Hutovo Blato Park

Hutovo Blato is a wetland and bird sanctuary in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, an extensive marsh and lagoon system fed by tributaries of the Neretva River. The area is important for waterbirds, marsh vegetation and freshwater habitats and is visited for birdwatching, boat trips and nature study.

The wetland comprises reed beds, channels and open water that support migratory and resident bird species as well as fish and amphibians. Small boat safaris and guided tours are common ways for visitors to explore the network of waterways and observe wildlife.

The area is managed for conservation and sustainable tourism and has been the focus of local protection efforts to maintain habitat for wetland species. Conservation measures aim to balance local use, fishing and ecological protection.

Hutovo Blato lies in the Neretva river basin of southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, near the town of c8apljina and within the lowland-plain landscape that connects to the Adriatic coastal region.

Hutovo Blato lies about 10 km south of Čapljina. From Čapljina town center take local roads toward the village of Klepci or Hutovo; boat access and guided excursions commonly depart from villages on the park’s northern edge (Klek or Hutovo). The nearest major rail/bus hub is Mostar (about 40-50 km), from which regional buses or taxi services connect to Čapljina.

• Take a small boat from Čapljina or the nearby village of Hutovo to explore the wetland channels - the reserve is best experienced from the water.
• Bring binoculars and a field guide: more than 240 bird species have been recorded here, including eagles, herons, and rare migratory groups.
• Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the most active wildlife and the best light for photography.