Katutau Mountains
Қатутау
A range of low hills west of Aktau, formed by cooled volcanic lava, with black and red rocks shaped into bizarre pillars and lava-flow patterns.
Katutau means "Harsh Mountains". It is a range of low hills west of Aktau, formed when volcanic lava cooled. Weathered black, brown and dark red rock has become mushroom-shaped stones, pillars and wavy lava-flow patterns that look like frozen rivers of magma. Most visitors stop on the way to Aktau and follow a short trail into the rock maze, which takes about an hour. There are no route markers in the rock area, so do not go deep alone or leave your group. The rock absorbs a lot of heat in summer, so drink plenty of water. Together with Aktau and the Kosbastau oasis, it forms the eastern route of the park, and you need a permit for this route, bought at the Basshi administration office.
Opening hours
Daytime (national park permit required)