Do you dream of lounging by the sea, but also want a cultural vacation? Why not go on vacation to Central Asia? In Kazakhstan, the seaside city of Aktau will certainly appeal to you.
When to go to Aktau?
Aktau is located on the shore of the Caspian Sea, and it is beautiful in any weather and season. But if you like a seaside vacation in the classical sense of the word, it is better to come in summer.
The air temperature in Aktau rises up to 40 ° C, so you will not leave without a golden suntan. The water temperature varies greatly, but the bathing season lasts from June to September: usually at this time the index does not fall below 20 ° C.
If you can not come to Aktau in summer, do not get upset: the trip can be postponed to winter. At this time of the year you can see big swan flocks on the seashore, so it would be good to take some seeds with you.
No less interest among tourists and causes and March, at the end of which (22nd number) falls the Kazakh New Year – Nauruz. There are national games, dances and songs – a great opportunity to feel the atmosphere of the country. Yurts sell refreshments, holidaymakers swing on swings – the city transforms before your eyes.
Autumn and spring in Aktau are a time for romantics. At this time of year it is quite windy and cool in the city, there are not many tourists, and you can enjoy the tranquility on the waterfront.
What can a tourist see in Aktau?
Going to Aktau for the first time? Then you should start your acquaintance with the city by visiting sights such as:
Bekket-Ata Mosque
Among the advantages are the amazing acoustics and the beautiful view. You can reach the mosque only by mountain and winding paths, so it is better to go to the attractions in the company of a guide.
This is the largest mosque in Western Kazakhstan. The main feature of the mosque is the type of construction. It is cut into the rock, but despite the always open doors, there is no draughts in the mosque.
Karagiye Hollow.
This is the deepest dry depression of the country, the name of which can be translated as “black mouth” or “slope”: both translations accurately reflect the essence of the sight. The bowl is flanked by precipitous slopes and towering mountains. The view of the Karagiye is both impressive and frightening. Experienced tourists note that the surrounding area resembles biblical landscapes near the Dead Sea.
Earlier over the hollow was the salty water of the Caspian Sea, and today, archaeologists still find ancient fossils here. The relief at the bottom of the depression is still forming, so move along the bottom should be especially careful: you can step on the crack and fall through.
Fort Shevchenko
The town is located 143 km from Aktau, but it is definitely worth a visit. It is a good opportunity to get acquainted with the history of the city (formerly Aktau “bore the name” of Taras Shevchenko). Among the interesting sights are the Armenian chapel of the XIX century, a museum and the ruins of a Russian fortress.
The Mangistau Desert
Lake Saura is a must-see here: the gorge is surrounded by sheer cliffs, thickets of rakita, willow, lilac and mint. It is a real oasis in the desert with beautiful nature.
Within the city there are sandy beaches, which are equipped with everything you need for a good rest and entertainment: sun loungers, umbrellas, stores with ice cream and drinks. Outside the city there are recreation centers and boarding houses for private beach lovers.
Aktau is the most mysterious place not only of Kazakhstan but of the whole Central Asia, which will amaze fans of natural sights. In the tours from Minzifa Travel you can see with your own eyes the beauty of Aktau and take memorable photos. Contact us by WhatsApp or e-mail travel@minzifatravel.com for more information. We look forward to your messages and calls!
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