Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Visitor Center
Vast national park offering challenging hikes, serene forests, and breathtaking mountain vistas for nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal weather, clear paths, best scenery
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Visitor Center
Best Time
Ideal weather, clear paths, best scenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast national park offering challenging hikes, serene forests, and breathtaking mountain vistas for nature lovers.
"A breathtaking escape into nature with trails full of surprises ✨"
Register at Visitor Center
Sign in before your hike for safety and park support. Check hours beforehand! :admission_tickets:
Hydration is Crucial
Bring ample water, especially for exposed sections. Stay hydrated on challenging uphill climbs. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Amirati Shelter Hike
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
An epic 9+ hour trek to a remote shelter, offering solitude and stunning, evolving vistas.
Forest Trails
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Well-marked paths winding through shaded forests, perfect for all fitness levels and a peaceful escape.
Panorama Trail
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Offers breathtaking views and opportunities for overnight camping for the adventurous.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Register Before You Roam
Trail Prep is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Register at Visitor Center
Sign in before your hike for safety and park support. Check hours beforehand! :admission_tickets:
Hydration is Crucial
Bring ample water, especially for exposed sections. Stay hydrated on challenging uphill climbs. :droplet:
Start Your Day Early
Beat the heat and enjoy the quietest trails. Maximize your hiking time. :sunrise:
Comfortable Footwear
Essential for uphill treks. Invest in good hiking boots for a better experience. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Register at Visitor Center
Sign in before your hike for safety and park support. Check hours beforehand! :admission_tickets:
Hydration is Crucial
Bring ample water, especially for exposed sections. Stay hydrated on challenging uphill climbs. :droplet:
Start Your Day Early
Beat the heat and enjoy the quietest trails. Maximize your hiking time. :sunrise:
Comfortable Footwear
Essential for uphill treks. Invest in good hiking boots for a better experience. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Solitude
You might have the park to yourself! Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the park's stunning natural beauty and the sense of solitude found on its trails. The challenging hikes are rewarding, offering breathtaking views and a true escape into nature. While some find the uphill sections demanding, the well-maintained paths and peaceful atmosphere make it a highly recommended destination for hikers.
"Incredible hike to Amirati Shelter – challenging but unforgettable!
We hiked from the entrance of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park to the Amirati Shelter, and it was an amazing experience. The trail took us 9 hours and 45 minutes – we’re beginners, and the many uphill sections made it quite challenging. Still, it was absolutely worth it!
The weather was perfect, and the views kept getting better and better. Most of the first part of the trail is shaded by forest, which made it easier to manage, but the last 4 kilometers are more exposed – bring a hat and plenty of water.
We didn’t see another person the entire day, just a few cows and a friendly dog – it felt like we had the whole park to ourselves.
I highly recommend starting early and registering at the visitor center the day before your hike. I did this trek with my son, and although it pushed us to our limits, it was a fantastic bonding experience and a day we’ll never forget."
Shlomi Masuri
""A breathtaking escape into nature with trails full of surprises ✨"
Borjomi Kharagauli National Park is the perfect place for anyone who loves hiking and exploring the outdoors. We visited in August, which turned out to be an ideal time of year for a walk through the park. The weather was great, the paths were clear, and the scenery was at its absolute best.
We chose one of the trails that took us past a variety of interesting landmarks, each adding something unique to the journey. The combination of peaceful nature, fresh air, and those little discoveries along the way made it a truly rewarding experience. It is the kind of place that makes you want to return and try more of the trails.
– Genuine Gems Overview –
⭐ Rating: 5/5
💰 Price Paid: Free
💎 A Genuine Gem? Yes!"
Genuine Gems (By Paul & Merel)
"A wonderful place. A challenging uphill hike at first until the first picnic spot, then it gets easier. The whole trail is in the forest, a well-marked trail, quiet and beautiful forest. Don’t moss it of you’re in the area!"
Vera Stepenski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The visitor center is the starting point for many hikes. You can reach Borjomi town by marshrutka (minibus) or taxi from major Georgian cities like Tbilisi or Kutaisi. From Borjomi town, local transport or a taxi can take you to the park entrance and visitor center.
Limited parking is usually available near the visitor center. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Public transport within the park is very limited. Most visitors rely on their own vehicles or arrange transport to specific trailheads. The visitor center is the primary access point.
Marshrutkas are the most budget-friendly option from Tbilisi. The journey takes about 2-3 hours. Taxis are faster but more expensive.
While not a regular service, you might be able to arrange a taxi or private transfer from Borjomi town to the park entrance. Inquire locally for options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the park is free to enter, hikers are encouraged to register at the visitor center. This helps with park management and safety.
The visitor center's hours can vary, and it's best to check in advance or upon arrival in Borjomi. Registering the day before is recommended if possible.
Currently, online booking for park entry is not widely available. Registration is typically done in person at the visitor center.
Information on guided tours and associated fees is best obtained directly from the visitor center upon arrival.
While enforcement is minimal, registering is encouraged for your safety and park upkeep. It ensures park authorities are aware of visitors.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the challenging Amirati Shelter hike (9+ hours) and the scenic Panorama Trail. Many well-marked forest trails cater to various fitness levels.
Some trails have designated picnic spots. Restroom facilities are primarily located at the visitor center. Plan accordingly for longer hikes.
Yes, overnight stays are possible, particularly on trails like the Panorama Trail. Ensure you have appropriate camping gear and follow park guidelines.
While sightings vary, you might encounter cows, dogs, and various forest animals. The park is a natural habitat, so respect wildlife from a distance.
Some shorter, less strenuous forest trails are suitable for children. The visitor center also has small informational activities that kids enjoy.
🎫 💧 Water & Refreshments
Natural springs are not always reliable or safe for drinking. It's crucial to bring all the water you'll need for your hike.
There are no dining facilities within the national park itself. You'll need to bring your own food and snacks for your hikes.
It's not recommended to refill water bottles from natural sources unless you have a reliable purification method. Carry enough water from the start.
Pack high-energy snacks like nuts, fruits, and energy bars. For longer hikes, consider sandwiches or pre-prepared meals.
While Borjomi is famous for its mineral water, you won't find it readily available for purchase within the park. Bring your own bottled water.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints along the Panorama Trail and the Amirati Shelter hike offer stunning vistas. The lush forest itself provides beautiful photographic opportunities. +1
Regulations regarding drone usage can change. It's best to check with the visitor center or local authorities before flying a drone.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Look out for unique flora, panoramic mountain views, and the serene forest paths. The changing scenery on longer hikes is a photographer's dream. +1
A lightweight camera with a versatile lens is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for potential wildlife shots. Don't forget extra batteries!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with kids, focus on trails with less extreme elevation changes and shorter durations. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and make it an adventure by looking for interesting plants and listening to the sounds of the forest. The goal is to make it enjoyable and memorable, rather than overly challenging.
🎒 Budget Travelers
Utilizing marshrutkas for travel to Borjomi is the most economical option. Once in the park, packing your own food and water will significantly reduce expenses. The sheer natural beauty and the opportunity for extensive hiking without a fee make it a fantastic value.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
It's crucial for solo travelers to be extra prepared. Ensure you have a reliable map, fully charged phone, sufficient supplies, and have registered at the visitor center. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. The peace and quiet can be incredibly rewarding, but safety should always be the top priority.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
When planning your hike, it's crucial to consider the terrain. Many trails begin with steep ascents, particularly in the initial kilometers, before potentially leveling out or becoming more exposed. The park's diverse landscape means you'll encounter dense forests, open meadows, and sometimes rocky paths. Always check trail conditions at the visitor center, especially after periods of heavy rain or snow, as some routes can become more challenging.
Trail registration at the visitor center is a key step before embarking on any hike. While enforcement might not be strict, this process is vital for park management and visitor safety. It allows park authorities to be aware of who is in the park and where they are headed. The visitor center also provides maps and can offer advice on trail suitability based on current conditions and your fitness level.
The Borjomi Mineral Water Connection
Visitors often associate the fresh, clean air and the therapeutic qualities of the natural surroundings with the restorative properties of Borjomi water. The park offers a chance to experience the very environment that gives this famous water its character. While you won't be drinking directly from the source within the park, the experience of being in such a natural setting can feel just as rejuvenating.
For those interested in the mineral water, the town of Borjomi itself offers opportunities to taste the water directly from its source at the Borjomi Central Park. This provides a complementary experience to the hiking adventures in the national park, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the region's natural gifts.
Planning for a Challenging Hike
Essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots, comfortable clothing, a hat for sun protection, and a reliable backpack. Crucially, carry ample water; relying on natural sources within the park is not advisable due to potential contamination. Pack high-energy snacks and food to sustain you throughout the long journey.
Starting your hike as early as possible is highly recommended. This allows you to tackle the more challenging uphill sections during the cooler parts of the day and ensures you have sufficient daylight to complete your trek safely. The solitude experienced on these less-traveled paths can be a significant reward for the effort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit