Shekvetili Dendrological Park

Shekvetili Dendrological Park, opened to visitors in 2020, is one of the most large-scale and impressive landscape projects on Georgia's Black Sea coast. It was created on the initiative and with funding from the Cartu Charitable Foundation, established by billionaire and former Prime Minister of the country Bidzina Ivanishvili. Across a vast area of 60 hectares, a unique collection of thousands of plant species from around the world has been assembled.

The main pearl and feature of the park is a collection of more than 200 giant trees, the age of many of which spans several centuries. Among them are giant sequoias, tulip trees (liriodendrons), magnolias, and eucalyptus trees. The process of delivering them to the park became an unprecedentedly complex engineering and logistical operation: trees weighing hundreds of tons were dug up with root balls and transported by land and sea from various corners of Western Georgia, drawing immense public interest.

In addition to a unique dendrological collection, the park has become home to 58 species of exotic birds brought from all continents. Pink flamingos, colorful macaws, peacocks, and toucans roam freely across the park and live on the large inner lake, creating a tropical paradise atmosphere. You can also see lemurs here in a dedicated enclosure. The entire area is impeccably landscaped, featuring a bamboo grove, shaded alleys with comfortable paths, and rest areas.

The park is located in the resort village of Shekvetili, between Ureki and Kobuleti. Key information for travelers is that admission to its grounds is completely free. The park operates during daytime hours, but has closing days (usually Monday and Thursday), so it is recommended to check the current schedule before visiting. You should set aside at least 2-3 hours for a complete stroll. There are no cafes or shops on the premises, so it is better to bring along water and light snacks.