Hollows and Depressions

Turkmenistan is home to a range of fascinating geological formations, including the notable Yueroilan-Duz depression. Spanning an impressive 300 square kilometers, Yueroilan-Duz is a deep, drainless basin. In ancient times, this area was submerged under the vast Tethys Sea. The depression’s formation is attributed to the volcanic activity that once occurred on the sea floor, resulting in a landscape dotted with dome-shaped and slightly elongated hills—remnants of extinct volcanic conduits. These hills are scattered across the basin, interspersed with solonchaks, or salt flats, where table salt was historically extracted. The region is also marked by striking andesite-basalt formations and weathered volcanic pillars, adding to its geological interest.

During the spring and winter months, the depression fills with melted water, creating temporary saline lakes. This seasonal flooding attracts a variety of bird species, including pelicans and flamingos, which migrate to the area. In the summer, as the water evaporates, the solonchaks become a haven for goitered gazelles and argalis. Yueroilan-Duz serves as a natural museum of sorts, offering a glimpse into the prehistoric past of Central Asia. The area has yielded fascinating discoveries, including fragments of ostrich eggshells, ancient animal remains, and numerous other artifacts. Its unique combination of geological and paleontological features has long attracted the interest of geologists, archaeologists, and paleobotanists.

Another remarkable feature of Turkmenistan’s landscape is the Akchakaya depression, located near the city of Tashkent. This is the deepest drainless depression in the region, with its lowest point situated 81 meters below sea level. The slopes of Akchakaya rise dramatically to heights of up to 200 meters, creating a dramatic terrain with vividly colored rock formations. Water streams have carved intricate patterns into these slopes, enhancing the depression’s distinctive appearance and adding to its geological allure.