Balda Canyon

Balda is a limestone canyon in the hills north of Martvili where the river runs between walls hung with moss and ferns and several waterfalls come off the rim directly into the gorge, some of them falling far enough to break into spray before they land. It is smaller and much quieter than the Martvili canyon a short distance away, with a rougher path down and no boat trips, which is exactly why people who want the same landscape without the crowds go there instead. The water is cold and clear and the pools are used for swimming in summer. The path involves scrambling and stream crossings and is slippery throughout.

What you actually see

• Waterfalls off the canyon rim - water dropping straight into the gorge.
• Moss and fern walls - the humid limestone sides.
• Clear cold pools - the swimming spots along the river.
• A quieter alternative to Martvili - the same landscape without the crowds.

When to go

May to October; flow is strongest in spring. Two to three hours. Wear shoes you can get wet. Avoid after heavy rain, when the river rises fast.

Honest expectations

The path is rough, steep and slippery with stream crossings and no railings. There are no facilities. Access is informal and directions from the village are vague. River levels rise dangerously after rain.

Nearby

Martvili canyon is south; Kutaisi lies east.