Kobuleti Protected Area Ispani

The Kobuleti Protected Area offers a completely unique environment. It is located in the northeastern part of the Kobuleti Seaside Park in Adjara, just 2 kilometers from the coast.

The protected area encompasses the Kobuleti State Reserve and the managed reserve situated on the left and right banks of the Shavi Ghele River. Established in 1998, the reserve was created to protect the habitats of unique waterfowl species. Today, the area is distinguished by its rich avian diversity and serves as a vital sanctuary for migratory, nesting, and wintering birds.

The Ispani Peat Bog is a state reserve of international importance and is considered one of the most vital peat bogs in the world in terms of biodiversity. Thanks to its wetland ecosystems, ancient forests, and rich flora and fauna, the Kobuleti Protected Area was added to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List in 2021 as part of the Colchic Rainforests and Wetlands. This milestone marked the first time in Georgia's history that four of its protected areas were recognized on the UNESCO Natural Heritage List.

Covering an expanse of 770 hectares, the Kobuleti Protected Area is divided into two main zones: the Ispani 2 Sphagnum Peat Bog (a State Reserve) and the Ispani 1 Peat Bog (a Managed Reserve). The Ispani 2 Reserve holds the prestigious UNESCO status, while Ispani 1 acts as a buffer zone dedicated to educational and scientific tours. Here, visitors can rent special wooden bog skis to safely walk across the designated one-hectare section of the sphagnum peat bog.

There are three easy hiking trails within the protected area: "Ispani 2," "White Moss," and "Drosera." Along these trails—whether you are birdwatching or on an educational tour—you will encounter stunning four-meter domes of white sphagnum moss. You may also catch a glimpse of yellow and white moorhens, the insectivorous Drosera plant, and marsh turtles.

The reserve is especially popular with birdwatchers. During the bird migration season, you can strap on your bog skis and take in a truly beautiful spectacle of nature.

To further enhance the visitor experience, an infrastructure development project was launched in 2021. This initiative includes the construction of eco-friendly hiking trails, an observation tower, a rest cottage, a parking lot, and a visitor center. The eco-friendly hiking trail, which stretches 700 meters across the Kobuleti peatlands, has already been completed, while the observation tower is currently under construction. This trail provides visitors with the perfect vantage point to enjoy the area's unique ecosystem and breathtaking views.