Satsurblia Cave
Cave Karst cave site with prehistoric archaeological remains
Karst cave system in Imereti with Paleolithic archaeological layers and prehistoric human remains; researchers and adventurous visitors come for guided cave tours and regional archaeology.
Satsurblia Cave is a karst limestone cave in the Imereti region of western Georgia that has been the focus of archaeological excavation. The site contains stratified Paleolithic deposits with human artifacts, hearth features and faunal remains from Upper Paleolithic occupations.
Archaeological work in the cave has produced radiocarbon-dated cultural layers that contribute to understanding human settlement and subsistence in the Caucasus during the Late Pleistocene. The cave is primarily of scientific and research interest rather than a major tourist attraction.
The cave lies in the karst landscape of Imereti, within western Georgia, and is accessed from nearby rural communities in the region.
- Archaeological significance: Excavations have revealed multiple Upper Paleolithic occupation layers with stone tools, hearths and animal remains, making the site important for studies of Late Pleistocene human presence in the Caucasus.
How to Get to Satsurblia Cave #
From Kutaisi (the region’s main city), drive roughly 30-50 minutes east toward Tskaltubo and follow local roads toward the village clusters surrounding the karst fields. Most visitors approach from Kutaisi or Tskaltubo by car; local 4x4s are helpful in wet weather. Ask at Tskaltubo tourist offices for the latest route and a recommended guide.
Tips for Visiting Satsurblia Cave #
- Visit in late spring after snowmelt to see the cave entrance free of slush; access can be muddy in winter.
- Hire a local guide from nearby Tskaltubo or Kutaisi - many of the scientific finds were made by Georgian archaeologists and a guide will point out the precise excavation spots.
- Bring a headlamp and wear waterproof boots if planning to enter the outer galleries; parts of the approach trail cross runoff channels.
Best Time to Visit Satsurblia Cave #
Best visited late spring through early autumn for easiest access and safest conditions.
Weather & Climate near Satsurblia Cave #
Satsurblia Cave's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 0°C to 27°C. Abundant rainfall (1645 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (154 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (135 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (119 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (118 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (143 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (127 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (129 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (125 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (152 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (156 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (185 mm) and mostly overcast skies.