Gomishan Wetland

Gomishan Wetland is one of Iran's most valuable internationally recognized wetlands and one of the most important natural attractions of Golestan Province. It lies northwest of the town of Gomishan (Gomish Tappeh), close to Bandar Torkaman. Covering about 17,700 hectares, it is considered one of the largest coastal wetlands in the country and stretches along the eastern shore of the Caspian Sea almost to the border between Iran and Turkmenistan. In 1380 (2001) Gomishan Wetland was added to the list of internationally important wetlands under the Ramsar Convention. Because of its high ecological value, a considerable part of it is a no-hunting area under the protection of the Department of Environment. Its proximity to the Caspian Sea, the Gorganrud River and the Gomishan Plain gives nature lovers rare and beautiful natural landscapes.

Gomishan Wetland is one of the most important habitats for migratory birds in Iran. Every year, from late autumn until the end of winter, it hosts thousands of migratory birds from the cold regions of the north. Species such as flamingos, pelicans, swans, greylag geese, imperial eagles, ruddy shelducks, pochards, herons, storks, gulls and dozens of others can be seen here, making it one of the best birdwatching destinations in the country. Besides birds, more than 20 species of fish, various amphibians, reptiles and mammals such as foxes, jackals and the Caspian seal also live in the wetland's ecosystem. The vegetation, made up of salt-tolerant and wetland plants, together with the mixing of fresh and salt water, has created ideal conditions for one of the richest ecosystems in northern Iran. However, the fall in the Caspian Sea's water level, drought, pollution, excessive water extraction and the growth of human activity have put parts of the wetland at risk of drying up and ecological degradation.

To reach Gomishan Wetland, first get to Bandar Torkaman or the town of Gomishan in Golestan Province, then follow the northern road from Gomish Tappeh to the wetland's ranger station. The wetland is about 70 km from Gorgan and about 24 to 27 km from Bandar Torkaman. The best time to visit is from Aban to Esfand (roughly November to March), when the largest number of migratory birds are present and the wetland looks its most spectacular. Spring is also a good time to see the natural scenery, while summer, despite the Caspian breeze, is hot and humid. When visiting, you can help protect this valuable ecosystem by keeping quiet, not approaching bird habitats, avoiding hunting and illegal fishing, taking your litter with you and respecting the rules of the protected area.