The Birdwatching Festival was established in 2012 and has been expanding in scale each year, contributing to the development of ecotourism. The Ajara region is considered one of the world's largest migration corridors for birds of prey, ranking an honorable third after the United States and Israel. More than 1,000,000 migratory birds of prey are recorded annually in the skies of Ajara, a phenomenon influenced by the region’s unique topography and climate. As a result, interest in birdwatching continues to grow each year, attracting numerous experts, enthusiasts, and travelers eager to explore something new within the framework of the festival.
From a birdwatching perspective, one of the most remarkable municipalities is Kobuleti, with its villages Sakhalvasho and Chaisubani being the best locations for observing, recording, and studying migratory birds. Special birdwatching platforms have been set up here, and the trails leading to them are well-marked. In addition to these two villages, birdwatching is also possible in the Mtirala National Park, the Chorokhi Delta, and the Ispani Peatlands.
During the festival, daily lectures and presentations are held throughout the week by invited international and Georgian specialists and experts, open to all interested participants. Additionally, educational and entertaining excursions to birdwatching platforms are organized, allowing visitors to directly engage in birdwatching alongside experts.
As a tourism activity, birdwatching significantly contributes to the development and promotion of ecotourism. Moreover, it serves as an important source of support for small family-run guesthouses located near birdwatching platforms.