"Tsalka Canyon, Javakheti Lakes, and the Tabatskuri Scoter" A tour with ornithologist Nika Paposhvili

We invite you on an exciting journey with ornithologist Nika Paposhvili, where we will not only enjoy the stunning Georgian landscapes—canyons and lakes—but also get to know the feathered inhabitants of these places.

Our first stop is the Tsalka Canyon, home to various daytime raptors. Here, we may spot bearded vultures, griffon vultures, and Egyptian vultures.

Next, we’ll head into the realm of the Javakheti lakes. We'll pass by the largest lake, Paravani, and visit Bugdasheni Lake, where many duck species can be observed. With a bit of luck, we might also spot a pelican. We’ll also visit a Doukhobor village and watch the sunset at Madatapa Lake.

On the second day, we’ll visit Tabatskuri Lake, where our guide Nika Paposhvili discovered the only known population of the scoter (Melanitta fusca, locally called “garieli”) in the Caucasus. He continues to work on its conservation to this day. We'll see this rare bird with our own eyes. For those interested, there will be an opportunity to have lunch with ryabushka (local fish) and take a rubber boat ride on the lake.