Aq Ziyarat Wetland

Aq Ziyarat Wetland is located 20 kilometres southeast of the city of Salmas, close to Lake Urmia, in West Azerbaijan Province. This seasonal wetland, whose area varies and reaches 10 hectares in some seasons, lies in a flat area of marshes and meadows. It sits at an altitude of about 1,400 metres above sea level, and thanks to its geographical position it is considered a suitable habitat for many kinds of waterbirds and migratory birds.

The water of Aq Ziyarat Wetland comes from several sources, including surface water, agricultural drainage and, at times, floodwater from the Zolachay River. In parts of the wetland, reed beds have formed, providing a safe and suitable habitat for waterbirds and swallows. The wetland plays an important role as a wintering stopover for migratory birds and as a seasonal habitat for resident birds, and it is of particular importance for preserving the region's biodiversity.

To reach Aq Ziyarat Wetland, you can take the Urmia–Salmas road. Because the wetland is seasonal, the best time to visit is spring and summer. In these seasons the landscape around the wetland is at its most beautiful, and you can watch passing birds. To protect the environment and prevent damage to the wetland's ecosystem, visitors are advised to follow the designated paths and avoid entering sensitive areas.