Tulips, these marvels of nature, have a more remarkable origin than is generally thought: they were born from the vast plains of Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan.
Did you know that 75% of the tulips we admire today in the world are descendants of wild tulips from this region? Kazakhstan is home to no less than 35 varieties of wild tulips, of which 18 are currently threatened, and 12 grow exclusively in this country.
The Aksu-Zhabagyly Nature Reserve, established about a century ago in southern Kazakhstan, is a true sanctuary for these iconic flowers. Among them, the Greig Tulip, which can reach up to fifteen centimeters in height and is nicknamed "the Queen of Tulips", as well as the delicate Water Lily Tulip or Kaufmann Tulip, with bicolored petals, are
particularly famous.
The ideal period to discover these shimmering expanses of wild tulips extends from April to the end of May. In addition to this dazzling floral spectacle, the reserve is home to a multitude of other protected plant and animal species. It is not uncommon to encounter eagles, falcons, vultures, maral deer, argali wild sheep, ibex, or even marmots.
And for the luckiest, a face-to-face encounter with a wolf, a bear or even the mysterious snow leopard can be an unforgettable experience.