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Hutovo Blato
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wildlife
Hutovo Blato is a prominent nature reserve and bird sanctuary located in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, near the town of Čapljina. It is an extensive marshland situated in the Neretva River delta, covering an area of approximately 74 square kilometers. Established as a nature park in 1995, it was designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2001. The area consists of several lakes, channels, and swamps fed by the Krupa and Neretva rivers. Hutovo Blato is one of the most significant resting places for migratory birds in Europe, hosting over 240 different bird species during the winter season. In addition to its rich avian population, the park provides a habitat for numerous fish species and diverse wetland flora. Visitors can explore the sanctuary via boat safaris through its labyrinthine waterways. The park's ecological role is vital, as it serves as a natural water filter and a flood control system for the surrounding region.
- Location: Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Nearby: Čapljina (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 2 | 2 | 6 | 10 | 15 | 19 | 22 | 23 | 17 | 12 | 8 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 131 | 129 | 115 | 87 | 77 | 69 | 42 | 43 | 97 | 118 | 152 | 147 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Hutovo Blato is worth visiting year-round, but the best time for migratory birds is spring and autumn. From March to May and September to November, tens of thousands rest here on their way to Africa or Europe.
Best time of day
Early morning birds are most active as they forage. Late afternoon light conditions offer great photo opportunities, especially over the reed beds.
Etiquette
Keep distance from bird colonies and avoid sudden movements that may startle birds. Entering nesting islands is forbidden, and drone flights are only allowed with special permits.
What to bring
Good binoculars or a spotting scope are essential for viewing birds from a distance. Comfortable walking shoes and waterproof clothing are recommended as trails can be damp.
Getting there
Hutovo Blato is about 30 km south of Mostar, near the Croatian border. The park is well accessible by road and has a visitor parking lot and marked observation points.
What to expect
Bird activity can vary greatly depending on time of day and season. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the wetlands and the diverse plant life even when birds are less active.
Geography
Facts
- Declared a Nature Park in 1995.
- Designated as a Ramsar site since 2001.
- Home to more than 240 different bird species.
- The park covers a total area of about 7,411 hectares.
- The Krupa River is unique for flowing in both directions.
- Deransko Lake is the largest lake within the reserve.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Hutovo Blato (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Hutovo Blato?
It is a nature park and one of Europe's most important bird reserves, with over 240 bird species.
Are boat tours offered?
Yes, the popular 'photo-safari' takes visitors in traditional boats through the channels and swamps.
When can you see the most birds?
The best time is during the autumn and spring bird migrations, or during winter.
Is there an entrance fee?
Access to the park is possible, but there is a fee for boat tours and guided safaris.
Where is the park located?
It is located in southern Herzegovina, near the town of Čapljina and close to the Croatian border.
Hutovo Blato: where is it located?
Hutovo Blato is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Hutovo Blato: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Hutovo Blato: why is it worth visiting?
Hutovo Blato is a prominent nature reserve and bird sanctuary located in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, near the town of Čapljina.
Nearby cities
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East Sarajevo
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Briješće
Briješće is a settlement in the Novi Grad municipality, a suburb of the capital Sarajevo.
Ilidža
Ilidža is a municipality in the Sarajevo Canton and a major health resort.
Konjic
Konjic is located on the Neretva River, roughly halfway between Sarajevo and Mostar.
Foča
Foča is located in the east of the country at the confluence of the Drina and Ćehotina rivers.
Bileća
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Ljubuški
Ljubuški is located in the heart of Herzegovina and is famous for the Kravica waterfalls.
Široki Brijeg
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Vogošća
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Čapljina
Čapljina is located in southern Herzegovina at the confluence of four rivers.
Tomislavgrad
Tomislavgrad is located in the southwest of the country on the Duvanjsko polje.
History & landmarks
Počitelj
Historic Ottoman-style village built into a limestone cliff overlooking the Neretva river.
Historic Village of Počitelj
Počitelj is a medieval and Ottoman urban settlement on the banks of the Neretva river.
Počitelj Fortress
This medieval and Ottoman fortress town is located on a slope overlooking the Neretva River.
Vidoški Fortress
Vidoški is a large fortress complex above the town of Stolac.
Žitomislić Monastery
A significant Serbian Orthodox monastery in the Neretva valley, south of Mostar.
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Mogorjelo
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Radimlja Necropolis
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Daorson
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Saint James Church
The central parish church of Međugorje and a world-famous Catholic pilgrimage site.