Karagöl–Sahara National Park

Karagöl–Sahara Overview

Karagöl–Sahara National Park, known locally as Karagöl–Sahara Millî Parkı, is a picturesque and ecologically diverse protected area located in the Artvin Province of northeastern Turkey. The park spans approximately 13.5 square miles, or about 35 square kilometers, and lies within the Şavşat district near the border with Georgia.

It is named after its two distinct regions: the tranquil Karagöl (Black Lake) and the highland plateau of Sahara. This dual character gives the park its unique charm, combining serene lake landscapes with vast alpine meadows and rolling highlands. The terrain is shaped by glacial and volcanic activity, with forested hillsides, clear mountain streams, and sweeping grasslands forming a rich natural tapestry.

Karagöl is nestled within a crater-like depression surrounded by dense spruce and fir forests, while the Sahara Plateau stretches out as an open expanse of flower-filled meadows, dotted with seasonal pastoral huts and grazing livestock.

Vegetation in the park is varied due to its elevation and topographic diversity. The Karagöl area is heavily forested with Oriental spruce, fir, pine, and beech trees, forming a dense canopy that thrives in the park’s cool and moist microclimate.

In contrast, the Sahara region features subalpine grasslands that come alive in late spring and summer with colorful wildflowers, including many endemic species. These meadows are traditionally used as summer grazing grounds by local shepherds, maintaining a cultural landscape that blends human use with ecological balance. The seasonal diversity in plant life offers visitors changing views and botanical richness throughout the year.

Wildlife in Karagöl–Sahara National Park is abundant and includes many species typical of the eastern Black Sea highlands. Among the mammals found in the park are red deer, wild boar, brown bears, wolves, and foxes, with some sightings of lynx in the more secluded forested areas.

The area is also home to small mammals such as squirrels, martens, and badgers. Birdlife is a strong feature of the park, with golden eagles, hawks, woodpeckers, and songbirds inhabiting both the forested and open zones. Migratory species also visit during seasonal transitions, enriching the park’s avian diversity and making it a rewarding destination for birdwatchers.

The park’s most popular features are its striking natural scenery and quiet atmosphere. Karagöl is a serene lake surrounded by walking paths and shaded picnic areas, attracting visitors who enjoy its mirror-like waters and peaceful setting.

The Sahara Plateau, especially during the annual Sahara Culture and Nature Festival, becomes a vibrant gathering spot that celebrates local traditions and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The contrasting landscapes of lake and highland provide varied opportunities for outdoor recreation and photography.

Visitors engage with the park through hiking, camping, nature walks, picnicking, and wildlife observation. Designated trails and accessible facilities make it a welcoming destination for all ages, while the more remote paths and highland areas offer adventures for more seasoned hikers. In winter, the area receives snow, attracting snowshoe hikers and winter nature enthusiasts.

Conservation in Karagöl–Sahara National Park benefits from its status as a national park since 1994, but it faces challenges such as unregulated tourism, overgrazing, and potential road development.

Still, efforts by local communities, NGOs, and government authorities have supported sustainable tourism and environmental education. The preservation of both natural and cultural heritage remains a key goal in maintaining this treasured landscape.

Park Map

Karagöl–Sahara National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Karagöl–Sahara National Park is also a prime location for birdlife, especially forest and mountain species that thrive in its high-altitude meadows, alpine lakes, and old-growth forests.

Golden Eagle
This powerful raptor soars over alpine ridges, hunting hares, rodents, and even small deer. It builds large nests on high cliffs and is a symbol of the park’s wild beauty.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl
One of the largest owls in the world, the eagle-owl nests in rocky ledges and old trees. It preys on mammals and birds, and its deep call echoes through the forest at night.

Peregrine Falcon
Often seen near cliffs and open meadows, this swift falcon dives at high speed to catch birds mid-air. It nests in remote rocky areas and is a top aerial predator.

Wallcreeper
This vividly colored bird with red wings clings to sheer cliffs and boulders. It feeds on insects hidden in cracks and is a striking sight in rocky areas.

Black Woodpecker
Found in the park’s mature forests, this large woodpecker uses its powerful bill to drill into dead trees for insects. Its drumming is a common sound in the woodland.

White-throated Dipper
Seen near the cold, fast-moving streams and lakes, the dipper dives underwater for aquatic insects and larvae. It’s recognized by its bobbing motion and white chest.

Caucasian Black Grouse
A rare and shy ground-dwelling bird of alpine meadows and high forests, the male is notable for its dramatic mating display in spring and its deep, throaty calls.

Common Raven
Soaring high over mountains and forests, the raven is intelligent and adaptable. It feeds on carrion, insects, and seeds, and uses a wide range of vocalizations.

Short-toed Snake Eagle
Often spotted gliding above meadows and slopes, this eagle hunts snakes and large lizards. It can hover mid-air while scanning the ground for movement.

Red-fronted Serin
This colorful finch is found in alpine grasslands and high-elevation shrubs. It feeds on seeds and insects and adds bright flashes of red and yellow to the park’s birdlife.

Karagöl–Sahara National Park combines dramatic mountain landscapes with rich forests and vibrant highland meadows, creating a haven for both terrestrial wildlife and a diverse array of bird species unique to Turkey’s northeastern wilderness.

Karagöl–Sahara National Park, located in Turkey’s northeastern Artvin Province, is known for its alpine lakes, dense forests, and the expansive highland meadows of the Sahara Plateau. This park, nestled in the Eastern Black Sea Mountains, supports a rich range of wildlife species that thrive in its cool, moist forests and open mountain pastures.

Brown Bear
A prominent resident of the park’s deep forests, the brown bear is a powerful omnivore that feeds on berries, roots, insects, and occasionally small animals. It is usually shy and avoids human contact.

Grey Wolf
As a top predator in the park’s ecosystems, the grey wolf preys on deer, wild boars, and smaller mammals. It moves in small packs and is most active at night or twilight.

Wild Boar
These strong, adaptable animals forage through meadows and forest undergrowth, digging for roots, insects, and fallen fruit. They play a key role in shaping the forest floor ecology.

Red Fox
Widespread in the park’s forests and highland clearings, the red fox is a nimble predator and scavenger. It feeds on rodents, birds, fruit, and insects, and often dens in quiet woodland areas.

European Wildcat
This elusive feline resembles a domestic cat but is more muscular and solitary. It hunts small mammals and birds and is typically active during the night in dense woodland areas.

European Pine Marten
Agile and tree-dwelling, the pine marten is found in mature forests where it preys on squirrels, insects, and birds. Its creamy throat patch and bushy tail make it easy to identify.

Roe Deer
Roe deer are graceful herbivores often seen grazing in forest glades and alpine meadows. They are most active at dawn and dusk and feed on grasses, herbs, and shoots.

Eastern Hedgehog
This small insectivore is common in meadow edges and forest undergrowth. Nocturnal and solitary, it feeds on worms, beetles, and snails and curls into a ball when threatened.

Caucasian Squirrel
Native to the Eastern Black Sea forests, this squirrel is active during the day and feeds on nuts, seeds, and berries. It nests in tree hollows and is agile in the canopy.

Caucasian Viper
A venomous snake that prefers rocky outcrops and sunlit clearings, this viper is shy and avoids disturbance. It feeds on small rodents and plays a role in controlling pest populations.