Embrace the positive energy of an excursion to Lake Aydar! This artificial reservoir located in northeast Ouzbékistan offers the perfect retreat with its long soft-sand beach and numerous outdoor activities. Fishing enthusiasts, prepare your rods—there are plenty of species to catch here. Bird lovers will also find their paradise observing wildlife from the lake's shores.

History

Lake Aydar is a massive artificial reservoir situated in the salt depression southeast of the Kyzylkum desert (in northeast Ouzbékistan). Together with lakes Arnasay and Tuzkan, it forms part of the Aydar-Arnasay lake system, with a combined surface area of 4,000 km²—making it Central Asia's second-largest body of water, after the Aral Sea.

The origins of Lake Aydar

The Arnasay plain, where Lake Aydar formed, was dry land until the mid-20th century. The site had no access to moisture, except during spring when the small Lake Tuzkan would briefly materialize before evaporating in the heat. In the early 1960s, authorities dammed the Syr Darya river. Simultaneously, the Chardara dam was constructed with sluice gates to control flooding. In 1969 and 1970, over half of the Syr Darya's average discharge was diverted into the Arnasay plain. This is how Lake Aydar came into being, and to this day, the basin continues to receive river water when it overflows.

Lake Aydar: Discovering the "Turquoise Sea in the Sands"

Its color and scale, amid desert surroundings, earned Lake Aydar the nickname of the "Turquoise Sea in the Sands". It's a popular excursion from the town of Nurata, located roughly 50 km away, perfect for rejuvenation while enjoying numerous outdoor activities. Few people live in the region, which preserves its tranquil, isolated atmosphere.

A popular fishing spot

The absence of underwater currents and low salinity levels have enabled diverse fauna and flora to thrive in the area. Each year, the Aydar-Arnasay lake system yields between 760 and 2,000 tonnes of fish for the country. When in season, obtain a permit and organize a day of fishing at Lake Aydar. The vast turquoise mirror is home to various aquatic species including carp, perch, white bream, catfish, and the Samarkand waddler (an indigenous Central Asian fish). Local providers sell and rent rods and tackle around the lake, in case you lack equipment.

Birdwatching on the agenda too

Bring binoculars and cameras to capture images of the Dalmatian pelican, red-necked goose, or pygmy cormorant. Watch the skies above the lake for black vultures and white-tailed eagles. You can also participate in duck hunting, provided you obtain authorization.

Visit the Lake Aydar yurt camp

Love spending nights in nature? Treat yourself to a stay at the Lake Aydar yurt camp, roughly 7 km away. Discover stunning replicas of Mongolian and Turkish nomadic dwellings, complete with all modern amenities: electricity, sanitation facilities, and more. Traditional décor adds an authentic touch.

From the camp, enjoy a camel or horse trek across the mountainous landscapes surrounding Lake Aydar. Explore the foothills of the Naratau range for panoramic views of the "Turquoise Sea in the Sands". Be sure to visit the Sarmysh mountain trail, which is dotted with rock paintings.

Practical Information

Lake Aydar is accessible by car. Nurata is the nearest town, where you can stock up for a lakeside picnic. From the city of Navoi, expect around two hours of driving (slightly longer if traveling from Samarkand or Bukhara). The route passes through desert and some mountainous areas where you'll have plenty of opportunity to photograph Uzbekistan's pristine landscape. Although it's a desert, the Kyzylkum region is far from lacking in colors…

When to visit?

It depends on the experiences you're seeking. From May to July, Lake Aydar is ideal for swimming and water sports, but fishing is prohibited. Still, bring insect repellent, as bugs—especially mosquitoes—are abundant during this period. The rest of the year, you can fish, even during winter months, since the reservoir's water doesn't freeze.