Plizio Visual Lab
Sataplia Nature Reserve
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
tourist-attraction
Sataplia Nature Reserve, located near Kutaisi, is a multifaceted protected area that seamlessly integrates paleontology, speology, and botany. Its name is derived from the Georgian word 'tapli' (honey), referring to the wild bees that historically nested in the limestone cliffs of the area. The reserve gained international fame following the discovery of fossilized dinosaur footprints in the 1930s, uniquely showing tracks of both carnivorous and herbivorous species from the Cretaceous period. At the heart of the reserve lies the Sataplia Cave, which is about 900 meters long and renowned for its diverse stalactites and stalagmites, including a famous heart-shaped stalagmite. The site features a modern visitor center and a museum dedicated to the prehistoric history and local ecosystem. In 2011, a spectacular glass-bottomed observation deck was installed, cantilevered over a cliff to provide panoramic views of the Kutaisi valley. The surrounding Colchic forest is home to many endemic plant species and can be explored via well-defined eco-trails. Sataplia is a premier destination for educational tourism, offering a vivid look into Earth's distant past and the rich biodiversity of Western Georgia's karst landscape.
- Location: Georgia
- Top sights: Waterfall · Kolkhic trail viewpoint · Dinosaur footprints
- Nearby: Kutaisi (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 23 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 7 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 96 | 80 | 105 | 73 | 69 | 77 | 68 | 64 | 103 | 112 | 111 | 102 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The reserve features a diverse outdoor and indoor experience, featuring a covered pavilion protecting ancient dinosaur footprints and a beautifully illuminated natural karst cave. Guided walking paths take you through a dense Colchic forest and lead to a dramatic panoramic viewing platform.
Typical hours
The reserve usually operates daily from morning until the early evening, with noticeably shorter hours during the off-season winter months. It is generally recommended to visit during clear daylight hours to fully appreciate the forest trails and the expansive views from the glass deck.
Photography
Photography is highly rewarding here, especially capturing the creatively lit stalactites inside the cave and the panoramic landscape from the glass-bottom observation deck. When photographing the dinosaur footprints, strictly avoid using flash to preserve the atmosphere of the enclosure.
Time needed
A typical visit takes about one and a half to two hours, which is enough time to walk the main nature trail, thoroughly explore the cave, and enjoy the viewpoints. If you prefer a slower pace to appreciate the surrounding nature and take numerous photos, allocate around three hours.
Combine with
This destination perfectly complements a visit to the larger and more famous Prometheus Cave, which is located just a short scenic drive away in the same region. You can also easily explore the historic city of Kutaisi and its remarkable UNESCO-listed Bagrati Cathedral on the same day.
Getting there
Sataplia is situated very close to Kutaisi, making it easily accessible via a quick twenty-minute taxi ride or by joining a local half-day guided tour. Public transport options like marshrutkas are quite limited, so arranging a private driver for a round trip is the most convenient method.
Insider tip
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, as the outdoor pathways through the forest and inside the cave can be uneven and occasionally slippery due to natural humidity. If you have a fear of heights, be prepared that the transparent glass-bottom deck extends out over a very steep drop.
Geography
Facts
- The reserve was established in 1935 to protect the dinosaur footprints.
- Sataplia Cave has a total length of 900 meters, with 300 meters open to the public.
- More than 200 dinosaur footprints from two different eras have been identified here.
- The glass observation deck is situated about 100 meters above the valley floor.
- The name 'Sataplia' literally translates to 'the place of honey'.
- The reserve's highest elevation is approximately 500 meters above sea level.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Sataplia Nature Reserve (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What can you see at Sataplia Reserve?
Highlights include real dinosaur footprints, a stalactite cave, and a glass skywalk.
Where does the name Sataplia come from?
The name means 'place of honey,' as many wild bees used to live in the cliffs.
Is the reserve open on Mondays?
Like many Georgian state museums, Sataplia is often closed on Mondays; check current hours.
How strenuous is the tour?
The path is easy to moderate, but includes some stairs and inclines through the forest.
Is photography allowed in the cave?
Photography is allowed, but using a flash is usually prohibited to protect the cave.
Sataplia Nature Reserve: where is it located?
Sataplia Nature Reserve is located in Georgia.
Sataplia Nature Reserve: what is there to see?
Highlights include Waterfall, Kolkhic trail viewpoint, Dinosaur footprints.
Sataplia Nature Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Sataplia Nature Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
Sataplia Nature Reserve, located near Kutaisi, is a multifaceted protected area that seamlessly integrates paleontology, speology, and botany.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Georgia →
Nearby cities
Kutaisi
Kutaisi is the third-largest city in Georgia and the center of the Imereti region.
Samtredia
Samtredia is a bustling city in the Imereti plain, known for its importance as a railway hub.
Zestafoni
Zestafoni is an industrial city in Imereti, whose economy is closely linked to the processing of manganese ore.
Chiatura
Chiatura is a unique mountain town famous for its extensive network of Soviet cable cars.
Tkibuli
Tkibuli is a mining town in western Georgia, surrounded by dense forests and steep mountains.
Khoni
Khoni is a small town in the western Georgian lowlands, distinguished by its traditional silk production and agricultural products.
Tskhaltubo
Tskhaltubo is a formerly world-famous spa town, valued for its radon-infused mineral springs.
Ambrolauri
Ambrolauri is the charming center of the Racha region, known for its fine wines and spectacular scenery.
Lentekhi
Lentekhi is a peaceful town serving as the gateway to Lower Svaneti.
Sairme
Sairme is a renowned balneological resort in the forested mountains of Imereti, famous for its mineral springs and wellness retreats.
Ushguli
One of the highest continuously inhabited villages in Europe, decorated with ancient stone defensive towers.
Shovi
A picturesque high-altitude resort in the Racha region, known for its mineral springs and coniferous forests.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Bagrati Cathedral
Bagrati Cathedral in Kutaisi majestically crowns the Ukimerioni Hill.
Imereti Tea Plantations
The rolling hills of Imereti and Guria were once the center of Soviet tea production.
Kutaisi Free Industrial Zone
This industrial zone in Kutaisi promotes local and foreign investments in technology, textiles, and household appliances.
Prometheus Cave
The Prometheus Cave near Kutaisi is one of Georgia's most fascinating natural wonders.
Gelati Monastery
Gelati Monastery near Kutaisi was one of Georgia's first cultural and spiritual centers.
Okatse Canyon
The Okatse Canyon offers an unforgettable experience thanks to a spectacular suspended walkway attached to the cliff wall high above the …
Tkibuli Coal Mine
Tkibuli is the center of Georgian coal mining, extracting hard coal primarily for domestic needs.
Zestafoni Ferroalloy Plant
The Zestafoni plant processes manganese ore from Chiatura and is one of the world's largest producers of silicomanganese.