The Sahara Desert: When It Was a Green Paradise The Sahara Desert: When It Was a Green Paradise 6,000 Years Ago Introduction The Sahara Desert, one of the hottest places on Earth, was once a thriving green paradise. Scientists refer to this time as the "African Humid Period." Learn about this incredible transformation and its causes. The Sahara’s Green Past During the African Humid Period, the Sahara was home to lush vegetation, flowing rivers, and large lakes. Lakes and Rivers Ancient riverbeds and lakes, such as a larger version of Lake Chad, provided life to the region. Human Life in the Green Sahara Rock art shows scenes of people swimming, hunting, and herding cattle, indicating a flourishing human presence. ...