Anzali Wetland

Bandar Anzali is Iran's largest port on the southern shores of the Caspian Sea and the rainiest city in the country. One of the city's attractions is the internationally recognized Anzali Wetland, which lies on the southwestern coast of the Caspian Sea. It is bordered by Sowme'eh Sara to the south, Pir Bazar to the east, Anzali County to the north, and Kapurchal and Abkenar to the west. The wetland is easy to explore by the boats provided for tourists. In 1354 (1975), it was added to the Ramsar Convention's List of Wetlands of International Importance, and it is considered one of the first internationally listed wetlands in Iran.

The size of the Anzali Wetland varies with the season and weather conditions. It can reach 120 square kilometres in the rainy seasons and shrink to about 80 square kilometres in the dry seasons. Its depth also changes with the season, the weather and fluctuations in the level of the Caspian Sea. In spring, the maximum water depth reaches 5.2 metres in the western parts of the wetland, but in the dry seasons it is much lower. The Anzali Wetland is home to a wide range of plants and animals. Among the plants are the marsh tulip and the water lily (lotus), which create a beautiful landscape, especially in spring and summer. The water lily, which is endangered in Iran, is regarded in many religions as a symbol of purity and divine birth. The wetland is also home to more than 50 species of fish, including sturgeon and bony fish of the Caspian Sea, and is an important breeding ground for these fish.

The Anzali Wetland is one of the most important bird habitats, and in the cold months it hosts millions of migratory birds, including ducks, geese and swans. With more than 50 species of fish and many mammals, including the golden jackal, wild boar and Caspian seal, it is a habitat of rich biodiversity. Activities such as kayaking and boat trips through the wetland also offer a great opportunity to enjoy the unspoiled nature of the area. Gilan Province and the city of Bandar Anzali are known for hot, humid summers and mild winters. For this reason, spring and autumn can be considered the best time to visit the Anzali Wetland. That said, the best time to visit this valuable wetland depends entirely on your interests. For example, if you want to see the marsh tulips, it is best to visit from late Khordad (mid-June) until late summer, though you should be prepared for hot, humid and uncomfortable weather. If you are interested in birdwatching, head to the Anzali Wetland in winter and early spring to watch the migratory birds. The weather in autumn and winter is pleasant and mild, but there is no sign of the marsh tulips in the wetland.