Located in the village of Kumistavi near Kutaisi, Prometheus Cave is a 1.8-kilometer-long underground karst cave. As per the legends, the cave holds the boulder that was used to chain the Greek god of fire, Prometheus. The cave is located 40 meters below sea level. It has a total of twenty-two caverns, each with its own unique charm. However, only six of these caverns are open to tourists. You can choose the 1.5-kilometer walking path and take a boat journey for 380 meters to explore all the caverns. This journey is accompanied by neon lights and music playing in the background adding a mythological element. Guided tours are available.
Sataplia Nature Reserve is a karst cave complex that features Dinosaur Park along with a museum that preserves 120-million-year-old fossilized footprints of Herbivorous and Raptor dinosaurs. The complex has a 300-meter-long hiking trail along with a small underground river flowing through it. It is surrounded by tall and thick, Colchis forest. There is an observation deck made of glass that gives panoramic views of the area.
If you're seeking adventure, Veryovkina Cave, nestled in the Arabika Massif, Abkhazia, is the place to go. This cave is the deepest in Europe, reaching depths of over 2,200 meters. The challenging hike to reach the entrance is not for the faint-hearted, but the stunning underground landscape is worth the effort. You will need special equipment to fully explore the cave.
New Athos Cave, located in the Abkhazia region, is one of the largest caves in Georgia. This magnificent cave features impressive stalactites and vast underground chambers, providing a breathtaking exploration experience. Easily accessible from the town of New Athos, you can join guided tours to discover its stunning formations and rich history.
Aresna's Cave, situated in the Svaneti region, is another hidden treasure waiting to be explored. This cave is known for its unique rock formations and rich historical significance. The journey to reach Aresna's Cave involves a moderate hike, rewarding you with spectacular views of the Svaneti mountains along the way.
Bgheri Cave Natural Monument, located in Samegrelo, is a fascinating site renowned for its impressive geological formations. This cave, formed by the Bgheristskali River, stretches 1,700 meters in length and covers an area of 14,000 square meters. Access to the cave is seasonal, as it is closed during floods in the river, allowing entry only during dry periods when water levels are low.
The Cave of Bethlehem, located on Mount Kazbek at an altitude of approximately 4,100 meters, is a remarkable historical site in Georgia. This cave, set within a reddish andesite cliff, has significant cultural importance. Researchers believe the cave once served as a Christian temple. Nearby, remnants such as monks' cells, a tombstone, a stone cross, and a pillar have been discovered, indicating that this cave complex dates back to the 6th to 7th centuries, making it one of the oldest mountain cave temples in the world.
Ghliana Cave, located near the village of Kumistavi in the Imereti region, is a stunning karst formation sitting 142 meters above sea level. This limestone cave features two entrances. Inside, a 200-meter-long siphon corridor opens up to a gallery adorned with stalactites, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The cave’s underground flow, which can reach 50-55 liters per second during floods, eventually feeds into the Kumi River, making Ghliana a significant natural monument worth exploring.
Tetra Cave, known as the White Cave, is a stunning karst formation just 1.6 km northwest of Tskaltubo. As you explore the 25-meter passage filled with fascinating stalactites and stalagmites, you’ll discover over 15,000 archaeological artifacts, including ancient skeletons. During your visit, you can enjoy guided tours, wellness therapies, and even wine tastings. Tetra Cave is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Arsen Okrojanashvili Cave, also known as Toba Cave, is multi-branched cave, carved into Cretaceous limestone, features stunning halls like "Nona Hall" and "Lake," with stalagmites reaching heights of 7 meters. It hosts four underground lakes. It’s the source of the remarkable Toba Waterfall. Accessing the cave is challenging and requires special equipment, while a rubber boat is needed for exploration. To reach here, you can drive from Martvili to First Balda and then hike or use an off-road vehicle along a 7 km trail.
Exploring the caves in Georgia offers a unique opportunity to connect with the country's rich natural and cultural heritage. Each cave presents its own story and beauty, inviting you to embark on an adventure that goes beyond the ordinary.