Canyons and Cave tour from Kutaisi

Explore the natural wonders of Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti with this Canyons and Cave tour from Kutaisi. This full-day adventure lasts 8 hours and takes you through some of Georgia’s most striking landscapes, including Prometheus Cave, Okatse Canyon, and Martvili Canyon. The tour is perfect for those who love nature and are ready for a bit of walking, with many impressive sights packed into a single day.

The tour starts from Kutaisi, with transportation provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, accompanied by a guide fluent in English and Russian. It is a well-organized experience that balances outdoor exploration with opportunities for relaxing breaks, including a lunch stop at a local restaurant. Keep in mind that entrance tickets are purchased on-site, with prices subject to change, and some optional activities, like off-roading at Okatse Canyon, come with additional fees.

While the tour offers incredible scenery and memorable activities, it is worth noting that weather conditions may lead to changes in the itinerary, such as replacing Okatse Canyon with another site like Sataplia protected area or Tetra Cave. This tour provides a comprehensive look at Georgia’s underground caves and panoramic canyon vistas, making it ideal for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Kutaisi lasting approximately 8 hours
• Includes visits to three major attractions: Prometheus Cave, Okatse Canyon, and Martvili Canyon
• Guided experience with English and Russian-speaking guides
• Transport is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Tickets are purchased on-site, with optional boat rides at Martvili Canyon and off-roading at Okatse available for additional costs
• Weather-related changes may alter the itinerary, such as replacing Okatse Canyon

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Prometheus Cave: Georgia’s Largest Underground Wonder

The tour kicks off with a visit to Prometheus Cave, which stretches 1.8 km beneath the earth’s surface, located 40 meters below sea level. The cave features stunning formations and a hall of love, where couples can even get married. Visitors enjoy underground boating, adding a cool and unique experience to the exploration.

This site particularly impresses with its mesmerizing underground chambers and the opportunity to experience Georgia’s largest cave. The entrance fee is 25 GEL, with an optional boat fee of 20 GEL. The cave’s cool environment provides a refreshing contrast after the outdoor canyon adventures.

Walking on the High Hanged Bridge of Okatse Canyon

Next, the adventure continues at Okatse Canyon, which is distinguished as Georgia’s deepest canyon. The highlight here is walking high on a hanging bridge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors also have the option to reach the bridge via a 3 km trekking route or a more adventurous off-road taxi for an extra 100 GEL per vehicle, which is suitable for groups of up to six.

The skywalk and the deep canyon scenery make this stop particularly memorable. The canyon’s entrance fee is 20 GEL, and the off-roading experience adds a layer of thrill for those craving a more dynamic approach.

Lunch Break at a Local Restaurant

After the canyon visit, the group enjoys a lunch break at a local restaurant. Guests order on-site, allowing for a variety of options based on personal preferences. This pause provides an opportunity to relax, digest the scenery, and prepare for the next part of the tour.

Exploring Martvili Canyon by Boat

The final major stop is Martvili Canyon, famous for its stunning waterfalls and emerald waters. Here, visitors take a boat ride through the canyon, exploring its depths and enjoying close-up views of waterfalls and lush surroundings. The boat ride costs 15 GEL optionally, and visitors should note that children taller than 1.2 meters are eligible for the boat tour.

This part of the tour offers a serene yet impressive experience, perfect for photography and appreciating Georgia’s natural beauty. The entrance fee for Martvili Canyon is 20 GEL.

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Practical Details: Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour starts at the central square in Kutaisi, near a prominent theater building. The meeting point is easily recognizable; from the square, head right, turn left, and walk straight until reaching the Newport hotel, with a police station nearby. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

Transportation is in an air-conditioned coach, and the entire experience is led by guides fluent in English and Russian. The availability of the tour varies, so checking the starting times is recommended.

Physical Requirements and Recommendations

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and dress appropriately for outdoor walking. The tour not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions, such as heart problems. For children, height restrictions are in place for boat rides and canyon walks, requiring children to be more than 1.2 meters tall.

Optional Activities and Additional Costs

Some activities are optional and come with extra charges. These include off-roading to Okatse Canyon (100 GEL per vehicle), and boat rides at Prometheus and Martvili Canyons. Guests should also budget for personal expenses and entrance tickets, purchased at each site.

Weather Considerations and Tour Flexibility

In case of heavy rain or adverse weather, the tour operator reserves the right to change the itinerary. This could mean substituting Okatse Canyon with other attractions like Sataplia protected area or Tetra Cave. This flexibility ensures safety and the best possible experience under varying conditions.

Final Assessment of the Canyons and Cave Tour

This 8-hour guided tour from Kutaisi offers a compelling combination of underground caves and scenic canyons, emphasizing stunning views and adventurous activities. The prominent highlights—Prometheus Cave’s underground marvels, the high hanging bridge at Okatse, and the boat ride at Martvili—make it a standout experience for nature lovers.

While the cost of entrance tickets and optional activities adds to the price, the overall value lies in the diverse landscapes and organized convenience. The tour is most suited for active travelers who enjoy walking, outdoor scenery, and a dose of adventure. The guides’ informative narration enhances understanding, making it suitable for those new to Georgia’s natural sites.

Final Thoughts on the Canyons and Cave Tour from Kutaisi

This tour provides a comprehensive look at Georgia’s natural beauty in a single day. The stunning caves and deep canyons, combined with easy transportation and expert guides, make it a worthwhile choice for visitors seeking memorable outdoor experiences.

It is important to prepare for weather changes and budget for optional costs, but overall, the spectacular views and unique activities promise a rewarding outing. The tour offers a mix of excitement and tranquility, with plenty of opportunities for photography and appreciation of Georgia’s diverse landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours from start to finish.

What attractions are included?
The tour visits Prometheus Cave, Okatse Canyon (including a hanging bridge), and Martvili Canyon with a boat ride.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets are purchased on-site at each location. Prices are 25 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 at Prometheus and Martvili Canyons, costing 20 GEL and 15 GEL, respectively. Children taller than 1.2 meters can participate.

Is there an activity with extra cost?
Yes, off-roading to Okatse Canyon is optional and costs 100 GEL per vehicle for groups of six.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and dress appropriately for outdoor walking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be more than 1.2 meters tall to participate in boat rides and canyon walks, and the tour involves physical walking.

What happens in bad weather?
The operator may modify the itinerary, replacing Okatse Canyon with other sites such as Sataplia or Tetra Cave.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is in Kutaisi city center, near a theater building and the Newport hotel.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

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