This paper describes the effect of the type of cations in the alkaline activator on geopolymer properties and especially on the formation of efflorescence. The susceptibility to the formation of efflorescence is discussed according to the standard ČSN 72 1565-13. Cations in alkaline activators influence the mineralogical type of efflorescence: Li+ and Na+ cations form carbonates (Li2CO3 and Na2CO3, respectively), whereas K+ cations form sulphate (K2SO4). The mechanical properties, workability and pore structure of the geopolymer composites have been determined. Alkaline activators with sodium and potassium ions reach higher mechanical strength than those containing lithium cations. For lithium alkaline activators, there was a noticeable difference in the properties between the SiO2/Li2O ratios 1.8 and 2.6. Based on the properties of the mentioned geopolymer composites with various alkaline cations, it is possible to use lithium alkaline activators in geopolymer technology.