Georgia's mountain rivers, fed by melting Caucasus glaciers, are ideal for rafting. In a couple of hours you can run lively rapids, get soaked from head to toe and admire gorges no road reaches. Many routes suit complete beginners, while experienced paddlers have tougher sections to choose from. Here's where to raft and how to organise a trip.

The main rafting rivers

Aragvi

The Aragvi is the most popular rafting river, especially with visitors based in Tbilisi. Trips run around Pasanauri and Ananuri on the Georgian Military Road, about an hour and a half from the capital.

  • Difficulty: mostly class II–III, suitable for beginners.
  • Time on the water: usually 1–2 hours.
  • Bonus: easy to combine with Ananuri, Gudauri and Kazbegi.

The river is formed by several branches (the White and Black Aragvi among them), and the character of the water varies by section.

Mtkvari near Borjomi

The Mtkvari (Kura) around Borjomi is calmer than the mountain tributaries — good for families and anyone wanting a gentle float among the forested slopes of the Borjomi gorge.

  • Difficulty: I–II, in places III, depending on water levels.
  • Bonus: combine with Borjomi park, the mineral springs and Bakuriani.

Rioni

The Rioni is one of western Georgia's biggest rivers. Trips run in Imereti and Racha, around Kutaisi and further upstream.

  • Difficulty: from II to IV depending on section and season.
  • Bonus: scenic gorges close to Kutaisi, its canyons and caves.

Tskhenistskali

The Tskhenistskali flows from Svaneti through Lentekhi into Imereti — a wilder river with powerful sections.

  • Difficulty: III–IV on some stretches, for those seeking more adrenaline.
  • Bonus: uncrowded, wild surroundings.

When the water is best

  • April–June — snowmelt season, with high, powerful water. The most exciting rapids, but also the toughest conditions.
  • July–August — lower, warmer water and calmer trips, good for beginners and families.
  • September–October — some rivers are low by now, but trips are still possible.

Mountain river water is cold even in summer — wetsuits are usually included.

Difficulty grades

  • I — calm water, small waves.
  • II — simple rapids with wide channels.
  • III — noticeable waves and rapids requiring teamwork; fine for beginners with a guide.
  • IV — powerful rapids; experience needed.
  • V and above — professionals only.

For a first trip, choose class II–III sections.

What tours include

Operators usually provide:

  • a guide in every boat;
  • a raft (an inflatable for 6–10 people) and paddles;
  • a life jacket and helmet — mandatory;
  • a wetsuit and sometimes special footwear;
  • a safety briefing on the bank;
  • sometimes transfers from Tbilisi, Kutaisi or Borjomi, lunch and photos/video.

Cost

Prices depend on the river, duration and transfers. As a rough guide, an Aragvi trip costs from several dozen to a hundred-odd lari per person, more with a transfer from Tbilisi. Check what's included.

Choosing an operator

  • Experienced, certified guides.
  • Well-maintained gear — jackets, helmets and rafts in good condition.
  • Reviews online.
  • A briefing — a good operator always gives one before launching.
  • Cancellation in high water — professionals postpone if levels are dangerous.

Requirements

  • Minimum age is usually 10–12 on easy sections (check).
  • Being able to swim is preferable but not always required — the life jacket keeps you afloat.
  • No alcohol before rafting.
  • Mention any health issues.

What to bring

  • swimwear to wear under the wetsuit;
  • a change of clothes and a towel;
  • shoes you don't mind getting wet (trainers or sandals with heel straps);
  • sunscreen;
  • a waterproof phone case;
  • a strap for your glasses if you wear them.

Safety on the water

  • Always listen to your guide.
  • Hold the paddle by its T-grip so it doesn't hit your neighbour.
  • If you fall in: lie on your back with your feet pointing downstream, don't try to stand in fast water, and wait for a throw rope or the raft.
  • Keep your helmet and life jacket on until the end.

Insurance

Make sure your policy covers rafting as an adventure or extreme activity.

Combining it with your trip

  • Aragvi + Kazbegi: raft near Pasanauri in the morning, then Gudauri and Stepantsminda.
  • Mtkvari + Borjomi: raft, Borjomi park and a night in Bakuriani or Borjomi.
  • Rioni + Kutaisi: raft, then the Martvili and Okatse canyons the next day.

In short

Rafting in Georgia is an accessible adventure on glacial rivers. Beginners will enjoy the Aragvi near Pasanauri and the Mtkvari near Borjomi, while adrenaline seekers can try the Rioni and Tskhenistskali in spring. The best water is April to June, with calmer trips in summer. Choose an operator with experienced guides, wear your helmet and life jacket, and get ready to get wet — that's half the fun.