Bozzhyra Tract, Mangystau

Bozzhyra is the crowning jewel of Mangystau, unmatched in its grandeur and beauty. Visiting it last during a trip is recommended, as its magnificence overshadows other sites in the region. Missing out on Bozzhyra while in Mangystau would be like skipping the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Great Pyramids in Egypt.

Situated on the western edge of the Ustyurt plateau, Bozzhyra is a land of colossal cliffs and standalone mountain islands made of limestone. Its name, derived from Kazakh, means "gray ravine" or "gray-blue depression". The terrain, shaped over time by water, wind, and geological forces, was once part of the ancient Tethys Ocean's floor.

The limestone layers, which accumulated over hundreds of millions of years, reach up to 250 meters in height and contain fossils of ancient sea life. After tectonic shifts elevated the Ustyurt plateau, erosion sculpted the land into its current form, a process that continues to change the landscape even now.

Bozzhyra is a protected natural park, spanning over 3,000 square kilometers. However, the most famous viewpoints and rock formations are concentrated within about 40 square kilometers. A quick tour of these can take 2-3 hours, not including travel time between viewpoints.

To reach Bozzhyra from Aktau, which is 270 km east, you'll travel mostly on excellent asphalt roads, with the last 5 km being on a dirt road. The journey between the three main viewpoints involves an additional 60 km on dirt roads, including a steep descent, requiring a robust off-road vehicle and either professional driving skills or a local guide.

The first viewpoint, "Martian Panorama," offers a breathtaking overview of the area, including the "Dragon’s Crest" and "Fangs Formation" in the distance. A challenging path leads to the edge of a large cliff, offering an exhilarating experience for the adventurous.

"Dragon's Crest," the second viewpoint, is 6 km south and overlooks the limestone rock resembling a dragon's spine. It's an incredible spot for photography, widely regarded as the best in Mangystau.

The third viewpoint, "Fangs" or "Fang Formation," requires a 40 km drive and a 1 km walk with a slight ascent. The effort is rewarded with stunning views of hundred-meter cliffs and a landscape that's both beautiful and daunting, perfect for overcoming a fear of heights.

Many tourists choose to camp overnight at Bozzhyra, either near "Dragon's Crest" or "Fangs," to witness the star-filled night skies and the colorful dawn. This also provides extra time for fossil hunting at the base of the cliffs.

Several other attractions near Bozzhyra wonderfully complement a trip to the heart of Mangystau, enhancing the overall travel experience in the region. Located 20 km to the west, the stunning Kyzylkup tract, known for its striking red and white layered hills, is a must-see. To the north, about 15 km away, lies the Beket-ata Mosque, a sacred site attracting thousands of pilgrims from across Kazakhstan annually. Moreover, for those embarking on an extensive tour of Mangystau, the journey often includes the farthest attraction of the region, the Karynzharyk Depression, situated 100 km to the south.

A trip to Bozzhyra is an essential experience for anyone visiting Mangystau. Just remember to bring all necessary supplies for a few days in the desert and to fully charge your camera — you'll want to capture every moment of this unforgettable adventure.