Treasures Of Mangystau

Day 1: Ushchel'ye Ybykty, Koyulus, Kazakhstan to Torysh, Kazakhstan

Ybyktysay – an intricate canyon The limestone walls, up to 6 meters high, resemble lace, honeycombs, and corals. It's easy to imagine that this place was once a seabed. Karaman-Ata Underground Mosque A sacred site carved out of rock from the 13th to 19th centuries. The mosque, with its three halls and skylights, preserves legends of Karaman-Ata and ancient nomadic rituals. Airakty-Shomanay Valley of Castles The remnant mountains create a landscape reminiscent of a ghost town with towers and spires. Climb to the observation points and take time for photos. Torysh Valley of Balls (4:30 PM–5:10 PM)* Stone balls up to 60 million years old lie right underfoot. Scientists debate their origin, and locals call them "gifts of the ocean." return to Aktau