Okatse Canyon is one of Georgia’s most captivating and memorable natural landmarks, located approximately 50 kilometers from Kutaisi and just 2.5 kilometers from the village of Zeda Gordi. This dramatic gorge, carved by the Okatse River, stretches for about 16 kilometers and is divided into upper and lower cascades. In fact, it’s more accurate to say that these are two distinct canyons, situated about 4 kilometers apart. The lower one bears the name Okatse Canyon, while the upper is renowned for its impressive waterfall.
Formed over millennia in limestone rock, the canyon owes its existence to the small but persistent Okatse River. During the hotter months, the river can dwindle significantly, revealing even more of the canyon’s sculpted beauty. Though the canyon has existed for ages, it only received the status of a National Park in 2011. For a long time, it remained inaccessible to most travelers—until 2014, when a remarkable tourist trail was opened. This path allows visitors to explore the canyon from an awe-inspiring height of 140 meters, offering views unlike any other.
If you have energy to spare after your canyon adventure, you can extend your day trip to the Kinchkha Waterfall, located just north of Okatse. This is one of Georgia’s tallest and most spectacular waterfalls. The main cascade is visible from afar, and just to its right, a cluster of smaller waterfalls tumbles into naturally-formed white limestone basins—historically used as bathing pools by Georgian noble families.
To reach Okatse Canyon, one must first arrive at the village of Zeda Gordi, where a strikingly modern visitor center marks the entrance to the National Park. Here, you can purchase entry tickets, collect a map of the park, and chat with staff for tips and guidance. The center also offers conveniences like restrooms and a few comfortable sofas—luxuries you won’t find once you head deeper into the canyon territory.
From the visitor center, a 2.5-kilometer paved trail winds its way to the canyon itself. This picturesque path partly passes through what was once the Dadiani Park, the summer estate of the princely Dadiani family in the 19th century. Today, only ruins remain of the once-glorious residence. While local media have occasionally mentioned potential restoration plans for the palace, no concrete details have emerged to date.
The walk to the canyon is a pleasant one, mostly downhill. Though there is a road that leads there, it’s in poor condition and best avoided unless you’re in a rugged vehicle. If walking more than two kilometers sounds daunting, local taxi drivers are usually waiting near the visitor center and can take you close to the canyon entrance for a modest fare.
It’s nearly impossible to get lost here—the trail is clearly marked with signs pointing the way to the nearly 700-meter-long suspension walkway. This unique path leads to a panoramic viewing platform that reveals a stunning vista of surrounding mountains, dense forests, and the sinuous path of the Okatse River below.
For those seeking a different kind of adventure, there’s a secondary route that takes you along the canyon floor, following the river’s course. However, this route does not loop back to your starting point, meaning you’ll need to return via the upper trail to exit the park.
Okatse Canyon is open to visitors year-round, from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. The canyon is closed on Mondays. During winter, hours may be shortened, with last entry at 5:00 PM. Since the canyon’s appearance is less striking in the colder months, winter visits are free of charge.