Mtirala National Park: How to Get There from Batumi in 6 Ways

Mtirala National Park is a vast subtropical forest with stunning mountains and a unique climate, situated just 31.1 km from Batumi. The drive takes about an hour and includes scenic routes through local towns and winding roads. There are several ways how to get to Mtirala National Park, and in this guide, we’ll explore each option in detail, highlighting their pros and cons.

Mtirala National Park resembles a true jungle, featuring a unique microclimate that makes it the most humid area in Georgia. Here, you’ll encounter a variety of rare and unusual plants and trees, a stunning waterfall, a small lake, and breathtaking mountain views.

The park offers two hiking trails for visitors: one lasting 2 hours and another for a full day. Additionally, there are guesthouses available for those who wish to stay overnight.

In addition to hiking, there are various other activities available for adventure seekers, including zip-lining, a rope park, and horseback riding.

Plan to spend 2-3 hours for a short walk through the reserve or 1-2 days for a longer hike. The round trip to the park takes about 2 hours.

The park is open every day from 9 AM to 6 PM, and all activities can be paid for at the information center at the entrance.

There are no direct minibuses to Mtirala National Park, so you will need to make a transfer. Start by taking minibus #40, which heads to Chakvi. This minibus departs from near the lower station of the Argo cable car in the center of Batumi, close to the port and the promenade. If you’re unsure where to get off, just ask the taxi drivers nearby; they’ll be able to guide you.

Once you arrive in Chakvi, get off at the stop marked for Mtirala National Park. It’s best to inform the driver in advance about your intended stop to avoid missing it. In Chakvi, you will need to switch to a taxi, which can usually be found waiting near the sign. Make sure to agree on the fare for both the trip there and back; it typically costs around 60 lari or more.

Pros:

• Relatively inexpensive (a minibus ticket costs 2 lari; the taxi fare will vary depending on negotiation with the driver).

Cons:

• No fixed schedule for minibuses.
• Payment by card is not accepted.
• Minibuses can often be overcrowded, leading to a cramped and uncomfortable ride.
• You may experience motion sickness due to abrupt driving styles and frequent stops.
• You’ll need to find a taxi in Chakvi to reach the visitor center at Mtirala.
• Safety can be a concern.

Minibuses run regularly throughout the day, so you should have options for your trip. However, be prepared for potential delays and plan accordingly.

Taking a taxi is a more comfortable but also more expensive option. You can request one through an app, specifying Mtirala National Park as your destination. The fare will start at around 40 lari one way (this can vary depending on demand and the time of day).

However, you may encounter difficulties with the return trip. It can be challenging to call a taxi from the park using the app, as finding a driver may take a long time. Therefore, it’s better to arrange for a taxi for both the outbound and return journeys in advance.

Pros:

• You can request a taxi at any time.
• More comfortable than taking a minibus.
• Will take you directly to the visitor center.
• Payment can be made by card through the app.
• Faster than traveling by minibus.

Cons:

• Can be expensive if you negotiate for waiting time and the return trip.
• It’s nearly impossible to find a taxi for the return journey from Mtirala.
• You cannot choose your vehicle or driver.
• Many taxi drivers come to Batumi from other towns for the season and may not know the route well, which can lead to unsafe driving practices.

You can rent a car in Batumi for at least $30 (80 lari) per day. Keep in mind that you’ll also need to pay extra for a child seat or booster (about $16/42 lari), fuel, and a refundable deposit, which is usually around $100 (270 lari).

The road is mostly paved, with only a small section of gravel. You’ll need to drive to the village of Chakvi and then take a narrow road for another 15 km. The route runs alongside a river, so use it as your guide. When you reach the information center, stop and ask the park staff for a map.

Pros:

• No need to adhere to a schedule.
• You won’t have to pay for waiting time.
• You can use the car all day and even stay overnight in the park.

Cons:

• More expensive than other transportation options.
• Some tourists have reported issues with the condition of the rental cars.
• For inexperienced drivers, the route can be tiring.

Mtirala National Park offers group tours led by guides from various tour companies, and you can easily join one of these excursions. These tours typically include forest walks and stops for lunch, and you also have the option of a guided bike tour. The average cost for a standard tour is around 100 lari per person, which covers the excursion, transportation, and lunch.

Pros:

• You can choose a tour that matches your interests.
• It’s easy to find a guide based on reviews.
• You won’t have to worry about planning how to get to Mtirala National Park.

Cons:

• You’ll need to stick to the guide’s schedule and the group’s itinerary.
• You won’t be able to extend your stay or leave early.
• There may not be enough time to fully explore all the interesting spots.
• You can’t change the route during the trip.

To book a transfer, simply enter your date and route on the website and choose a driver based on your preferences (price, reviews, vehicle, language). The driver will contact you to confirm your booking, arrive at your address ahead of time, and take you to the park and back. Transfers start at 96 lari (including the return trip and any stops). The price listed on the website is final and won’t change by the end of your trip. You can also share the cost with fellow travelers, making it more affordable than a taxi and more convenient than a minibus.

Book a transfer from Batumi to Mtirala with no prepayments 

Pros:

• Fixed price (includes all stops, waiting time, and the return trip – just add your final destination on the website).
• You can choose your driver and vehicle based on the pictures, parameters, and reviews.
• Drivers are locals who know the roads well and have received training in guest relations.
• Punctual and courteous service.
• Free child seat available upon request.
• No deposit is required.
• Always clean and reliable cars.
• Free cancellation of your booking.

Cons:

• You cannot pay in advance by card; payment is made in cash at the end of the trip (payments by card will be available in the nearest months).

If you don’t need a guide, consider the ready-made itinerary offered by GoTrip. This day trip includes a transfer to Mtirala National Park (to the information center), waiting time, a visit to the Botanical Garden, and a transfer back to Batumi. You’ll get to explore two fascinating locations in one day.

The cost for this itinerary starts at 97 lari. This price covers all transfers (the total distance is 57 km, with a travel time of about 2 hours) and waiting time.

Book a ready-made route to Mtirala and Botanical Garden

Pros:

• An affordable fixed price (especially beneficial if you’re traveling with 3-4 people).
• Free return trip with unlimited waiting time.
• Visit two natural attractions in one day.
• You can tip the driver if you wish.
• Free cancellation of your booking.
• No deposit is required.

Cons:

• Payment must be made in cash at the end of the trip; card payments are not accepted in advance.

You can choose your driver and book this ready-made itinerary to Mtirala National Park on this page. Alternatively, you can create and book your custom itinerary on the website.