Golestan National Park

Golestan Overview

Golestan National Park, or پارک ملی گلستان in Persian, is Iran’s oldest national park, located in the northeastern part of the country, spanning parts of Golestan, North Khorasan, and Semnan provinces. This vast protected area covers approximately 355 square miles (919 square kilometers) and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve recognized for its extraordinary biodiversity.

Nestled at the eastern end of the Alborz Mountains, the park’s terrain transitions dramatically from lush, forested landscapes to semi-arid steppes, making it one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the region. The terrain of Golestan National Park is a stunning mix of lush deciduous forests, rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and fertile valleys. In its western regions, visitors can explore temperate Hyrcanian forests, dense with oak, hornbeam, and beech trees.

As the park extends eastward, it opens into steppe and grassland ecosystems, dotted with wildflowers in spring and vibrant autumnal hues later in the year. Notable features of the park include the cascading Kaboud-Val Waterfall, one of the most visited natural attractions, and towering peaks such as Almeh Heights that offer breathtaking panoramic views. Seasonal rivers and numerous springs weave through the landscape, sustaining its rich flora and fauna.

Golestan National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with an impressive variety of species. It is home to large mammals such as the Persian leopard, Asiatic black bear, wild goat, and red deer. The park is also known for its robust population of wild boars and jackals.

Birdwatchers are drawn to Golestan for its exceptional avian diversity, with over 150 bird species, including the endangered Caspian snowcock, golden eagle, and saker falcon. The park also harbors reptiles like tortoises and venomous snakes, adding to its ecological complexity.

Among the park’s most popular features are its well-maintained hiking trails, ideal for exploring the park’s diverse terrains. Scenic spots such as Tangrah and Golestan Forests attract picnickers, while the Kaboud-Val Waterfall offers a refreshing retreat.

Wildlife observation tours are a highlight for many visitors, particularly during spring and autumn, when the park is at its most vibrant. Educational centers and guided tours provide deeper insights into the park’s unique ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Golestan National Park faces significant conservation challenges, including habitat loss due to illegal logging and agricultural expansion in its buffer zones. Poaching also poses a threat to some of its endangered species. However, the park has achieved notable conservation successes, such as reintroducing species like the red deer into their native habitats and collaborating with local communities to foster sustainable practices. Its UNESCO designation underscores the importance of preserving this biodiverse sanctuary for future generations.

Park Map

Golestan National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Golestan National Park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting an incredible array of bird species due to its varied habitats. Below are some of the popular bird species found in the park.

Eastern Imperial Eagle
This majestic eagle has a dark brown plumage and pale golden shoulders. It is a powerful predator, often seen soaring above the park’s open areas.

Caspian Tit
A small, elusive bird with a black cap and grayish-brown body, the Caspian tit is unique to the region’s forested areas.

Eurasian Griffon Vulture
This large vulture is known for its pale plumage and broad wingspan. It is an essential scavenger, often seen circling in the sky.

Bearded Vulture
Also known as the lammergeier, this bird has a striking appearance with a red-rimmed eye and a habit of feeding on bone marrow.

Common Pheasant
This colorful bird with shimmering plumage is often seen in the park’s grasslands and open areas.

White-winged Woodpecker
With its distinctive black-and-white pattern and a loud drumming call, this bird is a common sight in the park’s wooded regions.

Golden Eagle
One of the most powerful birds of prey, the golden eagle is admired for its golden-brown feathers and incredible hunting skills.

Rock Nuthatch
A small bird known for its gray back and buff-colored underparts, the rock nuthatch often builds its nests on rocky cliffs.

Peregrine Falcon
This swift and agile falcon is known for its dramatic hunting dives and dark, hooded head.

Chukar Partridge
This game bird, with its striking black-and-white barred flanks and red bill, is often found on rocky slopes and open scrublands.

Golestan National Park, located in northeastern Iran, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Spanning forests, grasslands, and steppes, the park is home to a diverse range of species, many of which are unique to the region. Below are some of the more popular animal species found in Golestan National Park.

Persian Leopard
The Persian leopard is one of the largest subspecies of leopards and is critically endangered. Known for its golden coat with dark rosettes, this apex predator is a symbol of the park’s wild beauty.

Asiatic Cheetah
An incredibly rare and endangered species, the Asiatic cheetah is slightly smaller than its African counterpart. It is famous for its incredible speed and its sleek, spotted coat.

Red Deer
The red deer is one of the largest deer species in the park. These majestic animals are known for their impressive antlers and are often found grazing in the park’s open meadows.

Wild Boar
Wild boars are robust and adaptable creatures with coarse fur and large tusks. They play an essential role in the park’s ecosystem by foraging on plants and roots.

Gray Wolf
The gray wolf is a social predator known for its intelligence and pack behavior. It is often seen roaming the park’s grasslands and forests.

Goitered Gazelle
This delicate, swift-footed gazelle is recognized for its elegant build and distinctive throat bulge, particularly in males during the breeding season.

Brown Bear
The brown bear is one of the largest carnivores in the park. It has a thick coat and is often found in forested areas, where it forages for berries and other food.

Golden Jackal
Known for its striking coat and adaptability, the golden jackal can often be seen scavenging or hunting small prey in the park.

Striped Hyena
This nocturnal scavenger is easily identified by its striped coat and characteristic laughing calls. It plays an essential role in the park’s food chain.

Indian Pangolin
A unique mammal with protective keratin scales, the Indian pangolin is a shy, nocturnal creature that feeds primarily on ants and termites.