Overview
Founded in 1926, the Aksu-Zhabagyly Nature Reserve takes its name from the Aksu River that flows through it and the Zhabagyly mountain range. It is Kazakhstan's oldest reserve, covering more than 1,300 km2 in the south of the country, bordering Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.
The park is home to 44 species of protected plants, including multiple varieties of wild tulips, exclusive to Kazakhstan. Among the most remarkable, the Greig tulip and the delicate Kaufmann tulip, also known as the "water lily tulip", represent the ancestors of nearly 75% of tulip species existing in the world. Wild vines and apple trees, notably the "Malus sieversii", origin of all apple tree species, also thrive in abundance.
Aksu-Zhabagyly is a haven for ornithologists, with more than 260 species of birds recorded, of which about 130 nest in the park. Among these, around thirty are classified as protected species, including the golden eagle, the steppe eagle, the bearded vulture, various species of storks, cranes, green woodpeckers and nightingales.
The reserve is also home to 44 species of protected mammals, including the mythical snow leopard, an object of fascination for many nature lovers. The Himalayan brown bear, the wolf, the argali (a type of wild sheep), the marmot, the ibex, the maral deer and the Tian Shan marmot are among the other inhabitants of this park.
Activities
The park offers a multitude of activities, but the presence of a guide or ranger is mandatory to enter. They willingly share their knowledge about the reserve's history, local fauna and flora, as well as anecdotes and legends. Their trained eyes are invaluable help in spotting birds of prey and interpreting animal tracks on the ground.
Visitors can enjoy hiking on foot or horseback, such as climbing the Kishi Kaindy Gorge to admire its superb waterfall, or exploring the splendid Aksu Canyon. Themed hikes are also organized to observe birds or wild tulips, with the best season extending from early April to late May.
Practical information:
Transportation:
- By plane to Shymkent, then by train to Tulkibas.
- By train from Astana, Karaganda or Almaty to Tulkibas.
Season:
From April to October (with an ideal period for tulips from early April to late May).
