Karakalpakstan, as a region that suffered from a serious environmental disaster associated with the shallowing of the Aral Sea, certainly needs close attention to environmental protection issues. Comprehensive environmental protection efforts are needed to restore the damaged ecosystem and prevent further deterioration of the situation. It is important to develop and implement effective methods of rational nature management, restore and expand protected natural areas. The future of the region depends on the successful solution of this problem.
The government, with the support of international donors and scientists, has taken the initiative to expand protected areas in Karakalpakstan. In 2020, the South Ustyurt National Park was founded on the western side of the Ustyurt Plateau in the Kungrad district, and in 2022, the Aralkum National Nature Park was founded on Vozrozhdeniya Island in the Southern Aral.
The State Nature Conservation Institution National Nature Park "Southern Ustyurt" covers 1,447,143 hectares of the extreme northwestern part of the Ustyurt Plateau. Of these, the protected area is 934,584 hectares, the recreational zone is 69,515 hectares and the economic zone is 443,044 hectares. The park is one of the most exotic and uninhabited regions of Central Asia with a sharply continental climate.
In ancient times, the territory of the natural park was an important cultural and trade route, as evidenced by the traces of ancient human settlements found in its vicinity.
The territory of the natural park is characterized by a diverse relief: from high plateaus and rocky slopes to sand dunes and salt marshes. About 350 species of plants have been registered here, including rare species of saxaul and wormwood.
The South Ustyurt National Park serves as a refuge for many species of birds and rare species of animals. The fish-rich wetlands of Lake Sarykamysh attract flamingo, cormorants, pelicans and other birds.
Birds of prey such as vultures and eagles live on the tops of the rocky cliffs.
The fauna of the park includes endangered animals such as the Turkmen kulan (wild ass), saiga, various species of fox, wild horses, goitered gazelles and Ustyurt urials. In order to see them, you need to have time, patience and the help of a local guide.
Environmental protection and biodiversity conservation activities are carried out in Ustyurt. Important aspects include environmental monitoring, poaching control and tourist movement control.
Transportation to the Southern Ustyurt National Park can be difficult due to its remoteness. A visit to the nature park requires advance planning, and then it will become a truly exciting adventure into the wild. In the vast territory of the park with unique, untouched landscapes, ecotourism enthusiasts, scientific researchers, and wildlife photographers will be able to feel like pioneers immersed in an atmosphere of pristine beauty. The park is home to many rare and endemic species of plants, birds, and animals, which can be observed in their natural habitat. You will immerse yourself in a feeling of complete freedom. Picturesque cliffs, canyons, sand dunes, and clay plains will create a unique backdrop for your journey.
Overcoming difficulties in the wild is a great opportunity to test yourself and your strength. The main thing is to carefully prepare and be careful, and then the trip to South Ustyurt will become a truly unforgettable adventure for you!