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Kolkheti National Park: Georgia's Wetland Gem

Discover Georgia's 'Amazon': Explore Kolkheti National Park's unique wetlands, rich biodiversity, and ancient Colchis history.

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Explore Kolkheti National Park, a unique coastal haven in western Georgia, protecting vast wetlands, diverse flora and fauna, and serving as a crucial stopover for migratory birds. Discover the 'Georgian Amazon' by boat and immerse yourself in its rich biodiversity and ancient history.

A brief summary to Kolkheti's National Park

Local tips

  • The best times for birdwatching are early spring and late autumn when migratory birds flock to the park.
  • Book boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, as they are the primary way to explore the park's waterways.
  • Bring photo ID for registration at the visitor center before embarking on any tours.
  • Pack mosquito repellent, drinking water, snacks, and sun protection for boat tours.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as boat tours can be affected by windy conditions.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Poti city center, drive south on Guria Street/E97 for approximately 7 minutes. The visitor center is clearly signposted and has parking available. From the visitor center, the boat jetty is about 1.4 km away with on-site parking. Note: roads in the park can be bumpy.

  • Taxi

    From Poti city center, a taxi to the visitor center costs approximately 5-10 GEL. You can ask the driver to wait while you check in and then take you to the boat jetty, or walk the remaining 1.4 km. Taxis are readily available in Poti.

  • Public Transport

    From Batumi, take a Poti-bound marshrutka (minibus) from Batumi's Intercity Bus Station on Mayakovsky Street. Ask to be dropped off at the visitor center, just after the Memorial Park and Socar petrol station. The fare is approximately 8 GEL, and the journey takes just over an hour. From the visitor center, you can take a taxi or walk to the boat jetty.

Unlock the Best of Kolkheti's National Park

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Discover more about Kolkheti's National Park

Kolkheti National Park, nestled in western Georgia, protects a remarkable expanse of coastal wetlands and forests, offering a unique landscape unlike the country's more famous mountains. Established in 1998-1999, the park encompasses 28,940 hectares, expanding to 33,710 hectares with protected wetlands, and incorporates the former Kolkheti State Nature Reserve. This natural treasure trove lies on the Black Sea coastal plain, between the Tikori and Supsa river mouths, and spans five districts. Once part of a vast tropical zone, the area boasts a rich history, having been part of the ancient kingdom of Colchis, famed in Greek mythology as the land of the Golden Fleece. Today, Kolkheti National Park is a haven for biodiversity, with over half of its area covered in wetlands. These wetlands are vital for migratory birds, with the park ranking third globally for bird migration. Keep an eye out for endangered species like the black stork, crane, and great white egret. Visitors can explore the park by boat, traversing the snaking Pichori River, often called the 'Georgian Amazon' due to the dense forests lining its banks. Boat tours on Paliastomi Lake and the Pichori River are a must, offering views of lush greenery and diverse birdlife. Other activities include bird watching, sport fishing, and exploring eco-trails. The park's unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2021 as part of the Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands.

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