The Bereketli Garagum Nature Reserve is a sanctuary of biodiversity in the vast Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan. It was established to preserve the unique flora and fauna of this arid region. Discover its rich geography and the diverse wildlife inhabiting the protected area of Bereketli Garagum, as well as the indigenous communities that coexist with this challenging environment.
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Information about Bereketli Garagum Nature Reserve
History
The Bereketli Garagum State Nature Reserve is located in the Ahal Province, in the southern Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan. This vast protected area spans 87,000 hectares and was established on July 18, 2013, with the primary goal of strengthening the protection and conservation of the unique desert ecosystems and the valuable natural resources of Karakum. In the future, the reserve is expected to be a candidate for inclusion in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list.
Currently, the Central Asian Desert Initiative (CADI) is developing a project to justify the expansion of the reserve’s boundaries. This project aims to improve the living conditions of wild ungulates migrating outside the current reserve limits in search of water, ensuring their survival and well-being in this challenging environment.
Fields of Bereketli Garagum Reserve
The Reserve is divided into two main fields:
- The "Kamyshly" field spans 45.4 thousand hectares and is located 240 km from Ashgabat, covering areas of the Derveze and Tejen districts in the Ahal Province. This field forms an irregular quadrangular shape, situated 80 km east of the Ichoguz (Derveze) railway station and extending 30 km east from the Unuz depression to near the village of Borvishik.
- The second field, "Murzechyrla", comprises 15 thousand hectares and is located 60 km east of "Kamyshly" in the Tejen district of Ahal Province. This sector lies 40 km southeast of the village of Murzechyrla, in an area characterized by depressions, ridges, sandbanks, and marshes.
Additionally, the reserve is connected to the Minara State Limited Nature Reserve, which stretches in a narrow strip of 2 to 4 km from west to east, covering 25 thousand hectares in the territory of the Tejen Etrap, 90 km from Yerbent and 215 km from Bokurdak.
A notable area within the reserve is the Training Field, which covers 100 hectares and is located between kilometers 78 and 79 of the Ashgabat-Dashoguh highway.
Location
Situated in the vast Karakum Desert, the reserve spans thousands of square kilometers of arid landscapes and undulating dunes, offering a natural spectacle of forms and colors.
Best Time to Visit Bereketli Garagum Nature Reserve
The best time to visit is between March and May, when temperatures are milder, and nature comes alive, offering a vibrant and dynamic landscape ideal for exploration.
How to Get to Bereketli Garagum State Nature Reserve
From Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, you can reach the reserve by car or through organized tours that cross the desert. Regular excursions from other cities like Mary, Turkmenabat, and Dashoguz also allow access to this remote natural area.
Geography of Bereketli Garagum
The geography of Bereketli Garagum is predominantly desert, with large stretches of dunes that change shape with the seasonal winds. This dynamic landscape is a study in adaptation and resilience for both local flora and fauna.
Flora of Bereketli Garagum
The flora of Bereketli Garagum Nature Reserve consists of 293 species of plants, including 210 high-ranking species and 16 woody species. Among them, the silver-leaf chestnut stands out, known for its striking violet flowers that adorn the desert landscape. Additionally, black sedge is frequently used to create natural barriers and durable, productive hedges. Other key elements include white sand and various varieties of wheat and sedge, which are crucial for stabilizing the sands and improving pastures.
Fauna of Bereketli Garagum
The fauna of Bereketli Garagum Nature Reserve reflects the typical animal life of the Karakum deserts, with an exemplary adaptation to extreme arid conditions. The area is home to an impressive diversity of psammophilic species, animals that thrive in sandy environments, including around 850 animal species, with over 90 species of vertebrates. Notable species include the Asiatic cheetah and the desert wolf, alongside a rich birdlife that makes the reserve a crucial spot for observing both migratory and resident birds.
Gastronomy of the Bereketli Garagum Region in Karakum
The local cuisine includes unique dishes adapted to the desert environment, using ingredients such as camel and sheep meat, complemented by local breads and desert fruits, offering a unique and authentic culinary experience.
Accommodations near Bereketli Garagum
For those interested in exploring Bereketli Garagum Nature Reserve in Turkmenistan, there are various accommodation options in nearby locations that offer both comfort and a touch of local culture.
Accommodations in Ashgabat
Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to more affordable options. You can enjoy the city’s modern architecture and cultural monuments, providing easy access to the reserve.
Accommodations in Mary
Mary, known for its rich history and proximity to the ancient site of Merv, offers an authentic experience with hotels and hostels that reflect the heritage of the region. It’s a perfect place for those wanting to combine their visit to the reserve with a trip into Turkmenistan’s past.
Accommodations in Turkmenabat
In Turkmenabat, you’ll find accommodations ranging from modern hotels to more traditional lodgings. Its location offers easy access to the eastern part of the reserve and is ideal for those looking to explore both nature and the city.
Accommodations in Dashoguz
For those approaching the reserve from the north, Dashoguz offers a variety of lodging options, including hotels and local inns. This city is an excellent starting point for adventures in the northern part of the reserve and also serves as a hub for exploring nearby archaeological sites.
These locations not only provide comfort and accessibility to the protected area but also offer an immersion in Turkmen culture, with easy access to historical sites and the opportunity to experience local hospitality.
Recommended next parks: Nature Reserves of Turkmenistan.
