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Stand-up paddleboarding on the Mtkvari River beneath Jvari Monastery. Georgia's former capital — 26 centuries of history visible from your board. Only 20 km from Tbilisi.
Mtskheta served as the capital of the Kingdom of Kartli for nearly a thousand years — from the 3rd century BC until the 6th century AD, when the seat of power moved to Tbilisi. Today it's one of four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Georgia, recognized since 1994 for its outstanding collection of early medieval monuments. Paddling here means having front-row seats to one of the most historically dense landscapes in the South Caucasus.
Most visitors see Mtskheta from the road or on foot. Our SUP tour gives you a perspective that no tour bus can offer: the panorama of the ancient city reflected in the river, with the 7th-century Jvari Monastery perched on its hilltop above the confluence. From a paddleboard at water level, the scale of it is genuinely striking. As you paddle along the bank, the 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral — the largest medieval church in Georgia — rises above the old town rooftops in full view. Two landmarks, one river, zero tour buses.
Mtskheta sits at the confluence of the Mtkvari (Kura) and Aragvi rivers — one of the most historically significant spots in Georgia. The Mtkvari is the longest river in the South Caucasus, stretching over 1,500 km. On the water, you'll see the two rivers meeting with distinct colors, creating a natural spectacle that's been drawing travelers since antiquity. Along the route you'll paddle under the old stone bridges of Mtskheta — a perspective that feels like stepping into a different century. The current is calm at the confluence point, making it ideal for all skill levels.
Comfortable vehicle pickup from your hotel or meeting point in Tbilisi.
Experienced guide who knows the river, the currents, and the history of the area.
Boards, paddles, life jackets, and waterproof phone case — all included.
Full instruction for beginners. River paddling is easy — you'll be confident in minutes.
Guide helps you capture the views of Jvari and the old town from the water.
This is an example schedule. For private tours, we customize timing to your preferences.
We collect you from your hotel or agreed meeting point. Drive takes around 45 min — we leave an hour to be safe.
Safety briefing, gear fitting, and introduction to river paddling.
~2 hours on the water: view of Jvari Monastery from the river, the confluence of two rivers, and the ancient rooftops of Mtskheta.
Free time in Mtskheta old town — coffee, churchkhela, or a walk to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral on your own.
Depart Mtskheta. Back in the city by 13:30–14:00.
Includes transfer from Tbilisi, guide, full SUP equipment, and safety briefing.
Absolutely. The Mtkvari River near Mtskheta is calm and wide — it's one of the most beginner-friendly spots for SUP in Georgia. Your guide will walk you through everything before you get on the board. No experience needed whatsoever.
Yes — and that's the whole point. Jvari Monastery sits on the hilltop directly above the river confluence. From the water, you get an unobstructed view that you simply can't get from the road. The 7th-century church, the old town's rooftops, and the two rivers coming together — all visible from your board.
Mtskheta is about 20 km north of Tbilisi — roughly 25–30 minutes by car. It's one of the closest day trip destinations from the city and easy to combine with other activities. We include round-trip transfer in the tour price.
Mtskheta was the capital of early Georgian kingdoms for nearly a millennium and contains a remarkable concentration of medieval architecture. The UNESCO listing covers several monuments including Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Jvari Monastery, and Samtavro Church — all within a short distance of the river where we paddle.
We monitor conditions before every tour. Light rain usually doesn't stop us — it's part of the adventure and the landscape looks stunning in moody weather. If conditions are genuinely unsafe, we reschedule or offer a full refund. Your safety comes first.
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