Amtkeli River

The Amtkeli River is a significant waterway located in the Gulripshi municipality of Abkhazia, Georgia. It serves as a right tributary to the larger Kodori River. Originating from the southern slopes of the Chkhalta Range, the river carves its way through deep, forested gorges. The river is perhaps most famous for a dramatic geological event: in 1891, a massive earthquake triggered a colossal landslide that completely blocked the river's gorge. This natural dam led to the formation of Lake Amtkeli, one of the most beautiful and dynamic lakes in the region. Today, the river flows into the lake and then largely seeps through the landslide debris to continue its journey towards the Kodori. The Amtkeli basin is characterized by dense, almost impenetrable forests and a rich variety of flora and fauna. Due to its remote location and the rugged terrain, the river and its surrounding areas remain a pristine, wild environment, offering a glimpse into the untouched natural beauty of the Caucasus.