DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Mtirala National Park

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
national-park
—°4
Mtirala National Park (Georgia)

Weather…

Mtirala National Park is located in the Adjara region of southwestern Georgia and is considered the wettest place in the country and the Caucasus. It covers an area of approximately 15,698 hectares in the western part of the Lesser Caucasus, not far from the Black Sea coast. The name 'Mtirala' translates to 'the crying one', referring to the extremely high annual rainfall of up to 4,500 mm. These conditions have led to the formation of a unique Colchic rainforest, rich in endemic and tertiary relic plants. In 2021, the park was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list under the 'Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands' designation due to its exceptional biodiversity. The landscape is characterized by dense mixed forests, deep canyons, and numerous waterfalls, including the prominent Tsablnari waterfall. Fauna includes the brown bear, the Caucasian salamander, and a variety of rare amphibian species. The park serves as a vital ecosystem for the protection of Colchic flora and is a significant destination for ecotourism near the city of Batumi.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-114814182021181372
Rain mm11588966861706872121140139127

📋 Practical info

🧭
Getting there
The park is usually reached by driving from Batumi via Chakvi, which serves as the primary access route. A 4x4 vehicle is often recommended for the final rough stretch to the visitor center.
📅
Best season
Summer and early autumn are the most popular times to visit, offering a lush, green environment. As the wettest region in Georgia, expect rain at almost any time of the year.
⛰️
Terrain & paths
The terrain is rugged, featuring dense, humid forests, steep river gorges, and muddy trails. Hiking paths can be quite slippery and require a good sense of balance and footing.
🎒
What to bring
Waterproof hiking boots and a reliable raincoat are absolute necessities given the high rainfall. Bring insect repellent, a water bottle, and trekking poles to help on slippery slopes.
🅿️
Parking
There is a designated parking area near the visitor center in the village of Chakvistavi. Space can be limited during peak summer weekends, so arriving early is a good idea.
⚠️
Safety
Heavy rains can cause river levels to rise quickly, making some crossings potentially dangerous. Always stick to the marked trails to avoid getting lost in the dense, jungle-like forest.
⏱️
Time needed
Visitors typically spend a half to a full day exploring the main trails, waterfalls, and lakes. Those interested in longer treks or zip-lining might prefer to stay overnight nearby.

Geography

Coordinates
41.68330, 41.86670

Facts

  • The park was officially opened in the year 2007.
  • The annual rainfall often reaches over 4,500 mm.
  • The park has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 2021.
  • The maximum altitude in the park is 1,381 meters above sea level.
  • The Tsablnari waterfall has a height of approximately 15 meters.
  • Over 80% of the park area is covered with untouched forest.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mtirala National ParkMtirala National Park<1 km · NWExplore →
Makhuntseti WaterfallMakhuntseti Waterfall9 km · WExplore →
Kintrishi Strict Nature ReserveKintrishi Strict Nature Reserve14 km · NExplore →
TsikhisdziriTsikhisdziri14 km · SEExplore →
📍Kobuleti15 km · SEExplore →
Batumi Botanical GardenBatumi Botanical Garden16 km · SExplore →
Machakhela National ParkMachakhela National Park17 km · WExplore →
Tsitsinatela Amusement ParkTsitsinatela Amusement Park21 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Mtirala National Park (4)

Zip line

Zip line in Mtirala National Park, allows riding through the treetops.

Rope park

Rope park in Mtirala National Park with various obstacles and ropes.

Tsablnari Waterfall

Waterfall in Mtirala National Park, surrounded by dense forest.

Mtirala National Park

National park in Georgia, known for rainforest and diverse wildlife.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Mtirala called the wettest place in Georgia?
Its name means 'crying mountain' because the region has extremely high annual rainfall due to its proximity to the Black Sea.
What activities are offered in the park?
Besides hiking and birdwatching, there is an adventure park with ziplines and opportunities for canyoning.
How far is the park from Batumi?
The park is about 25 km northeast of Batumi and is a popular day trip for vacationers from the coast.
Are the hiking trails well-marked?
Yes, there are two main routes (Chestnut Forest and Tsablnari Waterfall), which are well-signed and suitable for most fitness levels.
Do I need special clothing?
Due to high humidity and sudden rain, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are highly recommended.
Mtirala National Park: where is it located?
Mtirala National Park is located in Georgia.
Mtirala National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Zip line, Rope park, Tsablnari Waterfall.
Mtirala National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Mtirala National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Mtirala National Park is located in the Adjara region of southwestern Georgia and is considered the wettest place in the country and the Caucasus.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Asia
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Asia
More places in Georgia →

Nearby cities

Batumi — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Batumi
Batumi is the second-largest city of Georgia and a popular resort on the Black Sea coast.
Kobuleti — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Kobuleti
Kobuleti is a popular seaside resort in Adjara with a kilometers-long pebble beach.

History & landmarks

Alphabet Tower — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Alphabet Tower
The 130-meter-high Alphabet Tower in Batumi celebrates the uniqueness of the Georgian script.

Nature

Adjara Black Sea Coast — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Adjara Black Sea Coast
The Adjara Black Sea Coast stretches across southwestern Georgia, combining humid subtropical vegetation with picturesque pebble beaches.

More places

Mtirala National Park — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Mtirala National Park
This national park in Adjara owes its name to the rainy microclimate.
Makhuntseti Waterfall — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Makhuntseti Waterfall
The Makhuntseti Waterfall in the Adjara region is a popular excursion destination.
Kintrishi Strict Nature Reserve — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Kintrishi Strict Nature Reserve
The Kintrishi Strict Nature Reserve is hidden away in a picturesque river gorge within the mountainous region of Adjara.
Batumi Botanical Garden — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Batumi Botanical Garden
Located at the Green Cape, the Batumi Botanical Garden is one of the largest and most diverse in the world.
Machakhela National Park — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Machakhela National Park
This near-natural area near the Turkish border preserves unique mountain forests and traditional cultural landscapes.
Kintrishi Strict Nature Reserve — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Kintrishi Strict Nature Reserve
Hidden in the mountains of Adjara, this reserve protects pristine relict forests and deep river valleys.
Batumi Oil Terminal — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Batumi Oil Terminal
The oil terminal in Batumi processes and stores petroleum products from Central Asia and the Caucasus for international maritime transport.
Batumi Sea Port — Mtirala National Park (Georgia)
Batumi Sea Port
Batumi Sea Port is one of Georgia's most important Black Sea ports, serving as a central hub for the transit of oil and cargo.