Canyoning in Shkmeri Canyon

Location

Shkmeri Canyon is in the Kheori river valley of Oni Municipality, in the Racha-Lechkhumi and Zemo Svaneti region, 25 kilometers away from Oni Town.

The Route

The canyon is 2000 meters long and the route starts in Shkmeri Village, 1720 meters above sea level. The elevation difference is 450 meters and there are five waterfalls, of which the highest is 15 meters tall. 

After passing three waterfalls, go through a 200-meter cave, after which you will return to the canyon. The Shkmeri Canyon is a truly wonderful natural monument.

Along the route, you will have beautiful views of the Caucasus Mountains. It takes five to six hours to fully cover the route. 

The Season

Summer is the best for canyoning when the average temperature is 25 to 30 degrees Celcius.

How to Reach the Starting Point

Take the 25-kilometer, paved road from Oni Town to Shkmeri village. You can get to Ambrolauri city by minibus or car from Kutaisi and Tbilisi, as well as fly from Natakhtari Airport to Ambrolauri Airport. From Ambrolauri you can take a bus or hire a driver to take you to Oni Town, and then on to Shkmeri. The small walking path from the village center to the starting point is about three to four kilometers.

Safety and Equipment 

Before canyoning, the instructors will explain in detail how to descend the waterfalls and control the speed and intensity. You will descend according to the route you learn beforehand.

Wear closed-toed sports shoes or hydro shoes during the descent. A hydro suit, helmet, and rock climber’s harness will be provided for you there. 

Useful Information

Book the tour beforehand. You pay in cash on location.

You’re sure to get wet while canyoning, so do not take any items with you that are not waterproof - better leave them in the car till the end of the tour.