Nature of Turkmenistan

The Natural Wonders of Turkmenistan

Autumn in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan’s diverse natural environment encompasses a wide array of plant and animal life, reflecting the country’s rich ecological tapestry. The landscape varies dramatically from the expansive Karakum Desert to the verdant valleys of its mountain ranges. The flora includes thousands of species, ranging from desert grasses and saxaul shrubs to lush forested areas in the highlands. The fauna is equally diverse, with 91 species of mammals, 372 species of birds, 74 types of reptiles, and 60 species of fish. Although the desert regions feature sparse vegetation and wildlife, the mountain river valleys offer a rich and vibrant natural habitat. This abundance of natural beauty is preserved within several protected areas, including the Badkhyz, Krasnovodsk, and Repetek nature reserves.

Turkmenistan experiences a sharply continental climate, characterized by significant temperature fluctuations. Summer temperatures can soar to an average of 30-32°C in July, while winter temperatures can plunge to as low as -5°C. Precipitation varies widely, with desert areas receiving around 80 mm annually and mountainous regions up to 400 mm. Additionally, the plains are often subject to hot winds and dust storms.

Tourists are drawn to Turkmenistan’s unique natural landmarks. These include the stunning flora such as wild fruit and nut forests, juniper forests on mountain slopes, pistachio savannas, saxaul forests, and riparian Tugai woodlands. The fauna is equally captivating, featuring Central Asian leopards, argali sheep, kulan, and gazelles. The landscape offers a breathtaking range from picturesque mountain ranges to the arid sands of the desert, lush oases, and extensive sea coastlines.

Caves

Turkmenistan is renowned for its extensive network of caves, among which the Karluk Caves are particularly notable. Located on the slopes of the Kugitangtau Range, these caves are unparalleled natural monuments in Eurasia and are rightfully listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Read more

Lakes and Springs

The largest lake in Turkmenistan is the Sarykamysh Lake, covering an area of over 2,200 square kilometers. To protect migratory birds such as pelicans, cormorants, and coots, the Sarykamysh Reserve was established. In the famed Baharden Cave, visitors can find the underground Kow-Ata Lake, which spans 1,050 square meters with an average depth of 6 meters and a water temperature ranging from 33 to 37°C. The lake is renowned for its remarkable clarity and transparency. Read more

Mountains

The Kugitang Mountains are home to Turkmenistan’s highest peak, Ayribaba, which rises to 3,137 meters. The Big Balkan mountain range, situated in the Karakum Desert, has revealed Stone Age human remains through archaeological excavations. The unique landscape of Mount Synt is notable for its slopes covered with rare plant species. The vibrant red and orange canyons of Yangikala and Yangusu offer a spectacular visual experience. Read more

Volcanoes

In the western part of Turkmenistan, around 30 mud volcanoes can be found, each displaying various shapes and forms. These volcanoes periodically erupt, releasing a mixture of mud, gases, water, and oil. The largest of these is the extinct Aligul Volcano, while the oldest is the mud volcano of Boyadag. Read more

Depressions and Basins

The Eroylan-Duz depression is a deep, closed basin covering 300 square kilometers. In ancient times, this area was submerged under the vast Tethys Sea. The unique depression was formed by volcanic activity on the sea floor, resulting in dome-shaped and slightly elongated hills, which are remnants of extinct volcanoes. Between these hills, salt flats where table salt was once extracted can be found. The area also features beautiful andesite-basalt formations and weathered volcanic plugs. Read more

Uplands and Valleys

The Kyrkdzhulby region is a picturesque area within the Karakum Desert, characterized by tall, steep sand dunes that give the landscape a striking reddish hue. Read more

Karakum Desert

The Karakum Desert is known for its characteristic sand dunes, which cover 7% of the plain areas and represent a typical sand relief. These dunes are often found in areas devoid of vegetation. Read more

Plains and Plateaus

The Missirian Plain is notable for its large remnants of ancient irrigation systems, with traces of old irrigation structures still visible. Read more

Flora

Turkmenistan’s flora includes relict forests, subtropical regions with rare plant species, and scenic areas where ancient plant life has been preserved over the centuries. Read more

Reserves and Resorts

Turkmenistan boasts several major nature reserves, including Badkhyz, Repetek, Krasnovodsk, and Kugitang. Additionally, the country has a number of health resorts, such as the climate resorts of Firyuza and Bayram-Ali, and the balneological resorts of Archman and Mollakara. These resorts are well-suited for the treatment and prevention of various health conditions. Read more