Kani Barazan Wetland

Kani Barazan Wetland covers more than 907 hectares and lies 30 kilometres north of Mahabad, to the north and east of Qaradagh village in West Azerbaijan Province. The wetland is one of the satellite wetlands of Lake Urmia National Park and, thanks to its unique ecological features, is considered one of the most important natural habitats in Iran. Kani Barazan is the country's first official birdwatching site, designated by the National Ecotourism Committee, and every year it hosts thousands of migratory birds and nature lovers.

The wetland is fed by the Mahabad River (Mahabad Rud), which rises at the Mahabad Dam and flows on towards Lake Urmia after watering the wetland. Set on the slopes of Mount Qaradagh and next to Baba Heydar Hill, Kani Barazan has a unique topographic setting. Dense reed beds and wetland vegetation make it a haven for aquatic and shore birds such as the white-headed duck (endangered), marbled duck, flamingo, pelican, heron, swan, marsh harrier, and a wide variety of geese and ducks.

With the start of autumn, migratory flamingos travel from the northern parts of the country and Lake Urmia to the satellite wetlands of this region, including Kani Barazan. This spectacular natural event has made the wetland one of the most important birdwatching and ecotourism destinations in Iran. The best time to visit is from late winter to early autumn, when the birds are most numerous in the area. Access is very easy: simply head north from Mahabad and you will reach this unspoilt and beautiful area in less than 30 kilometres. When visiting Kani Barazan, please follow the principles of responsible nature tourism and avoid disturbing the wildlife.