Kutaisi: Tskaltubo Guided Tour with Drone Video and Photos

If you’re looking for a way to uncover some of Georgia’s lesser-known treasures, the Tskaltubo Guided Tour with Drone Video and Photos offers a compelling experience. This three-hour adventure, led by a passionate local guide named Mariami, takes you beyond the usual tourist spots and into the heart of Tskaltubo’s mysterious, abandoned sanatoriums and charming local sights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to explore the haunting beauty of Soviet-era architecture, especially the famous Hotel Medea. Second, the added bonus of receiving a professional drone video and high-quality photos that capture your experience from stunning angles. Third, the tour’s convenient door-to-door service from Kutaisi makes it both easy and stress-free.

The only consideration? The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and it runs for about three hours—so it’s best for travelers comfortable with walking and exploring at a relaxed pace. This experience suits those interested in history, photography, or simply wanting a unique peek into Georgia’s fascinating past.

Good To Know

• Authentic exploration of Tskaltubo’s hidden gems, including abandoned structures
• Expert guide with local insights, making history come alive
• Drone footage and professional photos as memorable keepsakes
• Door-to-door service from Kutaisi simplifies logistics
• Not suitable for wheelchair users, so check accessibility
• Perfect for history buffs, photographers, or adventure seekers

You can check if your dates are available here:

Unpacking the Experience: What to Expect from the Tour

This guided trip is designed to give you a meaningful snapshot of Tskaltubo—an area famed for its Soviet sanatoriums and healing waters but also dotted with abandoned buildings that whisper stories of the past. Led by Mariami, a guide passionate about her hometown, the tour combines storytelling, sightseeing, and photo opportunities in a compact, three-hour window.

Pickup and Transport

The experience kicks off with a convenient pick-up in Kutaisi. This door-to-door service means no fuss about finding your own way, especially helpful if you’re new to the city or traveling with limited time. The drive to Tskaltubo takes around 15-20 minutes, giving you a quick preview of the Georgian countryside.

Exploring Tskaltubo’s Hidden Gems

Once in Tskaltubo, the real magic begins. Mariami leads you through the town’s lesser-known corners, revealing stories behind its famous healing waters and the abandoned grand hotel Medea.

Hotel Medea is a highlight—an awe-inspiring Soviet-era sanatorium with striking architecture that has seen better days. Reviewers mention its “captivating architecture” and a sense of nostalgia mixed with decay. Some describe it as “a forgotten monument, but one that still commands attention.” You’ll get close enough to appreciate the details, from the crumbling facades to the barred windows, evoking a sense of history frozen in time.

The Drone Video and Professional Photos

A unique feature of this tour is the inclusion of a 1-minute drone video and 10 professional photos. These aren’t just recorders of the moment; they are crafted keepsakes that capture the panoramic views and the atmospheric decay of Tskaltubo’s sanatoriums from perspectives you couldn’t get on foot.

Many reviewers highlight how these visuals turn out surprisingly well, emphasizing that the drone footage adds a cinematic quality to the experience. This makes the tour not just an exploration but also a chance to collect impressive souvenirs of your trip.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Learning About Tskaltubo’s Waters and History

Throughout the walk, Mariami shares insights about Tskaltubo’s reputation as a health resort, detailing how the mineral waters were used historically for healing purposes. With her local knowledge, she makes the storytelling engaging and accessible, helping you understand why the town’s sanatoriums were once bustling centers of health tourism.

Final Drop-off

After about an hour and a half, the tour wraps up, and you’re driven back to Kutaisi, leaving you with a richer understanding of a Georgia town that’s more than just a stopover—a place full of stories, visible echoes of Soviet history, and striking visuals that stay with you.

Deep Dive into the Details

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s core focus is on Tskaltubo’s abandoned architecture, with a dedicated walk through the town’s notable sites. Visiting the Hotel Medea and other hidden spots, the guide points out architectural details and shares anecdotes that breathe life into the ruins.

The 1.5-hour guided walk is timed well—ample enough for meaningful exploration without fatigue. Visitors have noted that the guide’s knowledge of local history enhances the experience, providing context that elevates simple sightseeing to storytelling.

The Value of the Drone Footage and Photos

Many reviews emphasize how the drone footage captures the eerie grandeur of the sanatoriums from above—highlighting the scale and decay. The professional photos serve as excellent souvenirs and social media content, especially for those interested in architecture or photography.

Reviewers mention that the drone video is “surprisingly cinematic,” and the photos are “high-quality and well-composed.” This addition is a significant value for the tour, especially considering that most similar experiences don’t include such media, making it a memorable keepsake.

The Logistics and Group Size

This is a small-group experience, which means more personalized attention and flexibility. The pick-up and drop-off are straightforward, and the total duration of three hours strikes a good balance—enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

The experience is priced reasonably considering the inclusion of professional photos and drone footage, which often cost extra in similar tours elsewhere. For travelers who enjoy storytelling combined with visual keepsakes, the value here is clear.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Since the tour is mostly outdoors and involves walking around abandoned sites, comfortable shoes are highly recommended. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so check accessibility if needed.

Bringing water is advised, especially during warm days, and a sense of curiosity will go a long way. The guide encourages travelers to relax and enjoy the moment—no stress, no fuss, just good times.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Anyone interested in off-the-beaten-path destinations will find this tour particularly appealing. If you love architecture, history, or photography, the combination of storytelling and media will satisfy your interests.

Travelers seeking an authentic experience—away from the crowds and tourist traps—will appreciate the focus on Tskaltubo’s abandoned sanatoriums, which provide a striking glimpse into Georgia’s Soviet past.

It’s also a great choice for small-group enthusiasts who enjoy personalized attention and meaningful interactions with guides. However, if you require accessible options, you might need to consider other tours or check with the provider for accommodations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This guided tour packs a lot into just three hours, offering a blend of history, photography, and local insight. The inclusion of drone footage and professional photos elevates the experience, turning fleeting moments into lasting memories.

The fact that it’s a door-to-door service from Kutaisi simplifies logistics, making it accessible to travelers with limited time. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

This tour offers genuine value for those curious about Georgia’s Soviet-era architecture, or anyone wanting to explore Tskaltubo beyond just its mineral waters. It’s particularly well-suited for adventurous, photo-loving travelers who want a mix of history and visual storytelling in a compact format.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves walking around outdoor sites, so comfortable shoes and a moderate level of mobility are recommended. It isn’t suited for wheelchair users.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers pick-up and drop-off in Kutaisi, a guided walk through Tskaltubo, a 1-minute drone video, and 10 professional photos.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included in the tour price. It’s advisable to bring water and snacks if needed.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and media capture.

What time does the tour start?
Check availability to see the specific starting times, as they may vary.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most travelers, it’s best for those comfortable with walking and exploring outdoor ruins. Not suitable for wheelchair users.

Can I book the tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve the tour with flexibility, and you only pay later—ideal for spontaneous travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and a sense of curiosity. An outdoor hat and sunscreen are recommended on sunny days.

How many people are in a group?
It’s a small-group experience, allowing for personalized attention and interaction with the guide.

Final Words

Opting for the Tskaltubo Guided Tour with Drone Video and Photos means investing in more than just sightseeing. It’s about experiencing Georgia’s lesser-known side—its abandoned grandeur, stories of healing, and local charm—while capturing it all from angles that do justice to its haunting beauty.

Perfect for history lovers, photographers, or curious travelers craving something different, this tour promises a memorable glimpse into a Georgia that whispers stories of a bygone era. With a friendly guide, scenic views, and lasting keepsakes, it’s a small adventure that leaves a big impression.

Whether you’re exploring Georgia for the first time or looking for an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience, this tour ticks many boxes—and does so with a friendly, relaxed vibe that makes it truly worthwhile.

You can check if your dates are available here: