Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park protects a vast stretch of forest, river valleys and subalpine ridges in Georgia’s Lesser Caucasus. Its trail network ranges from a short walk above Borjomi to four-day crossings between ranger stations, with tourist shelters and designated campsites on several longer routes.
The park’s official website currently lists a total area of 104,099 hectares and twelve marked routes. Not every route is shown consistently in the online trip directory, however, and published distances occasionally conflict. Register before entering, collect the latest map and confirm the condition of your chosen route with the visitor centre.
For a wider overview, see our guides to the national parks of Georgia, hiking trails in Georgia and trekking in the Caucasus.
Borjomi-Kharagauli Trails at a Glance
| Trail | Distance | Duration | Difficulty | Main trailhead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Nikoloz Romanov Trail | 43 km | 3 days | Moderate | Likani or Marelisi |
| 2. St Andrew’s Trail | 54 km | 4 days | Hard | Atskuri or Marelisi |
| 3. Panorama Trail | 34 km | 2 days | Hard | Atskuri |
| 4. Untouched Forest Trail | 12–13 km | About 6 hours | Moderate | Nunisi or Zanavi |
| 5. Zekari Pass Trail | 31 km | 2 days | Hard | Abastumani |
| 6. Footprint Trail | 13 km | About 6 hours | Moderate | Likani |
| 7. National Park Information Trail | 3 km | 1.5–2 hours | Easy | Borjomi Visitor Centre |
| 8. Meghruki Valley | 5.5 km | Side trip | Moderate | Sakhvlari shelter |
| 9. Shepherds’ Trail | About 51 km | 3 days | Hard | Likani or Atskuri |
| 10. Snowshoe Trail No. 1 | 15.5 km | 2 days | Moderate | Likani |
| 11. Snowshoe Trail No. 2 | Official page lists 6 km | 1 day | Moderate | Atskuri |
| 12. Likani Valley Trail | 7 km | About 4 hours | Easy | Likani |
The 12 Hiking Trails
1. Nikoloz Romanov Trail
43 km · 3 days · moderate · hiking, horse riding and selected cycling use
This classic traverse connects Likani, near Borjomi, with Marelisi on the Kharagauli side of the park. The route climbs from the Likani River valley to Lomi Mountain before descending through subalpine meadows and Colchic forest.
- Day 1: Likani guard station–Lomismta shelter, 15 km
- Day 2: Lomismta–Sakhvlari shelter, 18 km
- Day 3: Sakhvlari–Marelisi guard station, 10 km
The main highlights are Lomi Mountain, St George’s Church, mixed forest and wide views in clear weather. Rhododendrons commonly flower around May and June. Because the trail finishes on the opposite side of the park, arrange onward transport before starting.
2. St Andrew’s Trail
54 km · 4 days · hard · hiking and horse riding
St Andrew’s Trail is the park’s most demanding established multi-day route. It begins at Atskuri, climbs through forest and alpine terrain to Sametskhvario Mountain at 2,642 metres, crosses the Iron Cross area and finishes at Marelisi.
- Day 1: Atskuri–Amarati shelter, 16 km
- Day 2: Amarati–Sametskhvario guard shelter, 9 km
- Day 3: Sametskhvario–Sakhvlari shelter, 19 km
- Day 4: Sakhvlari–Marelisi, 10 km
The official page lists summer and autumn as the operating seasons. High ridges are exposed to sudden weather, and shelter capacity is limited. Reserve accommodation and discuss water availability before departure.
3. Panorama Trail
34 km · 2 days · hard · circular route
The Panorama Trail starts and ends at Atskuri guard station. The first day climbs to Amarati tourist shelter; the return route follows a different high section before descending to Atskuri.
- Day 1: Atskuri–Amarati shelter, 16 km
- Day 2: Amarati–Atskuri, 18 km
Expect long ascents, open views of the Lesser Caucasus, coniferous forest and possible signs of deer, bear or wolf. It is a good choice for experienced hikers who want a two-day loop without arranging transport from a different endpoint.
4. Untouched Forest Trail
Approximately 12–13 km one way · about 6 hours · moderate
Also known as the Pure Pristine Forest Trail, this route links the Nunisi and Zanavi ranger stations and is the shortest established crossing of the park. It is especially attractive when rhododendrons flower in spring.
This trail does not always appear in the park’s current online adventure directory. Confirm that it is open, ask about transfers between the two trailheads and obtain the latest route file before setting out.
5. Zekari Pass Trail
31 km · 2 days · hard · hiking
The Zekari route starts at Abastumani guard station, climbs toward the Didmaghala tourist shelter and crosses high terrain near the Adjara-Imereti Range before returning through the Otskhe River valley.
- Day 1: Abastumani–Didmaghala shelter, 8 km
- Day 2: Didmaghala–Abastumani, 23 km
The second day is much longer than the first. The trail includes steep slopes and exposed sections, so it is best attempted in stable weather during spring, summer or autumn.
6. Footprint Trail
13 km · about 6 hours · moderate · one way
The Footprint Trail begins near Likani guard station, initially sharing the Nikoloz Romanov route, then branches toward Kvabiskhevi. It passes old yew trees, climbs to panoramic viewpoints and descends steeply into the Kvabiskhevi Valley.
The route finishes at a different location, so arrange pickup or onward transport. The descent can be slippery, and recent reports of fallen trees or storm damage should be checked with rangers before departure.
7. National Park Information Trail
3 km · 1.5–2 hours · easy · circular route
This is the easiest introduction to the park and the most convenient trail for visitors staying in Borjomi. It starts near the administration building, climbs toward St Nino’s Church and loops back with views over the resort town.
The first climb is steeper than the “easy” rating may suggest, but the route is short and reaches only about 950 metres. It suits travellers who do not have time for a full-day hike.
8. Meghruki Valley
5.5 km · moderate · summer and autumn
Meghruki Valley is not a stand-alone trail from a road-accessible entrance. It begins at Sakhvlari tourist shelter, which hikers normally reach while following the Nikoloz Romanov or St Andrew’s route.
The shaded gorge contains humid Colchic forest and offers a cooler side excursion during summer. Confirm whether the published 5.5 kilometres is intended as a one-way distance and allow enough time to return to the shelter.
9. Shepherds’ Trail
About 51 km by the published daily stages · 3 days · hard
This route connects parts of the Nikoloz Romanov and St Andrew’s trails. It passes Lomi Mountain, summer shepherds’ cabins and the Amarati area before descending to Atskuri.
- Day 1: Likani–Lomismta shelter, 15 km
- Day 2: Lomismta–Amarati shelter, 20 km
- Day 3: Amarati–Atskuri, 16 km
The official page currently labels the route as 15 km in its summary, but its three stages total approximately 51 km. Plan using the individual stages and verify the latest map at registration.
10. Snowshoe Trail No. 1
15.5 km · 2 days · moderate · winter
This winter loop starts and finishes at Likani guard station, with an overnight at Chitakhevi guard station.
- Day 1: Likani–Chitakhevi, 8 km
- Day 2: Chitakhevi–Likani, 7.5 km
The shelter allows a fire, but hikers must confirm water availability and carry enough if supplies are frozen. Winter route-finding, short daylight and rapidly changing snow conditions require suitable equipment and experience.
11. Snowshoe Trail No. 2
Official page lists 6 km · 1 day · moderate · winter
The route begins at Atskuri ranger station, climbs to panoramic viewpoints and returns along the same line. It can be shortened according to snow and fitness.
The park’s wording is ambiguous about whether the listed 6 km covers the complete return hike or one direction. Confirm the expected total distance and current snow conditions with the visitor centre.
12. Likani Valley Trail
7 km · about 4 hours · easy · hiking and cycling
The Likani Valley Trail starts at Likani ranger station, crosses the Chitakhevi ridge and finishes in Likani settlement. It offers a shorter alternative to the park’s multi-day routes, with views across the Borjomi Gorge.
Despite its official easy rating and short distance, the route contains steep climbing and descent. Wear footwear with good grip and allow extra time after rain.
Registration, Shelters and Current Fees
Registration is required before entering the park. For multi-day routes, reserve tourist shelters and confirm whether bedding, water and firewood are available. Carry cash because payment options at ranger stations can be limited.
| Service | Published price |
|---|---|
| Designated campsite | 5 GEL per person |
| Tent rental | 10 GEL |
| Sleeping bag rental | 5 GEL |
| Camping mat rental | 3 GEL |
| Snowshoes | 15 GEL first day; 10 GEL each additional day |
| Bicycle rental | 35 GEL per day on the park’s activity page |
| Horse in Likani | 60 GEL per day including instructor, or 30 GEL per hour |
The main visitor centre is at 23 Meskheti Street in Borjomi. Opening hours and contact details can change, so check the official Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park page before travelling.
When to Hike
- April–May: green forest and spring flowers, but muddy trails and lingering snow on higher routes
- June–September: the most dependable period for long routes and high ridges
- October–November: autumn colour and cooler weather; confirm shelter and high-route conditions
- Winter: use the designated snowshoe routes and check snow, road and shelter access
The park is open throughout the year, but that does not mean every route is safe or accessible in every season. St Andrew’s and Shepherds’ trails are published as summer–autumn routes, Meghruki as summer–autumn, and Zekari as spring–autumn.
What to Pack
- Printed or offline trail map
- Waterproof jacket and warm layers
- Hiking shoes with good grip
- Water plus a filter or purification method
- Food for the full route and an emergency reserve
- Headlamp and power bank
- First-aid kit and personal medication
- Sleeping bag appropriate for the season
- Cash, identification and registration details
- Navigation and winter safety equipment where required
Mobile coverage is unreliable inside the park. Tell someone your route and expected return time, and do not depend on a phone for navigation or rescue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many trails are in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park?
The official park overview states that there are twelve marked routes. The network includes short walks, multi-day hiking trails and two winter snowshoe routes, although not all twelve are displayed consistently in the online trip directory.
Do I need to register before hiking?
Yes. The park instructs visitors to register before entering. Registration is also the opportunity to confirm route conditions, reserve shelters and obtain the latest map.
Which trail is best for a first visit?
The 3 km National Park Information Trail is the easiest introduction. For a longer day hike, consider Likani Valley or the Footprint Trail, depending on fitness and transport arrangements.
What is the best multi-day trail?
The 43 km Nikoloz Romanov Trail is the classic three-day crossing. Experienced hikers seeking a harder route can consider the 54 km St Andrew’s Trail over four days.
Are there mountain shelters in the park?
Yes. Several multi-day routes use tourist or ranger shelters including Lomismta, Sakhvlari, Amarati, Sametskhvario, Didmaghala and Chitakhevi. Capacity and facilities vary, so reserve and confirm details in advance.
Can I camp in Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park?
Camping is permitted at designated sites. The published campsite fee is 5 GEL per person, and tents, sleeping bags and mats may be available to rent from the park.
Can I hike in the park all year?
The park operates year-round, but individual trails have different seasons. High routes may be unsafe under snow, while two designated snowshoe routes are intended for winter use.
Do I need a hiking guide?
A guide is not compulsory for every marked route, but it is advisable for difficult multi-day trails, winter conditions or hikers without remote-navigation experience. Always register and carry an offline map.
Can I visit the park on a day trip from Borjomi?
Yes. The Information Trail starts near the Borjomi visitor centre, while Likani Valley and the Footprint Trail are accessible from the Likani side with suitable transport planning.
Is entry to Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park free?
Registration and service arrangements should be confirmed with the visitor centre. Camping, equipment hire, horses and other services have separate published fees.
Plan Your Borjomi-Kharagauli Hike
Borjomi-Kharagauli is one of Georgia’s best areas for marked forest trekking, but the distances, weather and transport between trailheads still require careful planning. Choose your route according to fitness and season, register, and verify shelters and trail conditions shortly before departure.
Explore our adventure and trekking tours in Georgia or contact Highlander Travel to arrange transport, accommodation or a guided itinerary through Borjomi and Samtskhe-Javakheti.
