Discover the magic of Western Georgia with our carefully curated tours from Kutaisi, Georgia’s second-largest city and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Since Kutaisi International Airport began welcoming direct flights from major European cities and Abu Dhabi, this historic hub has become an increasingly popular starting point for exploring the stunning Imereti region and beyond.
Whether you’re arriving at Kutaisi Airport or exploring the region as part of a longer Georgian adventure, our expertly designed tours showcase the best of Western Georgia—from UNESCO World Heritage monasteries and dramatic canyons to ancient caves and pristine wine regions.
Why Choose Kutaisi as Your Tour Base?
Strategic Location
Kutaisi serves as the perfect gateway to Western Georgia’s most spectacular attractions, with most destinations reachable within 1-2 hours.
Professional Local Expertise
Our team of experienced guides and drivers are Kutaisi natives with deep knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and hidden gems.
Flexible Tour Options
From single-day excursions to comprehensive multi-day packages, we offer tours that accommodate any schedule and travel style.
Convenient Airport Access
With Kutaisi International Airport handling dozens of international flights weekly, starting your Georgian adventure here has never been easier.
What to Expect on Kutaisi Tours
Natural Wonders
Western Georgia is renowned for breathtaking natural landscapes that rival anywhere in the Caucasus:
- Martvili Canyon: Glide through emerald waters on a boat tour through this spectacular limestone canyon, once the private bathing area of Georgian nobility
- Okatse Canyon: Walk along dramatic suspended walkways clinging to canyon walls, with views of 70-meter waterfalls and pristine mountain forests
- Prometheus Cave: Explore one of Georgia’s largest cave systems, featuring six halls adorned with spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers
- Sataplia Nature Reserve: Discover prehistoric dinosaur footprints preserved in rock and explore the mysterious Sataplia Cave
- Kinchkha Waterfall: Marvel at one of Georgia’s highest waterfalls cascading through lush green landscapes
UNESCO Heritage Sites
The Kutaisi region is home to some of Georgia’s most significant religious and architectural monuments:
- Gelati Monastery: This 12th-century masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former center of the Georgian Renaissance, serving as the burial place of King David IV the Builder
- Bagrati Cathedral: An iconic 11th-century cathedral dominating Kutaisi’s skyline, also designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Motsameta Monastery: A stunning 8th-century monastery perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Tskaltsitela River
Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in authentic Georgian culture:
- Wine Tasting: Sample rare Western Georgian wine varieties including Tsolikouri, Tsitska, and Otskhanuri Sapere at family-owned wineries
- Traditional Cuisine: Savor Imeretian specialties like Imeruli khachapuri (cheese bread) and Shkmeruli (garlic chicken)
- Soviet Heritage: Explore abandoned Soviet-era sanatoriums in Tskaltubo, once the USSR’s most prestigious spa town
- Local Markets: Experience daily life at Kutaisi’s vibrant Green Bazaar
Popular Tour Packages from Kutaisi
One-Day Tours from Kutaisi
Perfect for travelers with limited time, our day tours maximize your experience:
- Kutaisi City Tour with Gelati and Sataplia (6-8 hours)
- Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave Adventure (8-10 hours)
- Okatse Canyon and Kinchkha Waterfall Excursion (7-9 hours)
- Tskaltubo Soviet Sanatoriums and Spa History Tour (4-6 hours)
Multi-Day Tour Packages
For those wanting to deeply explore Western Georgia:
- Complete 11-Day Georgia Tour: Experience everything from Caucasus peaks to ancient cave cities, starting and ending in Kutaisi
- 5-Day Western Georgia Wine Tour: Discover Georgia’s rarest wine varieties in the Racha-Lechkhumi region
- 3-Day Nature and Culture Tour: Combine canyons, caves, and monasteries for the ultimate Western Georgia experience
Private and Custom Tours
We specialize in creating personalized itineraries tailored to your interests, whether you’re passionate about:
- Adventure and outdoor activities
- Photography and landscapes
- History and architecture
- Wine and gastronomy
- Family-friendly experiences
What Makes Our Kutaisi Tours Special
- Expert Local Guides: Native Kutaisians who bring history and culture to life with engaging stories and insider knowledge
- Small Group Experiences: We limit group sizes to ensure personalized attention and flexibility
- Comfortable Transportation: Modern, air-conditioned vehicles with experienced drivers
- Flexible Scheduling: Tours adapted to your flight times and travel preferences
- All-Inclusive Packages: Most tours include entrance fees, transportation, and guide services
- Excellent Value: Competitive pricing without compromising quality
Best Time to Visit Kutaisi
Spring (April-June)
Ideal for hiking and photography, with blooming wildflowers and moderate temperatures (15-25°C)
Summer (July-August)
Perfect for canyon tours and outdoor activities, though it can be warm (25-35°C)
Autumn (September-November)
Excellent for wine tours during harvest season, with stunning fall colors and pleasant weather
Winter (December-March)
Best for cultural tours and cave exploration; some mountain areas may be inaccessible due to snow
Practical Information
Getting to Kutaisi
- Kutaisi International Airport (KUT): Located 14km from the city center, with regular shuttle buses and taxis available
- Direct Flights: Available from many European cities including Athens, Vienna, Warsaw, Milan, and more
- From Tbilisi: 3-4 hours by marshrutka (minibus) or train
What to Bring on Tours
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Camera or smartphone
- Water bottle
- Small backpack
Booking Your Kutaisi Tour
- Flexible Booking: Contact us via email or phone to customize your perfect itinerary
- Easy Planning: We work around your flight schedule and travel preferences
- Secure Payment: Multiple payment options available
- Last-Minute Bookings: We can often accommodate same-day tour requests based on availability
- Group Discounts: Special rates available for groups of 4 or more
Don’t see the exact tour you’re looking for? No problem! We specialize in creating custom itineraries that match your interests, schedule, and budget. Simply contact us with your preferences, and we’ll design the perfect Kutaisi tour experience for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Questions
Q: How far is Kutaisi Airport from the city center?
A: Kutaisi International Airport is located approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) from the city center. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus. Many of our tours can include airport pickup and drop-off services.
Q: What languages do your guides speak?
A: Our professional guides are fluent in English, and we also offer tours in Russian, German, French, and other languages upon request. Please specify your language preference when booking.
Q: Are your tours suitable for children and elderly travelers?
A: Yes! We offer tours with varying activity levels. Some tours involve moderate hiking and walking, while others are more relaxed and accessible. Contact us to discuss specific mobility requirements, and we’ll recommend the most suitable tours for your group.
Q: What is included in the tour price?
A: Most of our tours include transportation in comfortable vehicles, professional guide services, and entrance fees to sites. Meals are typically not included unless specifically stated. We clearly outline all inclusions when you book.
Q: Can I customize a tour to match my interests?
A: Absolutely! We specialize in creating personalized itineraries. Whether you’re interested in wine, hiking, photography, history, or a combination of interests, we’ll design a tour that matches your preferences and schedule.
Booking and Payment
Q: How far in advance should I book my tour?
A: We recommend booking at least 3-7 days in advance, especially during peak season (May-October). However, we often accommodate last-minute bookings based on guide and vehicle availability.
Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A: We offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may be subject to fees. Please review our complete cancellation policy when booking.
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: We accept bank transfers, credit/debit cards, PayPal, and cash payment on the day of the tour. Payment details will be provided when you book.
Q: Do you offer group discounts?
A: Yes! We offer special rates for groups of 4 or more people. Contact us for a customized quote based on your group size and chosen tour.
Tour Logistics
Q: What should I wear on the tours?
A: Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. For monastery visits, women should bring a scarf to cover their heads and wear modest clothing (long skirts or pants). Men should wear long pants. We recommend layering as temperatures can vary, especially in mountainous areas.
Q: Are meals included in the tours?
A: Lunch and refreshments are generally not included in day tour prices, but we make stops at excellent local restaurants where you can purchase authentic Georgian cuisine at reasonable prices. Multi-day tour packages may include some meals—please check individual tour descriptions.
Q: Is travel insurance necessary?
A: While not mandatory, we strongly recommend travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Georgia is generally safe, but insurance provides peace of mind.
Q: What happens if weather conditions are bad?
A: Safety is our priority. If weather conditions make a tour unsafe (heavy rain, snow, etc.), we’ll offer alternative dates, substitute activities, or a full refund. Some attractions like Martvili Canyon boat tours are weather-dependent.
Specific Attractions
Q: How physically demanding are the canyon tours?
A: Okatse Canyon involves walking on suspended platforms with stairs (moderate fitness required). Martvili Canyon’s boat tour is accessible to most visitors. We clearly indicate difficulty levels for each tour and can recommend options based on your fitness level.
Q: Can we visit Prometheus Cave year-round?
A: Yes! Prometheus Cave is open throughout the year and maintains a constant temperature of 14°C (57°F), making it comfortable regardless of the outside weather. Bring a light jacket.
Q: Is photography allowed at the monasteries?
A: Photography is generally permitted in monastery courtyards and exteriors. Interior photography may be restricted in some religious buildings—your guide will inform you of any restrictions. Always be respectful when taking photos.
Q: How long does the Martvili Canyon boat tour last?
A: The boat ride itself takes about 15 minutes, covering approximately 300 meters through the canyon. Combined with walking along the canyon paths and photo opportunities, most visitors spend 1.5-2 hours at the site.
Wine Tours
Q: What makes Western Georgian wine special?
A: Western Georgia produces unique wine varieties like Tsolikouri, Tsitska, Otskhanuri Sapere, and Krakhuna that are rare outside the region. The Imereti and Racha-Lechkhumi wine regions are known for distinctive semi-sweet and semi-dry wines produced using traditional Georgian qvevri (clay vessel) methods.
Q: Are wine tastings suitable for non-drinkers?
A: Yes! Georgian wine culture is about hospitality and tradition, not just alcohol. Non-drinkers can enjoy Georgian juices, chacha (grape vodka) alternatives, and the cultural experience. Family wineries also offer traditional food and cultural insights.
Q: How many wineries do we visit on wine tours?
A: Typically 2-3 family-owned wineries, where you’ll taste 5-8 different wines and learn about traditional Georgian winemaking methods. Quality over quantity is our philosophy.
Seasonal Questions
Q: Can I visit in winter?
A: Yes! Winter tours focus on cultural sites, caves, and monasteries. Some mountain roads may be impassable, but Kutaisi itself and nearby attractions remain accessible. Winter offers fewer crowds and a unique perspective on Georgian culture.
Q: When is the best time for photography?
A: Spring (April-May) offers wildflowers and green landscapes. Autumn (September-October) provides golden foliage and dramatic lighting. Summer offers long daylight hours but can be hazy. Each season has unique photographic opportunities.
Q: Is it too hot to visit in July-August?
A: Summer temperatures range from 25-35°C (77-95°F), but most of our tours include shaded areas, caves (naturally cool), and canyon tours with water. Morning tours and cave explorations are particularly comfortable during summer months.
Transportation
Q: Do you provide airport transfers?
A: Yes! We offer airport pickup and drop-off services from Kutaisi International Airport. This can be arranged as a standalone service or combined with your tour booking.
Q: What type of vehicles do you use?
A: We use modern, air-conditioned sedans for small groups (1-3 people) and comfortable minivans or minibuses for larger groups. All vehicles are regularly maintained and meet safety standards.
Q: Can you accommodate wheelchair users?
A: Some of our tours can accommodate wheelchair users, particularly city tours and certain monastery visits. However, canyon trails and cave tours have accessibility limitations. Please contact us in advance so we can recommend suitable options and make necessary arrangements.
Contact and Support
Q: What if I need to contact you during my tour?
A: Your guide will have a mobile phone and our office number (+995577748793) is available during business hours. We also monitor our email (tours@georgia-tours.eu) regularly.
Q: Do you offer multi-day tour packages?
A: Yes! We offer 3-day, 5-day, and 11-day tour packages from Kutaisi covering Western Georgia and beyond. Multi-day tours include more comprehensive itineraries and can be customized to your interests.
Q: Can you help us find accommodation in Kutaisi?
A: While we don’t directly operate hotels, we can recommend excellent accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to comfortable hotels based on your preferences and budget.
Ready to Explore Western Georgia?
Start your unforgettable Georgian adventure with Highlander Travel. Our passionate team is ready to show you the hidden treasures of Kutaisi and Western Georgia.
Contact Us Today:
Email: tours@georgia-tours.eu
Phone: +995577748793
Experience Georgia with local experts who call Kutaisi home!




