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Körös-Maros NP
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The Körös-Maros National Park in southeastern Hungary was established in 1997 to preserve the unique natural heritage of the Great Hungarian Plain. The protected area consists of several mosaic-like units located along the Körös and Maros rivers, encompassing a total area of over 50,000 hectares. A primary mission of the park is the protection of the vast steppe landscapes (Puszta) and the remaining loess grasslands that once dominated the region. Internationally, the park is famous for its significant population of the Great Bustard, one of the world's heaviest flying birds, for which a specialized protection station was established in Dévaványa. The river floodplains provide vital habitats for otters, various heron species, and the rare black stork. Botanically, the park safeguards rare species such as the Transylvanian Adonis. The region is also rich in cultural history, featuring numerous ancient burial mounds known as kurgans. Educational trails and observation towers offer visitors the chance to experience the subtle beauty and rich birdlife of this expansive lowland terrain.
- Location: Békés, Hungary
- Top sights: Telbisz-kastély · gyerekmedence · Safari Park
- Nearby: Békéscsaba (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 1 | 6 | 12 | 18 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 18 | 12 | 6 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 38 | 39 | 43 | 44 | 66 | 80 | 69 | 53 | 52 | 49 | 46 | 44 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Körös-Maros National Park is a protected wetland in the Hungarian Great Plain. It can be visited year-round, though many areas are accessible only on foot or by bike on marked trails.
Typical hours
The visitor center is typically open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but the outdoor areas are accessible at all times. Best birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon during migration seasons.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park. For professional shoots or drone use, you need a permit from the park authorities.
Time needed
A short hike on one of the nature trails takes about one to two hours. For a thorough exploration with birdwatching, budget half a day.
Combine with
The park is near the town of Szarvas, which has the famous Szarvaskut Castle and a botanical garden. The thermal baths in Gyula also make a good addition.
Getting there
By car, the park is reachable via Highway 44 with a marked turnoff. From Budapest, the drive takes about two hours; public buses go to Szarvas, then another 10 km.
Insider tip
Get a bird identification checklist from the visitor center - the species diversity is impressive. Bring binoculars and visit early morning when the birds are most active.
Geography
Facts
- The national park was founded in the year 1997.
- Dévaványa is home to a world-famous Great Bustard reserve.
- The total area encompasses more than 50,000 hectares.
- The park consists of 13 separate mosaic-like units.
- Numerous ancient burial mounds (kurgans) dot the landscape.
- It is a vital habitat for the protected Imperial Eagle.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Körös-Maros NP (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the symbol animal of the Körös-Maros National Park?
The Great Bustard (Otis tarda), one of the world's heaviest flying birds, is the park's emblem.
Which town is the best place to visit?
Szarvas is the hub, featuring the Anna-liget visitor center and the famous arboretum right on the banks of the Dead Körös.
Can you go birdwatching in the park?
Yes, especially in spring and autumn during migration. There are dedicated observation towers at Fehér-tó near Kardoskút.
Are the nature trails stroller-friendly?
Yes, as the terrain is flat (Great Plain), most nature trails, such as the one in Szarvas, are easily accessible with a stroller.
Can you go canoeing on the Körös rivers?
Yes, the Dead Körös at Szarvas is a popular spot for canoeists and kayakers, as it has almost no current.
Körös-Maros NP: where is it located?
Körös-Maros NP is located in Békés, Hungary.
Körös-Maros NP: what is there to see?
Highlights include Telbisz-kastély, gyerekmedence, Safari Park.
Körös-Maros NP: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Körös-Maros NP: why is it worth visiting?
The Körös-Maros National Park in southeastern Hungary was established in 1997 to preserve the unique natural heritage of the Great Hungarian Plain.
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