Why Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Should Be on Your Georgia Bucket List
You know that feeling when you step out of a marshutka after a few hours on the road, stretch your legs, and take that first deep breath of forest air? That is exactly what hits you at the entrance of Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. About two and a half hours west of Tbilisi, this place is one of Georgia largest protected areas — over 85,000 hectares of dense forest, alpine meadows, and river valleys stretching all the way to the border of the Racha region. If you are looking for a hiking trip that does not require a plane ticket to the Alps, this is it.
What makes this park special is how accessible it is. You do not need to be an ultra-marathon athlete or a seasoned mountaineer. The trail system here has something for everyone: three-kilometer family strolls past century-old yew trees, and multi-day treks that push you up to 2,600 meters above sea level. And the best part? You can register at the visitor center in Borjomi town, pay a small fee (around 3 to 5 euros), and you are off.
The park is open year-round, but the sweet spot is April through October. Summer brings wildflowers and clear skies. Autumn? The forest turns into a color palette that makes your phone camera look like a professional setup. Winter has its own charm too — there is a dedicated snowshoe trail if you are brave enough to hike when the temperatures drop.
Top Trails in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
With over twelve marked routes, choosing where to go can feel overwhelming. Here is a breakdown of the most popular trails, from quick day trips to proper multi-day adventures. All distances are one-way unless noted.
Nikoloz Romanov Trail (43 km, 3 days, Moderate)
This is the classic Borjomi-Kharagauli experience. Named after Prince Nikoloz Romanov (yes, the Romanov family had ties to this area), the trail takes you through mixed forests, across mountain streams, and up to open ridges with views that go on forever. Plan for three days at a comfortable pace, staying in tourist shelters along the route. The elevation gain is steady but manageable — you will feel it in your calves by day two, but the views at sunset make it all worth it.
St. Andrew Trail (54 km, 4 days, Challenging)
If you are the type who wants the full experience, this is your trail. St. Andrew is the longest marked route in the park, and it earns its challenging rating. The highlight is Sametskhvario Peak at 2,642 meters — the highest point in the park. The ascent is steep in sections, and you will need proper gear and a decent fitness level. But standing on top, with the Lesser Caucasus unfolding in every direction, is the kind of moment that sticks with you long after the hike is over. Budget four days minimum.
Panorama Trail (34 km, 2 days, Circular)
Short on time but want a proper overnight trip? The Panorama Trail is a two-day loop that delivers exactly what its name promises. You sleep at a shelter halfway through, and the second day is all ridge walking with views of the surrounding valleys. It is a great intro to multi-day trekking in Georgia — enough to test your gear and your legs, but not so long that you hate life by the end.
Footprint Trail (13 km, Day Hike, Easy to Moderate)
Here is the thing about the Footprint Trail: it has trees that are 800 to 1,000 years old. Yew trees, specifically. These are not just old — they are ancient witnesses to everything that has happened in this region. The trail itself is a comfortable day hike, around 13 kilometers, winding through old-growth forest. Take your time. Sit under one of those yews. Think about all the people who walked this land before you. It is a humbling experience.
National Park Information Trail (3 km, Easy)
Perfect for families or anyone who just wants a taste of the park without committing to a full day. This short loop starts near the visitor center and gives you a solid introduction to the local ecosystem. There are information boards along the way explaining the flora and fauna. Takes about an hour. Bring the kids, bring the grandparents, bring your lunch.
Likani Valley Trail (7 km, 4 hours, Easy)
This one follows the Likani River through a beautiful valley. It is flat enough for a relaxed walk but scenic enough to justify the trip. Bonus: you can do sections of this trail on horseback. The park offers horse-riding options if you want to channel your inner nomad. Four hours round trip makes it a solid afternoon activity.
Zekari Overpass Trail (24-31 km, 2-3 days, Moderate)
Zekari connects the Borjomi side of the park with the Racha region. This is where that link between Borjomi and Racha becomes literal — you cross over the Zekari Pass and drop down into Racha green valleys. The trail is flexible: you can do a shorter two-day version at 24 km or stretch it to three days and 31 km depending on your pace. Either way, you end up in a completely different landscape on the other side.
The Shepherds Trail (Connecting Route)
This is less of a standalone trail and more of a connective thread between the main routes. Historically used by shepherds moving livestock between summer and winter pastures, it now serves as a link between Nikoloz Romanov Trail, St. Andrew Trail, and others. If you are planning a custom multi-day route, the Shepherds Trail is your backstage pass.
Getting to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park
The park entrance is about 12 kilometers from Borjomi town center. From Tbilisi, it is a straightforward drive — roughly two hours and forty-five minutes on the main highway toward Akhaltsikhe. If you do not have your own wheels, take a marshutka from Tbilisi Didube station to Borjomi (they leave regularly), and then grab a local taxi to the visitor center.
Borjomi itself is worth a stop. Before or after your hike, spend an hour at Borjomi Central Park. Taste the famous mineral water straight from the spring — it is warm, slightly salty, and an acquired taste, but it is the real deal. The cable car up to the Ferris wheel gives you a nice overview of the town and the valley. Not a bad way to end a hiking trip.
Where to Stay: Tourist Shelters and Camping
The park has a network of tourist shelters spaced at comfortable intervals along the major trails. They are basic — think wooden cabins with bunk beds and a stove — but they keep you dry and warm. In peak season (July and August), book ahead. Shelters fill up fast. You can reserve through the visitor center or the park website.
Camping is allowed in designated areas. If you are self-sufficient with a tent, this gives you more flexibility. Just follow Leave No Trace principles — pack out what you pack in. This is one of Georgia most important natural areas, and keeping it clean is everyones job.
Wildlife You Might Spot
Borjomi-Kharagauli is home to bears, wild boar, chamois, and deer. Bear encounters are rare (they usually hear you coming and move away), but keep your distance if you do see one. Wild boar are more common near water sources. Chamois are the real treat — if you spot one balancing on a rocky outcrop, count yourself lucky. Binoculars are worth bringing.
Bird life is rich too. Golden eagles, griffon vultures, and various woodpecker species are all present. Early morning hikes offer the best wildlife viewing.
Essentials: What to Bring
Good hiking boots are non-negotiable. Some sections of the trails are rocky or muddy, especially after rain. Pack layers — it can be warm in the valleys and cold at the peaks, even in summer. A rain jacket, even if the forecast looks clear. Georgia mountain weather has a sense of humor.
Bring enough water and snacks for the day, plus a refillable bottle. Streams along the trails are safe to drink from (locals do), but a filter or purification tablets give you peace of mind. A headlamp, a basic first aid kit, and a power bank for your phone. There is no cell reception in large parts of the park, so download offline maps before you go.
And register at the visitor center. It is mandatory, it costs almost nothing, and it means someone knows you are out there. Simple safety measure.
Connecting Borjomi and Racha
The Zekari Pass isnt just a hiking trail — it is a geographic link between two of Georgia most beautiful regions. Racha, with its rolling hills, medieval towers, and world-class khachapuri (seriously, Racha-style khachapuri is on another level), is a natural extension of any Borjomi hiking trip. You can start in Borjomi, cross the park, and pop out in Racha feeling like you have earned a proper meal.
Check out this video from our Racha trip — the landscape on the Racha side of the park gives you a taste of what is waiting on the other side of those mountains.
Traveler FAQ
How much does it cost to enter Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park?
The entry fee is approximately 3 to 5 euros. You also need to register at the visitor center in Borjomi before starting your hike. Payment is in Georgian lari.
What is the best time to visit?
April through October is the prime hiking season. July and August offer the most stable weather but are also the busiest. September and October are perfect for autumn colors and fewer crowds.
Are the trails well-marked?
Yes, the main trails are marked with color-coded signs and occasional distance markers. Download offline maps as backup — cell service is unreliable once you are deep in the park.
Do I need a guide?
For the shorter trails (Footprint, Likani Valley, Information Trail), no. For the longer multi-day treks, especially St. Andrew Trail and Zekari Overpass, a guide is recommended if you are not experienced with navigation in forest terrain.
Can I camp inside the park?
Yes, camping is allowed in designated areas. Tourist shelters are also available along major routes and can be booked through the visitor center.
Is the park safe for solo hikers?
Generally yes, especially on the well-traveled trails. Register with the visitor center, let someone know your plans, and stick to marked routes. Wildlife encounters are rare but possible.
How do I get from Tbilisi to the park?
Take a marshutka from Didube station to Borjomi (around 2 hours 45 minutes), then a local taxi to the visitor center, about 12 kilometers from town. Alternatively, rent a car for more flexibility.
What should I pack for a multi-day trek?
Sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, rain jacket, sleeping bag (if not using shelters), water filter or purification tablets, headlamp, first aid kit, snacks, and offline maps. The shelters have basic bedding but bringing your own liner is smart.
Final Thoughts: Why This Park Deserves Your Time
Borjomi-Kharagauli isnt trying to compete with the Alps or Patagonia. It does not need to. What it offers is something rarer: real, accessible wilderness within a few hours of a major city, with trails that range from casual afternoon walks to proper multi-day treks. It is the kind of place where you can disappear into the forest for a few days and come back feeling like you have actually been somewhere.
The park connects two of Georgia most beautiful regions — Borjomi and Racha — and gives you a reason to explore both. Whether you are here for a weekend or a full week, whether you are a solo hiker or dragging your friends along for the adventure, Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park delivers. Grab your boots, register at the center, and hit the trail. The forest is waiting.
