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Badhyz State Nature Reserve

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

national-park

Badhyz State Nature Reserve (Turkmenistan)

Weather…

The Badhyz State Nature Reserve is located in the extreme south of Turkmenistan between the Tejen and Murghab rivers and was established in 1941. Covering an area of approximately 87,700 hectares, it protects a unique hilly steppe and semi-desert landscape. The reserve is globally renowned for the conservation of the Turkmen kulan (wild ass), as it preserved the last remaining natural population of this species. Geographically, the area is characterized by deep depressions such as the Yeroyulanduz Basin, formed by volcanic activity and salt deposits. A standout feature is the extensive natural pistachio grove, the largest in Central Asia, containing trees that are several centuries old. In addition to kulans, the territory is home to goitered gazelles, Urial wild sheep, and rare reptile species. Scientific research in the reserve focuses on the reintroduction of endangered species and the maintenance of the fragile ecological balance in this arid region. Badhyz is a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status due to its exceptional geological formations and biodiversity.

Best time to visit & climate

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

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	3	5	11	17	24	28	30	28	23	16	9	4
Rain mm	32	39	43	27	9	1	0	0	0	6	23	22

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access to this state nature reserve generally requires securing special permits from authorities, with the journey typically undertaken using robust 4x4 vehicles from regional centers in the deep south.

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Best season

A visit is most rewarding during the brief spring months when temperatures are still moderate, and the reserve's rare and resilient flora, including wildflowers, temporarily springs into lively life.

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Terrain & paths

Visitors can expect an archaic landscape of rolling hills and vast, sun-baked plains, interspersed with the characteristic, highly resilient wild pistachio trees that manage to thrive in this dry region.

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What to bring

In addition to core survival supplies like abundant water, highly durable clothing that protects against sun and wind, along with binoculars for spotting distant wildlife, are considered very important.

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Parking

The concept of parking lots is practically non-existent here; movement takes the form of a safari or expedition, with vehicles halting at secure, strategically chosen locations near areas of natural interest.

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Safety

The profound isolation of this reserve dictates that meticulous planning and being accompanied by licensed nature guides are absolutely essential to ensure safety and comply with strict conservation regulations.

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Time needed

Owing to the significant administrative and logistical effort required for the journey, interested parties generally plan multi-day stays in order to truly appreciate the distinct characteristics of this reserve.

Geography

Coordinates

35.80000, 61.80000

Facts

The reserve was officially established on December 3, 1941.
The Yeroyulanduz depression sits about 500 meters below the surrounding plateau.
Pistachio groves within the reserve cover an area of approximately 76,000 hectares.
The Kulan population in Badhyz has successfully stabilized since the 1940s.
More than 30 species of mammals are resident in the reserve.
The reserve consists of three distinct sanctuaries: Kyzyldjar, Pulikhatum, and Yeroyulanduz.