Chachuna Managed Reserve

Chachuna Managed Reserve is a protected area along the Iori River featuring limestone cliffs, open meadows, and steppe grassland spread across a large expanse. The landscape shifts between steep rock faces along the river and rolling open terrain further inland.

The reserve was established in 1996 and built upon lands of the former Chachuni State Forestry, which operated from 1965. Its creation marked the region's transition to formal protection as a nature reserve.

The area holds remains of medieval sites like Khornabuji Castle and Saint Elias Church, reflecting the region's long history of settlement. These monuments show how the location once served as a crossroads between different peoples and traditions.

The visitor center in Dedoplistskaro on Baratashvili Street offers information, equipment rentals, and accommodation bookings for exploring the reserve. The site is accessible from the town and visitors should bring sturdy footwear and plenty of water, especially for trails along the cliffs.

The reserve contains caves within limestone formations that serve as crucial nesting sites for griffon vultures and Egyptian vultures protected under the Bern Convention. These rare birds of prey use the rock faces as natural breeding grounds and play a key role in the local ecosystem.

GPS coordinates: 41.29972,45.89250

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:22