Are you tired of the city's endless hustle, the sound of horns, and the concrete jungle? Imagine a place where the music is replaced by the sound of millions of wings, and buildings are replaced by trees reaching for the sky. This isn't a dream; it's a unique sanctuary located on the border of the Bandırma and Manyas districts of Balıkesir. This natural wonder, one of the most important wetlands not just in Turkey but in the world, has been repeatedly honored with a Class A Diploma by the Council of Europe and is protected under the international Ramsar Convention. Yes, we're talking about Kuş Cenneti National Park! So, what are the things to do in Kuş Cenneti National Park? Let's explore this magical world together, home to 266 bird species, 118 plant species, and 23 fish species.   

Climb the observation tower to watch hundreds of bird species like the Dalmatian pelican and flamingo

As you proceed to the heart of the park, the 17-meter observation tower you'll encounter will be your key to unlocking the gates of this paradise. The excitement that builds as you climb the stairs will give way to deep admiration when you step onto the 40-person platform. The panoramic view of Lake Manyas and the reeds stretching before you is, in the truest sense of the word, breathtaking.   

First, turn your gaze to the magnificent Dalmatian pelicans (Pelecanus crispus). These giant birds are the symbol of the park. What makes them so special is that this is the very place where they first nested on man-made platforms in the world!. This is one of the most beautiful proofs of the harmonious cooperation between humans and nature. Did you see a pink line on the horizon? You're not mistaken! Elegant flamingos offer a riot of color as they feed in the shallow waters. Watching them move in flocks is an unforgettable visual feast. Of course, the park's inhabitants are not limited to these; spoonbills, huge cormorant colonies, and various heron species also complete this magnificent landscape.   

Visit the park especially during the spring and autumn migration periods

Kuş Cenneti National Park is beautiful all year round, but there are times when it transforms into nature's busiest airport. For millions of birds traveling between the continents of Asia, Europe, and Africa, this is an indispensable stopover and refueling point. Can you imagine that about 2-3 million birds pass through here every year?.   

The spring migration, which starts in February and peaks in April, May, and June, is the most popular time to visit the park. Thousands of birds from Africa and South Asia come here to nest, build their homes, and raise their young. During this period, the park is overflowing with the joy of life and energy. Migration preparations begin in July as the chicks grow. Autumn, on the other hand, is a wonderful opportunity to witness this great journey south. While witnessing this magnificent natural event, you might want to explore the other beauties of the region. You can enrich your trip by checking out the Balıkesir Places to Visit page on our website.

Learn about the local species by visiting the zoology museum inside the park

Observing birds in their natural habitat is a wonderful experience, but wouldn't you like to learn the name, characteristics, and story of that elegant bird you saw? This is where the park's renovated visitor center and its zoology museum come into play. This place offers an incredible opportunity to get to know your winged friends, whom you've only seen from a distance through your binoculars.   

In the museum, you can examine the very realistic taxidermy mounts of 26 different bird species. Additionally, 17 bird sculptures made of polycarbonate and informative panels explaining the region's ecology will add another dimension to your visit. One of the most exciting features of the museum is the 8-camera live broadcast system that allows you to watch the waterfowl nesting areas from a distance. This way, you can witness the birds' most private moments, their nesting and chick-rearing processes, without disturbing them at all. This museum is a reflection of the park's scientific and cultural heritage. If you want to delve further into the rich history of the area, you can explore the area withLocal Tours.

Since You're Here...

Don't let your adventure end after your visit to Kuş Cenneti. Take a trip back in time by visiting the Daskyleion Ancient City, just a few kilometers from the park. Do you know the most interesting part? In ancient times, Persian satraps (governors) had hunting and recreational parks in this region called Paradeisos, meaning Paradise, which is considered the ancestor of today's national park!. So, you are walking on land that has been a 'paradise' for thousands of years. If you're willing to travel a bit further, be sure to see the fairytale-like village of Gölyazı on the shore of Lake Uluabat. With its historic stone houses, cobblestone streets, and unique location in the middle of the lake, Gölyazı is a place where you won't be able to put your camera down.   

Sources

For more in-depth information about the bird species in the region and ornithology studies in Turkey, the Breeding Bird Atlas of Turkey project prepared by WWF-Turkey (World Wildlife Fund for Nature) is an excellent resource. You can take your birdwatching knowledge to the next level by looking into this valuable work. (https://www.wwf.org.tr/?8320/kusatlasi)  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the best time to visit Kuş Cenneti National Park? The period with the highest bird diversity and activity is during the nesting and migration season, which is April, May, and June. However, watching the flocks migrating south in the autumn months also offers a unique experience.   

2. What are the entrance fees and visiting hours for the National Park in 2025? The park is open to visitors every day of the week from 08:00 to 17:00. Entrance fees may vary from year to year. We recommend checking the park's official website before you go for the most up-to-date information, as fees after 2022 may not have been officially announced everywhere yet.   

3. Are there any food, beverage, or accommodation facilities within the park? No, there are no accommodation or food service facilities within the National Park boundaries. It is important for visitors to come prepared. For the nearest accommodation and dining options, you can choose the guesthouses in Sığırcıatik village, about 1 km away, or the Bandırma district center.