Prometheus Cave Natural Monument — Attraction in Imereti

Prometheus Cave is an ancient natural wonder, estimated to be 60 to 70 million years old, located in the heart of Georgia’s Imereti region, within the Tskaltubo municipality near the village of Kumistavi—about 40 kilometers from Kutaisi. This captivating underground world stretches approximately 1.8 kilometers in length, reaches depths of up to 40 meters, and has an average width of seven meters.

Renowned for its stunning geological features, Prometheus Cave is home to an extraordinary collection of stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and other remarkable mineral formations. These structures were created over millions of years through the slow dissolution of limestone and other soluble rocks. The cave also contains a network of underground rivers and lakes that enhance its mysterious charm.

According to legend, this is the very place where the Greek Titan Prometheus was chained as punishment for defying the gods and gifting fire to humanity. This mythological connection adds a layer of intrigue to the cave’s natural beauty, making it a favorite destination for both nature enthusiasts and mythology lovers.

Spanning over 1.4 kilometers of accessible paths, the cave maintains a comfortable year-round temperature of around 14°C (57°F), making it ideal for exploration in any season. Visitors can walk through six impressive halls filled with unique formations and have the option to enjoy a scenic boat ride along an underground river.

Whether you're drawn by its scientific significance, mythological lore, or breathtaking scenery, Prometheus Cave promises an unforgettable journey beneath the surface of western Georgia.

Travel tip: Wear sturdy shoes with non-slip soles, as the moist conditions inside the cave can make the concrete...

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Prometheus Cave in Georgia, and it was a magical experience. Prometheus Cave, also known as Kumistavi Cave, is renowned for its stunning stalactites, which have formed over millions of years through the slow deposition of minerals from dripping water. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, beautifully illuminated to highlight their intricate formations. The cave features an impressive array of stalactites, varying in size and shape. Some are thin and needle-like, while others are thick and massive, creating a breathtaking display of natural artistry. The cave is well-lit, with strategically placed lights that highlight the beauty of the stalactites. This illumination enhances the visual impact, making the formations appear even more magical. In addition to the typical stalactites, Prometheus Cave also boasts some unique formations, such as curtains and draperies, which are thin, wavy sheets of calcite that hang from the ceiling. The guided tour was well-organized and lasted about 1-2 hours. One of the highlights here is the boat ride on the underground river, which adds a unique and memorable touch to the visit. The entire experience felt like stepping into another world. The ticket prices were quite reasonable, with adult tickets costing around $7 (20 GEL) and student tickets at $3 (10 GEL). Children under 6 can enter for free, making it a great family-friendly destination. The cave is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, so there's plenty of time to explore. Prometheus Cave's stalactites are not just beautiful; they are also valuable records of the Earth's geological past, offering insights into the processes that...

I give the cave a 5, but the tour and organization a 2. It started with the visitor center. I was enjoying their exhibits, when suddenly we were told that we need to wait the 25 minutes for the tour OUTSIDE. I don't know why we couldn't wait inside. The guide took what must've been 30 people, which is far too many. The cave was huge, but the tour was completed in just an hour as we were rushed through, with our so called "guide" only stopping in 3 or 4 spots for a few minutes to give very vague explainations of what the formations were, but nothing about how they were formed or the legend/history of the cave. People were literally shooting pictures and videos while walking. Was supposed to be 57 degrees inside the cave, so we brought a sweater and jacket, but it was so hot and humid! There were people breaking the rules and touching the formations. Also, surely playing loud music and throwing coins cannot be good for the cave. That part of it felt very commercialized. When the tour ended we were told if we aren't taking the boat, we will be bussed back to the parking lot. We went to the exit and the guide had to stop us to make sure we aren't going on the boat, like we're idiots who can't read the signs or don't know what we paid for. When we found the bus, there was no sign of the driver or any employee to indicate whether we can bored. I've been on dozens of cave tours in the US, Caribbean and Europe and this was byfar the worst! These people love to make money, but don't like to work too hard or show...