For the first time in many years, VENT is returning to Central Asia in 2009 with a new tour to Kazakhstan and an Uzbekistan extension. VENT leader Peter Roberts completed a scouting trip to these countries in June 2007 and provided these images, offering a sneak peek at a region few other nature tour companies visit.

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan possess tremendous natural beauty, with towering snow-capped mountains, deserts, wild rivers, and beautiful forests. The birding possibilites are equally exciting and promise a wide range of Central Asian species seen not only on no other VENT tour, but by few birders in general. Beyond nature tourism, these countries, particularly Uzbekistan, offer remarkable cultural and historical attractions as well.

Our May/June Newsletter features an excellent piece submitted by Peter soon after returning from his scouting trip. His account of his travels, including the birds, scenery, and historical sites is nothing less than fascinating.

Peter will be co-leading our tours to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan with fellow VENT leader David Bishop.