The Saksaul Forest, also known as the Saxaul Grove, is a desert oasis located in Central Asia, primarily in the country of Kazakhstan. It is named after the saxaul tree, a hardy species that grows in the arid regions of Central Asia and is an important source of fuel and timber for local communities.
The Saksaul Forest covers an area of approximately 20,000 square kilometers and is a significant ecosystem in the region. The grove provides a critical habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals, and supports the livelihoods of local people who rely on the forest for resources such as fuelwood and medicinal plants.
The Saksaul Forest is also an important cultural and historical site, with evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. The ancient Silk Road, an important trade route that connected China with the Mediterranean, passed through the area and left behind many artifacts and ruins.
However, the Saksaul Forest is under threat from overgrazing, desertification, and human activity, which is causing the loss of habitat and biodiversity in the area. Efforts are underway to conserve and restore the Saksaul Forest and its surrounding ecosystem through sustainable land management practices, reforestation, and community-based conservation initiatives.
Photography: Walter Somers
in collaboration with with High Asia Tours and Far & High
