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Sarygamysh Lake

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Sarygamysh Lake is a vast inland body of water situated on the border between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, roughly equidistant from the Caspian and Aral Seas. Originally a natural depression intermittently fed by the Amu Darya, the modern lake was re-established in the 1960s as a catchment area for agricultural drainage water. Covering an area of up to 3,000 square kilometers, it is one of the largest lakes in the region, with an average depth of approximately 8 meters. The water is highly saline and contains concentrations of agricultural chemicals, which shapes the local ecological balance. Despite these conditions, the lake serves as a critical habitat for numerous fish species and a vital sanctuary for migratory birds, including pelicans and flamingos, in the desert landscape. The shoreline features dramatic steep cliffs to the west and flat, sandy stretches to the east. The lake's existence is inextricably linked to the complex hydrological management of the broader Aral Sea basin.

Location: Turkmenistan
Nearby: Sarygamysh Lake (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-3	-1	7	15	24	30	32	30	22	13	4	-2
Rain mm	6	9	15	13	9	2	2	1	2	5	7	8

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Reaching Sarygamysh Lake in Turkmenistan typically involves starting from the nearest major settlement and arranging specialized local transport to this lake. A large lake on the border with Uzbekistan in a deep depression.

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Best season

The most favorable season to visit Sarygamysh Lake is usually during the milder months, avoiding extreme weather typical for Turkmenistan. Checking forecasts for this lake is vital.

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Terrain & paths

Navigating the terrain around Sarygamysh Lake typically presents natural obstacles inherent to a lake, requiring good physical fitness. Expect uneven ground throughout Turkmenistan.

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What to bring

Appropriate preparation for Sarygamysh Lake includes sturdy footwear and layered clothing suited for the variable conditions of a lake in Turkmenistan. Carry water and sun block.

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Parking

Parking arrangements for Sarygamysh Lake are typically found at designated areas in the nearest adjacent town within Turkmenistan. At the lake itself, official spaces are non-existent.

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Safety

Ensuring a safe visit to Sarygamysh Lake requires constant awareness of the surroundings typical of a lake in Turkmenistan. Inform someone of your route and follow all local rules.

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Time needed

A standard visit to Sarygamysh Lake typically ranges from a few hours to an entire day, depending on activities within this lake. Travelers in Turkmenistan must factor in travel time.

Geography

Coordinates

41.93000, 57.38000

Facts

The lake reaches a maximum length of approximately 125 kilometers.
It sits in a depression with the lowest point at 38 meters below sea level.
About 75% of the lake's surface area is located within Turkmenistan.
The total volume of water is estimated at around 12 cubic kilometers.
Water salinity typically ranges between 15 and 20 grams per liter.
In the 1970s, several fish species, such as carp, were successfully introduced.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Sarygamysh Lake7 km · SEExplore →

Sarykamysh Lake12 km · NExplore →

Kaplankyr Nature Reserve34 km · NWExplore →

Ustyurt Gas Chemical Complex67 km · NEExplore →

Kaplankyr Plateau119 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can one swim in Sarykamysch lake?

Yes, the water is saline but easily accessible in the shore zones.

Is the lake family-friendly?

Only for experienced nature campers; there is no infrastructure.

What is there to see?

Bird watching and a vast, lonely desert landscape.

How do I get to the lake?

Only by 4x4 vehicle through the desert.

Is a guide necessary?

Highly recommended to avoid getting lost in the desert.

Sarygamysh Lake: where is it located?

Sarygamysh Lake is located in Turkmenistan.

Sarygamysh Lake: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Sep.

Sarygamysh Lake: why is it worth visiting?

Sarygamysh Lake is a vast inland body of water situated on the border between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, roughly equidistant from the Caspian and Aral Seas.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →