Exploring Martian Terrain: Traverse the otherworldly landscapes, hallowed grounds, and Caspian seashore of Mangystau, Kazakhstan
Mangystau, located in southwest Kazakhstan, is a region known for its otherworldly landscapes and diverse geography. This enchanting region is embracing its maritime potential, transforming Kenderli Bay into a modern seaside resort.
The upcoming Kenderli Airport, expected to open in early 2026, will further improve access to the region, especially for travellers heading to the Caspian coast. Reaching Mangystau is becoming easier, with Aktau serving as the main entry point for flights from major Kazakhstan cities and international destinations like Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Türkiye, Georgia, and the UAE.
Aktau, the region's main city, offers a rocky trail along the cliffs for wide views of the Caspian Sea and is home to the first five-star, all-inclusive resort in Central Asia. Not far from Aktau, Kenderli Bay boasts shallow waters, a 25-kilometer stretch of sandy beach, and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family getaways.
Mangystau counts 362 sacred sites and many cultural landmarks. Two of these, Beket-Ata and Shopan-Ata, are underground mosques carved into the rock between the 12th and 18th centuries. Organised tours to these spiritual landmarks run regularly from Aktau.
Zhygylgan, located along Mangystau's northern coastline, is a unique landform that looks like the ground has cracked and collapsed. Tours to Zhygylgan often include visits to underground mosques along the route.
The towering "teeth" of Bozjyra rise 250 meters above the Ustyurt Platüroeau and contain fossilised seashells. Bozjyra Gorge in Mangystau is a must-visit, with iconic white cliffs that are remnants of the Tethys Ocean. By autumn, a new visitor centre with a panoramic terrace will open in Bozjyra.
Notable attractions in Mangystau also include the striped hills of Kyzylkup, Mount Bokty, Tuzbair Salt Pan, the mysterious Torysh Valley of Balls, and the Senek Sand Dunes.
In 2024, over 462,000 visitors came to explore Mangystau, and that number is expected to rise sharply under Kazakhstan's 2025-2029 national tourism strategy. Private investors have been involved in negotiations for the construction of tourism and hotel complexes in Mangystau, with projects focusing on expanding hotel and infrastructure capacities.
Yersin Ibrashev, the Minister of Culture and Sports of Kazakhstan, states that Mangystau is one of the most promising destinations in Kazakhstan, with investments, new projects, and heritage protection making it ready for the world. These necropolises have become important pilgrimage destinations in Central Asia and were added to UNESCO's Tentative List in 2024.
The best time to visit Mangystau is between April and July or in early autumn, when temperatures are milder. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Mangystau offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
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