Mangystau Region

A desert plateau region on the eastern Caspian shore, known for its otherworldly geology, underground mosques and the seaside city of Aktau.

Mangystau Region lies in southwestern Kazakhstan, with the Caspian Sea to the west and the Ustyurt Plateau to the east. The landscapes are spectacular: the white cliffs of Bozzhyra Canyon, the Torysh valley of spherical stones and colorful desert strata are stunning. Underground mosques such as Beket-Ata are important pilgrimage sites, and the regional capital, Aktau, has a Caspian waterfront. Attractions are far apart and mostly in the desert, so you usually need to hire a 4WD vehicle with a driver. The best seasons are April–June and September–October, and midsummer is scorching. The main gateway is Aktau International Airport.

Destinations

• Mangystau

Itineraries

• Mangystau Wilderness Off-Road & Camping Loop – An off-road loop from Aktau to the Valley of Balls, white chalk salt flats, and Bozzhyra, with a visit to Beket-Ata.
• Grand Kazakhstan Tour: Four Major Regions – Connect the Tian Shan, Silk Road cities, Caspian wilderness, and the capital with domestic flights to experience four d…