Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, the country of Georgia is home to some of the most diverse and striking landscapes in the Caucasus region. From the soaring peaks of the Greater Caucasus Mountains to lush forests, ancient fortresses, and arid desert-like plains, Georgia’s national parks offer an incredible variety of outdoor experiences. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the main national parks in Georgia, giving you all the essential information to plan your adventure.
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Overview
One of the largest national parks in Georgia, Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park covers over 85,000 hectares and stretches across the Lesser Caucasus Mountains. This park is known for its dense forests, alpine meadows, and diverse wildlife. It’s also home to the famous Borjomi mineral water springs, which have been a popular health destination for centuries.
Key Attractions
- Borjomi Mineral Water: The town of Borjomi, located at the edge of the park, is famous for its natural mineral springs. Visitors can sample the water directly from the source in Borjomi Central Park and explore the history of the Borjomi water industry at the local museum.
- Hiking and Trekking: The park offers a variety of marked hiking trails, ranging from short day hikes to multi-day treks. The Panorama Trail is a popular 2-3 hour hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Wildlife: Borjomi-Kharagauli is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, lynxes, and wild boar. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the park’s population of eagles, hawks, and other birds of prey.
Practical Information
- Location: The park is about a 2-hour drive west of Tbilisi. You can reach the main entrance in Borjomi via car or by train.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the temperatures are mild, and the forests are vibrant with color. Summer is also a good time, though it can get crowded in Borjomi.
- Permits: Permits are required for some hiking routes, and these can be obtained from the visitor centers in Borjomi and Kharagauli.
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Tusheti National Park
Overview
Tusheti National Park, located in the northeastern part of Georgia, is a remote and rugged region known for its high-altitude landscapes and traditional villages. The park is only accessible via a challenging mountain road, but the journey is well worth it for those seeking adventure and a glimpse into Georgia’s ancient past.
Key Attractions
- Tushetian Villages: Tusheti is famous for its centuries-old stone villages and defensive towers, which were used to protect against invaders. Dartlo, Omalo, and Shenako are among the most picturesque and well-preserved villages in the region.
- Hiking and Horseback Riding: The park offers some of the best trekking opportunities in Georgia, with trails that take you through dramatic mountain passes, alpine meadows, and deep river gorges. Many locals also offer guided horseback tours, which are a traditional way to explore the area.
- Cultural Festivals: If you visit in early August, you may have the chance to witness Tushetoba, a festival celebrating Tusheti’s unique culture, with traditional music, dancing, and horse races.
Practical Information
- Location: Tusheti is about a 7-hour drive from Tbilisi. The road to Tusheti is only open from late May to early October due to snow, and it’s recommended to use a 4×4 vehicle or hire a local driver.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tusheti is from June to September when the weather is warm, and the mountain passes are open.
- Accommodation: Most visitors stay in guesthouses in the villages of Omalo or Dartlo. Camping is also an option for those who want to spend more time in the wilderness.
Lagodekhi Protected Areas
Overview
Situated in the far northeastern corner of Georgia, on the border with Azerbaijan and Russia, the Lagodekhi Protected Areas are renowned for their lush forests, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems. This park is one of the oldest nature reserves in Georgia, established in 1912, and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation.
Key Attractions
- Black Rock Lake: One of the most popular and challenging hikes in Lagodekhi is the trail to Black Rock Lake, located at an altitude of over 2,800 meters. The multi-day trek takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, and offers spectacular views of the Greater Caucasus range.
- Waterfalls: Lagodekhi is famous for its beautiful waterfalls, including the Ninoskhevi and Gurgeniani waterfalls. These can be reached via shorter, easier hikes, making them accessible to visitors of all skill levels.
- Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including red deer, brown bears, lynxes, and wild goats. It’s also a hotspot for birdwatching, with species such as golden eagles, bearded vultures, and Caucasian grouse commonly spotted in the area.
Practical Information
- Location: Lagodekhi is about a 3-hour drive from Tbilisi and is accessible by car or public transport from the nearby town of Telavi.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is favorable for hiking and the trails are accessible.
- Permits: A permit is required for some hikes, especially the multi-day trek to Black Rock Lake. These can be obtained at the visitor center in Lagodekhi.
Vashlovani National Park
Overview
In stark contrast to the lush forests and high mountains of other national parks in Georgia, Vashlovani National Park offers an entirely different landscape, with arid plains, desert-like badlands, and unique rock formations. Located in southeastern Georgia near the border with Azerbaijan, Vashlovani is ideal for those looking to explore Georgia’s wild and untamed side.
Key Attractions
- Alazani Floodplains: The Alazani River runs through Vashlovani National Park, creating lush floodplains that contrast sharply with the surrounding arid landscape. This area is perfect for wildlife viewing, with species such as gazelles, jackals, and eagles commonly spotted.
- Eagle Canyon: One of the park’s most dramatic natural features, Eagle Canyon is a deep gorge carved by the Alazani River. The canyon offers excellent hiking opportunities and is a popular spot for birdwatching.
- Badlands: The barren, rocky terrain of the Vashlovani badlands is often compared to the American Southwest. This area is perfect for off-road adventures, with 4×4 tours available for those looking to explore the rugged terrain.
Practical Information
- Location: Vashlovani is located about a 4-hour drive southeast of Tbilisi. The park is best explored by car, and a 4×4 vehicle is recommended for some of the more remote areas.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the summer can be extremely hot, and winter can be quite cold.
- Accommodation: There are several guesthouses in the nearby town of Dedoplistskaro, and camping is allowed in designated areas within the park.
Conclusion
Georgia’s national parks offer an incredible range of natural beauty, from the alpine peaks of the Caucasus to the desert-like landscapes of the southeast. Whether you’re looking for challenging mountain hikes, cultural experiences in ancient villages, or opportunities to observe unique wildlife, Georgia’s parks have something to offer