Martvili Canyon – The Great Canyon of Georgia

Giorgi Lomidze • December 27, 2024

Martvili Canyon is one of Georgia's most beautiful natural monuments, located in the town of Martvili.

There are numerous photos of “Martvili Canyon Georgia.” Unsurprisingly, a lot of people would like to visit the place.

Are you looking for a travel agency? Look no further! Select Georgia Tours is the perfect option.

Our travel agency offers a Martvili Canyon Tour. As part of the tour organized by our team, you will have the chance to discover the beauty of the canyon.

Let’s first learn more about the region of Samegrelo.

Samegrelo is in western Georgia. The region is known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient history, and rich culture. Samegrelo is located by the Black Sea to the west and the Caucasus Mountains to the north. It has a varied landscape with green forests, rivers, and coastal areas.

Martvili Canyon Tour is your chance to get to know the region of Samegrelo.

The region has been home to the Mingrelians. They are a subgroup of Georgians. They speak their own language called Mingrelian, a dialect of Georgian. The Mingrelian people are known for their deep-rooted traditions, distinct cuisine, and vibrant folk music.

Zugdidi, the capital of Samegrelo, is a cultural hub featuring the Dadiani Palace, an architectural masterpiece and former residence of the Dadiani family, who ruled the area for centuries. The palace houses a museum with fascinating historical artifacts, including relics associated with Napoleon Bonaparte. The nearby Zugdidi Botanical Garden provides a serene setting with a collection of exotic plants.

Samegrelo is known for its food. It has dishes like Elarji, which is a rich cornmeal and cheese dish. There is also Kharcho, a spicy beef stew with walnuts. Another favorite is Gebjalia, which are cheese rolls with mint. These flavors highlight the region’s emphasis on bold spices and fresh, local ingredients.

The natural beauty of Samegrelo is captivating. The Martvili Canyon is a popular tourist destination, offering boat rides through crystal-clear waters and stunning waterfalls. In the foothills of the Caucasus, the Enguri Dam, one of the tallest arch dams in the world, creates a picturesque reservoir. The region also serves as a gateway to the mystical Svaneti region, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Samegrelo is also rich in folklore, with legends and tales that have been passed down for generations. The people are known for their hospitality and pride in preserving their cultural identity. Festivals and religious celebrations are held year-round, showcasing traditional dances, polyphonic singing, and elaborate feasts.

Combining historical intrigue, culinary delights, and breathtaking scenery, Samegrelo stands as a remarkable testament to Georgia’s diverse and vibrant heritage.

Key Features and Highlights of Martvili Canyon:

Now, let’s get back to Martvili Canyon.

Breathtaking Scenery:

Martvili Canyon is famous for its emerald-green waters. These waters flow through narrow gorges. This creates a beautiful contrast with the cliffs and lush plants around it.

The canyon has green forests and beautiful waterfalls. It also has deep pools and tall rocks. This makes it a great place for photography and enjoying nature's beauty.

Boat Tours:

One of the best ways to experience Martvili Canyon is by taking a boat tour along the Abasha River. Visitors can glide through the crystal-clear waters on small boats, which are steered by local guides.

The boat tours allow you to get up close to the canyon’s rock formations, waterfalls, and caves. The boat ride usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. It is a memorable way to see the canyon's beauty from a different view.

Waterfalls:

The canyon features several small waterfalls, including one particularly stunning waterfall that cascades down from a height of about 10 meters. These waterfalls add to the enchanting atmosphere of the canyon, with the sound of the water echoing throughout the gorge.

Cultural and Geological Significance:

Martvili Canyon has not only natural beauty but also geological and cultural importance. Over millions of years, natural processes have shaped the region’s limestone formations, creating the canyon’s dramatic appearance. The area is rich in Georgian folklore and history. The town of Martvili has ancient monasteries and historical landmarks.

Hiking Trails:

In addition to the boat tours, visitors can explore the canyon via a hiking trail. Interestingly, the 700 meters circular hiking trail starts from the visitors' centre and passes through Dadiani's historic walkway. There are 2 bridges, 3 viewing platforms, as well as a 30-step historic staircase that is built from a limestone staircase.

The Martvili Monastery:

As part of the tour, you will also visit the Martvili Monastery. A church was originally constructed in the late 7th century. Importantly, it was reconstructed in the 10th century. It’s a great place to visit if you want to combine natural beauty with historical and cultural exploration. The monastery is set on a hill and provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, including the canyon.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Martvili Canyon is during the spring and summer months (from April to October), when the weather is warm and the canyon is at its most vibrant. During these months, the water levels are optimal for boat rides, and the surrounding flora is lush and green.

Visitor Facilities:

The canyon area is equipped with walking paths, viewing platforms, and rest areas for visitors. There are also small kiosks selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. However, the area remains largely natural and unspoiled, which makes it a peaceful place to explore.

Martvili Canyon is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to western Georgia. Its stunning landscapes, serene atmosphere, and unique natural features make it one of the country's top outdoor attractions.

If you want adventure, relaxation, or a way to connect with nature, the canyon has it all. It offers a great experience that shows off Georgia’s natural beauty. Select Georgia Tours can organize a Martvili Tour for you and your loved ones.

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From Khinkali to Guda: A Guide to Traditional Georgian Food

By Giorgi Lomidze • March 12, 2025

Georgia, a country nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, boasts one of the most diverse and flavorful cuisines in the world. Georgian food is a reflection of its rich history, influenced by various cultures while maintaining its unique identity. From hearty breads and succulent meats to aromatic spices and mouth watering cheeses, Georgian cuisine is a true feast for the senses. This guide compiled by Select Georgia will introduce you to the typical Georgian food, ingredients, and customs that define traditional Georgian food. Select Georgia is a tour agency based in Tbilisi. Whether you seek adventure, cultural exploration, or relaxation, our expert guides will take you to hidden gems and iconic destinations. From mountain hikes and wine tastings to ancient cities and seaside retreats, we cater to every traveler's interest. The Essence of Georgian Cuisine Let’s gather more information about the local cuisine. Georgian cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Staples include meat (especially beef, pork, and lamb), dairy products, nuts, herbs, and an abundance of fresh vegetables. What about bread? Bread is more than just food in Georgia; it holds cultural, spiritual, and social significance. It is a symbol of hospitality and abundance, served at every meal and always present on the table. Georgian bread is deeply intertwined with tradition, often being part of religious and festive celebrations. It is hard to discuss the local cuisine without mentioning spices. Interestingly, spices such as blue fenugreek, coriander, garlic, and dried marigold play a vital role in adding depth and complexity to dishes. Must-Try Georgian Dishes Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular dishes. Food lovers from all over the world are interested in the traditional Georgian food. So, there are many inquiries about the Georgian food Khinkali the best food in Georgia. 1. Khinkali (Georgian Dumplings) There are many contenders when it comes to the title of a national dish. Khinkali is one of them. Khinkali are juicy dumplings filled with spiced meat (traditionally beef and pork, but sometimes lamb or mushrooms). The dough is twisted at the top to seal in the rich broth inside. To eat Khinkali properly, one must grab the top, take a small bite, suck out the juice, and then enjoy the rest of the dumpling.