Things to Do in Martvili, Georgia: Canyons, Rivers, and Samegrelo Nature

Martvili is one of the most scenic destinations in western Georgia — the country in the South Caucasus — known for its canyon landscapes, rivers, and lush green surroundings. In the Samegrelo region, it offers a calm, nature-focused experience that contrasts with the country's more urban or historical destinations. The area is defined by water, vegetation, and soft landscapes rather than high mountains — a place to slow down, enjoy nature, and see a different side of Georgia. It works well as a day trip from Kutaisi or as part of a broader western Georgia itinerary.

What is there to do in Martvili?

The main things to do in and around Martvili are visiting the Martvili Canyon for its turquoise water and boat ride, the hilltop Martvili Monastery, and quieter natural spots like the Abasha River and Balda Canyon. Add the distinctive, spicy Megrelian cuisine and easy trips to Kutaisi, Okatse Canyon, and Zugdidi, and Martvili makes a relaxed nature-focused day. It suits travelers who want to balance cultural visits with time outdoors, and it's usually done from a base in Kutaisi.

Visit Martvili Canyon

Martvili Canyon is the main attraction in the region and one of the most visually distinctive natural sites in Georgia, known for clear turquoise water, steep rock formations, and dense greenery. Walking paths run along the edge of the canyon to several viewpoints over the waterfalls and the river flowing through narrow passages. The highlight for many is the short flat-bottomed boat ride through a calm section between the cliffs — slow, surrounded by water and vegetation, and genuinely immersive. What makes Martvili Canyon stand out is its accessibility: easy to visit, little physical effort, yet a landscape unlike other parts of the country. It's genuinely popular in high season, so arriving early avoids the midday crowds.

Visit Martvili Monastery

The Martvili Monastery sits on a hill overlooking the surrounding landscape. The cathedral here (Chkondidi Cathedral of St. George) dates to the 7th century and has long held historical and religious significance in the region; the hilltop is believed to have been a ritual site even before Christianity. Today the site combines history with views out over the green valleys and forests that define Samegrelo. It's quiet and less crowded than the major monasteries elsewhere in Georgia, which makes it a good stop for travelers interested in both culture and scenery. It remains an active monastery, so dress modestly.

Explore the Abasha River and surroundings

The Abasha River flows through the region and shapes the landscape around Martvili — it's the same river that carved the canyon. Beyond the main canyon area, it continues through quieter stretches of forest and countryside, and exploring these gives a more relaxed, less structured experience than the main site. It's a good option for travelers who prefer time in nature without following a fixed route.

Visit Balda Canyon

For those wanting to go beyond the main sites, Balda Canyon offers a more hidden, less developed experience. It's reached by a walking trail through the forest leading to a waterfall and river area, and compared with Martvili Canyon it's less organized and less visited, with a more natural, untouched feel. It suits travelers after something quieter and slightly more adventurous. Because it's undeveloped, expect a rougher trail and fewer facilities, and check access locally before setting out.

Experience Samegrelo's nature and landscape

The region around Martvili is known for greenery, forests, and softer landscapes. Unlike the more open, dry east of Georgia, Samegrelo feels humid and lush, with dense vegetation and a calmer overall atmosphere. Driving through gives a good sense of how diverse Georgia's landscapes are — useful context if you're traveling between the east and the western lowlands.

Experience local culture and cuisine

Samegrelo has its own distinct culinary identity, known for bold flavors and a generous use of spice. Local dishes tend toward spicier sauces than other regions (built on adjika, a hot pepper and garlic paste), corn-based preparations like elarji, and rich cheese-and-meat combinations. The signature cheese is sulguni, best eaten fresh. Food here reflects the region's identity and is a real part of the experience — often best at a family guesthouse table rather than a standard restaurant.

Combine Martvili with nearby destinations

Martvili is well placed to combine with Kutaisi, Okatse Canyon, and Zugdidi, which makes it a strong addition to a western Georgia itinerary. Okatse in particular — a narrower, more vertical gorge with a cliff-edge walkway — pairs naturally with Martvili in a single day trip from Kutaisi.

Why Martvili is worth visiting

Martvili stands out for its natural beauty and calm atmosphere. It offers one of the most scenic canyons in Georgia, a relaxed and nature-focused experience, less crowded surroundings, and easy access from Kutaisi. It's ideal for travelers who want to balance cultural visits with time in nature — best as part of a wider western Georgia trip rather than a standalone destination, since the town itself is small and low-key.