Boat Ride
A boat ride is the highlight of visiting the Martvili Canyon in Batumi. The canyon excursion is not rafting, so you don't have to worry about getting wet - the water is very calm but cold. It's also very unlikely to fall off the dock.
Since 2018, the cost of a boat ride has increased to 13 GEL. Life jackets are provided to all tourists. The cost of a walking tour is 15 GEL.
The duration of the boat ride is typically 20 minutes to half an hour. If the boat operator is in a good mood, the ride may last longer. The boat can accommodate up to 6 people.
Waterfalls in Martvili
The lower part of the canyon is just as fascinating as the upper part. Here, you will find stunning cascading waterfalls and comfortable observation decks. There is an opportunity to dip your hands in the waterfall's water.
There are a couple of bridges and stone-paved trails with convenient handrails throughout the canyon to ensure your comfort.
Information on Prices and Schedule
Ticket prices:
- Adults: 15.25 GEL
- Students and children: 5.5 GEL
- Boat ride: 15 GEL
- Visit to the upper part of the canyon: 13 GEL
- Visit to the lower part of the canyon: 15 GEL
Additionally, you can have a wedding ceremony in the reserve for 100 GEL.
Opening hours:
- Summer: from 10 am to 6 pm (in other seasons, until 5 pm)
- The canyon may have reduced hours during the cold season.
- The reserve is closed on Mondays.
How to Get There
You can reach the reserve by car with a Russian-speaking guide or with an organized tour group. If you choose the second option, there are many excursions available from Batumi to choose from.
Traveling to the reserve by car
After the restoration work in 2016, a large building was constructed on the territory of the canyon, which is visible from a distance. There are always many cars and tourists here. The nearest village to the canyon is called Gachedili and is located north of the reserve area.
Car Rental
If you don't want to bother with driving, you can rent a car or use your own vehicle.
A long fence protects the reserve lands from prying eyes. There are two paid parking lots nearby. However, parking spaces are often limited due to the large number of tourists.
It takes about three hours (150-160 kilometers) to drive from Batumi to Martvili. It is closer from Kutaisi, about one hour of driving (55 kilometers). It will take the longest to drive from Tbilisi, about 5-6 hours (290 kilometers).
Car with Driver
Traveling by car with a driver from Batumi to the canyons will cost you a reasonable amount, ranging from 200 to 350 GEL. The more attractions you want to see along the way, the higher the cost will be.
From Kutaisi, the cost will be significantly cheaper, around 93 GEL for a round trip. We recommend making stops at the Okatse Canyon and Kinchkha Waterfall along the way. The cost for these additional stops will be slightly higher, around 100-110 GEL.
You can comfortably enjoy the sights while the driver waits as long as necessary.
Traveling to Martvili by Minibus
If you are staying in Kutaisi, the best option for you would be to travel by minibus. It is inconvenient and costly to travel from Batumi, and you would also need to make a transfer since there are no direct routes from the city.
In Kutaisi, you can take a minibus that regularly departs from the bus station. Inform the driver that you are going to the canyon so that they can make a stop for you along the way.
