Western Georgia hides an extraordinary world beneath its green hills. This private 2-day Western Georgia cave tour from Tbilisi combines an ancient city carved into rock with four very different natural caves in Imereti.
The journey begins at Uplistsikhe, where people carved streets, halls, temples and storage rooms directly into a rocky plateau. After crossing the mountains into humid Western Georgia, we visit the medieval frescoes of Ubisa Monastery, explore the lesser-known Navenakhevi Cave and walk to cliffside Motsameta Monastery before spending the night in Kutaisi.
The second day concentrates on the remarkable karst landscape around Tskaltubo. At Sataplia, dinosaur footprints, forest paths and a compact cave share the same protected reserve. Tetra Mghvime offers a quieter underground experience distinguished by pale limestone formations, while Prometheus Cave provides the grand finale with vast illuminated chambers, stone curtains and an underground river.
Accommodation is included in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kutaisi. An upgrade to a higher-category hotel can be arranged for an additional charge.
Gelati Monastery is not included in the standard itinerary because conservation and renovation work remains ongoing. It may be added upon advance request without an extra tour charge, provided access and timing allow. Adding Gelati may require a shorter Kutaisi walk or an adjustment to another stop.
What you’ll see
Tour highlights
- Explore five different underground and rock-cut environments in two days
- Walk through the ancient rock-hewn town of Uplistsikhe
- See the medieval frescoes and tower of Ubisa Monastery
- Discover the lesser-visited chambers of Navenakhevi Cave
- Visit cliffside Motsameta Monastery above the Tskaltsitela River
- Spend the evening in historic Kutaisi
- Stay overnight in a comfortable 3-star Kutaisi hotel
- See dinosaur footprints, Colchic forest and a karst cave at Sataplia
- Explore the unusual Soviet-era spa architecture of Tskaltubo
- Enter Tetra Mghvime, the atmospheric White Cave
- Walk through the immense illuminated halls of Prometheus Cave
- Add an optional underground boat ride when conditions permit
- Request a complimentary Gelati stop when access and timing allow
Step by step
Tour itinerary
Day 1: Tbilisi – Uplistsikhe – Ubisa – Navenakhevi Cave – Motsameta – Kutaisi
We leave Tbilisi early in the morning and travel west across the plains of Shida Kartli. During the journey, the dry landscape of Eastern Georgia gradually gives way to the greener hills and forests of Imereti.
Uplistsikhe Rock-Cut Town
Our first destination is Uplistsikhe, one of Georgia’s oldest rock-cut settlements. Unlike the natural caves we visit later, Uplistsikhe was shaped by people. Its streets, halls, religious spaces, wine cellars, storage rooms and tunnels were carved into a sandstone plateau overlooking the Mtkvari River.
Walking through Uplistsikhe feels like exploring the outline of a city preserved in stone. Smooth rock floors, narrow passages and chambers reveal how the settlement developed over many centuries and served both commercial and strategic purposes.
The site is exposed to sun and wind, and some rock surfaces can be slippery. Shoes with a secure grip are strongly recommended.
Crossing into Western Georgia
We continue towards the Likhi Range, the natural divide between Eastern and Western Georgia. After passing through the mountains, the scenery becomes noticeably greener and more humid.
Ubisa Monastery
Ubisa, also written as Ubisi, is a small medieval monastic complex hidden beside the main east–west route. The monastery is especially valued for its historic frescoes, including works associated with the medieval Georgian painter Damiane.
Its compact church, defensive tower and quiet surroundings provide a welcome cultural pause between the rock-cut landscapes of Uplistsikhe and the natural caves of Imereti.
Navenakhevi Cave
Our first natural cave is Navenakhevi, situated in the Terjola area east of Kutaisi. Less crowded than the major caves around Tskaltubo, Navenakhevi offers a more intimate introduction to the underground geology of Western Georgia.
The cave contains several chambers arranged on two levels. Illuminated stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone formations fill the interior, while the smaller scale makes it possible to observe individual formations closely.
The temperature inside remains cool throughout the year. A light jacket is recommended even during summer.
Motsameta Monastery
Before entering Kutaisi, we visit Motsameta Monastery, dramatically positioned above a bend in the Tskaltsitela River. Its Georgian name means “Place of the Martyrs” and refers to the story of the brothers David and Constantine.
A short walking path leads from the parking area to the monastery. Surrounded by forest and steep cliffs, Motsameta is one of the most picturesque religious sites near Kutaisi.
Kutaisi
In the evening, we arrive in Kutaisi, one of Georgia’s oldest cities and the historic centre of Imereti. If time and daylight permit, we take a relaxed walk through the centre, seeing the Colchis Fountain, the old streets around the Rioni River and the White Bridge area.
Overnight in Kutaisi
Accommodation is provided in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kutaisi. The standard package includes a private room, private bathroom and breakfast.
An upgrade to a 4-star, boutique or higher-category hotel can be arranged for an additional charge. The supplement depends on the selected property, room type, season and availability.
Day 2: Kutaisi – Sataplia – Tskaltubo – Tetra Cave – Prometheus Cave – Tbilisi
After breakfast, we dedicate the second day to the caves and unusual resort architecture surrounding Kutaisi and Tskaltubo.
Sataplia Nature Reserve and Cave
Sataplia combines natural history, geology and forest scenery in one protected reserve. The visit normally follows a walking route through Colchic forest, past preserved dinosaur footprints and into a decorated karst cave.
Although Sataplia Cave is smaller than Prometheus Cave, it provides a different experience. Its compact passages allow visitors to see stalactites and other limestone formations at close range.
The reserve also has a panoramic glass platform overlooking the surrounding forest and Kutaisi area. Access to the platform may be restricted during rain, snow, strong wind or other unsafe conditions.
Tskaltubo Resort
We continue to Tskaltubo, a historic spa town developed around naturally warm mineral springs. During the Soviet period, Tskaltubo became one of the region’s best-known health resorts, with monumental sanatoriums, bathhouses and a large central park.
We take a short orientation walk or drive through the resort district. Some former sanatoriums are abandoned, privately owned, under renovation or structurally unsafe. We view them only from legal and safe public areas unless specific access has been confirmed.
Tetra Mghvime – White Cave
Tetra Mghvime, meaning “White Cave,” is a smaller cave near Tskaltubo known for its pale limestone formations and calm atmosphere. The cave has also been connected with archaeological research and the history of speleotherapy in the resort area.
Compared with the colourful, monumental presentation of Prometheus Cave, Tetra offers a quieter and more focused geological experience. Visits may require advance arrangement and operate according to the cave administration’s schedule.
Prometheus Cave
Prometheus Cave is the largest and most spectacular underground visit of the tour. A developed walking route passes through enormous chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone, petrified waterfalls and curtain-like formations.
Carefully positioned lighting reveals the scale and variety of the cave without changing its naturally cool atmosphere. The walking route is long and contains numerous steps, making this the most physically demanding cave on the itinerary.
An underground boat ride may be available at the end of the visit for an additional charge. Boat operation depends on the water level, weather, visitor numbers and safety decisions made by the cave administration. It cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Return to Tbilisi
After visiting Prometheus Cave, we begin the return journey across the Likhi Range. There will be a comfort and meal stop along the way. Arrival in Tbilisi is expected in the evening, depending on traffic, weather and the operating schedules of the caves.
Starting from
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per person
Locally operated since 2011
We reply within 24 hours
What your price covers
What’s included
Included
- Private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Pick-up and drop-off at your Tbilisi accommodation
- One night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Kutaisi
- Private hotel room with private bathroom
- Breakfast on Day 2
- Standard entrance tickets to Uplistsikhe and the listed caves
- Guided standard visitor routes inside the caves
- Bottled drinking water during the journey
- Gelati Monastery stop upon advance request, subject to access and timing
Not included
- Lunches and dinner
- Optional underground boat ride at Prometheus Cave
- Special Tetra Cave experiences, tastings or speleotherapy sessions
- Upgrade from the standard 3-star Kutaisi hotel
- Entry to privately managed or restricted Tskaltubo sanatoriums
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide and driver
- Services not listed in the confirmed itinerary
Photographs
Gallery
Where you’ll go
Map & route
Practical details
Good to know before you go
Cave-focused itinerary
This tour has been designed for travelers who are especially interested in caves, geology and underground landscapes. It includes the man-made rock chambers of Uplistsikhe and four natural karst caves: Navenakhevi, Sataplia, Tetra and Prometheus.
Hotel in Kutaisi
The standard package includes one night in a comfortable 3-star hotel with a private bathroom and breakfast. The exact property is confirmed after booking.
An upgrade to a boutique, 4-star or higher-category hotel is available for an additional charge. The supplement depends on the date, hotel and selected room category.
Gelati Monastery
Gelati is not part of the standard itinerary because conservation and renovation work remains ongoing and may affect the visitor experience.
It can be added upon advance request without an additional tour charge, provided current access and the cave schedule make the visit possible. Adding Gelati may require a shorter Kutaisi city walk or reduced time at another flexible stop.
Cave conditions
The caves remain cool and humid even during hot weather. Temperatures are generally much lower than outdoors. Bring a light jacket or warm layer throughout the year.
Paths may be wet, and some sections contain stairs or slightly slippery surfaces. Closed shoes with non-slip soles are essential.
Prometheus Cave boat ride
The underground boat ride is optional and paid separately. It operates only when water levels and safety conditions permit. The cave administration may suspend boating without advance notice.
Tskaltubo buildings
Many historic sanatoriums in Tskaltubo are privately owned, inhabited, under renovation or structurally unsafe. The tour does not include unauthorized entry into abandoned buildings. Stops are made only in publicly accessible or specifically authorized areas.
Opening calendars
Cave operating days and seasonal hours can change. Certain attractions may close for maintenance, severe weather, public holidays or safety reasons. The itinerary is checked before departure and may be reordered to match the confirmed opening schedule.
Physical requirements
The tour involves numerous steps and prolonged walking, particularly at Uplistsikhe, Sataplia and Prometheus Cave. It is not recommended for travelers who cannot manage uneven surfaces or stairs without assistance.
Photography
Photography rules vary between caves. Flash, tripods or professional equipment may be restricted. Visitors must follow the instructions of the cave administration and local guides.
Religious-site clothing
Ubisa and Motsameta are active Orthodox sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Women may be asked to use a head covering or wrap skirt, and men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.
From our travellers
Reviews
Before you book
Frequently asked questions
How many caves are included in this tour?
The itinerary includes four natural caves—Navenakhevi, Sataplia, Tetra and Prometheus—plus the ancient rock-cut town of Uplistsikhe.
Is Uplistsikhe a natural cave?
No. Uplistsikhe is a settlement carved by people into a sandstone plateau. It provides an interesting contrast with the natural karst caves visited in Western Georgia.
Where do we stay overnight?
The overnight stay is in Kutaisi. The standard package includes a private room with a private bathroom and breakfast in a comfortable 3-star hotel.
Can I upgrade the Kutaisi hotel?
Yes. An upgrade to a boutique, 4-star or higher-category hotel can be arranged for an additional charge, subject to availability.
Why is Gelati Monastery not included?
Gelati is excluded from the standard route because conservation and renovation work remains ongoing and may limit the visitor experience.
Can Gelati still be added?
Yes. Gelati may be added upon advance request without an additional tour charge when access and timing permit. Another flexible stop may need to be shortened.
Is the Prometheus Cave boat ride included?
No. The underground boat ride is optional and paid separately. Its operation depends on water levels and safety conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
What should I wear inside the caves?
Wear closed shoes with non-slip soles and bring a light jacket. The caves remain cool and humid throughout the year, and some walking surfaces may be wet.
How difficult is the tour?
The tour is moderately active. It includes uneven rock surfaces, forest paths and numerous stairs, particularly at Uplistsikhe, Sataplia and Prometheus Cave.
Is the tour suitable for small children?
It can be suitable for children who are comfortable in dark, enclosed spaces and can manage stairs. Parents must supervise children closely around slippery surfaces and exposed areas.
Is the tour suitable for travelers with claustrophobia?
Prometheus and Sataplia have developed visitor paths, but they remain enclosed underground environments. Navenakhevi and Tetra may feel more intimate. Travelers with severe claustrophobia should consult us before booking.
Can we enter the abandoned sanatoriums in Tskaltubo?
Unauthorized entry is not included. Some buildings are private, inhabited, under renovation or unsafe. We use public areas and enter buildings only when legal access has been confirmed.
Do the caves operate throughout the year?
Many cave attractions operate year-round, but seasonal hours, weekly closures, maintenance and weather-related suspensions can apply. The operating calendar is checked before departure.
What happens if one cave is closed?
The route may be reordered or the closed attraction replaced with another appropriate geological or cultural site. Any necessary change will be explained before departure whenever possible.
What time will we return to Tbilisi?
Arrival is normally expected in the evening on Day 2. The exact time depends on traffic, cave schedules, meal stops and whether the Prometheus boat ride operates.
Ready when you are
Tell us your dates and how many of you are travelling. We’ll come back within 24 hours with availability, a confirmed price, and your guide’s name.
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