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On May 29, 2026, first-year students of the EP “Ecology” of the UNESCO Chair for Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geography and Environmental Sciences, visited one of Kazakhstan’s most unique natural landmarks — Charyn Canyon, famous for its spectacular “Valley of Castles,” as part of their field practice.

The event was organized with the support of the Central Asian-German Institute for the protection of Ecosystem and Biodiversity and was dedicated to the recently celebrated International Day for Biological Diversity.

 

During the excursion, students not only became acquainted with the geological features of the canyon but also paid special attention to studying its unique biodiversity. The initial part of the route was dominated by plants adapted to arid environments and extreme conditions. Among them, students observed Syrian rue (Peganum harmala), wormwood (Artemisia spp.), ephemeral plants, and other representatives of desert flora. Despite poor soils, high temperatures, and limited moisture, these species successfully survive due to their remarkable adaptations.

As the group approached the Charyn River, the vegetation became significantly richer. In the floodplain area, participants observed willows, poplars, Russian olive trees, and other woody and shrub species that form distinctive riparian ecosystems. The contrast between the dry canyon slopes and the green river floodplain clearly demonstrated the influence of water resources on biodiversity formation.

Students were particularly impressed by the remarkable resilience of plants to harsh environmental conditions. Many participants noted how astonishing it was that vegetation could survive under scorching sunlight, on rocky slopes, and with minimal water availability.

During the route, students also observed local wildlife. They encountered ground squirrels quickly disappearing into their burrows and lizards skillfully moving across the sun-heated rocks of the canyon. The diversity of bird species inhabiting the canyon and its surroundings also attracted considerable attention.

Observing these natural adaptation mechanisms allowed future ecologists to better understand the importance of conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecosystem resilience in the face of climate change.

In addition to exploring the natural features of Charyn Canyon, the students participated in an environmental clean-up campaign. During the excursion, they collected and removed litter left behind by some visitors. Through their actions, the future ecologists demonstrated a responsible attitude toward the environment and emphasized the importance of following the “Leave No Trace” principle when visiting natural areas.