Thousands of years ago, the Sahara Desert—the world’s largest hot desert—was not a barren, sandy expanse. Instead, it was a thriving green savanna filled with vast grasslands, large lakes, and an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and even early human settlements. This period, known as the “African Humid Period,” lasted from around 11,000 to 5,000 years ago. During this time, the region received regular rainfall due to changes in Earth’s orbit that affected monsoon patterns, transforming the landscape into one rich with vegetation and life.

However, around 5,000 years ago, the climate began to shift drastically. The monsoons weakened, and the region started receiving less and less rainfall. Gradually, the lakes dried up, vegetation disappeared, and desertification set in. Archaeological evidence, such as cave paintings showing swimming humans and abundant animals, tells the story of this lost green Sahara. Today, the desert’s past serves as a powerful reminder of Earth’s ever-changing climate.