The Chachuna Managed Reserve is a rich tapestry of biodiversity nestled in Georgia's extreme southeast, bordering Azerbaijan. Encompassing an area of about 5,200 hectares (12,850 acres), the reserve is part of Georgia's dedication to maintaining nearly 20% of its territory as protected land.
The Chachuna Reserve's landscapes are as varied as they are beautiful. Sprawling meadows, imposing limestone cliffs, and loamy hills adorned with steppe plants meld into a unique riverine forest along the Iori River, presenting an ever-changing panorama of scenic wonders.
This diverse ecosystem hosts an array of plants, many of which are cataloged in Georgia’s “Red Book” of rare species. It's not uncommon to come across white poplars (Populus alba), grayish oaks (Quercus pedunculiflora), and Caucasian hackberries (Celtis caucasica) while exploring the reserve.
The fauna here is as equally remarkable as the flora. Raccoons, jackals, endangered reed cats, and wolves inhabit these lands. In a thrilling glimpse of the elusive, a camera trap captured a lynx's image in 2020.
The avian life in Chachuna is diverse, with sixty species of birds protected under the Bern Convention residing in the reserve. The black francolin (Francolinus francolinus), eastern imperial eagle (Aquila heliacal), Griffon vultures, and Egyptian vultures add to the area's rich biodiversity. The limestone cliffs of Chachuna provide nesting spaces for these magnificent birds.
Located in the Dedoplistskaro Municipality, the Chachuna Reserve was established to protect the Iori river's banks and the Dalis-Mta reservoir's forests. The unique arid and semi-arid flora and fauna characterizing the region are also under its protection. Bird hides scattered across the reserve allow birdwatchers to observe the avian species discreetly.
The history of the region in which the Chachuna Reserve is located is as rich as its biodiversity. This region, known as Kiziki or Kambechovani, houses many historical monuments, from medieval castle ruins to ancient monastic complexes.
A visit to Chachuna Managed Reserve provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in an exceptionally diverse environment teeming with rare plants, unique animals, and a mesmerizing assortment of bird species. Whether you're a bird-watcher, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a serene picnic spot, Chachuna beckons with its untouched natural beauty.
