Tskaltubo is a town that offers more than just its famous thermal waters. Behind its tranquil facade lie fascinating stories of Soviet architecture, abandoned sanatoriums, and stunning natural landscapes. For travelers interested in a mix of history, adventure, and unique scenery, Tskaltubo is a treasure trove. We particularly love the Urbex tour exploring abandoned sanatoriums and aircraft for its eerie atmosphere and historical intrigue, and the Tours of Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave for its breathtaking landscapes and underground wonders. These experiences showcase the town’s diverse appeal, combining the eerie beauty of decay with the awe of Georgia’s natural geology.
If you’re wondering where to start, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone eager for a little adventure, this list will help you find the perfect tour. From half-day explorations to full-day excursions, each offers a different window into Tskaltubo’s many faces.
1. Kutaisi: Tskaltubo Abandoned Soviet-Era Spas Tour
This guided tour from Kutaisi takes you through the abandoned sanatoriums and bathhouses that once served Soviet elites. It’s ideal for Urbex lovers and anyone interested in Soviet architecture. The tour lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity packed with stories about how these grand buildings fell into disuse. You’ll wander through the halls and corridors of once-luxurious hotels, now overtaken by nature, and learn about the history of the sanatoriums that drew visitors from across the USSR.
What makes this experience stand out is the chance to see the waters of Tskaltubo, also called the waters of immortality, and imagine the former splendor of these sanatoriums. The guide shares detailed stories of how Tskaltubo was a thriving health resort before decline set in. Reviews praise the tour for its friendly guides and informative commentary, with visitors noting how this is a unique glimpse into Georgia’s Soviet past.
Bottom Line: If you’re into urban exploration with historical context, this tour offers a compelling look at Tskaltubo’s abandoned sanatoriums. It’s perfect for those seeking a mix of history, architecture, and eerie beauty.
2. Abandoned sanatoriums of Tskaltubo – group tour from Kutaisi
This half-day group tour from Kutaisi offers a straightforward exploration of soviet sanatoriums and the central park of Tskaltubo. It’s a quick yet immersive experience, perfect if you want a taste of the town’s abandoned sites without a full-day commitment. The tour includes visits to thermal water springs #6 and #8, along with the abandoned train station, adding a layer of historical intrigue.
The tour’s highlight is walking through the empty sanatoriums and feeling the echoes of the past. It’s a real favorite among travelers who want to see the decay up close and understand the significance of Tskaltubo during Soviet times. Reviews are perfect 5/5, emphasizing the value of seeing these sites with knowledgeable guides who bring the history alive.
Bottom Line: For a compact, well-organized look at Tskaltubo’s abandoned sanatoriums, this group tour delivers insights and atmosphere in just four hours. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time but a curiosity for Soviet-era architecture.
3. Private tour from Kutaisi: Martvili, Okatse, and Prometheus
This full-day private tour offers a comprehensive experience of Georgia’s stunning landscapes and caves. It combines visits to Martvili Canyon, Okatse Canyon, and Prometheus Cave, providing an in-depth exploration of some of the best natural sights near Kutaisi. The tour is designed for travelers who want personalized attention, with a driver and guide tailored to your interests.
What makes this tour distinctive is the variety: you’ll marvel at the breathtaking Martvili Canyon, glide along its river on a traditional boat, and hike the Okatse Canyon’s high hanging bridges. Then, you’ll explore the underground marvel of Prometheus Cave, with its stalactites and stalagmites, on a guided tour. The experience is highly praised, with travelers describing it as a “breathtaking” and “worth every penny” adventure. The driver, Maxim, is noted for making the day even more interesting.
This tour is ideal for those who want a personalized, flexible day exploring Georgia’s dramatic scenery. The combination of land, water, and underground worlds makes it a full sensory experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers who want a deep dive into Georgia’s scenic wonders with the comfort of a private guide, making it a hassle-free, unforgettable day.
4. From Tbilisi: Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave Tour
For those starting from Georgia’s capital, this long full-day tour offers an extensive exploration of Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave. It’s a 14-hour journey that includes guided tours of both natural wonders, plus a boat ride at Martvili. The tour departs from Vakhtang Gorgasali Square, making it accessible for travelers based in Tbilisi.
This experience stands out because of the combination of crystal-clear river boat rides in Martvili and the spectacular underground formations of Prometheus Cave. The guide shares geological insights, enriching the awe of these natural sites. Despite the lengthy day, travelers find it worthwhile, with a review noting, “Our guide Levani was the best of the best!”
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers with a full day available, eager to see Georgia’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning multiple trips.
Bottom Line: If you’re based in Tbilisi and want to see Georgia’s most impressive caves and can handle a long day, this tour delivers spectacular scenery and memorable experiences.
5. Canyons and Cave tour from Kutaisi
This 8-hour tour hits the highlights of Okatse Canyon, Martvili Canyon, and Prometheus Cave. It’s a well-balanced day for travelers who want to see all three, with high-hanged bridges, boat rides, and underground caves. The tour begins in Kutaisi and takes you on a scenic journey through Georgia’s impressive geological features.
The Okatse Canyon’s high hanging bridge offers panoramic views, while the boat ride in Martvili Canyon showcases waterfalls and emerald waters. The Prometheus Cave guided tour reveals stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Travelers enjoy the mix of activities, which make for a varied day out. The itinerary is efficient, with each location getting enough time for exploration.
This tour is a great option for those short on time but eager to tick off multiple major sites in one day. The value is high given the inclusion of multiple attractions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a compact, action-packed day of Georgia’s best canyons and caves, especially if you’re based in Kutaisi.
6. Prometheus Forest Boat Tour
This short, 20-minute boat ride on the Kumi River offers a nature-focused, peaceful experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want to relax and enjoy Georgia’s lush scenery without intense activity. The boat takes you past small waterfalls, a bear cave, and a small waterfall, providing a gentle introduction to the region’s natural beauty.
The tour emphasizes eco-friendliness and offers a different perspective on the Prometheus Cave area, letting visitors enjoy the quiet lushness of the forest. Reviews highlight how relaxing and memorable this quick trip is, especially during warm weather.
This experience suits families with young children or travelers looking for a calm, scenic break in their itinerary.
Bottom Line: For a brief, scenic boat ride that highlights Georgia’s natural serenity, this tour is a perfect addition to a day exploring the area.
7. Tskaltubo: Prometheus Wine Museum Tour & Tasting
This educational tour combines the Prometheus Wine Museum with a tasting experience inside the world’s largest Qvevri construction. It’s a unique chance to learn about Georgian wine-making, see authentic artifacts, and sample local snacks and wines. The tour lasts up to 7 days, giving you flexibility to plan your visit.
The highlight is seeing the old artifacts and the massive Qvevri, traditional clay vessels used in wine fermentation. Visitors praise the tasting session for offering a genuine taste of Georgia’s wine culture. Guides share stories about the history of Georgian wine-making, making this more than a tasting—it’s an immersive cultural experience.
This tour appeals most to wine enthusiasts and those interested in Georgian traditions. It offers good value for an in-depth, educational experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers wanting to explore Georgia’s ancient wine traditions in a memorable setting, with the chance to taste authentic local flavors.
8. Urbex tour – Abandoned sanatoriums and Aircraft
Last but not least, this full-day Urbex tour dives into the abandoned sanatoriums and aircraft of Tskaltubo. It’s perfect for adventure-seekers and urban explorers. You’ll visit Grand sanatoriums, walk through halls that once hosted Soviet VIPs, and see the Central Bathhouse and Stalin’s personal bath. Adding a layer of excitement, the tour also includes exploring abandoned aircraft on site.
The experience is highly praised, with one review calling it an “incredible experience”. The tour balances history, architecture, and a touch of adrenaline. It’s a full-day activity, for those ready for an immersive exploration of Georgia’s Soviet-era relics.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an adventure-packed day with a mix of history and the thrill of exploring abandoned sites, this Urbex tour is unmatched in its authenticity and atmosphere.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your perfect Tskaltubo experience, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you love history and architecture, the Kutaisi: Tskaltubo Abandoned Soviet-Era Spas Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Want a full immersion into Georgia’s natural beauty? The Private tour from Kutaisi: Martvili, Okatse, and Prometheus or the From Tbilisi Martvili Canyon and Prometheus Cave are excellent options. For a relaxing, scenic experience, the Prometheus Forrest Boat Tour is perfect.
If you’re intrigued by local wine culture, then the Prometheus Wine Museum Tour offers a unique insight, and for those seeking adventure and history combined, the Urbex tour delivers an unforgettable journey through abandoned relics.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to ensure availability and the best experience. Think about what excites you most—whether it’s exploring abandoned sanatoriums, marveling at Georgia’s caves and canyons, or sampling authentic wine—and choose accordingly.
Georgia’s Tskaltubo region offers a versatile range of tours that can match different interests—from eerie abandoned sanatoriums to spectacular natural formations. Whether you prefer a half-day exploration or an all-day adventure, there’s something here to make your trip memorable. We recommend booking in advance, especially for guided tours with limited group sizes, to secure your spot in these distinctive experiences.