Gardabani Managed Reserve

Gardabani Managed Reserve is a protected area situated along the Mtkvari River near the Azerbaijan border, spanning across Marneuli Municipality. The landscape comprises wetland forests and diverse habitats that support multiple species of wildlife.

The site originated as a hunting estate established in 1957, later transitioning to a managed conservation area. This transformation occurred after Georgia implemented new environmental protection laws in the mid-1990s.

The reserve is closely tied to the Kakheti region, where archaeological findings spanning several millennia show continuous human settlement in this area. Local communities have maintained connections to this landscape across ancient periods.

The reserve is situated approximately 40 kilometers south of Tbilisi, making it accessible from the capital city. On-site facilities include a hotel with a sauna, billiards room, and fishing opportunities for visitors.

The reserve protects the last remaining wetland population of Caucasian red deer in this region. It also serves as a critical habitat for more than 130 bird species and multiple mammal species.