Salouk National Park

Salouk National Park is one of the most pristine and valuable natural areas in Iran. It lies northwest of Esfarayen County and southwest of Bojnord, in North Khorasan Province. Covering about 8,231 hectares, the park was designated a national park in 1381 (2002 CE); before that, since 1352 (1973 CE), it had been a protected area. Its location between the Kopet Dag and Shah Jahan mountain ranges, with remarkable climatic and ecological diversity, has made it one of the most important wildlife habitats in northeastern Iran.

Salouk National Park is home to more than 100 animal species, including mammals such as gazelle, wild ram (urial), ewe, leopard, wildcat, jackal, fox, wolf and hyena. Among the birds, species such as the Turkestan ground jay (Pander's ground jay), houbara bustard, desert lark, hoopoe, European bee-eater and chukar partridge can be seen in the area. The park has diverse vegetation, including wormwood (Artemisia), milkvetch (Astragalus), barberry, wild rose, hawthorn, Persian maple (Acer) and walnut. The Zari, Jouzi and Chahar Borj valleys, along with permanent springs and seasonal waterfalls such as the Zari Valley Waterfall, offer visitors beautiful, unspoiled scenery.

To reach Salouk National Park from the city of Esfarayen, take the Esfarayen–Bojnord road toward the village of Garmeh Khosh, then turn onto the Bagi road toward the park. The best time to visit is from late Farvardin to early Mordad (mid-April to late July), when nature is at its most beautiful. To protect this valuable ecosystem, visitors should follow the principles of responsible nature tourism, including not entering sensitive areas without a local guide, taking all litter with them, and avoiding damage to vegetation and wildlife.