Immersing yourself in the things to do in Kutaisi, from exploring the ancient Bagrati Cathedral to visiting the Prometheus Cave, quickly fills your itinerary with Georgia’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Yet, day trips from Kutaisi offer an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into Georgia’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, reaching beyond the city’s well-trodden paths.
Venturing from Kutaisi, you’re introduced to a broader spectrum of things to do in Georgia, such as the serene Martvili Canyon’s boat tours or the medieval monasteries nestled in the Imereti region’s rolling hills. These journeys not only highlight the natural splendor of Georgia but also its enduring traditions and historical depth.
Choosing where to stay in Kutaisi is key for those wishing to balance their time between exploring the city’s ancient sites and embarking on adventures in the surrounding countryside. The right accommodation offers convenience, comfort, and a touch of Georgian hospitality, ensuring your stay is as enriching as it is comfortable, and positions you perfectly for both urban explorations and rural excursions.
Discover Best Day Trips from Kutaisi, Georgia
1. Martvili Canyon, Georgia
Martvili Canyon in Georgia offers a stunning display of natural beauty with its bright blue waters and lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride through the canyon, exploring its serene and picturesque landscapes.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Boat rides through the canyon, bright blue waters, lush greenery
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Canyon Entrance: $7
- Boat Ride: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Waterfalls, natural pools, lush surroundings
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and try to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
2. Prometheus Cave, Georgia
Prometheus Cave is one of Georgia’s natural wonders, featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. This extensive cave system provides a unique and magical underground experience.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Impressive stalactites and stalagmites, underground rivers
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cave Entrance: $10
- Boat Tour: $5
Budget: Approximately $20-$30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Stalactite and stalagmite formations, underground rivers
Travel Tip: Bring a light jacket as it can be cool inside the cave, and be aware that photography may be restricted in certain areas.
3. Okatse Canyon, Georgia
Okatse Canyon, known for its breathtaking views and thrilling suspended walkways, is a must-visit for adventure seekers. The canyon features a 700-meter-long walkway hanging over the gorge, offering stunning vistas.
Distance: Approximately 42 km
Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Breathtaking views, suspended walkways over the gorge
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Canyon Entrance: $7
- Walkway: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: 700-meter-long walkway, stunning vistas
Travel Tip: Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for a fair amount of walking, including some steep sections.
4. Motsameta Monastery, Georgia
Motsameta Monastery is a small but picturesque monastery near Kutaisi, set in a scenic location overlooking a river bend. It’s known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
Distance: Approximately 6 km
Travel Time: About 15 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Picturesque monastery, scenic location overlooking a river bend
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees: Free
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Monastery grounds, views of the river
Travel Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and a peaceful experience, and don’t forget to walk around the outside for stunning views of the river.
5. Gelati Monastery, Georgia
Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Georgia’s Golden Age. This medieval monastery complex is adorned with stunning frescoes and mosaics.
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Travel Time: Around 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: UNESCO World Heritage site, stunning frescoes and mosaics
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees: Free
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Monastery grounds, frescoes, mosaics
Travel Tip: Dress modestly as it is an active religious site, and take time to appreciate the intricate artwork and serene surroundings.
6. Sataplia Nature Reserve, Georgia
Sataplia Nature Reserve is famous for its dinosaur footprints and beautiful cave complex. The reserve also offers lush forests and a glass-bottomed viewing platform overlooking the stunning landscape.
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Travel Time: Around 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Dinosaur footprints, beautiful cave complex
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Nature Reserve Entrance: $5
- Cave Entrance: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Eco-trail, glass-bottomed viewing platform
Travel Tip: Apart from the caves and dinosaur tracks, make sure to walk the eco-trail for some fantastic views of the surrounding area.
7. Uplistsikhe Cave Town, Georgia
Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town, offers a unique glimpse into Georgia’s early history. This archaeological site features various structures carved out of rock, dating back to the early Iron Age.
Distance: Approximately 160 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ancient rock-hewn town, structures carved out of rock
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cave Town Entrance: $7
- Guided Tour: $10
Budget: Approximately $40-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rock-hewn structures, panoramic views
Travel Tip: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of uneven terrain, and consider hiring a guide for a more informative visit.
8. Kinchkha Waterfall and Okatse Canyon, Georgia
Combining a visit to Kinchkha Waterfall with Okatse Canyon makes for an exhilarating day trip. The waterfall is one of the tallest and most beautiful in Georgia, offering a refreshing retreat in nature.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Tall waterfall, thrilling canyon walkways
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Waterfall Entrance: $2
- Canyon Entrance: $7
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Kinchkha Waterfall, canyon views
Travel Tip: Bring a swimsuit if you plan to take a dip in the natural pools, and always be cautious as the rocks can be slippery.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Kutaisi, Georgia
What are the best day trips from Kutaisi?
Notable day trips from Kutaisi include visits to the Prometheus Cave, Martvili Canyon, Okatse Canyon, and the Sataplia Nature Reserve. Each offers unique natural landscapes and historical insights into the region.
Is the Prometheus Cave worth visiting?
Definitely! The Prometheus Cave is one of Georgia’s natural wonders, offering breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. Guided tours are available, providing a deeper understanding of its geological significance.
Can I take a boat tour in Martvili Canyon?
Yes, Martvili Canyon offers boat tours that allow you to navigate through its stunning turquoise waters surrounded by lush vegetation and waterfalls. It’s a serene experience not to be missed.
What can I expect at Okatse Canyon?
Okatse Canyon features a thrilling walkway suspended over the canyon, providing spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. It’s perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Is Sataplia Nature Reserve a good spot for families?
Yes, Sataplia Nature Reserve is great for families. It’s known for its dinosaur footprints, cave systems, and a glass walkway offering panoramic views of the area. The reserve also has a small museum dedicated to its prehistoric past.
How can I explore Georgian culture from Kutaisi?
A day trip to the ancient Gelati Monastery and Motsameta Monastery offers insights into Georgian religious history and architecture. Visiting these UNESCO World Heritage Sites also provides beautiful views of the Imereti region.
Can I visit a winery near Kutaisi?
Yes, the Imereti region around Kutaisi is known for its traditional Georgian winemaking. Several wineries offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the unique qvevri winemaking process and sample local wines.
Are there any nature hikes near Kutaisi?
The area around Kutaisi offers numerous hiking opportunities, such as the trails around Kinchkha Waterfall and Tsqaltubo. These hikes lead through lush forests and past stunning waterfalls, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/kutaisi-l90033?activity_type=dayTrip
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