Feasibility of Ecotourism Development in Anzali Wetland: An Emphasis on Bird Watching Stations

The unique geographical location and diversity of natural phenomena have led Iran to be recognized as the fifth country with a natural diversity in the world. However, despite the abundance of natural attraction, Iran’s ecotourism is faced with obstacles and challenges for attracting tourists. Among the various kinds of natural attractions, wetlands and preserved areas have a high potential for sustainable tourism development that can provide investment opportunities for public and private sector managers in tourism development and research programs. In this paper, attempts have been made to explore sustainable tourism development potential by identifying the ecosystem potentials of the Anzali Wetland, especially the presence of native and migratory birds in this area. The research uses a descriptive-analytical method that is based on library documents, the Internet websites, and a questionnaire. The SWOT model was used to analyze the hypotheses. It seems that the Anzali Wetland has the potential to attract tourists who come to visit migrating and local birds in most seasons. So, with proper planning and using the experience of developed countries, such as the Kushiro Wetland in Japan, we can develop ecotourism and also, we can make it a matter of culture to monitor and protect the environment as a shelter for local and migrating birds.