An ancient seabed · Kazakhstan
Mangystau
White cliffs, stone spheres and underground mosques by the Caspian.
Mangystau, on the eastern shore of the Caspian Sea, was once a seabed. Today it is a desert of white chalk cliffs, canyons and strange rock formations. The cliffs of Bozjyra, the field of stone spheres at Torysh and the lone mesa of Sherkala feel like another planet.
The region is also a place of pilgrimage, with underground mosques such as Beket-Ata carved into the rock. It requires a 4×4, camping or simple stays, and a few days.
- Time needed
- 3–4 days
- Best time
- April–May and September–October
- Getting there
- Fly to Aktau, then travel by 4×4 with a driver and guide.
Don’t miss
Highlights
- 01
Bozjyra
White cliffs and fang-like pinnacles on the Ustyurt edge.
- 02
Torysh
A valley scattered with giant stone balls.
- 03
Sherkala
A mesa shaped like a yurt, or a sleeping lion.
- 04
Beket-Ata
An underground mosque and pilgrimage site.
Nearby
Continue your journey
