What to see in Mangistau in 24 hours?

With the modern pace of life, it is often very difficult to plan a long trip, but you want to escape from the city bustle. If you have only one day to relax in Aktau, we are happy to offer you 3 options to make this day unforgettable.

Option 1:

Our first option is suitable for lovers of natural attractions, spectacular scenery and trekking.

On this colorful route, you can visit the amazing canyons-Tamshaly. In summer, the canyon literally blooms due to the abundance of moisture that seeps and flows from the ceiling of the magnificent natural grotto and from the steep walls of the gorge. The canyon looks like a fabulous oasis with lush green vegetation, with a picturesque lake, the banks of which are overgrown with reeds. Against the background of this amazing nature, the sound inside the canyon is literally filled with life. An unimaginable number of birds, croaking frogs and the sound of the wind will plunge You into a virgin unity with nature.

The next stop will be no less picturesque and amazing Cape zhygylgan. Zhygylgan is a colossal sinkhole where you can walk among the intricate fragments of rocks and see the amazing tracks of prehistoric saber-toothed tigers and primitive horses frozen in the rocks. After long trekking routes in the stone jungles of Zhygylgan, you will find a road to Aktau and a well-deserved rest with a swim in the sea.

Route: Aktau city-Tamshaly canyon-zhygylgan dip – Aktau city

The total mileage of this route is 315 kilometers. Most of the way will run on a good paved road-202 kilometers. The remaining 105 kilometers will have to be driven on a dirt road. The recommended length of the trekking route along the picturesque zhygylgan canyon is about eight kilometers with an ascent to the plateau and subsequent descent

Seasonality of the route: recommended time-summer

Option 2:

Our second option is suitable for lovers of architectural attractions and history lovers. On this route, you can enjoy the unique architecture of the underground shrines of Mangyshlak and immerse yourself in the amazing history of the region.

Underground mosques are a very rare and unique phenomenon in the history of Sufism. Shrines are carved into the rocks and are especially revered Holy places. The stones of these shrines are not just ancient vaults and walls, they are witnesses of significant achievements and historical events, the memory of which has been carried through the centuries. A trip to the underground mosques of Mangistau will leave a lasting impression even for the experienced and sophisticated traveler. This trip will give you unforgettable memories, spiritual elevation and open the world of heart and soulfulness.

Route: Aktau City-Sultan EPE-Shakpak ATA-Karaman ATA-Aktau city.

Mosque Sultan EPE is an amazing carved into the rock a sacred place, which is characterized by a unique spiritual energy. Not far from the Shrine, you can find a well with water, which according to ancient legends has medicinal properties.

The second point in our trip is one of the most famous and beautiful mosques in Kazakhstan – the Shakpak ATA mosque. In ancient times, this Shrine was the Temple of the Sun, and at the moment it is considered one of the most revered shrines and one of the most important monuments of architecture, culture and history of the tenth century.

The last point before returning to Aktau will be the Karaman ATA mosque. This revered Saint is popularly considered the main patron Saint of young people. The special healing energy of this mosque has long attracted travelers who come here for the Holy blessing of the Holy elder Karaman ATA.

This route is year-round.

The total mileage of this route is 369 km. Most of the way will pass on a good paved road 229 km, 55 km of the way will run on a grader, and 85 km on a dirt road.

Option 3:

Our third option is suitable for those who do not want to leave the city, and road adventures prefer a comfortable stay in the city.

For such people, we suggest starting your morning in Aktau with a leisurely walk along the beautiful embankment, which is deservedly considered the pearl of the city. After a relaxing walk under the morning sea breeze, you can go to one of the beautiful cafes or coffee shops on the waterfront and enjoy a wonderful Breakfast.

After such a relaxing morning, it's time to get active. We offer to go to the water Park, which is located on the territory of Rixos Waterworld Aktau. Exciting water rides or relaxing SPA treatments-you can choose. Suffice it to say that this luxury hotel in every sense is located on the most picturesque coast of the Caspian sea, and here beach lovers will find warm sandy beaches and an incredibly blue sea. The hotel is only 20 km from Aktau and the road will not take long.

Nature lovers who do not want to leave the city should definitely visit the rock trail. This site with an amazing rock relief is located within the city limits and will allow You to plunge into the amazing nature of the Caspian sea without leaving the borders of Aktau. The length of the trail is 1.5 km, along which there are 24 viewing platforms, from which residents and visitors can enjoy the impressive seascapes.

After a walk along the rock path, it's time to eat. We recommend visiting the unique Aquarius restaurant at the Caspian Riviera Grand Palace. In addition to a delicious dinner, you can also enjoy views of two huge aquariums with rare breeds of sturgeon.

In the evening, you can go to the Nurmukhan Zhanturin music and drama theater or just walk along the embankment enjoying the sound of waves and the cries of gulls.