Birds flying over the National Reserve

Zorkul Nature Reserve

This reserve covers over 1600 square kilometres of land and is dedicated to the preservation of bird species and wildlife.

From Zorkul Nature Reserve is still possible to see the peaks of Tajik National Park. – © Maximum Exposure PR / Shutterstock

Close to Afghanistan's border and riding the Pamir Mountains, the Zorkul Nature Reserve was initially created for the conservation of a particular species of geese, the bar-headed geese, in the 1970s. However, the site is these days recognised and protected for being home to other iconic birds, as well as mammals which are either endangered or near extinction in any other places in the world.

There are lots of things to do in Zorkul Nature Reserve, many of them focusing on the wildlife, including birdwatching, horseback riding, and fishing. But there are also local villages where you can learn about community life, ancient petroglyphs to see, and ski resorts that are busy during winter.

Tajik species like brown bears, Marco Polo sheep, snow leopards, ruddy shelducks, and Himalayan vultures coexist in this nature reserve. Mainly deserted and with little to no vegetation, the Zorkul Nature Reserve offers Mars-like landscapes. It is currently listed on Tajikistan's Tentative List for consideration as a World Heritage Site.