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Okatse Canyon

A metal walkway fixed to the cliffs of the Okatse Canyon near Khoni, reached by a forest trail through the old Dadiani estate.

Okatse CanyonOkatse CanyonPhoto: Paata vardanashvili, CC BY-SA 4.0

Okatse Canyon is in Khoni municipality, about 45 km north-west of Kutaisi. The Okatse River has cut a narrow, deep gorge into limestone here, and a metal walkway 780 m long is fixed to the side of the cliff, ending at a viewing platform that juts out over the drop. The visitor centre is in the village of Gordi. From there a forest trail of about 2.3 km leads to the start of the walkway through the woods of the former Dadiani estate, where the princes of Mingrelia kept a summer residence.

Allow 2 to 3 hours for the full walk there and back. The walkway is solid and fenced, but it is narrow and exposed, and the trail includes many steps. Kinchkha Waterfall is a few kilometres away and Martvili Canyon in Samegrelo is less than an hour's drive, so the three are often combined on one long day from Kutaisi.

What to see and do

  • The 780 m walkway along the cliff face
  • The viewing platform hanging over the gorge
  • The forest trail through the old Dadiani estate
  • Nearby Kinchkha Waterfall

How to visit

Getting there

The visitor centre is in Gordi village, about 45 km north-west of Kutaisi, roughly 1 hour by car via Khoni. There is no convenient public transport, so hire a driver or join a tour from Kutaisi.

When to go

April–October; avoid days of heavy rain. Plan 2–3 hours here.

Local tips
  • Wear proper walking shoes; the trail has many steps and can be muddy
  • Buy tickets at the Gordi visitor centre before you set off
  • Not ideal for anyone with a strong fear of heights
  • Pair with Kinchkha Waterfall on the same trip

Okatse Canyon: FAQ

How long is the Okatse Canyon walk?

Allow 2 to 3 hours in total. A forest trail of about 2.3 km leads from the visitor centre to the 780 m cliff walkway, and you return the same way.

Is Okatse Canyon scary?

The walkway is secure and fenced, but it is narrow and hangs above a sheer drop, ending at a platform over the canyon. Most people manage fine; those with severe vertigo may want to skip the final platform.

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Straight-line distance from Okatse Canyon.

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