Mtirala National Park

Mtirala National Park: Georgia’s Rainforest Adventure

Welcome to Mtirala National Park, one of Georgia’s most unique and magical natural areas! Located near the Black Sea coast in the region of Adjara, close to the city of Batumi, this park is famous for being the wettest place in the country. Its name, “Mtirala,” even means “crying” in Georgian, because of the huge amount of rain and mist it receives throughout the year (up to 4,500 mm annually!). This constant moisture creates an incredibly lush, green environment – a real temperate rainforest, similar to landscapes that covered this region millions of years ago.

Established in 2007, Mtirala National Park protects these special Colchic rainforests, which are recognized as globally important. In fact, Mtirala is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of “Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands,” highlighting its outstanding universal value. Walking through Mtirala is like stepping into a fairy tale. The air is thick with moisture, trees are draped in mosses and climbing ivy, giant ferns grow on the forest floor, and the sound of dripping water is everywhere. You’ll find rivers carving through steep valleys, beautiful waterfalls cascading down rocks, and maybe even a peaceful hidden lake.

This unique, super-humid environment is home to special plants and animals that thrive in wet conditions. You can find ancient trees like yew and chestnut, evergreen shrubs like rhododendrons and cherry laurel, and beautiful wildflowers. It’s also a great place to spot unique creatures like the Caucasian Salamander, various frogs, and interesting birds adapted to forest life. Larger animals like bears, roe deer, and wild boar also live in the deeper parts of the forest.

Despite its wild nature and rainy reputation, Mtirala National Park is well-prepared for visitors interested in ecotourism. There’s a helpful visitor center in the village of Chakvistavi, which is the main starting point. From there, you can explore marked trails. The most popular is the Tsablnari Trail, a lovely loop walk (or horseback ride) that takes you through the chestnut forest to a beautiful waterfall and a small lake. For more adventure, the park even offers activities like zip-lining through the forest canopy and guided canyoning tours (usually in summer).

Visiting Mtirala requires being ready for rain at any time of year, but the experience of walking through this vibrant, misty, ancient rainforest is truly unforgettable. It’s a perfect place to connect with nature in its most lush and lively form.

1. Basic Identification

• Official Name: Mtirala National Park (მტირალას ეროვნული პარკი).
• Type of Protected Area: National Park (IUCN Category II). Protects the Colchic rainforest ecosystem while allowing for compatible ecotourism, education, and research.
• Date Established: 2007.
• Governing Body: Agency of Protected Areas (APA) of Georgia.

2. Location & Accessibility

• Geographic Location: Georgia, Autonomous Republic of Adjara. Spans parts of Kobuleti, Khelvachauri, and Keda municipalities. Located on the western slopes of the Adjara-Imereti range, near the Black Sea coast.
• Map/Coordinates: Approximately 41∘40′ N Latitude, 41∘55′ E Longitude. Maps are available at the visitor center and on the APA website.
• Nearest Cities/Towns: Chakvi is the closest town on the coast, serving as the turn-off point. Batumi (major city) is about 25 km away. The park’s visitor center and main entrance are in Chakvistavi village, accessed via a road inland from Chakvi.
• How to Get There:
  • By Car/Taxi: From Batumi/Kobuleti, drive to Chakvi, then follow the signs inland towards Chakvistavi (approx. 15 km from Chakvi). The road to Chakvistavi can be narrow, winding, and partly unpaved, so drive carefully. A higher clearance vehicle might be better, but standard cars can often manage depending on recent weather.
  • Public Transport: Marshrutkas (minibuses) run frequently to Chakvi from Batumi/Kobuleti. From Chakvi to Chakvistavi, public transport is limited; taking a taxi or arranging transport might be necessary.
  • Nearest Airport: Batumi International Airport (BUS).

3. Size & Physical Description

• Area: Approximately 15,698 hectares (156.98 km²).
• Topography: Mountainous landscape with steep slopes, deep river valleys, and gorges. Part of the Adjara-Imereti range (Lesser Caucasus). Altitude ranges from about 150-250 meters up to about 1,500-1,600 meters within the park boundaries.
• Geology & Key Features: Mountain range geology. Key features are the extremely humid environment, dense Colchic rainforests, the Chakvistskali River valley, numerous waterfalls, and prevalent mist/fog.
• Hydrology: Characterized by a dense network of rivers, streams, and springs due to extremely high rainfall. The main river is the Chakvistskali. Features include waterfalls (like Tsablnari waterfall) and a small lake along one of the main trails.
• Climate: Humid subtropical / temperate rainforest climate. It is the wettest area in Georgia, receiving up to 4,500 mm of precipitation annually. Winters are mild and very wet; summers are warm and humid with frequent rainfall. Mist and fog are common year-round.

4. Purpose & Significance

• Reason for Designation: To protect the unique biodiversity and ecosystems of the Colchic rainforests, which are relicts from the Tertiary period (millions of years ago). To conserve endemic and relict species adapted to high humidity, and to promote sustainable ecotourism, education, and scientific research. Also important for watershed protection.
• Key Values: Represents a unique and ancient Colchic rainforest ecosystem. Extremely high rainfall and humidity create specific habitats. Rich biodiversity with many endemic/relict plants and animals. High scientific value for studying rainforest dynamics. Outstanding scenic beauty. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• International Recognition:
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: Part of the transnational “Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands” site (inscribed 2021).
  • Emerald Network Site.
  • Likely part of a regional Important Bird Area (IBA).

5. Biodiversity (Flora & Fauna)

• Ecosystems/Habitats: Colchic temperate rainforest (broadleaf forests with evergreen understory). Riverine habitats. Small patches of subalpine meadows may exist at the highest points.
• Key Plant Species: Dominant trees include Oriental Beech, Chestnut (Castanea sativa), Lime (Tilia species), Alder. A very rich evergreen understory features Pontic Rhododendron, Cherry Laurel, Colchic Holly, Colchic Boxwood, Yew, and climbing plants like Colchic Ivy. Abundant ferns (including Royal Fern), mosses, and lichens cover trees and rocks.
• Key Animal Species:
  • Mammals: Brown Bear, Wolf, Eurasian Lynx, Roe Deer, Wild Boar, European Otter, Caucasian Squirrel, Badger, Marten. Diverse bat species.
  • Birds: Notable species include Booted Eagle, Middle Spotted Woodpecker, Semi-collared Flycatcher, Black Woodpecker, Green Woodpecker, and potentially Krüper’s Nuthatch. Many other forest birds.
  • Amphibians/Reptiles: High diversity due to humidity. Includes the endemic Caucasian Salamander, Caucasian Viper, various frogs (e.g., Marsh Frog, Tree Frog), newts, and lizards.
• Endangered/Rare Species: Brown Bear, Lynx, Otter are protected nationally. Caucasian Salamander is listed as Vulnerable (IUCN). Several plant species like Yew (Taxus baccata) and Colchic Boxwood (Buxus colchica) are of conservation concern due to threats outside the park. The Colchic rainforest habitat itself is considered rare and valuable.

6. Visitor Information

• Visitor Center: Yes, located in Chakvistavi village. Provides park information, trail maps, registration, booking for accommodation/services, guide and horse rentals, educational exhibits. Check APA website for current contact details and hours.
• Opening Hours & Seasons: Trails are generally accessible year-round, but always expect wet conditions. Heavy rain can occur anytime. Visitor center operates during standard working hours (check APA website). Adventure activities (zip-line, canyoning) are typically seasonal (summer).
• Entrance Fees & Permits: Yes, entrance fees are usually required for park entry and/or trail use. Additional fees apply for accommodation (shelter/camping), horse/guide rental, zip-lining, and canyoning. Check the APA website for current pricing. Registration at the visitor center is recommended.
• Trails & Routes: Two main marked trails start from near the visitor center:
  • Tsablnari Trail: A loop of about 7 km, taking 4-6 hours. Difficulty is easy to moderate. Includes forest walk, a waterfall, a small lake, and potentially a river crossing via a traditional cable-car/pulley system (check if operational). Suitable for hiking and horseback riding.
  • Tsivtskaro Trail: A shorter nature/educational trail (around 1.5 km), easy difficulty.
  • Adventure Routes: Marked routes for zip-lining and canyoning exist (require guides and specific arrangements/fees).
• Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, nature photography, educational tours. Adventure activities: zip-lining, canyoning (guided). Visiting the waterfall and lake. Enjoying the unique rainforest atmosphere.
• Accommodation:
  • Inside the park: A tourist shelter (basic hut with beds, stove) is available near the Tsablnari trail (sleeps around 8-10 people). Designated camping areas exist near the shelter/visitor center. Booking is essential via the visitor center.
  • Nearby: Several guesthouses are available in Chakvistavi village, offering local food and lodging (often bookable via the visitor center). More options are in Chakvi, Kobuleti, and Batumi.
• Facilities: Visitor center (info, cafe likely, toilets, exhibits), marked trails, tourist shelter, campsites, picnic spots, information boards, zip-line/adventure structures. Water from springs/streams is available but treatment before drinking is advised.
• Safety Advice:
  • Essential: High-quality waterproof rain jacket and trousers, waterproof hiking boots. Trails are often muddy and slippery.
  • Be prepared for rain and fog at any time of year.
  • River levels can rise quickly; be cautious, use bridges/cable cars where provided.
  • Insect repellent can be useful. Leeches may be present in very wet conditions on the ground.
  • Carry drinking water or purification methods.
  • Inform the visitor center of your hiking plans.
  • Be aware of wildlife.

7. Rules & Regulations

• Code of Conduct: Stay on marked trails to protect fragile vegetation and soil. Practice Leave No Trace (pack out all rubbish). Minimize noise to respect wildlife. Use facilities responsibly.
• Prohibitions: Hunting and fishing are generally prohibited (check specific fishing rules if any). Collecting plants, mushrooms, or animals is forbidden. Making fires is allowed only in designated fire pits at picnic/camping spots. Littering is strictly prohibited. Drones likely require special permission. Follow safety rules for adventure activities.

8. Conservation & Management

• Management Authority: Mtirala National Park Administration, under the Agency of Protected Areas (APA). Local staff includes rangers, administrators, and guides.
• Conservation Efforts: Focus on protecting the integrity of the Colchic rainforest ecosystem. Monitoring biodiversity, especially key indicator species (like Caucasian Salamander) and endemic/relict plants. Sustainable tourism management to minimize visitor impact. Trail maintenance in challenging wet conditions. Environmental education programs. Research facilitation. Collaboration with UNESCO regarding World Heritage status.
• Threats/Challenges: Managing visitor impacts (trail erosion, waste) in a very wet environment. Potential illegal logging or poaching near boundaries. Climate change impacts on rainfall patterns and temperature sensitivity of species. Invasive species introduction. Maintaining infrastructure against constant moisture and potential landslides/flooding.

9. History & Culture

• Brief History: The area is part of the ancient land of Colchis. Its unique ecological value was recognized leading to the park’s establishment in 2007. It represents one of the best-preserved examples of Colchic rainforest.
• Cultural Significance: Located in Adjara, a region known for its distinct traditions, music, cuisine, and wooden architecture. Nearby villages like Chakvistavi offer glimpses into local rural life. The park’s primary significance is natural, now elevated by its UNESCO World Heritage status.

10. Unique Features/Interesting Facts

• Mtirala is the most humid area in Georgia and one of the wettest in the Caucasus region.
• Protects unique Tertiary relict Colchic rainforest ecosystems.
• It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Offers adventure activities like zip-lining and canyoning within the rainforest setting.
• Home to the endemic Caucasian Salamander and high amphibian diversity.
• The name “Mtirala” translates to “crying” or “weeping” due to the constant rain and mist.