Plizio Visual Lab
Rioni River
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
River
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Rioni River is the most significant waterway in western Georgia, playing a pivotal role in the nation's history and mythology. Originating on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus in the Racha region, it flows for 327 kilometers (203 miles) westward until it empties into the Black Sea at the port city of Poti. In antiquity, the river was known by the Greek name Phasis and marked the edge of the known world for sailors in the region of Colchis. According to Greek mythology, Jason and the Argonauts sailed up the Rioni to reach Aea and retrieve the Golden Fleece. Today, the river is a major source of irrigation for the fertile Colchis Lowland and supports several hydroelectric power stations along its course. The Rioni passes through prominent urban centers, most notably Kutaisi, Georgia's second-largest city and a historic cultural hub. The river's estuary is part of the Kolkheti National Park, a vital habitat for rare bird species and unique wetland landscapes. Despite its modern economic uses, the Rioni remains a powerful symbol of Georgia's ancient ties to classical civilization and European cultural history.
- Location: Georgia
- Top sights: St.George Church · mag'lakis mac`xovris eklesia · Church on Duknebi
- Nearby: Tskhaltubo (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 23 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 7 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 96 | 80 | 105 | 73 | 69 | 77 | 68 | 64 | 103 | 112 | 111 | 102 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Rioni River is highly accessible as it flows through large parts of western Georgia. Numerous roads, including major highways, and bridges in cities such as Kutaisi provide excellent points of access.
Best season
A visit to the river is generally possible at any time of the year. Late spring and early summer are convenient for rafting, whereas heavy rains or mountain snowmelt can cause the water level to rise quite rapidly.
Terrain & paths
The riparian terrain varies widely, ranging from well-paved promenades in the urban centers to highly rocky and wild, overgrown bank sections in the more rural and mountainous regions of the upper course.
What to bring
Casual everyday clothing is entirely sufficient for strolling in the cities. However, anyone participating in rafting tours or hiking in the wilder upper sections will require non-slip shoes and outdoor gear.
Parking
There are plenty of regular parking spaces available in the cities located along the river. Out in the natural areas, vehicles can usually be parked on gravel patches or simply along the wider edges of the roads.
Safety
The current of the Rioni can be exceptionally fast and strong in various places. Visitors must watch for slippery stones on unpaved banks, and water sports should only be done with experienced local operators.
Time needed
A visit can range from a short, relaxing city walk along the riverbanks to multi-hour or even full-day outdoor and rafting adventures in the surrounding natural environments, depending on your itinerary.
Geography
Facts
- The Rioni is the longest river flowing entirely within the borders of Georgia.
- In ancient Greek times, the river was known as the Phasis.
- The source of the Rioni is located at an altitude of 2,960 meters (9,711 feet).
- The river flows through Kutaisi, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Colchis.
- It empties into the Black Sea at the strategic port city of Poti.
- The Rioni River has a drainage basin of approximately 13,400 square kilometers.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Rioni River (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Rioni river?
At 327 km, it is the longest river that flows entirely within Georgia.
Which major city does it flow through?
The Rioni flows through Kutaisi, the third-largest city in Georgia.
Can you go rafting on the Rioni?
Yes, especially in the upper section in Racha, there are popular rafting routes.
What historical significance does the river have?
In ancient times it was called Phasis and was part of the Argonauts' legend.
Where does the river end?
The Rioni flows into the Black Sea near Poti.
Rioni River: where is it located?
Rioni River is located in Georgia.
Rioni River: what is there to see?
Highlights include St.George Church, mag'lakis mac`xovris eklesia, Church on Duknebi.
Rioni River: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Rioni River: why is it worth visiting?
The Rioni River is the most significant waterway in western Georgia, playing a pivotal role in the nation's history and mythology.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Georgia →
Nearby cities
Kutaisi
Kutaisi is the third-largest city in Georgia and the center of the Imereti region.
Samtredia
Samtredia is a bustling city in the Imereti plain, known for its importance as a railway hub.
Zestafoni
Zestafoni is an industrial city in Imereti, whose economy is closely linked to the processing of manganese ore.
Chiatura
Chiatura is a unique mountain town famous for its extensive network of Soviet cable cars.
Tkibuli
Tkibuli is a mining town in western Georgia, surrounded by dense forests and steep mountains.
Khoni
Khoni is a small town in the western Georgian lowlands, distinguished by its traditional silk production and agricultural products.
Tskhaltubo
Tskhaltubo is a formerly world-famous spa town, valued for its radon-infused mineral springs.
Ambrolauri
Ambrolauri is the charming center of the Racha region, known for its fine wines and spectacular scenery.
Lentekhi
Lentekhi is a peaceful town serving as the gateway to Lower Svaneti.
Sairme
Sairme is a renowned balneological resort in the forested mountains of Imereti, famous for its mineral springs and wellness retreats.
Ushguli
One of the highest continuously inhabited villages in Europe, decorated with ancient stone defensive towers.
Shovi
A picturesque high-altitude resort in the Racha region, known for its mineral springs and coniferous forests.
History & landmarks
More places
Imereti Tea Plantations
The rolling hills of Imereti and Guria were once the center of Soviet tea production.
Kutaisi Free Industrial Zone
This industrial zone in Kutaisi promotes local and foreign investments in technology, textiles, and household appliances.
Sataplia Nature Reserve
The Sataplia Nature Reserve is famous for its well-preserved dinosaur footprints and a beautiful karst cave.
Prometheus Cave
The Prometheus Cave near Kutaisi is one of Georgia's most fascinating natural wonders.
Bagrati Cathedral
Bagrati Cathedral in Kutaisi majestically crowns the Ukimerioni Hill.
Okatse Canyon
The Okatse Canyon offers an unforgettable experience thanks to a spectacular suspended walkway attached to the cliff wall high above the …
Gelati Monastery
Gelati Monastery near Kutaisi was one of Georgia's first cultural and spiritual centers.
Tkibuli Coal Mine
Tkibuli is the center of Georgian coal mining, extracting hard coal primarily for domestic needs.