Kazakhstan, with its majestic mountains, endless steppes, and crystal-clear lakes, offers unique natural landscapes. The country’s nature reserves and national parks are true treasures where nature remains pristine. Here’s a guide to some must-visit locations.
Altyn-Emel National Park
Located in central Kazakhstan, this park is famous for its sand dunes, geological formations, and unique landscapes. It features real dunes that create a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere.
Bayanaul National Park
Home to remarkable rock formations like the "Elephant" and the "Wish Stone," this park is a favorite among tourists and photographers. Situated in central Kazakhstan, it boasts picturesque lakes and unusual stone formations.
Charyn National Park
Established in 2004 and covering over 127,000 hectares in the Almaty region, Charyn Park is renowned for the Charyn Canyon and its relic ash tree grove, which are considered significant natural sites in Kazakhstan.
Sairam-Ugam National Park
Located in southern Kazakhstan, Sairam-Ugam encompasses various ecosystems, from mountain forests to alpine meadows. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site protecting rare species like the snow leopard and the Tian Shan brown bear.
Kolsai Lakes National Park
Founded in 2007 and situated in the Almaty region, Kolsai Lakes Park spans 161,000 hectares. It features diverse landscapes including steppes, icy peaks, canyons, and rivers, and is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve
Situated in central Kazakhstan, Korgalzhyn is known for its extensive salt lakes and wetlands. It is home to rare species such as the black swan and the great crested grebe.
Naursum Nature Reserve
Located in the northwest of Kazakhstan, Naursum is noted for its varied landscapes, ranging from steppes and forest-steppes to scenic lakes. It provides habitat for numerous wildlife, including bison and other rare species.
Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve
One of Kazakhstan's oldest reserves, Aksu-Zhabagly is in the southeast, in the Zhambyl region. It spans a wide range of ecosystems, from alpine meadows to forested areas and rivers, and is home to snow leopards and mountain goats, as well as alpine flora and fauna.
Markakol Nature Reserve
Located in eastern Kazakhstan, Markakol is renowned for its high-altitude lakes and landscapes. It features rare flora and fauna and offers pristine natural scenery.
Usturt Nature Reserve
In southwestern Kazakhstan, Usturt covers desert and semi-desert landscapes with impressive geological structures. It is known for its rich wildlife, including rare species like gazelles and saigas, as well as unique flora surviving in extreme conditions. The reserve also contains valuable archaeological sites.
