A series by Arizona-based photographer Andrea Koesters. “Aravaipa” means “laughing waters” in the Apache language. Deemed a “primitive” area by the Bureau of Land Management, this formerly populated town is part of the Sonoran desert where rural dwellings, desert landscapes and natural beings run wild. According to Koesters it continues to unveil its cryptic history today:

“‘Aravaipa’ details this mysterious place as I’ve experienced it — the geology, people and animals who all contribute to the Southwestern desert I call home.”

See more images from “Aravaipa” below.