Plizio Visual Lab
Samgori Oil Field
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
energy
The Samgori oil field, located east of Tbilisi in the Kakheti region, represents one of Georgia's most significant hydrocarbon deposits. Discovered in 1974, the field triggered a major boost in the local energy industry and reached its production peak in the early 1980s. The geological structure is characterized by complex Eocene volcanogenic-sedimentary rocks, making extraction technically demanding. For decades, Samgori was the primary source for domestic crude oil production, supplying the country's refineries. In the post-Soviet era, modern methods such as horizontal drilling were introduced to utilize the remaining reserves more efficiently. Despite the natural decline in production volumes, the field remains a strategic element of the Georgian energy infrastructure and serves as a base for research projects in the field of enhanced oil recovery.
- Location: Georgia
- Top sights: Church of Saint Nino · Lilo Mall · Lilo city
- Nearby: Rustavi (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 3 | 7 | 12 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 20 | 14 | 7 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 18 | 17 | 28 | 49 | 58 | 49 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 38 | 25 | 17 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Located in close proximity to the capital, this extensive energy extraction zone is historically recognized as the most significant domestic source of petroleum for the Georgian economy.
Visiting
Active oil drilling sites are strictly cordoned off for industrial safety and operational security, meaning that tourists cannot enter the actual working compounds or approach the machinery.
Where to view it
Travelers passing through the broader region on adjacent public roads can easily spot the characteristic silhouettes of the pump jacks rhythmically operating in the open landscape.
Local products
While petroleum itself is not retailed to visitors here, the industrial activity supports nearby local services, where one might find roadside eateries serving traditional Georgian breads and meals.
Active season
Extraction operations typically run continuously throughout the entire year, regardless of the season, creating a constant industrial backdrop for those traveling through this specific district.
Nearby
A glimpse of this industrial heritage can be incorporated into a wider road trip starting from Tbilisi and heading towards the historic monasteries and famous wine-producing regions of Kakheti.
Geography
Facts
- The field was officially discovered in 1974.
- Maximum production exceeded 4 million tons per year.
- The deposits are located at depths of approximately 2500 to 3000 meters.
- It is part of the resource-rich Kura Basin.
- Over 500 wells have been drilled in the field since its discovery.
- Modern recovery techniques stabilize current production at a low level.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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 Samgori Oil Field (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Samgori oil field?
It is Georgia's historically most significant and productive onshore oil field, located east of Tbilisi.
Is oil still being produced there today?
Yes, active extraction still takes place, although at a lower level than in the 1980s.
Can the drilling rigs be visited?
No, the extraction sites are industrial areas and are not open to the public.
What is the significance of the field for Georgia?
It contributes to domestic energy supply and is an important site for the Georgian oil industry.
Where does the name Samgori come from?
Samgori means 'Three Hills' in Georgian and refers to the geographical features of the area.
Samgori Oil Field: where is it located?
Samgori Oil Field is located in Georgia.
Samgori Oil Field: what is there to see?
Highlights include Church of Saint Nino, Lilo Mall, Lilo city.
Samgori Oil Field: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Samgori Oil Field: why is it worth visiting?
The Samgori oil field, located east of Tbilisi in the Kakheti region, represents one of Georgia's most significant hydrocarbon deposits.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Georgia →
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
Bridge of Peace
The Bridge of Peace in Tbilisi is a striking, bow-shaped pedestrian bridge made of glass and steel over the Kura River, connecting the ol…
Gabriadze Theater
The picturesque marionette theater of Rezo Gabriadze in the old town of Tbilisi is famous for its leaning clock tower, from which an ange…
Tbilisi TV Broadcasting Tower
The Tbilisi TV Broadcasting Tower on Mount Mtatsminda is a landmark of the city, visible from almost everywhere in the capital at night d…
More places
Lilo City Market
Lilo Market on the outskirts of Tbilisi is the largest wholesale and retail market in Transcaucasia for consumer goods.
Abanotubani Sulphur Baths
The historic bath district of Abanotubani in Tbilisi is famous for its traditional, dome-shaped bathhouses fed by natural hot sulphur spr…
Rike Park
This modern city park on the banks of the Kura River in Tbilisi impresses with its futuristic design.
Narikala Fortress
Narikala is an ancient fortress towering over the capital Tbilisi, protecting the city since the 4th century.
Tbilisi Botanical Garden
Nestled in a deep gorge behind the Narikala Fortress, this green oasis has been a retreat for centuries.
Mother of Georgia
The monumental statue 'Kartlis Deda' has watched over Tbilisi since 1958.
Mtatsminda Park
Perched high above Tbilisi, this historic amusement park offers rides for all ages and spectacular panoramic views.
Mushtaidi Park
One of the oldest parks in Tbilisi was established by a Persian prince and is home to centuries-old trees and a historic children's railway.