In the 1950s, Muynak was a bustling fishing hub on the Aral Sea. River diversion projects caused water levels to plummet by over 100 km, creating the new Aralkum Desert.

The rusted hulls stranded on sand stand as silent witnesses to this rapid environmental shift.

• Ship Graveyard: Abandoned vessels beached on the desert floor.
• Aral Sea Museum: Exhibits on history, science, and local stories.
• Aralkum Viewpoints: Panoramic vistas of the former sea bed.

Visiting Muynak is an act of reflection on human impact and a chance to support sustainability efforts, reforestation, and environmental education projects led by local NGOs.

Muynak lies in Karakalpakstan, northwest Uzbekistan. It’s a 3-hour drive from Nukus, and a local guide can greatly enhance your visit.