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Tuzly Lagoons National Nature Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

wildlife

Tuzly Lagoons National Nature Park (Ukraine)

Weather…

Tuzly Lagoons National Nature Park is situated along the Black Sea coast in the Odesa region and comprises a system of 13 shallow lagoons. These lagoons are separated from the open sea by a narrow sandbar, creating a unique ecosystem with varying levels of salinity. Established in 2010, the park is a globally significant area for bird conservation due to its strategic location on major migration routes. During migration periods, the area serves as a critical resting and feeding ground for hundreds of thousands of birds traveling between Eurasia and Africa. Particularly impressive are the large colonies of flamingos and pelicans that can be observed here regularly. The park's flora includes rare steppe plants and salt-tolerant species adapted to the lagoons' specialized conditions. Beyond its ecological importance, the Tuzly Lagoons are famous for their therapeutic mud, which has long been used for medicinal purposes. Protecting this fragile coastal strip is essential for maintaining the marine and avian biodiversity of the northern Black Sea region.

Location: Ukraine
Nearby: Serhiivka (38 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	5	11	18	22	25	25	19	12	7	1
Rain mm	39	30	33	32	41	52	46	29	32	42	38	38

📋 Practical info

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Best season

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the best times for birdwatching, as many migratory birds rest at the lagoons. In summer bird activity is lower, but the lagoons are richer in fish.

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Best time of day

Morning hours are convenient for observing waterbirds, which are most active then. Dusk also gives beautiful light conditions and often calling flocks of birds.

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Etiquette

Please keep distance from breeding colonies, especially in spring. Entering dunes and using drones are not allowed in the park.

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What to bring

A high-quality binocular or spotting scope is highly recommended for birdwatching at the lagoons. Sunglasses and binoculars with a polarising filter help against strong sun reflection on water.

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Getting there

The park is located on the Black Sea coast in Odesa Oblast, about 60 km southwest of Odesa. The best way to get there is by car via the coastal road.

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What to expect

Birds can be shy - stay calm and avoid sudden movements. Scan the lagoons systematically with binoculars, especially along the shallow shores.

Geography

Coordinates

45.82030, 30.08110

Facts

The lagoon system consists of 13 separate or interconnected water bodies.
The national park was officially established in 2010 by presidential decree.
Over 250 different bird species have been recorded within the park's limits.
The sandbar separating the lagoons from the sea is about 36 kilometers long.
Greater flamingos began nesting regularly in the lagoons starting in 2020.
The park covers a total protected area of nearly 28,000 hectares.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Serhiivka38 km · NEExplore →

Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi46 km · NEExplore →

Bilhorod Akkerman Fortress47 km · NEExplore →

Zatoka48 km · NEExplore →

Snake Island56 km · WExplore →

Ovidiopol58 km · NEExplore →

Karolino-Buhaz60 km · NEExplore →

Lower Dniester National Nature Park64 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Tuzly Lagoons National Nature Park (1)

Kurudiol Lagoon📍 landmark

Kurudiol Lagoon is a coastal lagoon in the Tuzly Lagoons National Park. It is located on the Black Sea.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Tuzly Lagoons Park so important for birds?

It lies on a major migration route and provides resting spots for millions of migratory birds.

When is the best time for birdwatching?

In spring and autumn during the peak bird migration periods.

Can you swim in the lagoons?

Only in certain spots; some lagoons have healing mud.

How do you get to the national park?

By car from Odesa towards Tatarbunary.

Are hikes allowed in the park?

Yes, there are ecological trails, but it is advisable to stay on the paths.

Tuzly Lagoons National Nature Park: where is it located?

Tuzly Lagoons National Nature Park is located in Ukraine.

Tuzly Lagoons National Nature Park: when is the best time to visit?