Chasing Waterfalls: A Detailed Guide to Martvili and Okatse Canyons

When travelers think of Georgia, the jagged peaks of Kazbegi or the ancient wine cellars of Kakheti often come to mind first. However, hidden in the lush, humid subtropical regions of Samegrelo and Imereti lies a different kind of magic. If you are a fan of emerald waters, moss-covered limestone, and dramatic vertical drops, a journey to Dashbashi Canyon and Okatse Canyon is an absolute necessity.

As the spring sun begins to melt the mountain snows, these canyons come alive with a force and beauty that is hard to find anywhere else in the Caucasus. At Vitis Travel, we consider Western Georgia our "green sanctuary," and in this guide, we will dive deep into what makes these two natural wonders so special.

Dashbashi Canyon: The Emerald Jewel of Samegrelo

Dashbashi Canyon was once a private bathing spot for the Dadiani royal family, and the moment you step into the gorge, you understand why. The canyon was formed by the Abasha River over millions of years, carving deep into the limestone rock.

The Boat Trip Experience

The highlight of Dashbashi is undoubtedly the boat tour. Visitors are given life jackets and board inflatable rafts to paddle upstream into the heart of the canyon. The water here is a startling shade of turquoise, so clear that you can often see the riverbed below.

• The Atmosphere: The canyon walls rise up to 40 meters high, draped in hanging ivy and rare species of moss.

• The Silence: Aside from the gentle splash of paddles and the distant roar of waterfalls, the canyon is incredibly peaceful. It feels less like a tourist site and more like a scene from a prehistoric era.

The Walking Trail

After the boat trip, a 700-meter stone-paved circular trail takes you across several bridges and viewpoints. From here, you can view the 12-meter-high "Dadiani Waterfall" and several smaller cascades. The trail is easy to navigate, making it perfect for families and senior travelers.

Okatse Canyon: Walking on Air

If Dashbashi is about being "in" the water, Okatse Canyon is about being high above it. Located in the village of Gordi, this canyon offers a much more adrenaline-fueled experience.

The Skybridge

Okatse’s claim to fame is its hanging pedestrian walkway. Suspended 140 meters above the canyon floor, this steel structure clings to the side of the limestone cliffs for nearly 1.5 kilometers.

• The Thrill: Walking on the bridge gives you a literal bird’s-eye view of the Okatse River snaking below. The height is dizzying, but the engineering is world-class and perfectly safe.

• The Culmination: The walkway ends at a cantilevered platform that sticks out over the abyss. This is the ultimate "Instagram spot" in Georgia, offering an unobstructed view of the entire gorge and the surrounding forest.

The Approach

To reach the bridge, you must first pass through the historic Dadiani forest park. You can either take a 2.5-kilometer hike through the woods or hire a local 4x4 jeep to take you to the entrance of the walkway. We usually recommend the hike for nature lovers, as the forest itself is filled with rare flora.

The Best Time to Visit

While Western Georgia is beautiful year-round, timing your visit is crucial for the best experience.

1. Spring (April - June): This is the prime season. The water levels are high, the waterfalls are roaring, and the vegetation is a vibrant, neon green.

2. Summer (July - August): A great way to escape the heat of the plains. The canyons are significantly cooler than the surrounding cities. However, be prepared for larger crowds.

3. Autumn (September - October): The humidity drops, and the forest begins to turn golden. The water is usually at its calmest during this time.

4. Winter Note: Both canyons can close during heavy rain or snow for safety reasons. Always check local weather forecasts or ask your travel consultant before heading out.

Combining the Two: A Practical Itinerary

Can you see both in one day? Yes, but it requires a prompt start from Kutaisi or a well-organized trip from Tbilisi.

A typical Vitis Travel itinerary begins with the boat trip at Dashbashi in the morning when the light hits the water at the perfect angle. After a traditional Megrelian lunch (be sure to try Elarji—cornmeal with mountains of melted cheese), we head to Okatse for the afternoon skywalk.

Nearby Gems: Prometheus Cave

To complete your "Western Georgia Water Tour," we often include a stop at Prometheus Cave. Located nearby in Kumistavi, this is one of the largest and most impressive caves in the world. It features six massive halls filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and an underground river. The combination of the canyons and the cave creates a full day of "Earth, Water, and Stone."

Essential Travel Tips

• Footwear: Wear shoes with good grip. The stone paths in Dashbashi can be slippery when wet, and the walk to Okatse is substantial.

• Height Restrictions: Note that Okatse Canyon has a height restriction for children (usually must be over 120cm) due to the nature of the safety railings on the hanging bridge.

• Photography: Use a waterproof bag or a strap for your phone/camera during the Dashbashi boat trip.

Experience the Wonders of Western Georgia

The canyons of Samegrelo and Imereti are waiting to be explored. Whether you are looking for a tranquil boat ride through emerald waters or a heart-pounding walk above the clouds, Vitis Travel provides the expert guidance and comfortable transport needed to make your trip seamless.

From the lush forests of Gordi to the hidden cascades of Dashbashi, let us show you the side of Georgia that feels like a living fairytale.

Ready to start your adventure? Contact our team to book your canyon tour or customize your private Georgian itinerary.