Martvili Canyon
Imereti
Martvili Canyon, also known as Gachedili Canyon Natural Monument, is a spectacular erosion canyon carved by the Abasha River in Western Georgia's Samegrelo region. Stretching approximately 2.4 kilometers long, 5 to 7 meters wide, and 50 to 70 meters deep, the canyon features striking waterfalls with drops ranging from 12 to 15 meters. The canyon's emerald green waters and limestone cliffs are surrounded by lush Euxine-Colchic deciduous forests hosting diverse flora including yew, hornbeam, and Nordmann fir. It offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty and scientific interest, with paleontological discoveries of dinosaur footprints and prehistoric remains dating back to the Mesozoic and Paleogene periods. Historically, it was a bathing place for the noble Dadiani family, whose 18th and 19th-century mill remains are nearby. Visitors can explore the canyon via a stone-paved trail with viewing platforms and enjoy a boat trip along a 300-meter stretch of the river. The site has become a popular tourist destination recently, with safety measures such as electronic ticketing implemented to preserve its pristine environment and ensure visitor safety.
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Tip: The best time to visit Martvili Canyon is during the warmer months, but note that the water remains cold year-round. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the official system to ensure access and safety. Visitors should avoid risky activities such as jumping from waterfalls, swimming in high water, or scuba diving without proper training. Guided boat trips are available and provide a safe, immersive experience of the canyon's beauty.
Interesting facts
- •The canyon contains dinosaur footprints and bone fragments from the Mesozoic Era, discovered in 2010.
- •Remains of extinct giant sea reptiles called Mosasaurs have been found in the canyon area.
- •The canyon features natural limestone bridges formed from collapsed karst caves.
- •The water in the Abasha River within the canyon has a distinctive deep green color due to mineral content and surrounding vegetation.
- •The canyon was virtually unknown to outsiders until the early 2000s and has since become a popular tourist destination.
- •The Dadiani Trail within the canyon includes a limestone staircase historically linked to Georgian monarchs George the Hagiorite and David IV.
History
Martvili Canyon has historical significance as a bathing site for the Dadiani noble family.
The nearby two-storey Megrelian mill dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries, reflecting the region's traditional lifestyle.
The canyon itself was formed by erosive action of the Abasha River, triggered by a major earthquake that caused karst cave collapses.
It was designated a protected natural monument by the Georgian government in October 2010 following important paleontological discoveries in the area.
Place Guide
Dadiani Trail and Staircase18th-19th century
A historic limestone staircase with 30 steps located in the lower canyon, traditionally associated with visits by Georgian kings George the Hagiorite and David IV. It leads visitors through scenic parts of the canyon and connects to the Dadiani family's bathing site.
Waterfalls
Several waterfalls with heights between 12 and 15 meters are located centrally in the canyon, creating stunning natural spectacles and contributing to the canyon's unique microclimate.
Boat Trip on Abasha River
A 300-meter boat tour along the emerald green waters of the Abasha River inside the canyon offers visitors an immersive experience of the canyon's natural beauty and geological features.
Megrelian Two-Storey Mill18th-19th century
Nearby the canyon are well-preserved remains of a traditional Megrelian mill dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, illustrating historical local industry and architecture.
Contact
Phone: 579 80 28 42
