Turkmenistan is a country with unique nature, characterized by vast deserts, mountains and oases.
Main natural features of Turkmenistan:
Karakum is one of the largest sandy deserts in the world, covering about 80% of the country. Here are found shingles, saltmarshes and rare oases. The Karakum Desert, one of Central Asia’s most enigmatic landscapes, stretches across much of Turkmenistan, covering over 350,000 square kilometers. Known as the “Black Sand” desert due to its dark-colored soil, Karakum is more than an arid expanse; it’s a land steeped in history and intertwined with the tales of the Great Silk Road.
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The Kopetdag Mountains are a mountain range in southern Turkmenistan that forms the natural border with Iran. In these mountains you can find forest massifs and picturesque gorges.
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The Ustyurth Plateau is a steppe and desert area in the west of the country, rich in rare species of flora and fauna.
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Amu Darya River is the largest river in Turkmenistan, providing water for agricultural land and settlements. The Amu Darya, one of Central Asia’s greatest rivers, flows majestically through the arid landscapes of Turkmenistan, breathing life into the desert. Known in ancient times as the Oxus, this river has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, the march of caravans along the Silk Road, and the enduring traditions of the peoples who call its banks home. Stretching over 2,400 kilometers, the Amu Darya originates from the Pamir Mountains in Tajikistan. It winds its way through Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan before emptying into the Aral Sea. Its waters are crucial for irrigation, sustaining agriculture in one of the driest regions on Earth. In Turkmenistan, the Amu Darya plays a pivotal role in nurturing cotton fields, a cornerstone of the country’s economy.
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The Darwaza Gas Crater (Gate of Hell), a remnant of a Soviet-era drilling mishap, has been burning for over 50 years. Its fiery glow illuminates the surrounding desert, creating a surreal atmosphere. As night falls, the intense flames cast dancing shadows, making the crater a perfect spot for photography and contemplation.In the heart of Turkmenistan lies a mesmerizing wonder: the Darwaza Gas Crater, often called the “Door to Hell.” While its fiery depths captivate adventurers by day, the magic of an open-air night in the desert surrounding Darwaza reveals an entirely different kind of allure. Imagine a vast expanse of golden dunes under a starlit canopy, where serenity and adventure intertwine.
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Kugitangtau (Koytendag) – a mountainous region in the east of Turkmenistan, known for its caves, canyons and dinosaur tracks.
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The flora and fauna of Turkmenistan are adapted to the arid climate. In deserts, there are jairans, saiyans, desert foxes and various kinds of reptiles. In the mountains you can find snow barks, harriers and rare species of birds.
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The climate is sharply continental, with hot summers and cold winters, which makes the country’s nature harsh but fascinating.
