Kinchkha Waterfall (Okatse Waterfall): How to Visit from Kutaisi
Kinchkha Waterfall at a glance
- Also called: Okatse Waterfall
- Where: near the village of Kinchkha, Khoni municipality, Imereti
- Altitude: about 843 metres above sea level
- The falls: a cascade of three waterfalls; the main drop is about 70 metres
- Access: a marked trail from the village
- For visitors: paths and viewing platforms around the falls
- Getting there: private car with driver from Kutaisi
Facts about the waterfall come from Georgia Travel, Wikipedia, Georgia.to and Georgian Holidays.
Why visit Kinchkha Waterfall?
Western Georgia is famous for its canyons and caves, but Kinchkha is something different: a tall, powerful waterfall falling in stages down grey limestone cliffs into green forest. It is one of the biggest waterfalls in the country, and in spring, when the snow melts, it is at its most dramatic.
It is also less crowded than the big names nearby. Many travellers visit Okatse Canyon, Martvili Canyon or Prometheus Cave and never hear about Kinchkha, so you can often enjoy the view in relative quiet.
The three falls
Kinchkha is a cascade of three waterfalls. The upper fall and the lower fall are smaller, but the main one in the middle drops about 70 metres, and it is the view most people come for. The water collects in pools at the foot of the cliffs before flowing on down the valley.
| Feature | What to know |
|---|---|
| Name | Kinchkha Waterfall, also called Okatse Waterfall |
| Altitude | About 843 metres above sea level |
| Structure | A cascade of three waterfalls |
| Main drop | About 70 metres |
| Access | Marked trail from Kinchkha village; paths and platforms at the falls |
The trail and viewing platforms
The waterfall is reached by a marked trail from Kinchkha village. Paths and platforms have been set up around the falls, so you can see them comfortably without climbing on wet rocks. Wear shoes with good grip: the trail and the steps can be slippery after rain and near the spray.
Check the opening hours and any entry rules at the visitor point when you arrive, as they can change by season.
When to go
- Spring: the most water and the most powerful falls.
- Summer: green forest and pleasant shade on the trail.
- Autumn: colourful leaves and fewer visitors.
- Winter: ask your driver about road and trail conditions before you go.
What to bring
- Shoes: trainers or hiking shoes with good grip; sandals are not a good idea on the wet trail.
- Water and snacks: there are few services along the trail, so bring what you need.
- A light jacket: the spray near the main fall is cool even in summer.
- Cash: small notes in GEL are useful in the village and for the driver.
- Camera: the best photos are from the platforms facing the main fall; mornings usually have the softest light.
Plan around two to three hours for the walk and the time at the falls, and more if you want to sit and enjoy the view. With a driver waiting for free, there is no need to rush.
Combine with Okatse Canyon and Kutaisi sights
Kinchkha is in the same area as Okatse Canyon, so many travellers see both on one day. From Kutaisi you can also add Martvili Canyon or Prometheus Cave on a longer day; our Kutaisi things to do guide covers these sights. If you are coming from the capital, see our Tbilisi to Okatse transfer guide.
Getting there from Kutaisi
The easiest way is a private car with driver. The driver picks you up at your hotel in Kutaisi, brings you to the start of the trail in Kinchkha village, waits for free while you walk to the falls, and takes you back or on to the next sight. You decide when to leave and how long to stay.
See live prices for your date on this page; the price is for the whole vehicle and is shown before you book. You pay the driver in cash in GEL, USD or EUR, with no prepayment.
See drivers and live prices: Kutaisi to Kinchkha Waterfall
Why travel with OrbiTrip
- Free stops on the way: Okatse Canyon, viewpoints or lunch.
- Free waiting: take your time on the trail.
- Free cancellation: change plans without penalty.
- Same price day and night: early or late, the price is the same.
- Pay the driver in cash: GEL, USD or EUR, no prepayment.
- Name-sign meeting: the driver meets you with a name sign.
- Child seat on request: mention it when you book.
- Book ahead: at least 90 minutes before pickup.
- Reliability: For a confirmed booking, your driver is guaranteed to arrive; any necessary replacement driver is at the same price and with your agreement.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kinchkha Waterfall the same as Okatse Waterfall?
Yes. Kinchkha Waterfall is also called Okatse Waterfall. It is one of the biggest waterfalls in Georgia.
How high is Kinchkha Waterfall?
It is a cascade of three waterfalls. The main fall drops about 70 metres.
Where is Kinchkha Waterfall?
Near the village of Kinchkha in Khoni municipality, Imereti, at about 843 metres above sea level.
Do I need to hike to see it?
Yes, a marked trail leads from Kinchkha village to the falls, and there are paths and viewing platforms around them. Wear shoes with good grip.
Can I combine it with Okatse Canyon?
Yes. Kinchkha is in the same area as Okatse Canyon, so many travellers see both on one day from Kutaisi.
How do I get there from Kutaisi?
The easiest way is a private car with driver. See live prices for your date on the route page; you pay the driver in cash.
Checked on 1 November 2026. Sources: Georgia Travel, Wikipedia, Georgia.to and Georgian Holidays.
OrbiTrip Georgia — private transfers across Georgia with local drivers. Per-vehicle price shown before booking, no prepayment.