Karakalpakstan

The longest, most detailed and most up-to-date travel guidebook to Karakalpakstan – Central Asia's best-kept secret.

Roughly the size of Sweden, Karakalpakstan borders Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. This autonomous republic was, until recently, dominated by the Aral Sea. As the sea water has retreated, the Aralkum – the world's newest desert – and numerous lakes have formed in its place. Ecotourism is developing rapidly here, as local people recognise the need to protect and restore fragile ecosystems while creating meaningful employment opportunities.

Amid Karakalpakstan's remote wildernesses, the intrepid traveller will discover unique geology (such as the Ustyurt Plateau), rare wildlife (including a substantial population of the critically endangered saiga antelope), and fabulous star gazing. The region also boasts a long and rich history. Scattered through the Kyzylkum are the ruins of 50-plus desert fortresses of Ancient Khorezm – some proposed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites – alongside ancient settlements, caravanserais, mausolea and the Zoroastrian 'tower of silence' at Chilpik Dakhma. Alternatively, explore Nukus's celebrated Savitsky Museum, justifiably known as the 'Louvre of the Steppe', with its superb archaeological and ethnographic collections and Russian Avant Garde art.

With detailed information on what to see and do, practical listings for accommodation and restaurants, and comprehensive guidance on getting around, this guide provides all the advice adventurous tourists need. Whether you're exploring Muynak's ship graveyard, birdwatching at the Important Bird and Biodiversity Area of Sudochye Lakes (home to 230 recorded bird species), or dancing the night away at the annual Stihia festival of electronic music, this indispensable companion – written by two Central Asian experts – will enhance your journey through this excitingly varied republic.