Five-country Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube

The Five-country Biosphere Reserve Mura-Drava-Danube is a large conservation area spanning across five nations along three major rivers, featuring floodplains, forests, and wetland habitats that form interconnected ecosystems. The landscape consists of meandering river channels, dense riparian woodlands, and open water bodies that support diverse plant and animal communities.

The reserve began as separate protected areas in individual countries before representatives from five nations signed an agreement in 2016 to combine their efforts. This coordination transformed fragmented nature zones into a single connected network aimed at long-term river ecosystem protection.

The names Mura, Drava, and Danube reflect the deep connection between the rivers and local communities who have shaped their lives around these waterways for centuries. Walking through the area, you notice traditional fishing villages and settlements that still depend on the natural rhythms of the rivers.

The area is accessible at many points with walking trails and viewing platforms positioned along the river valleys, especially between spring and autumn. Wear sturdy shoes and bring binoculars to observe wildlife effectively, with early morning and late afternoon offering the best viewing conditions.

The area hosts one of Europe's largest breeding populations of white-tailed eagles, which visitors often spot soaring above the river valleys. Each year, hundreds of thousands of migratory water birds also rest here during their journeys, making it a critical stopover for birds traveling between continents.

Inception: 2016

GPS coordinates: 45.93056,18.92611

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:42