Gediz Delta Bird Sanctuary
Gediz Deltası / İzmir Kuş Cenneti
A Ramsar wetland on the north shore of İzmir Bay, where tens of thousands of greater flamingos forage among salt pans and mudflats.
The Gediz River Delta is one of Turkey's most important wetlands. It is listed under the Ramsar Convention, with about 290 bird species recorded. Greater flamingos breed here, often numbering tens of thousands, along with pelicans, egrets and many species of sandpipers and other waders. The sanctuary (İzmir Kuş Cenneti) has birdwatching towers and cycling paths, and you can rent bicycles at the entrance to ride along the embankments. Entry is free or low-cost. It is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and bring binoculars. There is no direct bus, so drive or take a taxi; it is about 30 km from the city center.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00 until sunset
Nearby sights
- İzmir Wildlife Park
- Foça
- İzmir Bay Ferry & Karşıyaka
- Asansör
- Izmir Clock Tower & Konak Square
- İzmir Archaeological Museum
- İzmir Ethnography Museum
- Kızlarağası Han