Martvili Canyon
Updated: 4 November 2026
Samegrelo · about 45 km from Kutaisi
Martvili Canyon is a narrow gorge of the Abasha River in Samegrelo, cut by the river into limestone up to 40 metres deep.
The water is bright green, small waterfalls tumble from the walls and moss grows in the grottoes. Today it is a protected natural area.
In the 19th century the pool served as the bathing place of the Mingrelian princely Dadiani family, hence the canyon’s second name — “the Dadiani bath”.
- WhereSamegrelo, about 45 km from Kutaisi
- RiverAbasha, gorge up to 40 m deep
- Boat15–20 minutes through the gorge
- Trailabout 700 m with footbridges
- Seasonbest from May to October
Tours that visit Martvili Canyon
8.6592 reviewsCanyons of Western Georgia: Martvili, Okatse and Prometheus
9.4164 reviewsExcursions from Kutaisi
9.6911 reviewsExcursion from Batumi to Kutaisi
History of the canyon
For centuries the Abasha gorge remained a private place. In the 19th century the narrow emerald pool was the personal bathing spot of the princely Dadiani family, whose residence was in Zugdidi.
Today the canyon is a protected natural area: trails and footbridges have been built, and boats take visitors along the river.
What to see
- Boat ride — 15–20 minutes through the most beautiful part of the gorge, past grottoes and cascades.
- Upper trail about 700 m with suspension footbridges and views from above.
- Waterfalls and grottoes on sheer, moss-covered walls.
Best time to visit
Best from May to October. In spring the river is at its fullest, but the water is cold and turns cloudy after rain; summer brings peak crowds and queues for the boat. Arrive by 10:00 and head straight to the boat before the buses come.
How to get there
- From Kutaisi: about 45 km, roughly an hour by car.
- From Tbilisi: usually as part of a tour of the canyons of western Georgia with an overnight stay in Kutaisi.
- Prices and opening hours — in the article about Martvili Canyon.
Tips
- Allow 1.5–2 hours for the canyon; Okatse Canyon is easy to add nearby.
- After rain the water turns cloudy — the best colours are in dry weather.
Martvili Canyon photos
Our video and photos from Wikimedia Commons
What’s near Martvili Canyon
Okatse Canyon≈ 40 minutes, a hanging walkway over the abyss
Martvili Monastery≈ 10 km, in the town of Martvili
Where to stay nearby
KutaisiOrange Kutaisi Hotel is a good choice in Kutaisi. Bagrati Cathedral and the Green Bazaar are a 15-minute walk away.
KutaisiHotel Mimino is an option in the very heart of Kutaisi. Bagrati Cathedral is a 1-minute drive away, and Givi Kiladze Stadium is a 5-minute drive.
KutaisiTerrace Kutaisi Hotel is located in the very heart of Kutaisi. The Kutaisi State Historical Museum and the Green Bazaar are a 15-minute walk away.
Trip.com prices per night for 2 adults, check-in 07–08.11.2026, data as of 31.10.2026; Trip.com shows hotel prices in US dollars. Booking and payment — on Trip.com, our partner.
Martvili Canyon on the map
Martvili Canyon FAQ
Where is Martvili Canyon?
In Samegrelo, about 45 km and an hour’s drive from Kutaisi.
Why is the canyon called the Dadiani bath?
In the 19th century the princely Dadiani family, who ruled Mingrelia, bathed here.
How long is the boat ride?
15–20 minutes through the most scenic part of the gorge.
When is the best time to go?
From May to October, in dry weather. After heavy rain the water turns cloudy for a day or two.
Can I combine Martvili and Okatse?
Yes, the canyons are 40 minutes apart — they are often combined in one day.
Are there tours to Martvili Canyon?
Yes — tours from Kutaisi and tours of the canyons of western Georgia. They are listed above on this page.
Photo sources
- preview_georgiantour_com, Pinterest
- etsy, Pinterest
- AlexandreAssatiani, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
- Iscream icecream, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
- AlexandreAssatiani, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
- Iscream icecream, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
- Iscream icecream, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
- FingerWiki, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
- Aleksey Muhranoff, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Best things to do in Georgia
Book everything for your trip with a local team from Tbilisi
