Vashlovani Nature Reserve – a landscape similar to Africa

I am sure you did not know that there is a place in Georgia, that has a very similar landscape to Africa. This resemblance is especially vivid during the sunset in the Vashlovani Nature Reserve, which takes your mind so far that you can not believe that you are still in Georgia. This exotic place is located in the municipality of Dedoplistskaro, in the Kakheti region, 200 kilometers from Tbilisi.

The Vashlovani Reserve was founded in 1935, and from 2003 the Reserve, the National Park and Natural Monuments were unified in under Vashlovani Protected Areas. According to the legend, the name ''Vashlovani'' comes from the forest on this territory that looks like the garden of apple trees. Actually, "Vashli" means an apple in Georgian.

You will see different kinds of exotic trees in the park and various species of reptiles. There are many types of rare birds and predatory animals such as leopards, Caucasian wolves, bears, foxes etc. The primary purpose of the Vashlovani Reserve is to keep and protect all rare species of flora and fauna of this territory.

Creation of the Vashlovani National Park

A danger of ecosystems destruction around the Vashlovani Reserve has led to the creation of the Vashlovani National Park. The biodiversity of the Reserve had to be saved. Therefore, they created the Vashlovani National Park that supports the protection of nature. In addition, this park is helping the restoration process of the rare species of plants and animals that are spread throughout the region. Furthermore, the existence of protected areas contributes to the environmental monitoring and education.

Vashlovani National Park

5FRF+8C Kasristskali, Georgia

Around the Vashlovani Protected Areas, you can see two beautiful rivers - the Alazani and the Iori. This place is also interesting for its climate. A typical day here is dry and hot. By the way, on the territory of the Vashlovani Nature Reserve, there is one of the driest deserts in Georgia.

Iori River

Dedoplistskaro Municipality, Georgia

Alazani River

Alazani River, Azerbaijan

Why is this place attractive for the visitors?

You can visit the exhibition and presentation hall to get acquainted with the features of the Vashlovani National Park, safety rules and service tariffs, after which you can choose the most suitable tour package for you. If you are a nature lover, you can have hiking tours for one or several days. Touristic paths are well marked, and you can enjoy your stay in bungalows, or picnic and camp spaces around it. You can also set a fire and feel closer to nature. Just get rid of your electronic gadgets, everyday stress and enjoy with your friends while exploring the distinctive nature.

So, when you are in the Kakheti Region, do not fortget to visit the Vashlovani Nature Reserve. and you will see yourself that it has a very similar landscape to Africa. The white hills of volcanoes that systematically explode will make you feel that you are on another planet.

Dedoplistskaro

Dedoplis Tskaro, Georgia