgia’s mountain landscapes and waterfalls, so the pace is lively but comfortable for most.

The route takes travelers into the scenic mountains of Adjara, a region known for its verdant forests and mountain streams. The journey is part of the experience, offering glimpses of Georgia’s diverse terrain during the 6 hours of driving included in the itinerary.

Visiting Makhuntseti Waterfall: Georgia’s Impressive Cascade

The first major natural highlight is Makhuntseti Waterfall, one of Georgia’s tallest and most impressive waterfalls. It remains constantly full of water, making it a vibrant sight regardless of the season. The waterfall is located in the scenic Adjara region, and its powerful cascade is a favorite for photos and nature lovers alike.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving ample time to admire the waterfall’s grandeur and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The site also features the Stone Arch Bridge of Makhuntseti, built in the 14th century over the Acharistskali River. This historic bridge, still standing strong after seven centuries, offers a picturesque background and a glimpse into Georgia’s medieval engineering.

Crossing King Tamar’s Bridge and the Surrounding Natural Beauty

The Stone Arch Bridge of Makhuntseti is a highlight for history buffs. During the summer months, this bridge is a lively scene where children and locals gather to jump into the river below, adding a playful element to the visit. This 10-minute stop allows visitors to appreciate the ancient structure and the lively atmosphere it fosters.

From here, the journey continues through the Matchakhela River gorge, a lush area teeming with waterfalls and tall, evergreen trees. As the bus drives along this scenic route, travelers enjoy views of cascading waterfalls and dense forests, perfect for photography and soaking in Georgia’s natural beauty.

Discovering Mirveti Waterfall: A Hidden Gem

Deep within the Adjara mountains, the tour reaches Mirveti Waterfall, a smaller but equally captivating cascade. This 30-minute stop reveals a natural spot where a small waterfall begins the river’s journey through the mountains. The waterfall is accessible after crossing a picturesque village, which adds a cultural touch to the natural scenery.

Travelers often find this waterfall to be a peaceful endpoint for nature stops, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or simply enjoy the serenity of the mountain environment.

Tasting Local Flavors and Folklore in Matchakhela Valley

The tour includes a 2-hour visit to a local family restaurant in the Matchakhela Valley. Here, guests are warmly welcomed into a traditional setting where they can sample a variety of local foods and homemade wine. This is a chance to enjoy authentic Georgian cuisine, often characterized by fresh ingredients and hearty flavors.

What truly makes this meal special is the folklore show performed exclusively for the group. Expect traditional music and dance showcasing Georgia’s vibrant cultural heritage, adding lively entertainment to the meal. The relaxed environment offers a true taste of Georgian hospitality and community spirit.

Exploring Zeda Chkhutuneti and the Surrounding Mountain Village

After lunch, the tour continues as travelers are led through Zeda Chkhutuneti, a mountain village near the Matchakhela Valley. This area provides scenic views of the mountains and local life, offering insight into how traditional Georgian mountain communities live and work.

Though not heavily detailed in the itinerary, this stop enhances the overall experience by giving travelers a sense of authentic rural life and stunning mountain vistas.

Returning to Kutaisi and Reflecting on the Day

By around 8:00 pm, the group arrives back in Kutaisi, with plenty of memories from a day filled with natural beauty, history, and cultural richness. The journey includes 6 hours of driving, which allows for leisurely stops and ample sightseeing time, making it suitable for those comfortable with long travel days.

The tour’s success hinges on its combination of landscapes, historic structures like the King Tamar’s Bridge, and immersive experiences such as local cuisine and folklore. Its small group size ensures personalized attention, and the free cancellation policy adds flexibility for travelers.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour appeals most to those interested in Georgia’s outdoor scenery, especially waterfalls and mountain landscapes. History enthusiasts will enjoy the medieval bridge, and culture lovers will value the chance to taste homemade wine and enjoy folklore performances. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a long day of driving for a well-rounded experience of Georgia’s natural and cultural treasures.

Final Thoughts on the Batumi, Waterfalls & Folklore Tour

For $62.81 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and culture. The stops at Makhuntseti and Mirveti waterfalls highlight Georgia’s lush landscapes, while the visit to King Tamar’s Bridge provides a taste of history. The local lunch and folklore show add warmth and authenticity to the experience.

The only consideration is the long drive, which is unavoidable given the distance between Kutaisi and the scenic locations. However, the scenic route and stops make the journey enjoyable rather than tiring. This tour is perfect for those who want an active day exploring Georgia’s mountains, waterfalls, and cultural traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start and end? The tour departs from Kutaisi at 8:00 am and returns around 8:00 pm.

Is the tour suitable for all ages? Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, with manageable physical activity and scenic stops.

What is included in the price? The $62.81 per person covers all stops, the folklore show, and lunch. Transport is included, and there are no additional charges for the sightseeing spots.

Are there any physical requirements? The stops involve short walks and some crossing of bridges or waterfalls, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start.

How long is the driving? About 6 hours of the total 12-hour day are spent driving, but with scenic stops along the way.

Is lunch included? Yes, lunch at a local family restaurant with traditional foods and homemade wine is part of the experience.

What makes this tour unique? The combination of waterfalls, historic bridges, scenic gorges, and cultural entertainment makes this a comprehensive day trip.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 20 travelers for a more intimate experience.

How do I book? Reservations can be made in advance, with most bookings occurring 9 days in advance on average.