• A GUIDE TO BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK

    Autumn colours showing on the forested slopes below the Panorama Trail in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
  • BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK

    A lone tree standing on the grassy ridge on Day 2 of the Panorama Trail in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

A GUIDE TO BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

In this guide we outline the various trails, from short day hikes to multi-day treks, across Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. We also cover some tips for visiting the park and give practical advice for getting there and around.

Spread out over the Lesser Caucasus, Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park covers three of the country’s regions and is one of the largest in Georgia. It is accessible year-round in one form or another, and with many hiking, biking, horse riding, and snowshoeing trails, it has a lot to offer.

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WATCH OUR FILM

Watch the behind the scenes version of our Panorama Trail hike on Instagram stories

Watch the behind the scenes
version of our Panorama Trail
hike on Instagram stories 

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP HIKING TRAILS MAP

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

HIKING TRAILS MAP

Use the map below to discover the hiking trails in Borjomi-Kharagauli NP. Tap the menu button at the top left for more details, to toggle layers on and off, and switch between satellite and terrain view.

To use an offline version of this map, download our KML file for use with Maps.me (iOS/Android), or the GPX file for use with other offline mapping apps such as Gaia (iOS/Android) or OsmAnd Maps (iOS/Android). See the expandable box below for tips on using these apps. 

DOWNLOAD ALL ROUTES

GPX  |  KML


To save this map to use online on desktop or mobile just tap the star symbol at the top. When you open Google Maps on your phone, navigate to ‘Saved’ at the bottom, then swipe along to ‘Maps’ at the top. You’ll find this map in your list of maps.

On desktop, click the three lines at the top left, select ‘Your Places’, then ‘Maps’. Click the map, then scroll down and select ‘Open in My Maps’ to access the interactive version.

Alternatively, just tap the rectangle symbol at the top right of the map in this blog post to view the My Maps version larger on desktop.

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to view this version of the map offline, but we’ve provided a download for a similar version for offline use.


MAPS.ME

Maps.me is our go-to offline mapping app. We find it straightforward to use for planning routes in advance, as well as navigating on the trail. It doesn’t drain our phone battery, and it’s quick and easy to save and organise ‘bookmarks’. There are many trails already marked on Maps.me, plus you can download and import a KML track of your route to the app. 

To use Maps.me, first download the app (iOS/Android). Hover over the region or country that you want to visit and the app will prompt you to download this map. Once downloaded, it can be viewed offline. 

You can tap anywhere and save it as a ‘bookmark’ by tapping the star symbol at the bottom. Hit ‘Edit Bookmark’ to personalise the bookmark colour, organise your bookmarks into different folders, and rename them. 

You can navigate easily or plan routes in advance by tapping your start point and selecting ‘route from’, then tapping your end point and selecting ‘route to’. Tap the car, walking, or cycling symbol at the top of the screen to indicate your mode of travel. If you want to plot a different route to the one suggested by Maps.me, just tap a third (or fourth, fifth, etc.) bookmark between the start and end points and select ‘add stop’. 

Maps.me shows the distance and travel time, plus elevation profiles for hiking trails. Note that the estimated time isn’t always reliable, but we’ve always found the distance and elevation gain/loss to be largely accurate. It only shows very basic contour lines.

You can track your progress on the trail using GPS. The arrow shows your direction of travel. Tap the compass at the top right of the screen to keep the map in a fixed position (the arrow will rotate). Alternatively, tap the arrow at the bottom right of the screen to rotate the map in the direction of travel (the arrow will stay in a fixed position).

GAIA

Gaia (iOS/Android) is another offline mapping app that is very useful. It shows the contours in much more detail than Maps.me, as long as you have previously viewed the section of map online. With a paid membership you can download various maps in advance for offline use. The app has existing OpenStreetMap trails marked and you can import GPX tracks and view them offline. You can also create new routes online yourself and export them as GPX or KML files. You can navigate easily on the trail using the arrow that shows your GPS location. Unlike with Maps.me, it isn’t possible to quickly check distances between two points (or at least we haven’t figured out a way to do it). There are a lot of useful features in the free version and even more benefits if you have a paid annual membership, so if you spend a lot of time outdoors it is worthwhile learning how to use the app to its full advantage. 

In our experience, Gaia drains your phone battery much quicker than Maps.me, even in flight mode, so it’s best to shut down the app completely each time you finish using it. 

OSMAND MAPS

OsmAnd Maps (iOS/Android) is another great offline mapping app with lots of useful features. In our opinion, it’s not as intuitive as Maps.me, and it has so many features that it can be a bit overwhelming at first. Like Gaia, we recommend checking out the written and video tutorials on the OsmAnd website to learn how to fully use the app. The benefits of the app include being able to plot routes in advance and save them as GPX tracks, and to view detailed elevation and terrain information, including surface types. You can also import GPX tracks. One downside is that the free version does not include contour lines, but these can be added via a paid plugin.


BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK HIKING TRAILS

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

HIKING TRAILS

Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park has more than 11 trails of varying lengths and difficulty. They are spread out across the park, a huge area comprising 1.5% of Georgia’s territory. Some are loop trails, others one way hikes. A network of basic tourist shelters and designated camping areas are situated along the multi-day trails. Most trailheads are located within 30 km of Borjomi town, with a few others near Abastumani and Kharagauli. The main hiking season extends from Spring to Autumn, with snow shoeing possible in Winter. The highest point in the park is Mt Sametskhvario (2642 m).

Most info online, including the Agency of Protected Areas website, mentions 12 hiking trails in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. However, this isn’t fully accurate. Route No. 4 Untouched Forest Trail is permanently closed (for the time being) due to rockfall on the trail, and it is not waymarked. There are also a number of trails around Abastumani which have recently been waymarked, taking the total number of routes to 18. Information about these newly marked trails is yet to be published online, or anywhere except the trailhead hiking boards. As such we can’t shed much light on the exact options, but know that they do exist and are waymarked.

Another point to note is that there is a damaged bridge on the final day of No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s and No. 2 St Andrew’s Trails. To take this route and tackle the river crossing on foot, you must have express permission from the visitor centre. An alternative option is to skip the section of trail between Sakhvlari Tourist Shelter and Marelisi Ranger Station, instead returning to the Borjomi side of the national park over 2 days, via Lomismta Tourist Shelter.


BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK DAY HIKES

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

DAY HIKES

There are three day hiking trails in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. We’ve outlined them below in order of length and ease, starting with the shortest and easiest first.

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP: DAY HIKES

No. 7 National Park Information Trail
(3 km, 2+ hours, loop)

No. 12 Likani Valley Trail
(9 km, 4+ hours, horse riding or hiking, loop)

No. 6 Footprint Trail
(17 km, 7+ hours, one way)

DAY HIKES

No. 7 National Park
Information Trail

(3 km, 2+ hours, loop)

No. 12 Likani Valley Trail
(9 km, 4+ hours, horse
riding or hiking, loop)

No. 6 Footprint Trail
(17 km, 7+ hours, one way)


NO. 7 NATIONAL PARK INFORMATION TRAIL

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GPXKML

The shortest, easiest, and closest to Borjomi town is No. 7 National Park Information Trail. It starts at the Borjomi Visitor Centre, and climbs to St Nino Church, before looping around and returning the same way. It takes about 2 hours to complete the route, with an elevation gain and loss of about 150 metres.

NO. 12 LIKANI VALLEY TRAIL

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GPXKML

A number of trails start in Likani village, about 3.5 km south of Borjomi Visitor Centre. No.12 Likani Valley Trail is one of them, climbing nearly 500 metres to the Chitakhevi Ridge with views over Borjomi Gorge. It loops back to Likani village, the 9 km trail taking approximately 4 hours to complete. It’s also possible to do this route on horseback (see our tips section below for more info on hiring horses).

NO. 6 FOOTPRINT TRAIL

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GPXKML

No. 6 Footprint Trail also starts in Likani village. It is a 17 km full day hike that ends at Kvabiskhevi village, which is about 15 km south of Likani by road. For the first 8km, the trail follows the same route as No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s Trail. It climbs about 800 metres to a pass with panoramic views, before turning south and descending to Mariamtsminda Church and the Kvabiskhevi Ranger Station.

A white horse grazing on the grassy slopes of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

A horse grazing in the hills of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park



A white horse grazing on the grassy slopes of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

A horse grazing in Borjomi-Kharagauli NP



BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK MULTI-DAY HIKES

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

MULTI-DAY HIKES

There are five multi-day hiking trails in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, ranging from 2 to 5 days. Most of them overlap at some point or another, so it’s possible to mix and match between the trails and create a route that suits you.

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP: MULTI-DAY HIKES

No. 5 Zekari Overpass Trail
(26 km, 2 days, loop)

No. 3 Panorama Trail
(31 km, 2 days, horse riding or hiking, loop)

No. 2 St Andrew’s Trail
(54 km, 4 – 5 days, horse riding or hiking, one way)

No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s Trail
(40 km, 3 days, horse riding or hiking, one way)

No. 9 Shepherd’s Trail
(43 km, 3 days,
horse riding or hiking, one way)

MULTI-DAY HIKES

No. 5 Zekari Overpass Trail
(26 km, 2 days, loop)

No. 3 Panorama Trail
(31 km, 2 days, horse riding
or hiking, loop)

No. 2 St Andrew’s Trail
(54 km, 4 – 5 days, horse riding
or hiking, one way)

No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s Trail
(40 km, 3 days, horse riding
or hiking, one way)

No. 9 Shepherd’s Trail
(43 km, 3 days,
horse riding
or hiking, one way
)


NO. 5 ZEKARI OVERPASS TRAIL

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GPXKML

No. 5 Zekari Overpass Trail explores the western part of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, starting and ending near Abastumani. The route involves some short sections walking on roads. The trail initially heads up the Otskhe river valley, before turning north and climbing 550 metres to Didmaghala Tourist Shelter. The following day the trail joins the dirt road for about 3 km before undulating across the alpine zone for 4 km. It then descends 700 metres through forest and summer herder camps to the Otskhe river valley once again.

NO. 3 PANORAMA TRAIL

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GPXKML

No. 3 Panorama Trail starts and ends near Atskuri, approximately 26 km south of Borjomi NP Visitor Centre. Much of the first day is spent ascending (around 1200 metres) to the alpine zone through coniferous forest. After overnighting at Amarati Tourist Shelter, the trail returns along a scenic ridge trail with panoramic views of the Lesser and Greater Caucasus Mountains, before descending back to the start through attractive forest.

A hiker walking the grassy ridge on Day 2 of the Panorama Trail in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Hiking up the ridge on Day 2 of the Panorama Trail



A hiker walking the grassy ridge on Day 2 of the Panorama Trail in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Hiking the ridge on Day 2 of the Panorama Trail



NO. 2 ST ANDREW’S TRAIL

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GPXKML

No. 2 St Andrew’s Trail follows the same route as the Panorama Trail for the first day (approx 14 km to Amarati Shelter).

On Day 2 the trail winds across the alpine zone to Mt. Sametskhvario (2642 m), the highest peak in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park with fantastic views of the Lesser and Greater Caucasus Mountains. The distance is 9 km with a total ascent of around 700 metres. You spend the second night at Sametskhvario Ranger Station.

On the third day, the trail remains in the alpine zone for around 10 km, as far as Kvazvinevi Ranger Station. It’s possible to overnight here (turning the trek into a 5 day route), or hike a further 8 km and descend around 800 metres to Sakhvhlari Tourist Shelter, where the St Andrew’s Trail and Nikoloz Romanov’s Trail meet.

On the final day, the trail covers 12 km and descends around 600 metres through the Shaviskala river valley. It ends at the Marelisi Ranger Station, but you’ll need to continue to Marelisi village to find a guesthouse or onward transport.

A view of the St Andrews Trail and the Greater Caucasus Mountains beyond, in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Day 2 on the St. Andrew’s Trail, with the Greater Caucaus Range (Ushba on the left) visible in the far distance



A view of the St Andrews Trail and the Greater Caucasus Mountains beyond, in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Day 2 on the St. Andrew’s Trail, with the
Greater Caucaus Range (Ushba on the left)
visible in the far distance



NO. 1 NIKOLOZ ROMANOV’S TRAIL

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GPXKML

No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s Trail starts in Likani village and follows the same route as No. 6, No. 10, and No. 12 initially. It branches off to the north after reaching a pass at 1770 m, about 8 km into the hike. Here it continues a further 5.6 km to Lomismta Tourist Shelter, situated just above the treeline below Lomis Mountain.

On Day 2, the trail snakes its way west, then north, then west again, in a backwards ‘S’ shape. After 12 km it reaches the Sakhvlari Tourist Shelter and joins the St Andrew’s Trail. The day starts above the treeline then descends around 1100 metres through Colchic subtropical forest.

On the third and final day, the trail descends around 600 metres over 12 kilometres through the Shaviskala river valley. It officially ends at the Marelisi Ranger Station, but you’ll need to continue to Marelisi village to find a guesthouse and onward transport.

NO. 9 SHEPHERD’S TRAIL

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GPXKML

No. 9 Shepherd’s Trail combines Day 1 of No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s Trail and Day 1 of No. 2 St Andrew’s Trail, with a one day hiking or horse riding trail through a valley with herder hut settlements. The trail starts in Likani village, following the same route as Trail No. 1 to Lomismta Tourist Shelter.

On Day 2 the trail follows the same route as No. 1 for 3.3 km, then branches off to the west towards Khergianis Mountain. After 12 km the trail meets route No. 2 (St Andrews Trail) where you turn south to Amarati Tourist Shelter.

On Day 3 you descend to Atskuri Ranger Station. The shortest route is via the St Andrew’s Trail, however it’s also possible to take the longer but more scenic Panorama Trail route.

DID YOU KNOW WE OFFER CONSULTATIONS & CUSTOM GEORGIA ITINERARY PLANNING?

> One Hour Video
Consultation £100

we can answer questions, give advice, review your existing itinerary, or use the time to talk about anything else trip related, plus we’ll send a follow up email with links and notes about what we discuss

> Custom Itinerary Planning from £220

includes a video consultation, plus detailed day-by-day pdf itinerary, accommodation and/or camping suggestions, and an accompanying digital route map

Whether you’re planning a Georgia trek, road trip, or backpacking adventure, just get in touch via our contact page to let us know your rough plans and the kind of support you would like and we’ll get back to you with options and detailed pricing


DID YOU KNOW WE OFFER CONSULTATIONS & CUSTOM GEORGIA ITINERARY PLANNING?

> One Hour Video
Consultation £100

we can answer questions, give advice, review your existing itinerary, or use the time to talk about anything else trip related, plus we’ll send a follow up email with links and notes about what we discuss

> Custom Itinerary Planning from £220

includes a video consultation, plus detailed day-by-day pdf itinerary, accommodation and/or camping suggestions, and an accompanying digital route map

Whether you’re planning a Georgia trek, road trip, or backpacking adventure, just get in touch via our contact page to let us know your rough plans and the kind of support you would like and we’ll get back to you with options and detailed pricing


BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK ADD-ON HIKE

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

ADD-ON HIKE

Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park has one marked hiking trail which is intended as an add-on trek rather than a standalone hike, No. 8 Meghruki Valley Trail.

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP: ADD-ON HIKE

No. 8 Meghruki Valley Trail
(5.8 km, 6 hours, return)

ADD-ON HIKE

No. 8 Meghruki Valley Trail
(5.8 km, 6 hours, return)


NO. 8 MEGHRUKI VALLEY TRAIL

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GPXKML

The route starts and ends at Sakhvlari Tourist Shelter, an overnight stop on No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s Trail and No. 2 St Andrew’s Trail. The route leads through the forested Meghruki river valley and returns the same way.

BORJOMI NATIONAL PARK WINTER SNOWSHOE TRAILS

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

WINTER SNOWSHOE TRAILS

Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park has two winter trails specifically designed for snowshoeing from December to February.

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP: SNOWSHOE TRAILS

No. 11 Snowshoe Trail
(16 km, 6+ hours, return)

No. 10 Snowshoe Trail
(20 km, 2 days, loop)

 

SNOWSHOE TRAILS

No. 11 Snowshoe Trail
(16 km, 6+ hours, return)

No. 10 Snowshoe Trail
(20 km, 2 days, loop)



NO. 11 SNOWSHOE TRAIL

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GPXKML

No. 11 Snowshoe Trail follows part of Day 2 on the Panorama Trail, in reverse. It starts at Atskuri Ranger Station, ascends 1200 metres to a clearing with panoramic views of the Lesser and Greater Caucasus, and returns the same way.

NO. 10 SNOWSHOE TRAIL

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GPXKML

No. 10 Snowshoe Trail starts at Likani village. It follows the same route as No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s Trail for about 9 km (climbing 1100 metres), then heads 1 km east to stay overnight at Chitakhevi Ranger Station. The following day you descend 1000 metres over 10 km on a trail that loops back to Likani.

See More From Georgia

A hiker trekking in Georgia, descending the rocky shale slope from Atsunta pass and heading towards the green valleys of Tusheti below
A man emerges onto a pebble beach from the calm Black Sea in early summer after taking a refreshing dip while on a Western Georgia road trip
A UAZ 4x4 and a wooden house with mountain views behind in a summer settlement in the Lesser Caucasus Mountains
A UAZ Buhanka campervan at Paravani Lake as the sun rises on this Kvemo Kartli and Javakheti 4x4 road trip itinerary
A UAZ Buhanka camper van looking across a semi-desert expanse on this Vashlovani and David Gareja 4x4 road trip itinerary
A hiker stands reflected in Udziro Lake, looking at the distant peak Shkhara
A white horse grazing on the grassy slopes of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Two hikers traverse the grassy ridge on Day 2 of the Panorama Trail
A view of Tetnuldi peak from Latpari Pass on the Ushguli to Chvelpi hike
The twin peaks of Ushba and Chatyn-Tau, seen from the trail on Day 2 of the Mestia to Ushguli trek in Svaneti, Georgia
A hiker on the steep final approach to Gul Pass, on the Chuberi to Mestia section of the Transcaucasian Trail in Svaneti
Mountains reflected in Kelitsadi Lake on a still morning
Two hikers and a dog rest on a rock in front of an unnamed lake on the Black Rock Lake trek
A hiker climbs the shale switchback trail to Atsunta Pass on the Shatili Omalo trek, with the layered mountains of Khevsureti behind
A hiker descends the switchback ridgeline trail from Chaukhi Pass to Abudelauri Lakes on the Juta to Roshka trek in Georgia
Snow capped Mt. Kazbek shining bright at sunrise, as seen from the town of Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) in northern Georgia
The settlement of Abano in Truso Valley, with the old monastery on the right and Zakagori Fortress seen behind
One of the best views of Gergeti Trinity Church, seen from the hiking trail to Gergeti Glacier and Mt. Kazbek
Hikers descend from the viewpoint at Kojori Fortress in Georgia
A UAZ Buhanka campervan parked at the side of a grassy track to Levani's Lake on the expansive Javakheti Plateau
A person walks beneath the huge dusty sky looking at the seemingly endless hazy view at Takhti-Tepha Mud Volcanoes in the Vashlovani Protected Area
Two people watch something in the distance from outside a parked 4x4 vehicle in the hills of Racha, Georgia.
A hiker trekking in Georgia, descending the rocky shale slope from Atsunta pass and heading towards the green valleys of Tusheti below
A man emerges onto a pebble beach from the calm Black Sea in early summer after taking a refreshing dip while on a Western Georgia road trip
A UAZ 4x4 and a wooden house with mountain views behind in a summer settlement in the Lesser Caucasus Mountains
A UAZ Buhanka campervan at Paravani Lake as the sun rises on this Kvemo Kartli and Javakheti 4x4 road trip itinerary
A UAZ Buhanka camper van looking across a semi-desert expanse on this Vashlovani and David Gareja 4x4 road trip itinerary
A hiker stands reflected in Udziro Lake, looking at the distant peak Shkhara
A white horse grazing on the grassy slopes of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
Two hikers traverse the grassy ridge on Day 2 of the Panorama Trail
A view of Tetnuldi peak from Latpari Pass on the Ushguli to Chvelpi hike
The twin peaks of Ushba and Chatyn-Tau, seen from the trail on Day 2 of the Mestia to Ushguli trek in Svaneti, Georgia
A hiker on the steep final approach to Gul Pass, on the Chuberi to Mestia section of the Transcaucasian Trail in Svaneti
Mountains reflected in Kelitsadi Lake on a still morning
Two hikers and a dog rest on a rock in front of an unnamed lake on the Black Rock Lake trek
A hiker climbs the shale switchback trail to Atsunta Pass on the Shatili Omalo trek, with the layered mountains of Khevsureti behind
A hiker descends the switchback ridgeline trail from Chaukhi Pass to Abudelauri Lakes on the Juta to Roshka trek in Georgia
Snow capped Mt. Kazbek shining bright at sunrise, as seen from the town of Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) in northern Georgia
The settlement of Abano in Truso Valley, with the old monastery on the right and Zakagori Fortress seen behind
One of the best views of Gergeti Trinity Church, seen from the hiking trail to Gergeti Glacier and Mt. Kazbek
Hikers descend from the viewpoint at Kojori Fortress in Georgia
A UAZ Buhanka campervan parked at the side of a grassy track to Levani's Lake on the expansive Javakheti Plateau
A person walks beneath the huge dusty sky looking at the seemingly endless hazy view at Takhti-Tepha Mud Volcanoes in the Vashlovani Protected Area
Two people watch something in the distance from outside a parked 4x4 vehicle in the hills of Racha, Georgia.

TIPS FOR VISITING BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

TIPS FOR VISITING

We’ve put together some essential tips to help you plan your time in Borjomi-Kharagauli NP. These tips include info about park registration and visitor centres, tourist shelters and camping areas, trail maps and navigation, and more.

REGISTRATION AND VISITOR CENTRES

The main Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Administration and Visitor Centre is in Borjomi (23 Meskheti Street), but there is also one in Kharagauli (17 King Solomon Street).

You need to register here prior to entering the park (bring your passport or Georgian ID card), and pay any overnight camping or hut fees. You’ll be given a free permit for entering the park which you will be asked to show at the Ranger Stations on the various routes.

Sometimes trails are closed (damaged bridges, etc.) so it’s worth checking in advance that the trail you want to do is open.

You can contact the Visitor Service Specialists to check trail conditions or ask any questions. The visitor centre is open 0900 – 1800 Monday to Friday, and 0900 – 1600 Saturday and Sunday.

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP VISITORS SERVICE SPECIALISTS

Gaga Mumladze

Tel: + 995 577 64 04 80  |  e-mail: gaga_mumladze@yahoo.com

Nino Avetisian

Tel: + 995 577 64 04 44  |  e-mail: nino.avetisian@gmail.com

Giorgi Mukhuradze (Kharagauli)

Tel: + 995  577 10 18 94  |  e-mail: gio.mukhuradze@gmail.com

VISITORS SERVICE SPECIALISTS

Gaga Mumladze

+ 995 577 64 04 80
gaga_mumladze@yahoo.com

Nino Avetisian

+ 995 577 64 04 44
nino.avetisian@gmail.com

Giorgi Mukhuradze (Kharagauli)

+ 995  577 10 18 94
gio.mukhuradze@gmail.com


TOURIST SHELTERS, RANGER STATIONS, AND CAMPING AREAS

There is a network of tourist shelters and camping areas spread out across the park on each of the multi-day trails, as well as a number of ranger stations (also sometimes called guard stations).

The Tourist Shelters have bunk beds, tables, and a designated firepit area outside. You need to bring cooking and sleeping equipment (eg. sleeping mat and sleeping bag, gas stove and cooking utensils), as only basic facilities are supplied in the shelters. There is always a drop toilet nearby and usually a water source at or near the shelter.

Ranger Stations can be used for overnight accommodation if necessary, but usually only have a few beds. Generally speaking, they are found at the start and end of the trails, however routes No. 2 St Andrew’s Trail and No. 10 Snowshoe Trail have Ranger Stations situated on the trails.

You can also camp outside the Tourist Shelters or Ranger Stations. The fee is 5 GEL per person per night for camping, or 20 GEL per person per night for a bed in a Tourist Shelter or Ranger Station.

Amarati Tourist Shelter in the morning sun below towering cliffs, on the Panorama Trail in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

The Amarati Tourist Shelter, located on the St Andrew’s and Panorama Trails



Amarati Tourist Shelter in the morning sun below towering cliffs, on the Panorama Trail in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

The Amarati Tourist Shelter, located on the St Andrew’s and Panorama Trails



TRAIL MAPS AND NAVIGATING IN BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

Each of the 11 trails in the national park are waymarked and signposted. You can buy a general map at the visitor centre covering all of the trails, but for detailed navigating it’s advisable to use an offline mapping app. Maps.me, Gaia, or OSMand are all good options and you can follow your progress via GPS. You can also download our KML/GPX tracks to use with these apps.

CAMPING, BIKING, AND SNOWSHOEING EQUIPMENT RENTAL

You can rent camping gear at the Borjomi National Park Visitor Centre (not at the Kharagauli administration building), including a tent (10 GEL), sleeping bag (5 GEL), and sleeping mat (3 GEL). Prices are per item, per day. It’s best to bring camping gas for a stove from Tbilisi (you can buy gas at Geoland).

Mountain bike rental is 35 GEL per day. Combining trails No. 1 and No. 10 is a recommended route, as is biking up the dirt road from Abastumani to Zekari Pass.  Depending on your experience level, No. 3 Panorama Trail is also an option.

Snowshoe rental is 15 GEL for one day, and 10 GEL for each additional day.

HORSE RIDING IN BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

You can hire horses from locals in Likani and Atskuri villages to complete part or all of trails No.1, No. 2, No. 3, No. 9, and No. 12. Horses are able to cross the river where the bridge has been damaged on the final day of the No. 1 and No. 2 trails (depending on rainfall and water levels of course). Note that you have to ride back to the starting point with the horses, adding an extra couple of days onto the journey.

LIKANI

Trails No. 2 St Andrew’s
and No. 3 Panorama

Contact Jemal Ghonghadze
Tel: +995 591 81 90 39  

60 GEL per horse, per day
(including guide)

30 GEL per horse for one hour
(including guide)

ATSKURI

Trails No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s,
No. 9 Shepherd’s, No. 12 Likani Valley

Contact Nugzar Aitsuradze
Tel: +995  577 10 18 28  

80 GEL per horse, per day
(including lunch) + 30 GEL for guide

60 GEL per horse for 1.5 – 2 hours
(including lunch) + 40 GEL for guide

LIKANI

Trails No. 2 St Andrew’s
and No. 3 Panorama

Contact Jemal Ghonghadze
Tel: +995 591 81 90 39  

60 GEL per horse, per day
(including guide)

30 GEL per horse for one hour
(including guide)

ATSKURI

Trails No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s,
No. 9 Shepherd’s, and
No. 12 Likani Valley

Contact Nugzar Aitsuradze
Tel: +995  577 10 18 28  

80 GEL per horse per day
(including lunch)
+ 30 GEL for guide

60 GEL per horse (1.5 – 2 hours)
(including lunch)
+ 40 GEL for guide


WHERE TO STORE LUGGAGE WHILE VISITING BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

Excess luggage can usually be stored at guesthouses if you have spent at least one night there. Just ask your host. You can also rent a locker at the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Visitor Centre for 5 GEL per day. They are big enough to store a large backpack.

WHEN TO VISIT BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

WHEN TO VISIT

The main hiking season is from spring till autumn, roughly April/May to October/November. The snowshoe trails are open in winter, from December to February. Trail conditions can vary from year to year so it’s a good idea to check with the visitor centre in advance if you plan to hike early or late in the season (in case there is snow, damaged bridges, etc.)

May – June is the best time for blooming Caucasian Rhododendron and Orchidaceae. And in October, the hillsides are covered in yellow and red leaves.

Autumn colours showing on the forested slopes below the Panorama Trail in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Vibrant yellows bursting through the pine covered slopes in Borjomi-Kharagauli NP



Autumn colours showing on the forested slopes below the Panorama Trail in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

Vibrant yellows bursting through the pine
covered slopes in Borjomi-Kharagauli NP



Yr.no is a good weather app (iOS/Android), with locations such as Mt’a Samets’khvario, Lomis Mta, Didi Sakhvlari, etc.

WHAT TO PACK FOR HIKING IN BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

WHAT TO PACK

Regardless of the length of your hike, it’s always a good idea to have a refillable water bottle, sun/rain protection, snacks, good footwear, and an online map of your route (along with a power bank to keep your phone charged).

For overnight hikes, you’ll need food, cooking gear, camping gear, basic toiletries, and extra clothing. Weather in the mountains can be very unpredictable, change quickly, and vary greatly between lower and higher altitudes.

You should have waterproofs and layers (including a base layer, mid layer, and outer layer). Ideally your base layers should be made from merino wool or sweat-wicking material. Avoid jeans or any cotton materials – if they get wet they are heavy, take forever to dry, and you’ll get cold easily.

Make sure you have proper footwear (ideally hiking boots) that are broken in already. It’s a good idea to pack a pair of sandals too for wearing around camp or the shelters.

Remember toilet paper, hand sanitiser, and rubbish bags to carry out all of your waste.

We have some suggested packing lists below:

Merino T-Shirt
His/Hers

Merino Thermal Baselayer
His/Hers
(if hiking outside of summer)

Merino Thermal Leggings
His/Hers
(if hiking outside of summer)

Merino Underwear
His/Hers

Sports Bra

Fleece
His/Hers

Down Jacket
(if hiking outside of summer)
His/Hers

Rain Jacket/Shell
His/Hers

Waterproof Trousers
His/Hers

Quick Drying Hiking Trousers
(preferably with zip-off shorts)
His/Hers

Trousers to wear around camp
(Lightweight, similar to above)

Trekking Socks x 2
His/Hers

Warm Socks for night
(if hiking outside of summer)

Gloves
Liner & Waterproof Outer

Sun Hat

Warm Hat
(if hiking outside of summer)

Sunglasses

Hiking Boots
His/Hers

Sandals
(for evening)

Belt


Backpack + rain cover

Hiking Poles
(optional)

Water Bladder/Water Bottle

Water Purifier (eg. Steripen, purification tablets, LifeStraw, etc.)

First Aid Kit

Penknife

Maps (offline GPS)

Rubbish Bag(s)

Headtorch

Suncream

Basic Toiletries

Toilet Paper

Hand Sanitiser

Power Bank



ACCOMMODATION FOR BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

ACCOMMODATION

There are plenty of accommodation options in Borjomi town itself, and a few in nearby Likani. For everywhere else, the options available are more limited.

BORJOMI ACCOMMODATION

Borjomi is a popular tourist town with accommodation options to suit all budgets. We stayed at Pirosmani15 guesthouse and would certainly recommend it. It’s in a central location close to supermarkets, the bus station, good restaurants, etc. It also has comfortable rooms, a good breakfast, and a helpful owner (David) who speaks perfect English.

Other good options nearby include House in Borjomi guesthouse, or the more modern hotels Borjomi Bridge Hotel (closer to the NP visitor centre) or Rustaveli Borjomi Hotel. You can search more Borjomi accommodation options below.

Booking.com

LIKANI ACCOMMODATION

Cozy House In The Forest is very close to Likani Ranger Station. Borjomi Makvala Guesthouse is in the centre of the village, Serenity Likani Villa Hotel is nearby, and Guesthouse Zviad and Natia is near the start of the village.

ABASTUMANI ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation in Abastumani is mostly centred around the ‘resort’ area, a little further south than the trailhead. Hotel Iveria is a good option. Others include Hotel Nuca and Hotel Kapa (contact Vazha Kuljanishvili on +995 0790 19 36 36).

ATSKURI ACCOMMODATION

Guesthouse Nika and Giorgi is a little south of the Atskuri trailhead, in Atskuri village. Contact Maia Aitsuradze on +995 555 25 93 55 to book.

KVABISKHEVI ACCOMMODATION

Chateaux Demoti (+995599303178) and Guesthouse Mountains (+995597757050) are both close to the trailhead for No. 6 Footprint Trail.

MARELISI ACCOMMODATION

Guesthouse Marelisi is near the trailhead in Marelisi village. To book, contact Giorgi Mukhuradze on +995577101894. Guesthouse Sapovnela (+995558524311) is another option.

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GETTING TO BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NATIONAL PARK

BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

GETTING THERE

Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park is spread across three regions with multiple access points, however the administration buildings where you must register prior to visiting are in Borjomi and Kharagauli. Out of these two, Borjomi is the main hub, with most of the trails starting and ending within 30 km of the town.

HOW TO GET TO BORJOMI

Borjomi is approximately 160 km west of Tbilisi, and 130 km southeast of Kutaisi.

If taking public transport, the best way to get there is by marshrutka (minibus). From Tbilisi Didube Bus Station they depart approximately every hour between 0700 and 1800. It costs 7 GEL per person and takes around 2 – 2.5 hours.

From Kutaisi, Akhaltsikhe bound marshrutkas stop at Borjomi, but there are limited departures (once or twice a day – check at the station). It can be better to change in Khashuri (get there by train or marshrutka), then take a marshrutka to Borjomi (every half hour between 0930 and 1730, 2 GEL). Marshrutkas from Kutaisi depart from the bus station near McDonalds. There is one train a day from Kutaisi I Railway Station to Khashuri (departs 1210, 8 GEL, 3 hours), and three trains a day from Rioni Railway Station (10 km south of Kutaisi) to Khashuri (0917, 1245, 1930, 2 – 2.5 hours, 8 – 12 GEL).

Check train times and book tickets via matarabeli.ge, tickets.railway.ge, or tkt.ge.

You can arrange a private car and driver via gotrip.ge.

HOW TO GET TO KHARAGAULI AND MARELISI

The national park administration building is in Kharagauli, however the trailhead for the St Andrew’s and Nikoloz Romanov’s trails is further east in Marelisi. The best way to get to Kharagauli or Marelisi is by train. They are three stations and about 15 minutes apart.

Trains depart from Tbilisi Railway Station and take 2 hours 45 minutes on the Zugdidi or Poti bound trains, and 3 hours 25 minutes on the Ozurgeti/Kutaisi bound trains.

From Kutaisi there is one train a day from Kutaisi I Railway Station to Kharagauli and Marelisi (departs 1210, 8 GEL, approx 2 hours), and three trains a day from Rioni Railway Station (10 km south of Kutaisi) to Kharagauli or Marelisi (0917, 1245, 1930, approx 1 hour 20 minutes, 8 – 12 GEL).

Double check train times and book tickets via matarabeli.ge, tickets.railway.ge, or tkt.ge.

Note that Marelisi train station is 4 km away from the village of Marelisi and the trailhead. Kharagauli train station is very close to the administration building.

If driving, turn off for Kharagauli and Marelisi shortly before (or after if approaching from the west) Zestafoni. Don’t take the road via Surami Pass as it is under construction.

GETTING TO AND FROM THE TRAILHEADS

Atskuri, Kvabiskhevi, and Likani trailheads are all within 5 – 27 kilometres of Borjomi. The easiest way to reach them is by taxi (up to 25 GEL, approximately). Hitchhiking is also possible. For Likani, Kvabiskhevi, or Atskuri you could take an Akhaltsikhe bound marshrutka (0845, but confirm this at the bus station in Borjomi) and walk from the main road.

To get to Abastumani, near No. 5 Zekari Overpass trailhead, take the 0845 marshrutka from Borjomi to Akhaltsikhe (approx 1 hour, 3 GEL), then one of six daily marshrutkas from Akhaltsikhe to Abastumani (1030, 1230, 1400, 1530, 1700, 1800 – approx 1 hour, 2.5 GEL).

For Marelisi, the end point of No. 1 Nikoloz Romanov’s and No. 2 St Andrew’s Trails, Marelisi railway station is the closest point accessed via public transport. See the section above for train times.

Note that road traffic is limited leading to Marelisi, especially as the main road leading from Surami to Kharagauli is undergoing major construction. Options to hitchhike or organise a taxi at the train station are limited. You may have to walk, or try to arrange a taxi via the guesthouse in Marelisi (contact Giorgi Mukhuradze on +995577101894).

A GUIDE TO BORJOMI-KHARAGAULI NP

That’s the lot for our to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. If you have any useful info to add or stories to share, get in touch through the comments section below. Equally, if you have any questions, let us know and we’ll do our best to answer them. And if you’re planning your own visit to Borjomi, good luck and enjoy!

ORGANISE YOUR TRIP


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A white horse grazing on the grassy slopes of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park

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ELSKE
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ELSKE

Thanks for your great informative website. Unfortunately they are at the moment ‘maintaining’ the park trails. We are backpacking trail 2 and 3 and the small trail has gone. Workers are widening the trail to a neat two meter wide path, almost wheelchair accessible…… What a shame. It really affects the experience.

Tomas
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Tomas

Good article, very informative. However NO. 9 SHEPHERD’S TRAIL KLM and GPX are incorrect, just a 10 km.

A Guide to Borjomi-Kharagauli National ParkA Guide to Borjomi-Kharagauli National ParkA Guide to Borjomi-Kharagauli National ParkA Guide to Borjomi-Kharagauli National ParkA Guide to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
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