Travel to the Altai Mountains in Kazakhstan
The Altai Mountains are a majestic highland range in Central Asia, with its highest point reaching 4,506 meters. They are located in a unique border zone between Kazakhstan, Russia, Mongolia and China. The mountains stretch for 2,100 km - from the sources of the Irtysh and Ob rivers in southern Siberia to the arid regions of Xinjiang and the East Mongolian Plateau.
Some areas of Altai are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, which emphasizes their significance. On the Kazakh side, Altai is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich flora and fauna, as well as unique natural sites such as the Katon-Karagay National Park. This region is famous for its dense forests of cedar, pine, larch and birch, extending to an altitude of 1,800 meters. Even higher, up to the snow line (2400–3000 meters), there are alpine meadows and majestic mountain valleys.
The Altai Mountains are also famous for their mineral resources: coal, lead, zinc, precious metals and iron ore have been mined in this region since ancient times.
How to get there
The Altai Mountains are located on the territory of the Katon-Karagay National Park and Reserve in the East Kazakhstan Region. The main route begins in the Katon-Karagay District.
GPS coordinates: 49°24'21"N 86°10'42"E
Information about attractions
Mount Belukha and Lake Rakhmanovskoye
The highest point of Altai, Mount Belukha (4506 m), is surrounded by a mystical atmosphere. Not far from the mountain is Lake Yazevoye, in whose waters the mountain peak is reflected in clear weather. Also in this area, at a short distance, is Lake Rakhmanov, on the shore of which is the famous sanatorium "Rakhmanovskie Klyuchi", where you can swim in hot springs, and the Rakhmanov waterfall, to which it is pleasant to take a walk. The path to the lake begins from the village of Berel, where the Belaya Berel River flows. From here you can also go to another unique high-mountain lake - Bukhtarma, located near the border with Russia.
Lake Markakol and the Austrian Road
Another natural wonder of the Kazakh Altai is Lake Markakol, to which the old Austrian road leads. The lake enchants with its beauty and silence, and rare tourists enjoy its pristine nature.
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Useful information for travelers
The region of Kazakhstan Altai remains little visited due to limited tourist infrastructure and high costs of organizing trips. This makes it an ideal place for seekers of solitude and lovers of wild nature.
For a comfortable trip you will need:
• jeeps to overcome mountain roads
• camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, camp kitchen)
• at least 7 days to see the main attractions of the region
The expedition format of recreation in Altai opens up a unique opportunity to touch the pristine nature and enjoy the beauty of one of the most mysterious corners of Kazakhstan.
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