Davit Songulashvili Reviews Ongoing Eco-Tourism Infrastructure Projects in the Birtvisi Canyon
Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Davit Songulashvili, visited the Birtvisi Canyon to inspect the ongoing eco-tourism infrastructure development project.
The project aims to enhance the visitor experience within the protected area by improving accessibility and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment. It is designed for visitors of various ages and interests.
Given the historical and cultural significance of Birtvisi, the infrastructure is being developed with minimal interference in the natural environment.
“The establishment and expansion of protected areas are strong guarantees for environmental preservation and the safeguarding of our unique biodiversity. In the context of global climate challenges, defining and enforcing sound nature conservation policies is more important than ever. It is essential that we both protect our environment and activate its economic potential. This is the goal of several large-scale eco-tourism development projects, which, in turn, strengthen local community involvement in tourism services and contribute to employment and income growth,” said Minister Songulashvili.
As part of the eco-tourism development initiative, the following will be built at Birtvisi Canyon: a visitor center from the Amlevi village side, a viewing platform, three suspension bridges, a swing, cottages, and a zipline. A notable addition is the first via ferrata (a protected climbing route installed on rocky terrain) within Georgia's protected areas, offering a new experience for extreme and active leisure enthusiasts.
Birtvisi Canyon is part of the territorial administration of the Algeti National Park. Located in Kvemo Kartli, just an hour's drive from Tbilisi, both Birtvisi and the nearby Tsalka Canyon are set to become key tourist destinations thanks to their upgraded infrastructure.
Minister Songulashvili was accompanied by Deputy Minister Kakha Kakabadze, Kvemo Kartli State Representative Levan Kharebava, Tetritskaro Municipality Mayor Giorgi Tsiklauri, Tetritskaro City Council Chairman Gocha Tedoradze, and Head of the Agency of Protected Areas, Besik Kusidi.
