What to do
It's a truly amazing experience to discover the national park riding a horse
What to see
At 2,642m, Mount Samethskhvario is the highest point in the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, you will enjoy a picturesque view of a variety of plants blossoming in July-August.
Borjomi Kharagauli National Park encompasses 70,000 km2 of virgin forest with many endemic and endangered species such as rhododendron, juniper and the yew. The Nikoloz Romanoff’s trail gives many possibilities to enjoy the virgin forest.
The village of Marelisi lies within the national park boundaries and makes a good starting point for hiking and horseback tours. Hikers can experience local cheese being made, butter and wine making and also taste the products.
Vardazia’s medieval cave city was built in 1185 under the reign of Queen Tamar as protection from the Mongols. The city was dug deep into the Erusheli mountain and consists of a church, a throne room and a thirteen story apartment complex.
The Borjomi Gorge area is renowned for its mineral springs and resort towns. Borjomi town on the eastern edge of the national park is the most popular resort of all. Nunisi on the northern edge of the park attracts tourists with warm mineral springs surrounded by subtropical forest. In the famous health resort of Sairme visitors can purchase bottles of spa water. Abastumani, south of the park, is famous for its incomparable climate and sulphur baths with connections to the Tsars’ period.
St. Mary’s Chapel in the village of Quabiskhevi dates back to the 9th century. The monasteries of Sapara and Timotesubani, both from the 13th century, are famous for their fine frescoes. The 14th century monastery in Zarzma is also worth visiting.
What to do
Hike up Mount Samethskhvario or climb down the steep Megruki gorge. There are nine trails in the national park, ranging from 1.5 hour walks to strenuous treks over several days. Most trails are accessible from April/May until October.
Watch large flocks of yellow bee-eaters in the spring or look out for the endemic Caucasian black grouse. Borjomi National Park lies on the migratory route of many birds and encounters are frequent!
The Zakari Pass is a popular route for mountain bike tours. Mountain bikers have to bring their own bikes and equipment.
Horses can be booked in advance at the national park administration or hired directly in the villages of Atskuri and Marelesi.
Adventure tips
PAN Parks offer a wide variety of wilderness experiences. We collected those adventures that help you best experience PAN Parks Wilderness.
The Georgian national park encompasses 70,000 km2 of virgin forests with many endemic and endangered species. Nikoloz Romanoff’s trail takes you through these forests also including a section in the north of the park that is literally a jungle.
The 40-km trail gives possibilities for treks of different length and also for overnight stays in the park.
You can make a 2-day trip from Likani to Mount Lomismta where there is also a shelter for overnight stays. An extra feature is when you can enjoy a fabulous view of blossoming rhododendrons in April-May.
It is a truly amazing experience to discover the national park riding a horse, especially as you can reach most areas on horseback.
Local partner offering an activity related to this adventure:
Guesthouse “Nick and George”
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