Urmia Lake National Park
National Park Protected wetlands around saline Urmia Lake, migratory birds
A protected area around Lake Urmia’s saline flats and wetlands; attracts birdwatchers, photographers and researchers keen on migratory waterfowl, salt‑tolerant landscapes and exposed lakebed scenery.
Urmia Lake National Park surrounds parts of Lake Urmia in Iran’s West Azerbaijan province, protecting wetland and saline-lake environments near the city of Urmia. The lake is a large endorheic salt lake in northwest Iran and has been an important habitat for migratory birds and saline-adapted wildlife.
The lake and adjacent protected areas have experienced significant water-level changes in recent decades, which have altered shorelines, exposed playas and affected ecological conditions. Conservation efforts and protected-area designations aim to conserve remaining wetlands and bird habitat.
The park and lake lie in northwest Iran near the city of Urmia, in a broad interior basin between mountain ranges; the protected area occupies shoreline, islands and adjacent wetlands.
- Birdlife: Important wetland and saline-lake habitat that supports large numbers of migratory and resident waterbirds.
How to Get to Urmia Lake National Park #
Urmia Lake National Park is accessed from the city of Urmia in West Azerbaijan province; drive along regional roads toward the lake’s shoreline. Services near the park are limited - use Urmia as a base for supplies and lodging.
Tips for Visiting Urmia Lake National Park #
- Check local guidance for birding and wetland routes; bring binoculars for migratory waterfowl in season.
- Urmia's water levels can change dramatically; consult local environmental updates before planning shoreline walks.
- Respect protected zones: some areas are restricted for breeding birds and seasonal closures apply.
Best Time to Visit Urmia Lake National Park #
Best in spring and autumn for bird migrations and temperate conditions; summer can be hot and water levels vary.
Weather & Climate near Urmia Lake National Park #
Urmia Lake National Park's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -5°C to 31°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 2°C and lows of -5°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -4°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with 56 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 15°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 31°C and lows of 18°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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August
August is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 18°C. The driest month with just 2 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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September
September is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 8°C. Light rainfall.
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November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
