The Kaparchina River

The Kaparchina River: A Waterway of the Kolkheti Wetlands

The Kaparchina River (მდინარე კაპარჭინა) is a river on the Colchian Plain in western Georgia, primarily flowing through the Poti Municipality. It is a key feature of the Kolkheti National Park, a vast wetland ecosystem of global importance. The Kaparchina is a slow-moving lowland river that meanders through marshes, peatlands, and alder forests before flowing into the northern part of Lake Paliastomi, a large coastal lagoon. It is a vital artery of this unique wetland environment, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Ramsar Convention site.

The river is not a typical mountain stream but a classic lowland waterway, its character defined by the flat terrain and high rainfall of the Colchian Plain. Its dark, tea-colored water is rich in organic matter from the surrounding peatlands. The Kaparchina valley is a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers, offering a glimpse into the primeval landscape of ancient Colchis, the legendary land of the Golden Fleece.

ℹ️ General Information

• Name of River: Kaparchina River (მდინარე კაპარჭინა)
• Location: Poti Municipality, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, Georgia.
• Length: 30 km (19 miles)
• Basin Size: 93 km² (36 sq mi)
• Source (Origin): The Colchian Plain, near the foothills.
• Mouth (Where it flows): Lake Paliastomi.
• Key Feature: Flows through the heart of Kolkheti National Park.

📍 Geography & Course

The Kaparchina flows entirely within the flat, low-lying Colchian Plain. Its course is extremely slow and meandering, and its banks are often marshy and indistinct. The river is part of a complex hydrological system of interconnected channels, lakes, and marshes that make up the national park’s core zone.

🌿 Nature & Ecology

The ecological significance of the Kaparchina is immense.

• Kolkheti National Park: The river is a central feature of the park, which protects the last remaining remnants of the ancient Colchian rainforests and wetlands.
• Peatlands and Marshes: It flows through unique percolating mires and marshes, home to rare and endemic plant species.
• Birdwatching Paradise: The wetlands are a critical stopover point for millions of migratory birds on the Eurasian-African flyway and a breeding ground for many species, making it a world-class birdwatching destination.

🏛️ History & Culture

The river flows through the heartland of the ancient Kingdom of Colchis. The nearby city of Poti is the site of the ancient Greek colony of Phasis. The entire region is steeped in history and myth, most famously the legend of Jason and the Argonauts. The river has been a part of this landscape, which has been known for its wealth and unique nature since antiquity.

🚣 Activities & Tourism

Tourism is centered on the natural wonders of Kolkheti National Park.

• Boat Tours: The main activity is taking a boat tour on Lake Paliastomi and along the Kaparchina and Pichori rivers to explore the wetlands and observe wildlife.
• Birdwatching: The park offers several birdwatching towers and platforms.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: The calm waters of the river are ideal for kayaking and canoeing.

🛤️ Accessibility

The Kaparchina River and Kolkheti National Park are easily accessible. The park’s visitor center is located in the city of Poti. Boat tours start from a dock on Lake Paliastomi, which is a short drive from Poti. The area is well-connected by road and rail.