Why This Region
The Land of Ancient Colchis
Samegrelo occupies the lowlands between the Colchis wetlands and the southern foothills of the Caucasus, historically the kingdom the Greeks called Colchis — land of the Golden Fleece. Today it's best known to visitors for the boat tours of Martvili Canyon, where a turquoise river has carved a cathedral-like gorge through the limestone, but the region runs much deeper: the ruins of Nokalakevi, the enormous Enguri Dam at the foot of the Svaneti range, and a rich Mingrelian food culture that many Georgians consider the country's finest.
At a Glance
Base town
Zugdidi (~100 m)
Getting there
~4 h from Tbilisi; gateway to Svaneti
Terrain
Lowland river valleys, limestone gorges, wetlands
Best season
Apr–Oct; canyon at its best May–Jun
Difficulty
Easy; family-friendly
Main draw
Martvili Canyon, Nokalakevi, Enguri
Ideal length
Day trip or overnight from Kutaisi / Mestia
Pairs with
Imereti, Svaneti, Racha
Things to Do
Signature Sights & Experiences
Activities available here
On the Map
Where It Sits in Georgia
Key spots
Zugdidi
Martvili Canyon
Nokalakevi
Enguri Dam
Kolkheti Park
Best Time to Visit
When to Come
Apr–Jun
Peak Canyon Season
The canyon water is highest and most dramatic in spring — brilliant emerald colour, full waterfalls, and the gorge at its most photogenic.
Jul–Oct
Summer & Autumn
Warm and green throughout summer. Water levels drop slightly in late summer but the canyon remains beautiful. Autumn brings golden forest.
Nov–Mar
Quiet Season
Mild and quiet; most canyon tours run year-round. A good time to visit Zugdidi and Nokalakevi without the summer crowds.
Tailor-Made
Want a Trip Designed Around You?
Tell us your dates, group size, interests, and fitness level, and we'll craft a private itinerary — hiking, climbing, caving, biking, overlanding, or a mix, with as much Georgian food and culture as you like.
Request a Custom Trip