Rioni River

The Rioni River is the largest river entirely within the borders of Georgia and the main waterway of the western part of the country. Originating in the Caucasus Mountains, in the region of Racha, it flows westwards and empties into the Black Sea near the city of Poti. Historically known to the ancient Greeks as the Phasis River, it was a significant landmark and is famously associated with the myth of Jason and the Argonauts, who sailed up the river in search of the Golden Fleece. The Rioni is crucial for the region's agriculture and hydroelectric power generation. Its upper reaches offer thrilling opportunities for whitewater rafting, while its lower, broader sections flow through the fertile Colchis Lowland. The river's diverse ecosystems support various fish species, including the endangered sturgeon.