Batumi Birdwatching Festival

The Birdwatching Festival was established in 2012 and has expanded in scale each year, significantly contributing to the development of ecotourism. The Ajara region is recognized as one of the world's largest migration corridors for birds of prey, ranking third globally after the United States and Israel. Over 1,000,000 migratory raptors are recorded annually in the skies of Ajara—a phenomenon driven by the region’s unique topography and climate. Consequently, interest in birdwatching continues to grow, attracting experts, enthusiasts, and travelers eager to discover new experiences as part of the festival.

For birdwatching, the municipality of Kobuleti is particularly remarkable. Its villages, Sakhalvasho and Chaisubani, offer the best locations for observing, recording, and studying migratory birds. Special birdwatching platforms have been installed there, accessible via well-marked trails. Beyond these villages, birdwatching is also popular in Mtirala National Park, the Chorokhi Delta, and the Ispani Peatlands.

During the festival week, daily lectures and presentations are held by invited international and Georgian specialists, open to all participants. Additionally, educational and entertaining excursions to the platforms are organized, allowing visitors to engage in birdwatching alongside experts.

As a tourism activity, birdwatching promotes sustainable ecotourism and serves as a vital source of support for small, family-run guesthouses located near the observation sites.