Picnic Spot Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Vast national park with diverse trails, lush forests, blooming meadows, and serene mountain landscapes for hiking and nature exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Rhododendrons in bloom
Picnic Spot Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Best Time
Rhododendrons in bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast national park with diverse trails, lush forests, blooming meadows, and serene mountain landscapes for hiking and nature exploration.
"A heaven place of the gorgeous nature, very beautiful and unique national park to visit."
Book Shelters Early
Secure your spot in tourist shelters by registering at the Borjomi NP office in advance.
Pack Ample Water
Water sources can be scarce in summer, especially on longer stretches. Carry enough or plan refills carefully.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. Andrew's Trail
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Experience diverse nature and stunning landscapes on this well-marked trail, perfect for multi-day exploration.
Rhododendron Blooms
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Witness the park burst into vibrant color during early June when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.
Tourist Shelters
Various locations within the park
Comfortable, accessible huts offering a roof and nearby springs for overnight stays on longer treks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Trek Wisely
Getting Around the Park
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Shelters Early
Secure your spot in tourist shelters by registering at the Borjomi NP office in advance.
Pack Ample Water
Water sources can be scarce in summer, especially on longer stretches. Carry enough or plan refills carefully.
Bug Repellent is Key
Protect yourself from insects, especially during humid periods when flowers are blooming.
Consider Guided Tours
Opt for guided jeep or horse tours for longer routes if you're not experienced with tricky terrain.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Shelters Early
Secure your spot in tourist shelters by registering at the Borjomi NP office in advance.
Pack Ample Water
Water sources can be scarce in summer, especially on longer stretches. Carry enough or plan refills carefully.
Bug Repellent is Key
Protect yourself from insects, especially during humid periods when flowers are blooming.
Consider Guided Tours
Opt for guided jeep or horse tours for longer routes if you're not experienced with tricky terrain.
Explore Beyond Borjomi
Escape crowds by venturing into this less-traveled, beautiful part of Georgia.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the park's spectacular, untouched nature and well-maintained trails, offering a peaceful escape from crowds. The availability of tourist shelters is a significant plus for trekkers. However, some note the scarcity of food options and the need for careful water planning during drier months.
"Do not be afraid to leave the comfort of the town and surrounding walking paths. We just loved St Andrews trail. You can see all the different parts and types of nature of the whole huge NP during 3 or 4 days only. Unlike in case of burned Lomitsma the shelters on the way are ok and several new ones added so no need to carry a tent if you pay for the stay at the Borjomi NP office in advance. If you don't like the crowds in Borjomi park or in Svaneti try this lovely different part of Georgia. We met only one couple at the beginning and than no one during the whole trip so you can have the mountains to yourself as much as you wish even in the full season. Just take enough food and watch for the water in summer. It can become a real problem for more than 20 km and you may need to change your journey to get some. The trail must be beautiful at the beginning of June as well when all the rhododendrons are blooming."
Bela Kroupova
"A national forest, with tall trees canopying the paths, filled by several flowers, valleys, viewpoints and pure nature
There are many ways to reach the forest. You can go by hiking, horses, buggy or a jeep, chose carefully. There are some paths but those are tricky and if not experienced, self driving is not advisable. There are many vehicles and horses to rent down, and the guides offer two options, a short one - 1.30 to 2 hours, or the longer one- 5-6 hours. If you are going on the longer one like us, (we chose a Rubicon jeep), I’d suggest you take some food and ample of water. There is one makeshift restaurant near the big lake, but not much choices.
The path and the forest is beyond words. This time of the year, the flowers are blooming, a bit humid, yet once you reach the top, it’s breezy. Though they said we may encounter wild life’s, we did not. There are a couple of authentic villages- one is abandoned, the other one is only used in summer. Check that places too. Also carry a bug repellent
If you love safari’s you will love this journey"
Sangeetha D Packiyarajah
"A heaven place of the gorgeous nature. Very beautiful and unique national park to visit with a lot of natural sightseeings and place for all types of outdoor activities like walking, hiking, birdwatching, offroad jeep tours, mountain cycling, camping and rest in very relaxing environment full of green, water and beautiful mountains."
Olga Maksimovich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the park via Borjomi or Kharagauli towns. From there, various transport options like hiking, horses, buggies, or jeeps are available to enter the park.
Self-driving is not advisable on tricky paths unless you are experienced. Guided jeep tours are a safer option for exploring deeper into the park.
A small entrance fee is charged at ranger stations. Prices vary if you are staying in a tent (around 5 GEL/person/night) or using tourist shelters.
Yes, hiking is a primary way to explore the park. There are 12 marked hiking routes, ranging from 1 to 5 days.
Trailheads are accessible from Borjomi and Kharagauli. Registration at the visitor centers in these towns is required before starting your hike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, registration is mandatory for all hiking routes. You must register at the visitor centers in Borjomi or Kharagauli.
Overnight stays in tourist shelters can be booked in advance at the Borjomi National Park office.
Camping fees are approximately 5 GEL per person per night if you are staying in a tent.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the entrance fees are generally considered a small charge for the experience.
Visitor centers in Borjomi and Kharagauli are typically open during standard business hours, but it's advisable to check locally for exact times before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Expect a national forest with tall trees, diverse flowers, valleys, viewpoints, and pure, untouched nature.
While wildlife is present, encounters are not guaranteed. Visitors have reported not seeing wild animals during their trips.
The park offers well-maintained tourist shelters with basic amenities like walls and roofs, often located near springs. Designated camping sites are also available.
Yes, Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park is a great destination for birdwatching due to its diverse habitats and rich natural environment.
Mountain cycling is one of the many outdoor activities offered in the park, with trails suitable for various skill levels.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is one makeshift restaurant near the big lake, but dining options are limited with not many choices. It's best to bring your own food.
Pack enough food and water for your entire trip, especially for longer hikes. Non-perishable items are recommended.
Food options within the park are scarce. It's highly recommended to purchase all your supplies before entering the park.
Yes, the park is an ideal location for picnics, with many scenic spots to enjoy your meal amidst nature.
While some shelters are located near springs, it's always advisable to purify or treat water from natural sources before drinking to ensure safety.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! From the tall trees and blooming flowers to panoramic viewpoints and serene valleys, the park offers endless photographic opportunities.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views, and a telephoto can be useful for wildlife if you're lucky.
While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, patience and a telephoto lens might offer opportunities to photograph birds or other small animals.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant colors of flowers.
Information on drone usage is not readily available. It's best to check with the park administration or local authorities before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing plenty of snacks and water is essential, as dining options within the park are very limited. Look for designated picnic spots to enjoy a family meal amidst the scenic surroundings. While wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, the sheer beauty of the forests and meadows can be captivating for kids.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and water to save on expenses, as on-site dining is minimal and can be pricey. Hiking is free and offers the most immersive experience. Opting for public transport to reach Borjomi or Kharagauli will further reduce your travel costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile lens kit to capture both wide-angle landscapes and detailed shots of flora. While wildlife is elusive, patience might reward you with unique shots. Remember to check for any regulations regarding drone photography before your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking and Trekking Routes
For those planning multi-day treks, the park provides well-equipped tourist shelters. These shelters offer basic but comfortable accommodation, often with a nearby water source, eliminating the need to carry a tent. It's crucial to register your hike and book these shelters in advance at the Borjomi or Kharagauli visitor centers to ensure availability and proper park management.
When planning your hike, especially during summer, pay close attention to water availability. Some sections can be long without reliable water sources, so carrying sufficient water or knowing your refill points is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek.
Transportation and Access
Self-driving within the park is generally not advised for inexperienced visitors due to the challenging nature of some trails. The park administration offers various vehicle and horse rentals, along with guides who can tailor tours to your preferred duration, from short 2-hour excursions to longer 5-6 hour adventures.
For those arriving by public transport, reaching the park's main entry points in Borjomi or Kharagauli is feasible. From these towns, you can arrange further transport into the park or begin your hike. Remember to register at the visitor centers in Borjomi or Kharagauli before embarking on any trails.
Flora and Fauna
While the park is home to wildlife, actual encounters are not guaranteed. Visitors have reported not seeing many wild animals during their trips, but the possibility of spotting birds or smaller creatures exists. The diverse valleys and viewpoints offer a rich habitat for various species.
Beyond the visual beauty, the park's environment is ideal for activities like birdwatching. The lush greenery, water bodies, and varied terrain contribute to a healthy ecosystem that supports a wide array of flora and fauna, making it a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts.
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