Kutaisi: Martvili & Okatse Canyons, Prometheus Cave Day Trip

Martvili’s turquoise river, Okatse bridge walk, cave echoes near Kutaisi

You’ll glide through Martvili Canyon’s turquoise waters by boat, brave Okatse’s hanging bridge with sweeping views, try your hand at making churchkhela sweets, and wander deep into Prometheus Cave’s echoing chambers—all with a local guide who shares stories along the way. Expect moments of laughter, sticky fingers, and scenery that lingers long after you return.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from central Kutaisi, travel by air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi onboard, an English-speaking local guide throughout each stop—from Martvili Canyon’s boat ride to Okatse’s bridge walk—plus a free churchkhela masterclass before returning to town in the evening.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Canyons, Cave, and Sanatorium

• Meet at the meeting point
• Drive to Prometheus Cave
• Walk in Prometheus Cave
• Visit Martvili Canyon
• Boat ride in Martvili Canyon
• Visit Okatse Canyon and hanging bridge
• Attend Churchkhela sweets masterclass
• Stop at abandoned Tskaltubo Sanatorium
• Drive back to Kutaisi

The Experience

“Don’t look down unless you want to!” That’s what our guide Nino grinned before we stepped onto the Okatse Canyon bridge. I’d already lost count of how many times I’d said “wow” that morning—first at Martvili Canyon, where the water actually glows this weird blue-green under the cliffs. The boat glided so close to the stone walls I could’ve touched them if I wasn’t clutching my camera for dear life. There was a smell—kind of like moss and river stones after rain. It stuck with me all day.

The drive from Kutaisi isn’t long, but it’s enough for Nino to tell stories about her childhood swimming in these rivers (she still goes sometimes). At Okatse, those 900 steps on the hanging bridge felt like a dare—my legs shook but the view was worth it. Below us, trees looked like broccoli florets in a steam bath. Some local kids waved from below and shouted something in Georgian; Nino laughed and shouted back. I tried to repeat it but probably butchered it—she just shook her head smiling.

Lunch was quick—a Churchkhela masterclass (those nutty grape sweets) in a tiny factory that smelled like walnuts and sugar syrup. My fingers got sticky fast. Then Prometheus Cave: honestly, I didn’t expect to be so awed by rocks but walking through those echoey halls with stalactites overhead felt otherworldly. The air was cool and tasted faintly metallic. On the way back we stopped at this half-abandoned sanatorium in Tskaltubo—peeling paint, old tiles, vines everywhere. Kind of haunting but beautiful too.

I keep thinking about that light inside Martvili Canyon—the way it bounced off the water onto our faces. If you’re looking for a day trip from Kutaisi that feels both wild and oddly personal, this is it.

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Kutaisi to Martvili & Okatse Canyons?

The tour lasts one full day with pickup in the morning and return in the evening to Kutaisi.

Is there a boat ride included at Martvili Canyon?

Yes, a short cruise along the turquoise river in Martvili Canyon is included.

How difficult is the walk at Okatse Canyon?

You’ll walk about 900 steps on a panoramic hanging bridge; moderate fitness is recommended.

Do we visit Prometheus Cave on this tour?

Yes, you’ll explore Prometheus Cave on an easy 1.5-kilometer route inside natural halls.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

A traditional churchkhela (Georgian sweet) masterclass is included; other meals are not specified.

Are entry fees or tickets included?

The description does not specify entry fees; check with your operator for details.

Is hotel pickup included from Kutaisi?

The tour includes pickup from a meeting point in Kutaisi; confirm exact location when booking.

Can children join this day trip?

Specialized infant seats are available; travelers should have moderate fitness due to walking requirements.