Marakan Protected Area

Covering more than 103,983 hectares, Marakan Protected Area lies in northwestern Iran, on the border between West Azerbaijan and East Azerbaijan provinces. To the north it is bounded by the Aras border river and the Republic of Azerbaijan, and to the south lies the erosional plain of the Qotur Chay River. Marakan was designated in 1346 (1967) as the first protected area in the country, and it is managed by the West Azerbaijan Provincial Department of Environment.

The vegetation consists of rangeland and shrub species such as wormwood (Artemisia), milkvetch (Astragalus), thyme, wild celery (Kelussia), sumac, wild almond and hawthorn, all well adapted to the area's semi-arid, mountainous climate. This plant cover provides a suitable habitat for valuable animal species such as the Armenian mouflon, wild goat and ibex, the Persian leopard, wolf, fox, chukar partridge and kestrel. The plant and animal diversity of the area has made it one of the country's important reserves of genetic diversity.

To reach the area, you can start from the city of Khoy in West Azerbaijan Province and travel about 45 kilometres northeast to arrive at Marakan. To help protect this unique habitat and appreciate its beauty more fully, we recommend hiring local guides and experiencing nature respectfully and responsibly. Please also do not leave litter in the area, to protect wildlife and prevent harm to the environment. The best time to visit Marakan Protected Area is spring and early summer, when the landscape is at its most beautiful and the weather is more pleasant for visitors.