Shuamta Watchpoint

Shuamta Raptor Watchpoint — How to Get There

Shuamta Raptor Watchpoint is located in Adjara, near the village of Shuamta (Chaisubani), northeast of Batumi, at an altitude of approximately 410 metres above sea level. It is one of the important locations for observing raptor migration along the Batumi migration corridor.

The watchpoint serves as Batumi Raptor Count's (BRC) second observation station, where migrating raptors are counted and monitored every autumn.

Surrounded by forested mountains and valleys, the watchpoint offers impressive panoramic views of the Black Sea and the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains.

Birdwatching — Autumn Migration

The second half of September and early October is a particularly interesting period for birdwatching at Shuamta, when the migration of buzzards and various eagle species is especially intense.

Visitors may observe Lesser and Greater Spotted Eagles, Steppe Eagles, Eastern Imperial Eagles, Short-toed Snake Eagles, Booted Eagles, Long-legged Buzzards, kites and other birds of prey. Migrating Black Storks can also occasionally be seen.

Under favourable weather conditions, birds use rising warm air currents, gather in large flocks and continue their migration after gaining altitude.

Spring Migration

From late March to mid-April, Shuamta Watchpoint offers interesting opportunities for visitors interested in spring migration.

Pilot counts conducted by Batumi Raptor Count in 2019, 2020 and 2022 confirmed that the Batumi migration corridor is also an important route for hundreds of thousands of migrating raptors in spring. Migration of kites and buzzards is particularly abundant during this period.

Regular organised monitoring is not conducted at Shuamta Watchpoint in spring. Therefore, visitors can independently observe the northward migration of birds throughout the day while enjoying the 360-degree panoramic views from the watchpoint.

Migration intensity depends on weather conditions and wind direction, so observation results may vary significantly from day to day.

How to Get There

Watchpoint location: 41°41′12.1″N, 41°46′43.3″E — View on Google Maps

Shuamta Raptor Watchpoint is located approximately 20 kilometres from Batumi. The journey by car takes approximately 40–50 minutes, depending on road conditions.

From Batumi, head towards Chakvi and continue through the village of Chaisubani towards Shuamta. Part of the road is unpaved and uneven in some sections, so a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended, especially in rainy weather.

Depending on where you can reach by car, you may need to walk for approximately 10–15 minutes to reach the watchpoint. You can also use a taxi or pre-arranged local transport.

Useful Tips

It is recommended to allow half a day or a full day for birdwatching. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope, drinking water, food and clothing suitable for the weather. Conditions at the watchpoint may be windy and cool.

During the autumn monitoring season, please avoid disturbing the work of specialists and volunteers involved in bird counts. Respect the natural environment and enjoy the impressive spectacle of migration.