Top Sights in Mangystau

The Karynzharyk Depression boasts stunning, otherworldly landscapes that seem lifted from a sci-fi movie. Its remote location in Mangystau makes it a full day's journey away, attracting only the most adventurous and well-prepared explorers.
Nestled in the southern reaches of Mangystau, near the western edge of the Ustyurt plateau and just 25 km from Turkmenistan, the depression spans 2000 square kilometers. Its lowest point dips 75 meters below sea level. This vast area includes the Kenderli salt marsh, covering 10% of the territory, the sandy Karynzharyk desert with dunes reaching 15 meters high, and the Onere mountains-islands, towering up to 150 meters, alongside the brackish Onere spring.The five mountains, particularly the trio known locally as the "Three Brothers," are remnants of the ancient Tethys ocean floor. Perched above the salt marsh, they create a breathtaking vista that changes with the weather and time of day. The landscape is especially mesmerizing after rainfall, when a thin layer of water over the salt marsh transforms it into a vast mirror.

Bozzhyra is the crowning jewel of Mangystau, unmatched in its grandeur and beauty. Visiting it last during a trip is recommended, as its magnificence overshadows other sites in the region. Missing out on Bozzhyra while in Mangystau would be like skipping the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Great Pyramids in Egypt.Situated on the western edge of the Ustyurt plateau, Bozzhyra is a land of colossal cliffs and standalone mountain islands made of limestone. Its name, derived from Kazakh, means "gray ravine" or "gray-blue depression". The terrain, shaped over time by water, wind, and geological forces, was once part of the ancient Tethys Ocean's floor.The limestone layers, which accumulated over hundreds of millions of years, reach up to 250 meters in height and contain fossils of ancient sea life. After tectonic shifts elevated the Ustyurt plateau, erosion sculpted the land into its current form, a process that continues to change the landscape even now.

The Airakty stand as a group of stunning mountains with sharp cliffs and unusual crevices that look almost handcrafted, yet are the remarkable results of water, wind, and time. Each mountain appears as a formidable fortress, their edges resembling towers, earning them the moniker “Valley of Castles”. This evocative name was coined by Taras Shevchenko, a Ukrainian writer and poet, who found himself exiled in Mangystau during the mid-19th century and also created the first drawings of these mountains.Formed from limestone, the Airakty Mountains were part of the ancient Tethys Ocean seabed around 40 million years ago. Tectonic activity eventually elevated the land, the waters receded, and over time, natural forces began sculpting the rock layers into their current forms. The mountains have undergone dramatic transformations due to rainfall and persistent winds, carving out the incredible reliefs we see on their sheer walls today. Although they are already millions of years old, the erosion continues; in a thousand years, their shapes will have changed, and in a million years, they might be gone altogether.

The Kyzylkup tract, nicknamed "Tiramisu", is an array of vibrant hills with red and white layers of ancient chalk rock, sprawling across the Kazakh steppe. Local guides coined the term "Tiramisu" as a marketing ploy, drawing a parallel to the famous Italian dessert due to the similar appearance of the hills' slopes and cliffs.This site's original name, Kyzylkup, stems from a long-gone reservoir in the area. In Kazakh, 'kyzyl' means red, and 'kup' translates to a lot, aptly describing the abundance of red hues.Like almost all the attractions in Mangistau, the Kyzylkup tract's formation is credited to the ancient Tethys Ocean, which existed from about 850 to 60 million years ago. Unique to this area, the new layers of the ocean floor were periodically infused with iron, lending them a distinctive red color. You'll also find layers with yellow and brown tints, resulting from the mixing of various minerals.

The Tuzbair salt marsh in Mangystau is a photographer's dream come true! The expansive white salt flats stretch to the horizon, bordered by towering white cliffs. These scenes offer countless opportunities for stunning photography, especially when mirages create the illusion of glistening lakes in the distance. After rainfall, the area transforms into a vast watery mirror that beautifully reflects the sky above."Sor Tuzbair," with "sor" meaning salt marsh in Kazakh, is a vast area measuring 15 by 4 kilometers. The cliffs are composed of ancient Cretaceous deposits from the Tethys Ocean, soaring over 60 meters high. The wind, water, and passage of time have sculpted the rocks into fantastic shapes, including the notable "Arch."The Arch at Tuzbair is a natural formation carved by erosion. Climbing through it is possible but challenging due to the steep and unstable terrain. Nearby, fascinating rock formations have also been shaped by natural forces over time.Yet, Tuzbair isn't just about the landscapes. It's a prime spot for fossil hunting, with remnants of the Tethys Ocean's marine life, like shark teeth and sea urchin skeletons, waiting to be discovered under a fine layer of sediment.

The Shakpak-ata underground mosque stands as a prominent religious landmark in Mangystau. Despite being dubbed "underground," it's actually carved into a chalk rock on a slight elevation, dating back to between the 10th and 13th centuries. This architectural marvel showcases Kazakhstan's exquisite stone craftsmanship. Centuries ago, the mosque was a center for sacred Sufi rituals, dances, and healing practices.The mosque's name, "Father-flint," stems from two possible origins. One ties to nearby flint deposits. The other suggests a Sufi named Shakpak-ata, known for his weapons' shimmer in combat, took up residence there. Legends paint Shakpak-ata as a powerful figure with fiery fingernails, spending his last years as a hermit. He was known for healing and aiding people, attracting pilgrims worldwide even posthumously.

The Beket-ata Mosque, a revered pilgrimage site in Mangystau, was established in the 18th century by the renowned religious figure and Sufi, Beket Myrzagululy. Famed for his mystical life, the mosque sits in a remote desert area at the base of the Ustyurt Chink, 230 km east of Aktau.
This unique mosque, carved into a large rock, comprises four small halls. Some halls feature light windows in the ceiling; one contains Beket-ata's remains, another his staff, a third is the burial site of his sister, and the fourth is a women-only prayer hall. The halls' ceilings range from 2.7 to 3.5 meters high.Born in 1750 near Atyrau, Beket was drawn to religion and science from a young age. He studied under the famous Sufi Bakirjan-khoja in Khiva's Shergazi-Khan madrassah. Over seven years, he absorbed extensive knowledge, even memorizing the Koran in just two years. Returning to his homeland, Beket began constructing underground mosques, with his first, the Ak Mosque, built at 24. This mosque later became the final resting place for his family members.
Beket passed away in 1813 or 1814 and was interred in his namesake mosque. He constructed four mosques during his lifetime, with some historians suggesting up to seven. Beket's life inspired numerous legends, such as his ability to teleport and his seasonal retreats to his mosques. Renowned for his peaceful nature, he was titled "batyr" (hero) and revered as a "auliye" (saint). Today, he remains a venerated figure in Kazakhstan's history.

"Fallen Earth" is the translation of "Zhygylgan," a massive sinkhole in western Mangystau that plunges over 50 meters deep and sprawls across nearly 9 square kilometers. The name perfectly captures this natural wonder characterized by enormous rock formations that tumbled into place thousands of years ago. But what's the story behind this intriguing landscape, and what makes Zhygylgan so captivating?Located about 110 km north of Aktau, Zhygylgan suddenly emerges on the horizon, interrupting the endless steppe with its sharp cliffs, reminiscent of a layered cake. Spanning over 2 km in width and 4 km in length, this geological marvel concludes at the Caspian Sea's shores. The rocky formations scattered throughout are 35-50 meters thick, predominantly made up of limestone.Zhygylgan's formation is rooted in tectonics. Scientists believe that ages ago, a powerful horizontal shift caused the sturdier top layer, termed the "shell," to compress the softer clay and sand layers beneath it, driving them towards the Caspian Sea.

The Kok-Kala tract, alternatively known as Kokala, is an enchanting small gorge filled with strikingly bright and colorful rocks. Here, layers of multicolored limestone, clay, and ancient sediments come together to create a visual spectacle. Scientists have traced the origins of these rock formations back to the Jurassic period, connecting us to a world millions of years old. The name “Kok-Kala” itself translates to "Blue Fortress" or "Blue Mountain," adding a layer of intrigue to the site.As you draw closer to the Kokala Gorge, the light-colored rocks begin to stand out sharply against the surrounding orange-brown hills. This awe-inspiring landscape is the result of tectonic activity, which caused a massive layer of prehistoric rock to rise above the land. Over time, the combined forces of water, wind, and the passage of millennia have revealed this stunning natural wonder. While the gorge may not boast dinosaur bones or teeth, it provides a unique opportunity to explore the geological history of the epochs. Dark layers within the rocks bear traces of plants from the Jurassic era, with scientists dating these ancient forest remnants at 170-200 million years old.

Karaman-ata stands as one of the oldest necropolises in the Mangystau region, with its earliest tombs tracing back to the 8th and 9th centuries. This site also includes an underground mosque built in the 12th and 13th centuries, where, according to local lore, the remains of the revered Kazakh Sufi sage Karaman-ata are enshrined. Both the mosque and the surrounding necropolis have been designated as nationally significant monuments in Kazakhstan.Spanning over 7 hectares, the necropolis houses hundreds of graves of Kazakh and Turkmen locals. The most ancient gravestones originate from the era of the Oguz and Kipchak peoples in the 8th century, while the majority of the burial sites date from the latter half of the 19th century, associated with the Adai, a Kazakh tribe predominant in this area. The graves are often marked by small, ornately decorated mausoleums with reliefs and paintings. The latest mausoleum was erected in 1970 during the Soviet period.

Torysh is an absolutely incredible spot and a major highlight of Mangystau. It’s home to thousands of stone spheres, ranging in size from 1 to 3 meters in diameter, scattered far and wide across the area. That’s why people also refer to it as the “Valley of Balls.” It almost looks like giants left their toys behind, with the stones serving as remnants of a game of bowling, billiards, or golf. Thankfully, scientists have done the work to let us know that these fascinating geological features came about naturally.
In scientific terms, these round rocks are called “nodules.” They formed through a process where minerals or mineral substances built up around certain objects, layer by layer. These objects could have been anything from shark teeth and shells to rocks and plants, anything that attracted minerals in the water of the Tethys Ocean. Over time, these deposits built up and fossilized. Because the environment they formed in was uniform, they took on this spherical shape. If conditions had been different, less even, the nodules would have grown into flatter shapes.

Mount Sherkala stands as one of the defining symbols of Mangystau in Kazakhstan. This impressive limestone mountain rises majestically from the steppe, carrying a sense of mystery and allure. Numerous legends swirl around it, and from different perspectives, it can appear as a giant Kazakh yurt, an inverted bowl, or a sleeping lion. It’s this last image that has inspired its name—Sherkala, translating from Persian to "lion's fortress" or "lion's mountain".
Sherkala is situated about 180 kilometers from Aktau, the capital of the Mangystau region, and near the village of Shetpe (18 km away). The mountain itself stands at 307 meters tall (332 meters above sea level), stretching 1000 meters from north to south and 650 meters from east to west. A walk around the entire base of the mountain takes just about an hour. While its southern face presents a daunting, steep climb, the northern side is more gentle, featuring numerous small gorges and caves. Reaching the summit without specialized climbing equipment is practically impossible due to the steepness of all its sides.

Saura Gorge, located on the eastern coast of the Caspian Sea, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. This unique site is situated just 100 kilometers from the city of Aktau.
At the heart of the gorge lies a small freshwater lake known as Karakup, or Turtle Lake, which serves as a habitat for frogs and freshwater turtles. The lake reaches a depth of approximately 5 meters and is surrounded by towering 50-meter cliffs with a spherical shape resembling a shanyrak (the central element of a traditional Kazakh yurt). The lake's shores are adorned with lush greenery, creating a cozy oasis in this arid region. Here, you can find Kazakh lilac, fragrant mint, and harmala plants.
In addition to its natural beauty, Saura is also valued for the historical relics discovered in the gorge. In the last century, an archaeological site was found in the northwest of the area—Saura Fortress, a relic of the Bronze Age. It is believed that this might have been one of the stops along the Great Silk Road. Near the fortress, a stone tomb was uncovered at a depth of 2.5 meters. Inside were the poorly preserved remains of an adult woman from the Early Iron Age. The tomb also contained two clay vessels, an iron knife, several beads, and a spindle whorl. It is thought that the fortress was destroyed by an earthquake

Ybykty Canyon, a gem of the Mangystau region, may be small, but it packs a breathtaking visual punch with its winding, serpentine formations. Its cliffs twist and turn, creating unique silhouettes against the sky. The canyon walls feature an array of hole patterns that evoke images of honeycombs, bone textures under a microscope, or aerated chocolate, earning it the nickname "Ybykty Porous Gorge."Dating back to the Paleogene era, some 60-40 million years ago, Ybykty is a geological masterpiece once submerged beneath the Neotethys Ocean. Over time, rainfall has sculpted the limestone into sharp relief, while rains today still etch into the stone, leaving a canvas where moss and algae sketch out past water levels.The canyon's peculiar pockmarks were formed by ancient marine organisms or by chemical reactions deep in the ocean's pressure.

The Kentibaba Necropolis, one of the sacred sites of the Mangystau region, is a place where history was born. This heritage site, dating back to the 10th-15th centuries, is located 56 kilometers north of Fort-Shevchenko, between the villages of Shetpe and Shayyr.
Architecturally, the Kentibaba Necropolis features a rectangular domed structure with pointed ends on both sides. Standing in an open field, this unique monument leaves a profound impression on all who visit."Our ancestors said, 'One who does not know their past has no future.' " Those who truly understand the meaning of these words and seek to delve into history come to visit this sanctuary.
According to legend, Kentibaba was a devout, pious, and holy man who preached the teachings of Islam. For this reason, locals consider the necropolis a sacred place.It is evident that the necropolis, regarded as a city of the dead rather than the living, holds its own mysteries. According to some reports, Kentibaba contains 130 memorial monuments. It is also believed that individuals who perished in war are buried here.
The walls of the burial site are adorned with depictions of various animals, including argali, horses, and camels, as well as triangular symbols (amulets), patterns, and illustrations of an open palm. These designs were created with the belief that they would protect the sanctuary from evil forces.

The Tamshaly Tract is a priceless gift of nature. This remarkable tourist destination is located in the Mangystau region, 35 kilometers east of Fort-Shevchenko.
Stretching 12 kilometers, the tract begins on the shores of the Caspian Sea on one side and is surrounded by steep cliffs on the other. It is believed that a river once flowed through this gorge, cascading down the cliffs. However, the river no longer exists. Today, only droplets trickle down the cliff edges, forming a small freshwater lake at the base.
Just 3 kilometers from Tamshaly lies the small village of Karagan, which was once an important point on a maritime trade route.What sets Tamshaly apart from other tourist attractions in Mangystau is its year-round accessibility. The area is alive with visitors in every season, and the canyon transforms with the passing months. In summer, it is lush and green, while in autumn, the landscape bursts into vibrant shades of yellow.

Kapamsay is a stunning gorge located in the heart of the multicolored landscapes of Mangystau. Stretching 4 kilometers from south to north, its white and pale-yellow chalk walls rise to heights of up to 70 meters. To the northeast stands Mount Kapam, towering 200 meters above sea level. The gorge is adorned with mulberry and hawthorn trees, which add a unique charm to the ravine.
Scientists speculate that in the distant past, a narrow but deep river flowed at the base of the chalk cliffs. Although the river no longer exists, a grotto with an opening in its ceiling remains, creating a green oasis in this harsh environment. Water collecting under the arch nurtures a small grove, preserving its lush beauty.
It is believed that in ancient times, people lived in the caves of Kapamsay and operated workshops for crafting tools from flint and quartz. Even today, travelers enjoy collecting quartz stones, which can be used not only as decorative items but also for purifying drinking water.

The Sultan-epe Necropolis in the Mangystau region is a complex that includes an underground mosque, numerous monuments, a garden with a well, and ancient settlements.
In the history of Kazakhstan, Sultan-epe holds a particularly significant role and is venerated among believers as a saint. He is commonly referred to as the protector of sailors, as he often assisted mariners navigating the Caspian waters during his lifetime, earning this honorable title.
While many of the necropolis's landmarks date to more recent times, archaeological materials from the prehistoric period have also been discovered in its vicinity. One distinctive feature of the burial grounds is the wooden poles that rise above the graves of the devout.
Believers and tourists follow the tradition of tying small fabric knots to the poles and leaving money, which is intended for those in need.

Mount Bokty is a state-protected natural monument located in the Karakiyan district of the Mangystau region. This isolated mountain, standing 165 meters tall and situated 8 meters above sea level, is likely familiar to every Kazakhstani, as it is featured on the 1,000 tenge banknote.The distinguishing feature of this sedimentary mountain is its near-perfect trapezoidal shape and vividly stratified layers of rock. The base starts with white and yellowish hues, transitioning into pink and red tones, and finally shifting to brown shades towards the middle. This striking appearance is the result of continuous winds and erosion over time.To many tourists, Mount Bokty resembles an inverted ship. From another perspective, it looks like a pyramid sculpted by nature, showcasing its remarkable beauty and uniqueness.The nearest city to this natural landmark is Zhanaozen, located approximately 90 kilometers from Mount Bokty. Visiting this site is a must for anyone traveling to Mangystau.
Firstly, Mount Bokty stands out for its breathtaking beauty. Additionally, its location makes it a crossroads for reaching other notable attractions, such as the Senek Sands, Bozzhyra Gorge, and the Beket-Ata and Shopan-Ata Mosques

The Shopan-Ata Necropolis and Underground Mosque is one of the sacred pilgrimage sites in the Mangystau region. It is a remarkable example of Sufi architecture. Located 20 kilometers northwest of the village of Senek in the Karakiyan district, the site lies along the ancient Khorezm caravan route.
The necropolis features various historical monuments, including ancient fences, tombstones, and boulders characteristic of medieval Turkmen and Kazakh culture. The mosque, carved into the rock, consists of 12 interconnected small rooms, each serving a specific purpose. One room is designated for religious ceremonies, another for teaching children, and a third for daily needs.
The mosque’s large hall, measuring 7.1 by 5.1 meters, is naturally illuminated by a 1.5-meter-wide opening in the ceiling. At the center of the hall is a sacred space marked by a tree measuring 1.5 to 1.8 meters in length. The tomb of Shopan-Ata lies deep beneath the left wall, while the graves of his wife and daughter are located near the entrance.

Senek Sands, Mangystau

The Senek Sands is a true desert, spanning over 8 kilometers in the Karakiyan district of the Mangystau region, near the village of Senek. The sands are located 200 km from the city of Aktau, and the best way to reach them is by car, preferably a 4x4 vehicle.
The dunes of the Senek sand are known not only for their unique landscape, which can be admired from afar, but also for their shifting, migratory nature. Tourists travel from far and wide to experience the golden sands of Senek and touch them with their own hands.
It is known that a few years ago, the sands began to slowly shift and encroach on the village of Senek. However, this issue was addressed at the governmental level, and thanks to sandblasting work and the planting of desert-resistant, deeply rooted plants such as saxaul and juzgun, the threat was mitigated.If you want to visit Senek, you need to travel through the city of Zhanaozen. After about 20 kilometers from Zhanaozen, turn off towards the village of Senek from the direction of Kyzylsay. If you continue a bit further, you will begin to see the sand dunes from a distance, with heights reaching 25-30 meters. If you're already here, we also recommend visiting the picturesque Mount Bokty, which is located near Senek.

Baisary Gorge, Mangystau

Baisary Gorge is a remarkable attraction in Mangystau, a small desert area known for its grass-like rock formations. Over time, water and wind have eroded the local rock layers, creating bizarre and intricate natural formations. These columns have appeared on the slopes of the mountains, where water has gradually worn away the local stone over many years. Nearby is another small gorge, Kamysty.
When traveling to the panoramic views of Bozzhyra and Mount Bokty, a visit to Baisary Gorge is essential. The region is best explored with a 4x4 vehicle, as there are no paved roads, and visitors should be prepared for dusty paths. As there is no tourist infrastructure in the area, we take all necessary camping equipment with us.

Karagiye Basin, Mangystau

Karakia Basin is considered the deepest basin in Asia and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the Mangystau region. Located 50 kilometers from the regional center, Aktau, Karakia Basin is the lowest point in Kazakhstan, sitting 132 meters below sea level, and ranks fifth in the world for depth.
This unique tourist destination amazes visitors with its extraordinary beauty, resembling a deep bowl. The basin stretches 85 kilometers in length and 25 kilometers in width. Another fascinating feature is that while the basin is often referred to as the "home of rain," its microclimate is extremely dry. Meteorologists link this to the hot air at the bottom of the basin, which generates rainclouds in the atmosphere. According to scientists, the basin forms rainclouds during the summer, which stretch for several kilometers, as confirmed by underground observations and satellite imagery.
The bottom of the basin is covered with salt flats, and the flora consists primarily of low-flowering wormwood.
There are several theories about the ancient Turkic meaning of the word "Қарақия" (Karakia), such as "black descent," "black mouth," or "black slope," which aptly correspond to the external appearance of the basin.

Onere Oasis, Mangystau

Onere Oasis is a water spring and the largest water source in the Ustyurt Reserve. The well was drilled during the Soviet era by Soviet engineers and geologists who were conducting research on the Kenderli salt marsh. The length of the stream from the Onere spring is 8 km.
The Onere spring is located on the Ustyurt Plateau in the Mangystau region of Kazakhstan, within the territory of the Ustyurt Nature Reserve in the Karakiyan district. When the well was drilled, the water flooded the surrounding area, forming three small lakes with crystal-clear water. During the summer, these lakes offer a place to swim, and the area around the spring is a small desert oasis. Wild animals, such as wolves, foxes, and gazelles, come to the spring, and various birds migrate here. It's a great place for observing wildlife in its natural habitat.

Bolyoyik Cave, Mangystau

The karst cave Balayuk, Bulyoiyk is located in the Aksaksaul tract in the southeast of the Ustyurt Plateau, south of the Kolyniyazkolka tract and 52 kilometers southeast of the Karynzharyk depression. Karst caves are rare in the plains of Mangyshlak, but they can be found in Ustyurt. The largest one is located 2.5 km southeast of the Balayuk necropolis, the cave was discovered in 1959 by S.E. Petrov and A.N. Slyusarev. The entrance to the cave is located in a karst depression 50 meters long, 6 - 15 meters wide, 7 meters deep. The cave consists of 3 halls 15-20 meters long, 8-10 meters wide and 15-30 meters high. The halls are connected by 40-70° inclined corridors. The halls are at a depth of 28, 75 and 120 meters. In the last hall there is a lake 20 meters long and 10 meters wide with water temperature from +10 to +13°. The taste of the water is salty and bitter. At the lake the altimeter shows a minus drop of 70 to 100 meters.

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