Park · Khelvachauri Municipality, Adjara
Machakhela National Park
მაჭახელას ეროვნული პარკი
A national park in the Machakhela valley of Khelvachauri Municipality, Adjara, protecting Colchic forest, with medieval arched bridges, fortress ruins and an ethnographic museum in the valley's villages.
Where it is
41.4561, 41.8248
Why go
Established in 2012, the park protects the Colchic forest on the slopes around the Machakhela river; the Agency of Protected Areas says about 95% of it is forest and dense shrub, with Colchic boxwood, chestnut, Colchic hazelnut, Georgian walnut, beech, elm and Ungern's and Smirnov's rhododendrons among the species it protects. Walking trails run together with the valley's motor roads. Along the valley stand the medieval arched bridges of Tskhemlara, Chomakhisuri and Chkheri, the ruins of the Gvara and Chkhutuneti fortresses, and an ethnographic museum in Zemo Chkhutuneti. The agency gives May to October as the active tourist season. Its Kokoleti Trail lies in the border zone, and the agency states (checked 1 October 2026) that a special movement permit is needed, arranged with the park administration at least 10 working days ahead. The park suits walkers and visitors interested in rural Adjara more than a quick nature stop.
Best time to visit
May to October, the active tourist season given by the Agency of Protected Areas.
Safety
The Kokoleti Trail is in the border zone: the Agency of Protected Areas requires a special movement permit, requested at least 10 working days in advance through the park administration (apa.gov.ge, checked 1 October 2026).
Near Machakhela National Park
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13 km · straight-line distance; driving distance and time differ
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Makhuntseti Waterfall
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Park
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21 km · straight-line distance; driving distance and time differ
Waterfall
Merisi Waterfall
A waterfall between forested cliffs at Merisi village in the Keda highlands of Adjara, a short walk from the end of the paved road and fitted with stairs, handrails and a pool below.
21 km · straight-line distance; driving distance and time differ