Karagöl Sahara National Park, Nature reserve and national park in Şavşat, Turkey.
Karagöl-Sahara National Park is a nature reserve and national park in the Black Sea mountain region with a pristine lake and forest cover. The area comprises two distinct zones: Karagöl in the lower elevations with pine and fir forests, and the Sahara plateau at higher altitude with open meadows and sparse vegetation.
The protected area was established in 1994 by Turkey's Ministry of Forest and Water Management to safeguard the region's natural ecosystems. This designation reflected growing awareness of the need to preserve the mountain environment and its biodiversity.
The region has deep ties to local communities whose traditional practices shape how the land is used and perceived today. These ways of life reflect how people have adapted to the mountain environment over time.
The park consists of two separate areas accessible from the nearby town, each offering different landscapes and experiences. Visitors should prepare for mountain weather conditions and limited services, as this remains a wild protected area.
The area serves as an important stopover for migratory birds, particularly during spring and autumn when large flocks pass through on their journeys. This makes the park a rewarding destination for anyone interested in observing species that would otherwise be difficult to encounter.
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