The Karakum covers nearly 80% of Turkmenistan’s territory and is bordered by the Ustyurt Plateau, the Amu Darya and Murghab rivers, and the old Uzboy River and salt lakes near the Caspian Sea.

The desert landscapes include up to 35m high mounts of loose sand; broad, flat areas of fertile clay soil where desert acacia, poplar, white and black saksaul grow; and flat plains encrusted with salt. Herds of sheep and camels seek food and water om the fertile plains. Springtime is magnificent here.