If you have a turkey e visa, we suggest you explore the world of birds if you enjoy the outdoors and nature and are tired of spending all your time indoors. Turkey provides a wealth of natural areas for birdwatchers.

There are numerous places to go birdwatching in Turkey, from the Sariyer Bird Observatory Tower to the Beşparmak Mountains and Lake Bafa, where you can be captivated by the vibrant and diverse bird species. In the winter, it is possible to observe several species move in search of warmer climates.

Here is your chance for a wild vacation to immerse yourself in nature and the kingdom of birds when no ordinary holidays thrill you. After reading our analysis of the top places to go birdwatching in Turkey, get your plane tickets and make plans!

Sarıyer Bird Observatory Tower

The ideal location for viewers and photographers is this tower in Sariyer, a district of Istanbul. Let’s say you’ve previously been to some of the standard tourist destinations in Istanbul, including the Süleymaniye and Ayasofya Grand Mosques. In such a case, we encourage you to seek beyond the typical tourist attractions and take in Sawyer’s lovely forestry and the nearby bird observatory tower.

At the end of March, various bird species migrate from Africa to Europe, passing over Istanbul. Birdwatchers from all over the world gather at the Sariyer Bird Observatory Tower for its breathtaking views of the Bosphorus Strait and Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge. The view from the top of the tower is spectacular and open for free.

Lake Manyas and Manyas National Park

Birdwatchers, nature lovers, and photographers will find paradise at Balikesir’s Lake Manas and Manas National Park. Lake Manas, often referred to as Manyas Bird Sanctuary, was designated a national park in 1959. Since that time, the 16.000 square metre area has been one of the most priceless locations in the Marmara region. It protects various bird species, including the endangered White-headed Duck and Dalmatian Pelican.

In addition, Manas is home to a diverse variety of plants, such as tamarisk trees, reeds, and rushes. During your stay, you might also see lobsters, various frog species, and more than 20 kinds of fish. The Bandirma Bird Paradise Cultural and Tourism Festival is held annually to highlight and promote the area’s uniqueness and raise environmental awareness. If Lake Manas has sparked your curiosity, make sure you shall be applied for a turkey visa online and schedule your trip between April and June for the greatest views.

Lake Terkos

Another location in Istanbul where you may get the best pictures of birds in migration is Lake Terkos. It is 40 kilometres from Istanbul and located northwest of the city. Turks, also known as Istanbul’s water supply, is home to rare bird species like the Siberian goose and Greater-spotted eagle.

Lake Terkos is a well-liked destination that locals and visitors frequently visit, especially on the weekends. Because the lake is situated along the Black Sea, it’s possible to see a variety of bird species there, such as Japanese Imperial eagles, Sparrow Hawks, and Ospreys in the springtime!

Lake Büyükçekmece

It would help if you also visited Lake Büyükçekmece after visiting Lake Terkos and the Sariyer Bird Observatory Tower.

Another location for tourists interested in birdwatching is this lake near Beylikdüzü. If you have the Turkey e visa online and are visiting Istanbul on your trip plan, we advise you to take this birdwatching path, which showcases various of the city’s stunning flora and animals.

You can witness migratory bird groups flying over Istanbul’s northern Black Sea coasts and the Bosphorus Strait. Like Lake Terkos serves as a freshwater supply for Istanbul, the lake is split by a dam over the Marmara Sea.

Kazdağları

If you are a beginning birdwatcher, you must be amazed by the majority of Turkey’s migrating birds flying over Kazdaglari. These mountains, which are in Anakkale, are a significant bird migration path in April, May, August, and September. Over time, Kazdaglari, or “goose mountains” in English, became a popular tourist destination for nature lovers.

Additionally, these mountains have a rich cultural history that dates back to Ancient Greece. It served as a temple of worship for Cybele, also mentioned by the renowned Greek poet Homer in his outstanding work, the Iliad.

Another local mythology about Kazdaglari narrates the story of Sarikiz; a man regarded as a saint. Locals make a special pilgrimage between August 15 and August 25 in honour of Sarikiz. You can also join locals on their annual spiritual journey while admiring the beauty of Turkey’s migratory birds if your vacation plans fall within these periods.

Beşparmak Mountains and Lake Bafa

The ruins of the Beşparmak Mountains are a relic of the vast Latmos Ancient City, which dates back about 8,000 years, in addition to its unique history and natural beauty. It is particularly well-known for its huge rocks, which attract attention. Lake Bafa, the largest lake in the Aegean, has a diverse environment that supports several bird species.

Lake Bafa transforms into a shelter for migrating birds in need of breeding in the spring and autumn, much like any other birdwatching location in Turkey. Since 1994, the government has been protecting the lake’s natural residents. Lake Bafa and its nature park are well known for trekking among nature lovers since they are perfect for camping.

Lake Kuyucuk, Kars

Ecotourism enthusiasts will find Kuyucuk to be a wonderland. The lake is home to 232 bird species and has recently gained popularity as a tourist destination.

During their migration, Black-necked Grebes, Shelducks, Starlings, Greylag Geese, White-headed Ducks, a globally endangered species, and Mallards seek refuge in Lake Kuyucuk. Koyukuk is a small, shallow lake now protected and recognised as a Ramsar-protected area. It is home to numerous incredible bird species for you to see. The Göksu Delta in Mersin, Turkey’s Mediterranean region, is one of the most significant wetlands and an essential stop on the bird migration path. The magnificent biological diversity and ecosystem of the Göksu Delta provide shelter to various bird species, some of which act as the Göksu River’s year-round hosts. Some notable bird species in the area include the Red Kite, Great-spotted Eagle, Griffon Vulture, and Peregrine Falcon.

Sultan Marshes National Park in Kayseri

The Sultan Marshes, in Kayseri, got their name from their former use as the Ottoman Sultans’ hunting grounds. It is one of Turkey’s second-most essential wetland ecosystems. It was declared a national park in 2006.

Due to its freshwater and saltwater ecosystems, Sultan Marshes is home to various flora and fauna species. More than 300 bird species may be seen in the park, where they stop on their migration paths to breed, feed, and build nests.

Düzce’s Lake Efteni Wetlands & Wildlife Protection Area

Lastly, Lake Efteni in Düzce is located on Türkiye’s northern coast. Lake Efteni is home to several species, including Grey Heron, Eurasian Coot, Crane, Little Bustard, and Great Cormorant. Some of these species live permanently in the lake rather than simply being frequent visitors—the 764-hectare region charms tourists with a diversity of rare vegetation and its diverse bird population.

Apply for a Turkish visa online, pack your bags and book a flight is all necessary to begin a fantastic vacation.