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.
From 2024, the price for a boat ride has increased to 20 GEL. Life jackets will be provided to all tourists. A walking tour will also cost 20 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
20 GEL;
- Students and children (ages 6–17)
5.5 GEL;
- Boat ride
20 GEL;
- Visit to the upper part of the canyon
20 GEL;
- Visit to the lower part of the canyon
20 GEL.
Also, within the reserve, you can have a wedding ceremony 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 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 a driver
A trip by car with a driver from Batumi to the canyons will cost you from 300 to 400 GEL. The more sights you want to see along the way, the higher the price will be.
From Kutaisi the trip will be significantly cheaper — from 120 to 150 GEL round-trip with waiting time included. We recommend making a stop at Okatse Canyon and Kinchkha Waterfall along the way. The cost will be slightly higher — around 160–180 GEL.
You can enjoy the sights at your own pace — the driver will wait as long as needed.
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.
