Georgia’s climate and landscapes greatly influence the growth and development of flora and fauna in all the provinces. The plethora of astounding ecosystems, archeological sites, and wildlife are protected by most state’s national parks and monuments. With dozens of legendary trails and historical sights to check out and many great outdoor activities to explore, Georgia is one of the best places to tour. Here are the ten best national parks in Georgia that you should consider visiting.
1. Tbilisi National Park
Tbilisi National Park is one of the best-known parks in Georgia. It offers a wide range of activities in all seasons but is more magical during winter when the Sabaduri Forest snows. In addition, you can get a bath treatment during the colder months. Check out Culinarium Khasheria for a memorable sulfur bath. Book a walking tour in an underground tunnel bazaar where you will come across many souvenirs, including wine and Georgian handicrafts. The road underneath is approximately a 5-minute walk from the sulfur baths. Explore Gallery 27 if you’re into arts and crafts. The place has stunning carvings and other decorations that you wouldn’t want to leave once inside. There is no better place to be in the park than Gardenia Shevardnadze. It’s where you can relax in a beautiful and calm atmosphere. Make sure you try their delicious cakes in Gardenia. Mammals are spread all over the park. If you’re lucky, you might see roe-deer, squirrels, rabbits, boars, jackals, and numerous species of birds.
2. Cumberland Island National Seashore
Cumberland Island National Seashore is one of the largest islands in Georgia. It’s well known for its diverse species of animals, both on land and underwater. Cumberland is home to armadillos, white-tail deer, vultures, sea turtles, manatees, bobcats, etc. Interestingly, wild horses and their babies can be spotted roaming the island freely. Cumberland Island is characterized by historic structures, dune fields, spectacular glacial ice, salt marshes, and maritime forests. The island has plenty of trails to explore – from short walks to multi-day hikes. You may also want to undertake boating activities like kayaking and canoeing, depending on your preferences.
3. Vashlovani Nature Reserve
Situated in the remote areas of the eastern part of Georgia, Vashlovani Nature Reserve is home to some of the most beautiful attractions in the state. The Nature Reserve is well-known for its distinctive sharp cliffs, badlands, and abundance of wildlife. Take your time to trace the trails within the valleys, especially if you’re taking a scenic drive, because you might find yourself off-roading through the muddy fields your entire day. The Azerbaijan border is the best place to spot jackals, rabbits, porcupines, wolves, and jungle cats.
4. Mtirala National Park
Experience the world’s wonders up close by visiting Mtirala National Park any time of the year. It’s a perfect destination for hikers. Hike through the incredible flora and fauna to enjoy the subtropical forest’s cool weather and fresh air. Mtirala is home to approximately 95 different animal species, including lynx, brown bear, Caucasian salamanders, and Caucasian squirrels. Eagles, kites, hawks, and various butterflies also call Mtirala home.
5. Kolkheti National Park
Well known for its Colchic forests and wetlands, Kolkheti National Park is one of the best places to see wildlife and the unique ecosystem. The park’s primary goal is to protect the entire complex of flora and fauna. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kolkheti by kayaking or canoeing through the unique wetlands and Colchic forest. You may catch a glimpse of grizzly bears, white pelicans, and woodcocks while on your tour. Spend a day at Paliastomi Lake Basin and the coast of the Black Sea if you don’t want to explore any boating activities.
6. Javakheti National Park
In Georgia, you will find Javakheti National Park, a woodless territory with unique flora and fauna. It’s one of the coldest places you can ever visit, and most lakes freeze for more extended periods throughout the winter. Javakheti is well known for its bird-watching activities. There is a particular tower in the park, mainly established for watching birds. Around 140 species of birds, including hawks, storks, sandpipers, casarcas, sea ducks, and corncrakes, live in the park. Javakheti is also the only area in Georgia with real flamingos.
7. Tusheti Protected Landscape
Tucked within protected landscapes and forested slopes, Tusheti is one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. While it’s home to an impressive series of specific traditions and unique architecture, the major highlight is the villages of Dartlo and Omalo. The villages can be accessed by horse riding and hiking. Taking a scenic drive may be difficult due to the complex terrain. Get to learn about the ancient traditions of the villages. At first, the traditions may seem a little bit strange to you, but don’t try to object to any of them, at least while you’re still there. You may see brown bears from a distance while traversing the remote hiking trails. At night, you’ll hear the howling sounds of wolves from the mountains. Wild boars, otters, deer, and wild goats live in Tusheti. You must walk around with a stick because you’ll most likely encounter the intimidating, ferocious Georgian sheepdog all over Tusheti.
8. Kazbegi National Park
Kazbegi National Park is Georgia’s flagship park and an epic place to spot golden eagles, vultures, rabbits, squirrels, pine martens, and wild cats. These animals can be sighted in the park’s subalpine fields, hills, and deep valleys. The best part about Kazbegi is that you don’t need to hike all over the place to get the views of the park. You can get a panoramic view of the whole park from Gergeti Trinity Church, built on the slopes of the majestic Kazbek Mountain.
9. Algeti National Park
Located in Eastern Georgia, Algeti National Park is one of the most exciting destinations in the United States that offers impressive views of the forested mountains together with its beautiful landscapes. Known for its great fortresses, canyons, and monuments, Algeti is one of the most popular hiking spots on the continent. Hike around the park to see its wildlife, such as wild boars, grizzly bears, brown bears, wolves, martens, and foxes. Roe deer are the permanent inhabitants of Algeti.
10. Borjomi and Kharagauli National Park
Nestled within the Lesser Caucasus in central Georgia, Borjomi and Kharagauli National Park is one of the most scenic places in the United States. If you’re not afraid of the wilderness, then the best way to see the scenery of this park is with a hike through the deep forest. Borjomi and Kharagauli park is full of magnificent scenery caused by valleys, canyons, animals, and pristine landscapes. The park is home to brown bears, red deer, wolves, boars, wild cats, lynx, and chamois.
