[1] The area is characterized by its dry climate sitting only 150–50 meters (490–160 ft) above sea level.

Vashlovani State Reserve is notable for its unique, badland-like areas of desert and semi-desert steppe vegetation and arid and deciduous forests.

It is also home to the great canyon cliffs, known in the area as the "Sharp Walls", and the magnificent Alazani flood plains and forests.

Special features include the occurrence of wild pistachio trees, peonies and various types of orchids in addition to some endemic plant species.

[2] The 46 mammal species include golden jackals, red foxes, wolves, Eurasian lynxes, brown bears, jungle cats and porcupines.