Since 1999, the Hortobágy has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage. The protected area encompasses the Hortobágy and a significant part of the Nagykunság region, as well as several architectural landmarks that contribute to the character of the landscape. Among the best known are the iconic Nine-Hole Bridge, the historic Hortobágy Csárda, and the Shepherds’ Museum, which offers an insight into the traditional life of the region’s shepherds. 

The Landscape and Climate 

The Hortobágy is the warmest part of Hajdú-Bihar County. Temperatures can vary considerably between day and night: the intense heat of the summer days is often followed by pleasantly cool and refreshing evenings. The region is also rich in water. In addition to more than ten fishponds, three major watercourses run through or along the Hortobágy in a north-south direction. The Hortobágy River, which crosses the plain, is a natural watercourse, while the Eastern and Western Main Canals bring water from the Tisza River along the edge of the national park. 

A Haven for Wildlife 

The Hortobágyi National Park brings together nature conservation, traditional farming and tourism in a unique way. Its special bird protection areas and high-priority nature conservation sites form part of the Natura 2000 network, established by the European Union to protect Europe’s most valuable habitats and species. The Hortobágy provides a safe habitat for numerous rare and endangered species that are important not only in Hungary but throughout Europe. 

At the Hortobágy National Park Visitor Centre and Crafts Courtyard, visitors can explore exhibitions about the region’s wildlife and take part in educational and cultural programmes. Four main demonstration areas showcase the natural and cultural heritage of the region: the Nyírőlapos–Nyárijárás steppe, Hortobágy Fishponds, the Egyek–Pusztakócs marshes, and Lake Tisza. Marked nature trails make these areas easy and enjoyable to explore, allowing visitors to discover the landscape at their own pace. 

Family Adventures in the Hortobágy 

The Hortobágyi National Park is much more than an endless steppe dotted with herds of Hungarian Grey cattle. For children, it can feel like a vast, open-air adventure park, where everything is fascinating, unusual and just a little bit magical. If you are visiting the Hortobágy as a family, there are plenty of memorable experiences to enjoy. 

One of the best ways to experience the Hortobágy is by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride across the steppe, led by a real csikós - a traditional Hungarian horse herder. 

Meet the Animals 

The animals are undoubtedly among the stars of the Hortobágy. The majestic Hungarian Grey cattle, with their enormous sweeping horns, and the distinctive Racka sheep, with their unusual spiral-shaped horns, look as though they have stepped straight out of a fairy tale. 

Birdwatching Adventures 

The Hortobágy is also a true paradise for birds and birdwatchers. Exploring one of the park’s nature trails is a wonderful family activity. As they walk through the open landscape, children can turn birdwatching into a real-life treasure hunt: learning to move quietly, using binoculars to spot birds and trying to identify some of the region’s fascinating species. It is a fun way to discover nature while developing patience, observation skills and curiosity. 

The Famous Nine-Hole Bridge 

The Nine-Hole Bridge is one of the most recognisable symbols of the Hortobágy. It is not only an impressive architectural landmark but also a place surrounded by stories and legends. 

The Hortobágy offers something for everyone: breathtaking landscapes, fascinating wildlife, living traditions and unforgettable family adventures. It is a place where nature and culture come together - and where even a simple walk across the open steppe can become a memorable experience.