Javakheti National Park

About this activity

Javakheti National Park: A Land of Lakes and Birds

Welcome to Javakheti National Park, a unique and vast natural area located on a high-altitude volcanic plateau in the south of Georgia, near the borders with Armenia and Turkey. Unlike the forest-covered mountains found in many other Georgian parks, Javakheti offers a dramatically different landscape: wide-open grassy plains (steppes), rolling hills, and most importantly, numerous beautiful lakes and wetlands shimmering under a big sky.

Established as a National Park in 2011 (as part of the wider Javakheti Protected Areas system), its main goal is to protect these special high-altitude ecosystems – the grasslands, the many lakes, and the incredible birdlife that depends on them. Javakheti is considered one of the most important regions in Georgia, and even internationally, for birds. Several of its lakes are designated as Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance and the whole area is an Important Bird Area (IBA). This means it’s a critical place for birds to breed, rest during migration, or spend the winter, especially water birds like ducks, geese, cranes, pelicans, and gulls.

The Javakheti plateau sits at an average altitude of about 2,000 meters above sea level. This high elevation means the climate is quite harsh. Winters are very long, cold, and snowy, often lasting from October or November until April or May. Summers are short, cool, and often very windy. Because of this, the best time to visit Javakheti National Park is usually during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is milder and the roads are clear of snow.

Exploring Javakheti mainly involves traveling across the plateau to visit its different lakes. Some of the most famous lakes included in or bordering the protected areas are Khanchali, Madatapa, Bugdasheni, Kartsakhi, and Sulda (Lake Paravani, Georgia’s largest lake, is also central to the region but outside the park itself). There are roads connecting these areas, some paved and some dirt tracks where a higher clearance vehicle might be better. Visitors can enjoy the stunning wide-open views, look for birds from designated viewpoints or towers located near some lakes, have picnics, and experience the unique atmosphere of this high plateau.

Javakheti is also interesting culturally, with a mix of Georgian, Armenian, and historically Doukhobor (a Russian spiritual group) communities living in the region’s towns and villages like Akhalkalaki, Ninotsminda, and Gorelovka.

For birdwatchers and those seeking vast, open landscapes quite different from the rest of Georgia, Javakheti National Park offers a special and memorable experience, especially during its short summer season.

1. Basic Identification

• Official Name: Javakheti National Park (ჯავახეთის ეროვნული პარკი). Part of the Javakheti Protected Areas system, which also includes several lake Managed Reserves (Khanchali, Bugdasheni, Kartsakhi, Sulda, Madatapa) and Natural Monuments.
• Type of Protected Area: National Park (IUCN Category II), surrounded by Managed Reserves (IUCN IV). Protects high-altitude plateau ecosystems while allowing for regulated tourism.
• Date Established: 2011.
• Governing Body: Agency of Protected Areas (APA) of Georgia.

2. Location & Accessibility

• Geographic Location: Georgia, Samtskhe-Javakheti region. Located within Ninotsminda and Akhalkalaki municipalities. Situated on the Javakheti volcanic plateau near the borders with Armenia and Turkey.
• Map/Coordinates: Roughly centered around 41∘08′ N, 43∘40′ E. Maps showing the park and surrounding lake reserves are essential for planning and available via APA/visitor center.
• Nearest Cities/Towns: Akhalkalaki and Ninotsminda are the main regional towns and access points. Akhaltsikhe is further west.
• How to Get There:
  • By Road: Drive from Tbilisi to Akhalkalaki or Ninotsminda (approx. 3-4+ hours). Main roads to these towns are paved. Roads connecting lakes or within the park area can be unpaved dirt tracks, potentially requiring higher clearance vehicles, especially after bad weather.
  • Public Transport: Marshrutkas (minibuses) or buses connect Tbilisi to Akhalkalaki and Ninotsminda. From these towns, local taxis are needed to reach specific park locations or lakes.
  • Nearest Airport: Tbilisi (TBS) is the most practical option within Georgia.

3. Size & Physical Description

• Area: Javakheti National Park covers 16,209 hectares (162.09 km²). The total area of the Javakheti Protected Areas system (including the lake reserves) is around 29,000 ha.
• Topography: High-altitude volcanic plateau with an average elevation of 2,000-2,200 meters. Characterized by relatively flat or gently rolling terrain, numerous shallow lakes, extensive wetlands, and vast steppe grasslands. Volcanic cones are visible in the wider landscape (e.g., Mt. Didi Abuli, ~3300m).
• Geology & Key Features: Formed by extensive volcanic lava flows in the past. Key features are the numerous lakes (many of volcanic/tectonic origin), wetlands, steppe grasslands, and the high-altitude plateau itself.
• Hydrology: Dominated by numerous lakes, including Paravani (largest in Georgia, outside NP), Khanchali, Madatapa, Kartsakhi, Bugdasheni, Sulda. Extensive marshes and wetlands surround many lakes. The Paravani River originates from Lake Paravani.
• Climate: Harsh continental high-mountain climate. Winters are very cold (temperatures can drop below -30°C), long, and snowy (snow cover often persists into May). Summers are short, cool, dry, and often windy. Large difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures is common.

4. Purpose & Significance

• Reason for Designation: To protect the unique ecosystems of the Javakheti volcanic plateau, including its high-altitude steppes, numerous lakes, and wetlands. To conserve the rich and internationally important birdlife dependent on these habitats. To protect rare and endemic species. To support sustainable tourism focused on birdwatching and landscape appreciation.
• Key Values: Unique high-altitude volcanic plateau landscape with lake systems. Exceptional importance for breeding, migrating, and wintering birds (Ramsar sites, IBA). Unique steppe and wetland biodiversity. Potential for scientific research and specialized ecotourism (especially birdwatching). Cultural diversity of the region.
• International Recognition:
  • Several lakes (Kartsakhi, Bugdasheni, Khanchali, Madatapa, Sulda) are designated Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance.
  • The entire area is recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA).
  • Part of the Emerald Network.

5. Biodiversity (Flora & Fauna)

• Ecosystems/Habitats: Alpine steppe grasslands, numerous freshwater and slightly brackish lakes, extensive marshes, fens, and wet meadows. Very limited natural forest cover (mostly absent on the plateau itself).
• Key Plant Species: Dominated by various species of grasses and herbs adapted to the high-altitude steppe environment (e.g., Fescue, Feather Grass). Wetland areas feature reeds, sedges, cattails. Colorful wildflowers bloom briefly in early summer.
• Key Animal Species:
  • Birds: The main biological highlight. An outstanding diversity and abundance of birds, especially water birds. Important breeding site for Armenian Gull, Ruddy Shelduck, potentially Common Crane. Key stopover/wintering site for Dalmatian and Great White Pelicans, White Stork, Velvet Scoter, White-winged Scoter, various ducks (e.g., Pochards, Teal), geese, coots, and waders. Raptors include Pallid Harrier, Montagu’s Harrier, Long-legged Buzzard, eagles, falcons. Steppe birds include larks and pipits.
  • Mammals: Common species include Wolf, Red Fox, European Hare, various voles, and potentially ground squirrels (sousliks). European Otter may be found near lakes/rivers. Large mammals like Bear are generally absent from the open plateau.
  • Fish: Lakes support populations of Carp, Crucian Carp, possibly introduced Trout in some areas. Fishing is important locally.
  • Amphibians/Reptiles: Diversity is low due to the harsh climate. May include high-altitude adapted species like Marsh Frog, Moor Frog, certain lizards, and possibly vipers.
• Endangered/Rare Species: Many bird species are of conservation concern, including Dalmatian Pelican (Near Threatened), White-winged Scoter (Endangered), Velvet Scoter (Vulnerable), Armenian Gull. The high-altitude steppe ecosystem itself is considered vulnerable.

6. Visitor Information

• Visitor Center: Yes, located in the town of Akhalkalaki (17 Nakhalaki St.). Provides information about the National Park and surrounding lake reserves, maps, educational exhibits, and can assist with finding local guides or guesthouses. Check APA website for contact details and opening hours.
• Opening Hours & Seasons: Visitor center operates during working hours (check APA). The park and surrounding areas are best visited from June to September. Winters (Oct/Nov to April/May) are extremely harsh with deep snow, making access very difficult or impossible. Roads may remain muddy/difficult into late spring.
• Entrance Fees & Permits: Check current policy with the APA. General access might be free, but fees may apply for specific services or entry to observation towers/platforms at lake reserves. Permits might be required for areas very close to the Turkish or Armenian borders (inquire at visitor center or relevant Border Police offices in Akhalkalaki/Ninotsminda). Fishing requires specific permits.
• Trails & Routes: There are limited marked hiking trails within the National Park boundaries itself. Exploration usually involves:
  • Driving along the main roads (paved or dirt) that cross the plateau and connect the various lakes.
  • Visiting viewpoints and birdwatching towers/platforms located at Khanchali, Kartsakhi, Madatapa, and Bugdasheni lakes (mostly Managed Reserves).
  • Short walks around the lakes or to viewpoints.
  • Cycling on the plateau roads is possible but requires preparation for wind and remoteness.
• Activities: Birdwatching (the primary attraction), landscape photography, visiting the various lakes, cycling on roads, limited hiking possibilities, sport fishing (with permit), exploring nearby cultural sites (e.g., Doukhobor villages, Armenian churches).
• Accommodation:
  • Inside the park: No official park accommodation like shelters or bungalows. Wild camping might be possible in suitable locations (requires preparation for cold nights and wind, follow Leave No Trace).
  • Nearby: Guesthouses are available in Akhalkalaki and Ninotsminda towns, and in some villages like Gorelovka, Sameba, Patara Khanchali. Basic hotels exist in Akhalkalaki and Ninotsminda.
• Facilities: Visitor center (Akhalkalaki). Birdwatching infrastructure (towers/platforms) at key lakes. Information boards. Roads (variable conditions). Limited designated picnic spots. Public toilets mainly at visitor center/towns. Reliable drinking water sources are scarce on the plateau; carrying sufficient water is highly recommended. Shops, restaurants, fuel are available in Akhalkalaki/Ninotsminda.
• Safety Advice:
  • Weather: Be prepared for extreme weather, even in summer. Pack warm clothing (including hat, gloves), windproof and waterproof layers. Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat) is essential due to high altitude. Nights can be very cold.
  • Roads: Check road conditions locally, especially for unpaved roads leading to specific lakes. Higher clearance vehicle recommended for exploring beyond main routes.
  • Altitude: The plateau is high (~2000m+). Allow time to acclimatize if arriving from lower elevations.
  • Remoteness: Be self-sufficient, especially if venturing away from main towns. Carry food, ample water, fuel, first-aid kit. Mobile phone coverage is patchy.
  • Border Zone: Be aware of proximity to state borders. Obtain permits if necessary and follow all regulations and instructions from Border Police.

7. Rules & Regulations

• Code of Conduct: Respect wildlife, especially birds during breeding season (maintain distance, avoid noise). Stay on roads or designated paths. Practice Leave No Trace principles (take all rubbish back). Respect local culture and private property (especially farmland/grazing areas).
• Prohibitions: Hunting is forbidden. Fishing requires permits and compliance with rules (seasons, species, limits). Disturbing wildlife, especially bird colonies, is strictly prohibited. Driving off designated roads is restricted. Lighting fires may be difficult due to lack of wood and strong winds; use camping stoves where possible and ensure safety. Drone use likely requires permission. Adhere strictly to border zone rules.

8. Conservation & Management

• Management Authority: Javakheti National Park Administration, based in Akhalkalaki, under the Agency of Protected Areas (APA). Rangers patrol the park and lake reserves.
• Conservation Efforts: Primary focus is on protecting the unique wetland and steppe habitats and the rich birdlife. Bird population monitoring (breeding counts, migration monitoring). Working with local communities on sustainable practices like grazing management and responsible fishing. Managing visitor infrastructure (towers, platforms) and impacts. Anti-poaching efforts. Research collaboration.
• Threats/Challenges: Impacts of livestock grazing on steppe vegetation. Illegal or unsustainable fishing and bird hunting/poaching. Water level fluctuations and water quality issues in the lakes (potentially influenced by climate change and water use). Climate change impacts on high-altitude ecosystems. Balancing tourism needs with the protection of sensitive bird habitats.

9. History & Culture

• Brief History: The Javakheti plateau is a geologically recent volcanic landscape. It has been used for grazing for centuries. The area saw significant settlement by Armenians and also by Russian Doukhobors (a religious group exiled here in the 19th century). The Protected Areas system was established relatively recently, in 2011.
• Cultural Significance: The region has a unique multicultural heritage. Visitors can see Armenian churches, distinctive Doukhobor villages (e.g., Gorelovka with its unique architecture and community history), and evidence of traditional livestock farming practices. Archaeological sites, including ancient megalithic structures and fortresses, are found in the wider Javakheti region.

10. Unique Features/Interesting Facts

• Features Georgia’s highest volcanic plateau, characterized by numerous lakes and vast grasslands.
• An internationally recognized hotspot for bird diversity, particularly water birds (multiple Ramsar sites).
• Offers a unique landscape of high-altitude steppes and wetlands, very different from other parts of Georgia.
• Experiences a very harsh continental climate with extreme cold in winter and strong winds.
• Home to unique cultural communities, including Armenian and Doukhobor heritage sites.
• Borders both Armenia and Turkey.
• Lake Paravani, central to the region (though outside the park), is the largest lake in Georgia by surface area.
• Excellent destination for dedicated birdwatchers.