Wildlife in Georgia
Including Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, Kolkheti National Park, and Lagodekhi Nature Reserve. On the map.
The vibe
Observing nature here is a quiet, solitary pursuit focused on spotting elusive mountain goats and birds of prey against a backdrop of dramatic, vertical terrain. Late spring and summer are best for trekking into the high-altitude habitats where the fauna retreats. It is a low-key, independent affair with very little in the way of formal wildlife tourism or designated viewing platforms.
park entry fee
Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Samtskhe–Javakheti
G.N / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
As one of the largest national parks in Europe, this vast protected area is a sanctuary for brown bears, lynx, and wolves. The dense coniferous and mixed forests provide a rugged, pristine habitat for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts looking to spot Caucasian wildlife in their natural environment.
Access. Accessible via the town of Borjomi; visitors must register at the park visitor center to obtain permits and trail maps before entering the wilderness.
Notes. Best visited between May and October; wildlife sightings require patience and quiet trekking.
Kolkheti National Park
Samegrelo-Upper Svaneti
Paata vardanashvili / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
This coastal wetland ecosystem is a critical stopover for migratory birds traveling along the Black Sea flyway. The park is famous for its peatlands and marshes, which support diverse waterfowl and are the best place in Georgia for serious birdwatching.
Access. Accessible by boat from the city of Poti; guided boat tours through the Paliastomi Lake and the surrounding wetlands are the primary way to view wildlife.
Notes. Peak birding seasons are during spring and autumn migrations.
Lagodekhi Nature Reserve
Kakheti
Jon Gudorf Photography / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Established as the first nature reserve in the Caucasus, this area is a haven for the East Caucasian tur, chamois, and red deer. The steep, forested slopes provide a dramatic backdrop for observing these elusive mountain ungulates.
Access. Entry is managed through the visitor center in Lagodekhi; guided hikes are required for certain high-altitude trails to ensure safety and wildlife protection.
Notes. Strict conservation rules apply; visitors must stay on marked trails to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
Vashlovani National Park
Kakheti
Sarah Murray from South Bend, IN, USA / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Known as the 'Georgian Savannah,' this unique semi-desert landscape is home to rare species including the leopard, striped hyena, and various species of eagles. The dramatic arid canyons and pistachio forests offer a distinct wildlife experience compared to the rest of the country's alpine regions.
Access. Located in the Dedoplistskaro region; 4x4 vehicles are recommended for navigating the park's rugged terrain, and guides are available for specialized wildlife tracking.
Notes. Extreme heat in summer; spring is the best time for birding and spotting desert-adapted fauna.